School: Naperville North, 1999.
Position: Running back.
College: Colorado.
Brown is among the top candidates for the Heisman Trophy this season. The 6-foot-3-inch, 220-pound junior is third in the nation with 1,744 yards on 275 carries and has scored 18 touchdowns. His breakout six-touchdown game in a 62-36 victory over Nebraska last November propelled the Buffaloes to the Big 12 crown. Brown was an honorable-mention Tribune All-State selection after his senior year at Naperville North. He originally signed with Northwestern but didn’t play as a freshman. He played at Ft. Scott (Kan.) Community College for a year before transferring to Colorado. Brown’s brother Levelle played fullback (1995-98) at NU.
How does “2002 Heisman Trophy Winner Chris Brown” sound?
“I can’t hear that. . . . I’m just worried about our next game against Nebraska.”
How did it feel to run through Nebraska’s defense last year?
“The offensive line opened huge holes. It was the first time in 10 years that we beat them. Oh, yeah, it felt great.”
What was it like growing up with Levelle?
“He always challenged me. He beat up on me a few times.”
What is it like playing in the altitude in Colorado?
“It’s a big difference. It took two weeks to get used to. On the road it seems like I have a lot more wind and I don’t get tired as quickly.”