Grading Taylor Taliulu’s 2013 Season for the Washington State Cougars
By George Means
Oct 19, 2013; Eugene, OR, USA; Washington State Cougars safety Taylor Taliulu (30) tackles Oregon Ducks running back Byron Marshall (9) in the first half at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Taylor Taliulu made an impact, albeit quietly, in 2013. #30 saw promise early starting the initial three games in 2012, but production or coach confidence dissipated quickly after the season start. Taylor seemed to take that as a personal mission, making his way back to the starting 11 this past season.
Early production led to success for Taylor, but his season came to an abrupt halt following the Arizona win, as he did not appear against the Utes or Dawgs, and made no real impact against CSU. Hopefully we get a full season in 2014.
The FS is football’s closer, ideally keeping his name off the stat sheet outside of INTs and passes defended. That closing role receives the most attention when it has broken down. Taylor recorded no picks in 2013 (or in 2012 for that matter.) His 8 tackles against Oregon State may have held the scoring down, but, though no fault to him, he shouldn’t have had to have been in that situation.
His confidence can’t be high, but that is something he needs to rectify. In order to be a productive DB, Taylor must forget past frustrations and push forward with self-assurance. He has the tools, he has the coaches, he can not afford to break down or the next man up will step in.
We do give Taylor significant credit for sticking it out, but this is the Pac-12, and we require more. Grade: C-