Q&A with Najeh Davenport
Dec. 7, 2001
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Who in your family do you idolize?
I idolize my mother, Carolyn. I am my mother’s only child. My father died before I was born. She raised me when she was going through college. She gave up a lot for me. If there were anyone I could be like, I would choose her.
What player did you pretend to be as a kid?
I actually did not play team sports growing up, so there was no certain player to choose. I was into archery, fishing and other recreation sports.
Who do you think is the best player ever at your position?
I idolize (Tennessee Titans runningback) Eddie George. He is a big back like I am.
What do you think was the greatest sports moment of the past century?
I have been following team sports since the time I was in high school. Since then, I would have to say the “Magic City Miracle” play when Tennessee defeated Buffalo to get to the AFC Championship game last season.
What do you like to watch on television?
I like to watch cartoons and sitcoms. As far as the cartoons, I watch Dragonball Z and Pokemon. The sitcoms I like are the ones on the WB network.
What type of movies do you like to go see?
I see all types of movies, especially the scary ones.
Some people would be surprised to learn this about you?
The way I look and my size, people assume I am a fierce and mean person. When they learn I am a theater major, they are surprised.
Last time you were amazed about one of your accomplishments?
My senior year at Central High School we were playing Northwestern for the district title. We were winning and I got hurt with a foot injury. Northwestern came back on us, so I went back in and broke out with an 80-yard run to put us back on top. They ended up winning the game with a great comeback of their own.
Worst feeling you have ever had in football?I was hit real hard in the Miami Springs game during my freshman season in high school. I couldn’t breathe, respond my teammates or anything.
What was your first impression when you visited Miami?
I was impressed with the history of the program. Michael Irvin, Melvin Bratton, Jesse Armstead and the other Hurricanes of old had me sold on UM.
If you could be head coach for a day, what would you do?
If it were a game week, I would put in a bunch of plays designed for Najeh Davenport.
When travelling to an away game, what do you take to keep you occupied?
I like to take some music and magazines.
Best sports memory playing for Miami?
When I scored my first touchdown against East Tennessee State in 1998.
What word or message would you like to pass on to the freshman players?
Always play hard. Give this team everything you have. Start as a freshman and work hard all the way through the end. Also, remember to get your degree while you are here.
