While he lacks the preferred size and strength for the position, Dawson's creative running and blend of agility and speed make him a big-play threat every time he touches the ball. Dawson has also caught an average of 23.7 passes over the past three seasons and has experience as a kick returner. Dawson also proved he can be productive against top competition, topping 100 rushing yards against Clemson (121) and Texas A&M (126) last season. He reached the 100-yard mark in nine of 12 games overall in 2007.

Positives: Short, but a well-built athlete who has never missed a game due to injury … Good quickness and acceleration … Creative runner who can make defenders miss in the open field … Patient runner who will wait for blocks to open up … Shows good vision and burst for the cutback … Reliable receiver out of the backfield, registering 71 receptions over the past three seasons.

Negatives: Lacks the size and power preferred for the position, especially as an interior runner … Gives good effort, but isn't going to run through tackles or move the pile … Can get too picky at the line of scrimmage instead of pounding into the hole … Struggles as a pass blocker due to his lack of size.

Was an all-state running back and the district Offensive MVP as a senior after gaining 1,253 yards on 112 carries, catching six passes for 108 yards and scoring 29 touchdowns … Also played safety and linebacker, making second team all-district as a sophomore at strong safety after making 60 tackles, two interceptions and forcing four fumbles … First team all-district and all-city as a junior linebacker after 78 tackles, six forced fumbles and four interceptions, three returned for touchdowns.

Born Jan. 9, 1985, in Benton, La … Son of Alvin and Wanda Dawson … Has three brothers - Alvin, Jr., Michael, and Marcus - and four sisters, Tiffany, Tomeka, Teondra, and Taneisha … Is number five among the eight siblings … Majoring in Accounting … ULM Athletic Director's Honor Roll - Fall 2006.