Today's featured player has a number change. His move from defensive line to offensive line int he spring saw him change from 98 to 56. His switch was needed. We have an incr4edibly experienced offensive line, but behind the five starters there is virtually no proven depth. That is why Eric McDaniel switched to the other side of the ball. We need his 6'2" 285 pound frame shoving guys around and opening holes for Ralph Bolden and Akeem Shavers.
Eric McDaniel - So. (redshirt)
Hometown: Calhoun, GA (Calhoun High)
Offensive Guard
6'2", 285 pounds
2011 Projection: Reserve on the offensive line.
McDaniel did not see a lot of action at defensive tackle last season behind Bruce Gaston, Kawann Short, Kevin Pamphile, Justin Kitchens, and Brandon Taylor, but he was one of the highest rated players in Danny's Hope first recruiting class. He is a Rivals 3-star recruit and was one of the top 40 defensive tackles in the class of 2009. In high school, he was Honorable Mention All-state in Georgia class AA as Calhoun advanced to the state championship game. According to his MySpace page, he likes to be called "Big E". As a junior he was also a seventh place finisher in the state discus championships in class AA.
Calhoun lost in the state championship game to Buford High 45-21, but still finished 12-3. He was viewed as an up and coming talent out of high school, but we need him to develop at a position of need. He had 80 total tackles as a senior in high school. With no more redshirt years the time is now for him to make an impact in the rotation.
Boilermakings Note:
Derek Willis’ stock is still soaring | Jody Demling - Recruiting
Derek Willis is becoming one of the nation's most sought after recruits. Too bad he is already a Boilermaker.
B1G players on Outland, Nagurski lists - Big Ten Blog - ESPN
Ken Plue and Kawann Short are on the preseason watch list for the Outland Trophy.