Once left out, Ross now considered the best

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) At the start of the season, Texas cornerback Aaron Ross wasn't on a watch list of 33 candidates to be named college football's best defensive back.<br/> <br/>That fact still

Monday, February 12th 2007, 6:38 pm

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) At the start of the season, Texas cornerback Aaron Ross wasn't on a watch list of 33 candidates to be named college football's best defensive back.

That fact still lingered in his mind when he came to Oklahoma City Monday to accept his trophy as the Jim Thorpe Award winner.

On one hand, Ross says he still wanted to give the award committee trouble for overlooking him in his first season as a starter.

But on the other hand, the lack of pressure seemed to help him out, as Ross notes that he didn't have to live up to any expectations.

Ross tied for the Big 12 Conference lead with 6-interceptions, and also returned a punt and a fumble for touchdowns.

He is the second straight Texas player to win the award, following former teammate Michael Huff.