KaVontae Turpin named 2022 USFL MVP
ColumnsUSFL

KaVontae Turpin: The USFL’s Version Of Tyreek Hill?

·

During the course of the USFLā€™s 2022 season, fans have been treated to watching some high quality football. Each team possesses quite a bit of talent, and the New Jersey Generals are no exception. The team features some of the leagueā€™s most explosive playmakers, with KaVontae Turpin being one of them.

Mike Riley has put together an excellent offense. Between Turpin, Darius Victor, Trey Williams, and a mobile quarterback in DeAndre Johnson – slowing down this offense is nearly impossible. Their record clearly reflects just that, winning four games straight, sitting atop their division at 4-1.

KaVontae has played a massive role during the past few weeks, as Riley has consistently worked him into the game plan – and for good reason. He boasts a skill set that any coach would want on their roster, and Riley is making sure that Turpin gets the ball in his hands.

Letā€™s take a look at what Turpin has accomplished so far, and what his unique attributes can bring to New Jersey during the rest of the season.

Previous Spring League Experience

Turpin played in both Fan Controlled Football and The Spring League in 2021. During those stints, he showed the football world just what he was capable of. Viewers who paid attention to Turpin knew that he had loads of potential, and just needed an opportunity to showcase it.

In the TSL, Turpin played for the Sea Lions. Interestingly enough, he played alongside DeAndre Johnson, who is now QB1 for the New Jersey Generals. This chemistry has passed over into the USFL, making the pairing a dangerous weapon for Rileyā€™s offense.

Turpin also made a stop in the European League Of Football, playing for the Wroclaw Panthers. He joined the team mid-season, and immediately made an impact. Itā€™s just what he does, Turpin ignites explosive plays on every team he plays for.

Tyreek Hill Similarities?

Of course, if you look at Turpin, you can see why a comparison is made to Tyreek Hill. Both are on the smaller side, but can outrun just about anyone. As the season has progressed, Turpinā€™s role has evolved – and Riley is now using him in the ways a coach would use someone like Hill.

For example, Turpin has been involved as a rusher, taking an occasional end-around to throw defenses off. This has worked quite well for New Jersey, as Turpin scored his first touchdown of the season in this manner.

That being said, Riley has gotten Turpin the ball through the air as well. Turpin is currently averaging 12.4 yards per reception on the season, and is in seventh place for receiving yards in the USFL. Turpin has a natural ability to make plays despite his size, finding the football at lightning speed. Johnson throws to a spot, knowing that Turpin will burst on the scene out of nowhere.

See also

The numbers speak for themselves. Johnson has been targeting Turpin at least five times per game, believe it or not. In fact, since week three, Turpin has averaged over 70 receiving yards per game. While many expected Turpin to be a return specialist, his role has grown tremendously, proving himself to be a valuable wide receiver.

Not to mention – Turpin is an elite returner as well. His speed and agility are unmatched – and his ability to make defenders miss is almost a carbon copy of what Tyreek does on the field. The USFL needs athletes like Turpin, who provide viewers with plenty of excitement week in and week out.

Final Thoughts

There is no doubt about it: KaVontae Turpin is a force to be reckoned with on the football field. He has been creating havoc all season long for opposing defenses – and the scary part is: heā€™s only getting started.

As we head into the second half of the USFLā€™s inaugural season, expect Turpin to continue to make big plays for Mike Rileyā€™s offense. With Johnsonā€™s confidence as a passer increasing with each week, his numbers will be even more impressive moving forward. It’s officially Turpin Time in the USFL.

What do you think of KaVontae Turpin in the USFL? Do you see the similarities between him and Tyreek Hill? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!