What is your major and what are your plans after graduation?

My major is mechanical engineering, and I have a minor in business.  I plan to get an engineering job for a couple years then go back to school and get my MBA.

What made you choose Ohio Northern?

First of all it was for football. Second, I liked the people and the atmosphere since it was a such a close-knit group.

What other sports or activities were you involved with in high school?

I did track, football and basketball.

Who are some athletes that you have looked up to throughout your career?

Michael Jordan, definitely. I’m not very good at basketball, but he was so great and such a good role model. I love the Bengals, so anyone with them I always have liked, especially Carson Palmer in the last few years.  I like Brett Favre for the way he plays and how he loves the game.

Describe head coach Dean Paul’s style and coaching philosophies.

He is very demanding and will get the best out of you.  He pushes you all the time and treats everyone with great respect.  He wants us to be good people all-around and not just good football players. So he is always pushing us in every aspect of our lives.  He’s a great coach and his strategy would be to apply a lot of pressure and be aggressive on defense.

How valuable has it been to have a former NFL defensive back in Stacey Hairston helping coach your position?

It has been very important.  Everything he and the other coaches say is true.  It took me until this year to finally realize that they really know what they’re talking about and to trust them.  Sometimes people get mad at them, but they really know what they are talking about and it helps us out all the time.

How important has ONU Football been to you over the last four years?

It’s been extremely important.  I can’t imagine not playing.  The friends you make and the family atmosphere make it what it is as well as it has kept me busy and brought out the best in my work ethic and time management ability.

How have you been able to balance school with the demanding schedule of playing football?

Like I said, it brings out the best in you.  You have to be organized, which the Academic Game Plan helps us with that.  You have to make some sacrifices, but it is worth it.

What has been your best memory as an ONU football player?

So far it has been that victory over Mount Union to end their 110-game winning streak. They’re the best team we play, so if you want to be the best you have to beat the best.

What will it take to beat them again this Saturday on ONU’s Homecoming?

We’ll have to be consistent.  We have a great team that has looked great at times. We have to put it all together for four quarters instead of just a half.

What are some of the things that you like to do in your limited spare time?

I love road trips and traveling. I like to read sometimes, but it’s hard to have any free time since I’m so busy.  I also like to work out all the time as always.