As we inch closer to the kickoff of the Boilermakers 2013 season, now 97 days away, today's spotlight is on defensive tackle #97 Michael Rouse III.
Michael Rouse III - So. (RS)
Hometown: Flossmoor, IL (Homewood Flossmoor)
Defensive Tackle
6'4", 295 pounds
2013 Projection: Reserve at Defensive Tackle
Rouse came to Purdue as a 3-star and is now in his redshirt sophomore season. With Purdue's depth at defensive tackle, Rouse didn't see much playing time last year, recording only two tackles. Rouse still has a few guys above him on the depth chart but has shown a knack for the big play when given the chance. During Purdue's spring game, Rouse deflected two passes and then picked off another, rumbling 12 yards on the return. With the departure of Kawann Short, Rouse appears to have the potential to help fill that playmaker void. #97 still figures to play a reserve role on the defensive line this year, but if he keeps capitalizing on opportunities, his role will continue to increase.
According to Rouse's official Purdue bio, he is enrolled in management and hopes to be a business owner and motivational speaker.