McAllister Collins

Big Mac (or Big Mack as he likes to spell it) was the fan favourite in 2002 and we were honoured to have him as a supported player for the season. He split time at C with Matt O'Neal during the season making 5 starts but we thought he should have started more.

McAllister played his college ball at Northern Illinois in the MAC (Mid-American Conference), alongside ex Claymore great CB Duane Hawthorne. The Huskies didn't taste much success during Big Mack's time there, and he wasn't drafted coming out of college. The Jaguars signed him as free agent in 2001, but he couldn't crack the roster that year. The Steelers signed him after the season and allocated him to Scotland for the 2002 NFL Europe season.

Ian Allen and Big Mac walk off after another practice at Skyway Park, March 2002

Shuggie and Big Mac hang out in Tampa

As a member of the Claymores, Big Mack was part of a record setting line that only gave up 6 sacks all year, as well as blocking for the league's top rusher. He was also one of the first to get into the end zone and celebrate with the scoring rusher or receiver and one of the first to meet and greet the fans after the game. Who will forget Rock Steady's pathetic attempt at stopping him trying to high five fans after the Claymores 17-13 win over Amsterdam at Hampden in Week 7 of the 2002 season?

Celebrating the Week 6 win over the Fire at Hampden

Sadly Big Mack couldn't crack the OL heavy roster of his allocated team after the season (Pittsburgh), but the Texans signed him late in the roster to their practice squad and we're sure he'll get another chance at making the active roster in 2003.

Welcome to the Hall of Fame, Big Mack and good luck with the Texans in 2003!

Looking good at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa 2002

Credit: photo-stock.co.uk

Big Mac & Cheddarheads, Tampa 2002

Ian Allen (right) and Big Mac (left) were our 2 supported players in 2002

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