McGee shines for Madison
Freshman corner stepping up for JMU defense
By Matt McGovern, contributing writer
Posted on September 14, 2006

Defense wins championships. How many times have you heard it said about football?  It’s an obvious point, and it is why redshirt freshman cornerback Scotty McGee may have a major impact on JMU football for years to come.

Less than a year ago, McGee had his sights set on a tailback position for the Dukes. However, early in training camp he found out that he had two stress fractures in his back and he was  forced to undergo rehabilitation. He also noticed JMU’s depth at the running back position was so deep, he might not get much playing time there.

That’s where the JMU coaching staff came in.

They saw McGee’s potential on the other side of the ball and suggested he move to the cornerback position. 
 
“It is not unusual to move high school running backs to cornerback,” JMU coach Mickey Matthews said. “[McGee] had all the makings of a major college corner.”

McGee thinks so, too.

“I’m the type of guy that no matter what type of position you put me in, I’m going to shine,” the 5-9, 170-pounder said.

McGee knew the team needed him at that position and he took the challenge with open arms.

“My main question was after this season, will I have the opportunity to move back once Alvin Banks and Maurice Fenner are gone,” McGee said. “The coaches said, ‘Yes, but you might not want to [move back].’” 

In his first two games at cornerback, he is already emerging as a playmaker.  McGee was sixth on the team in tackles against Bloomsburg and Appalachian State with 7 and 5, respectively.

“As a cornerback, you’re on an island. You don’t have much help,” JMU offensive coordinator Jeff Durden said about the switch from running back to corner. “Let me put it this way: when you make a mistake at running back, it’s second down.  When you make a mistake at cornerback, it’s six points.”

Don’t tell McGee about adversity, he already knows. Every time he steps out on the field, he dedicates the game to his late older brother, Marcus.

“Once I started high school ball, I don’t think he ever missed a game,” McGee said. “I dedicate everything I do to him, and he motivates me in so many ways.” 

McGee knows how adversity can deal crucial blows and he feels good about the position he is in right now. 

Said McGee, “Through the powerful prayer of my family and going through physical therapy every day, I was able to get back out on the field after my back injury. But I can’t be satisfied; there’s no way to be satisfied, because I know this is only the beginning.”