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Alumni Report: Rocky Hayes
by Chad Barnett
Hayes wasted no time in impressing the new staff. But it wasn't
where he spent his first season. He simply moved over to defensive back and
continued to dominate. He finished his sophomore season 43rd in the nation
in passes deflected and led his team in interceptions with three.
The change to defense was embraced not only in stats. Hayes embraced
the mindset as well. "On the defensive side of the ball whenever you touch
the ball you’re making a bigger impact. Playing cornerback now, I know if I
can just get my hands on that ball a couple times a game I know my impact
will be great."
Hayes' impact was most certainly felt. Here were a few of his preseason accolades entering the 2014 season; Sun Belt Conference’s “Best
Cover Corner” by Lindy’s, Preseason All-Sun Belt Conference selection by
Sporting News (first team), Lindy’s (first team), Athlon’s Sports (first team),
USA Today Sports (first team) and Phil Steele’s (first team).
Unfortunately for him, the 2014 season didn't pan out as expected.
Injuries held him back for much of the playing time he needed.
Even though his junior season was without much fanfare the Arkansas
State coaching staff still thought of Hayes as a leader, a representative, an
ambassodor of the program. He was selected as one of only two players
from the team to represent Arkansas State at the annual Sun Belt Media
Days. While there, Hayes showed the class and respect that made the Heflin
faithful proud to call him a son.
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