Travis Hunter may have set the bar for two-way players in college football, but Desmond Watson just flipped the script in Florida’s triumphant performance at the Gasparilla Bowl against Tulane. And trust me, this wasn’t your everyday football play.
Imagine being a 449-pound defensive tackle, known more for stopping plays than making them, and then getting the call to charge down the middle on offense. Yes, Desmond Watson, the heaviest player in college football, did just that. With the Gators holding a commanding 26-0 lead late in the fourth quarter, Watson lined up in a short-yardage scenario and barreled through to secure the first down for Florida. The crowd witnessed a brisk but unforgettable moment as Watson took his first—and what a way to exit—carry in the final game of his college career.
In true showman style, Watson celebrated his feat by striking the iconic Heisman Trophy pose. It’s not every day you see a defensive tackle channeling a running back’s dream, but Watson’s stunt was pure gold, drawing playful nods from fans and social media alike.
Of course, Watson’s cameo on offense wasn’t the only highlight of his evening. Earlier, with Florida just edging a 3-0 lead in the first quarter, Tulane attempted to gain momentum on a third-and-1 inside Gator territory. In steps Watson, who did more than just stop quarterback Ty Thompson—he lifted him clear off the ground, denying Tulane any hopes of converting and reminding everyone of his day job as a formidable force on defense.
By the end of the game, Watson had registered a tackle, a historic carry, and not to mention, a bowl game victory to cap off his collegiate tenure. Reflecting on his sole-ball carry, he told ESPN’s Jesse Simmons that the experience was monumental. For a player frequently petitioned by fans on social media to take up the ball, it was the perfect finale to his Florida journey.
With moments like these, it’s safe to say Desmond Watson has cemented his place not just in highlight reels, but in the hearts of fans who relish the unexpected—and boy, was this a tale for the ages.
