Sept. 28, 2012
- 2012 Hawkeye Football Game Day Central
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- 2012 UI Fall Football Camp Central
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IOWA CITY, Iowa — On the eve of a football rivalry where the winner earns the bronzed swine Floyd of Rosedale, former University of Iowa running back Sedrick Shaw asked the Hawkeyes: “Are you the chicken, or are you the pig?”
Shaw, the only player in UI history to rush for more than 1,000 yards three consecutive seasons, is honorary captain for Saturday’s Big Ten Conference opener against Minnesota.
Shaw addressed the team following their walk-through with a story about a chicken and a pig.
“This is a story about participation and dedication,” Shaw said. “Most of you guys have had eggs and bacon for breakfast. Let me ask, which one participated and which one is dedicated?”
After a brief silence, a few Hawkeyes answered that the pig was dedicated; Shaw added that all the chicken did was loaned an egg.
“My question to you is, will you participate or are you dedicated?” Shaw asked. “I’ll be able to tell tomorrow when you put the uniform on. The fans will be able to tell.”
Shaw is still tops on the UI career chart with 4,156 rushing yards (with 33 touchdowns) and 5,043 all-purpose yards. His final two seasons (1995 and 1996), the Hawkeyes compiled a record of 17-7 and won the Sun Bowl and the Alamo Bowl — Shaw was MVP of both games.
A native Texan, Shaw resides in Austin, and works with area youth in sports activities.
“It’s kind of funny I told you that story the day before you are playing for a pig,” Shaw said. “Guys, it’s in your hands. Make a choice.”
The Hawkeyes were 4-0 against Minnesota with Shaw in the backfield, winning 21-3 in 1993, 49-42 in 1994, 45-3 in 1995, and 43-24 in 1996.
To watch a post-practice interview with Shaw, click HERE.