Wolfpack In The NFL: Week 10

Jerricho Cotchery caught his first touchdown since Week 3, catching a 7-yard touchdwon pass in the first quarter of the Jets 22-24 loss to the Jaguars. He finished the game with 6 receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown.

Cotchery has 33 receptions for 498 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Philip Rivers led the Chargers to a 31-23 win over the Eagles, completing 20 of 25 passes for 231 yards and 2 touchdowns. This was arguably Rivers best performance of the season, posting his highest single-game quarterback rating of the season, of 131.8

Rivers has thrown for 2,476 yards (6th in the NFL) and 16 touchdowns (8th in the NFL). He also has the 7th best quarterback rating of 97.9.

Adrian Wilson had 4 tackles, 2 pass deflections and 1 interception in the Cardinals 31-20 over the Seahawks.

Wilson has 40 tackes (7.5 for loss), 0.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 2 interceptions and 4 pass deflections.

After not playing in the Bills' first 7 games, John McCargo has now recorded 5 tackles in each of the past two games.

After missing six straight games due to an ankle injury, Sean Locklear was inserted back into the starting lineup in this past week's 20-31 loss to the Cardinals.

After being released by the Bengals a few weeks back, Scott Kooistra was re-signed by Cincinnati prior to their win 18-12 win over the Steelers this past Sunday. Kooistra saw action as a reserve in the game, logging minutes for the 3rd time this season.

After missing a field goal in the 30-39 yard range for the second straight week, the Baltimore Ravens decided to cut Steven Hauschka.

Manny Lawson had 3 tackles (2 solo) and 2 QB hits in the 49ers 10-6 victory over the Chicago Bears.

Lawson has 41 tackles (5.5 for loss), 2.5 sacks and 1 forced fumble.

Marcus Hudson had 1 tackle in the 49ers 10-6 win over the Bears.

Hudson has 17 tackles.

Stephen Tulloch easily had his second most quiet game of the 09 season, logging only 2 tackles in Titans 41-17 victory over the Bills on Sunday. One of his tackles was a sack.

Tulloch has 70 tackles (4 for loss), 2 sacks and 1 pass deflection

Torry Holt had a quiet day this past Sunday in the Jaguars 24-22 win over the Jets, reeling in 2 catches for 24 yards, despite being targeted 6 times.

Holt has 35 receptions for 485 yards.

Tank Tyler had 2 tackles in the Panthers 28-19 win over the Falcons.

Tyler has 28 tackles (1 for loss).

DaJuan Morgan was inactive in this past weeks 16-10 win over the Raiders, after starting the first game of his career in Week 9.

After starting his second game of the season in Week 9, Leroy Harris played as a reserve in the Titans 41-17 win over the Bills.

Brian Clark has played in every game this season as a reserve and has caught two passes for thirty yards.

Jerricho Cotchery: 'It's Always Fun To Come Back'

Last Saturday, at NC State's homecoming versus Maryland, Jerricho Cotchery was proud to stand before all of the Wolfpack fans in the end zone. Before leaving to go on to the NFL, Cotchery left a legacy as on of the best players to ever play for NC State. One look at the NC State record books, and it is obvious why the crowd in Carter-Finley stood in roaring applause this past Saturday. Cotchery is NC State's all-time leader in receptions, with 200 (ranks 4th in ACC history), and also holds the all-time record for the most career 100-yard receiving games, with 15 (ranks 2nd in ACC history). He also finished second in school history behind Torry Holt in receiving yards (3,119) and receiving touchdowns (21). Jerricho is one of two people in ACC history to collect 200 receptions and 3,000 yards in his collegiate career (the other player is former FSU wide receiver Peter Warrick).

Cotchery was drafted in the 4th round of the 2004 NFL draft by the New York Jets. After reeling in 82 receptions for 961 yards and 6 touchdowns in his third year in the NFL, which was the final year of his rookie contract, the Jets signed Cotchery to a 5-year extension worth $19 million in March of 2007. Since then, Jerricho has gone on to become the 3rd receiver in Jets history to record three consecutive seasons of 70-or-more receptions.

Jerricho started off this season as the number #1 option for the Jets, and was living up to the title until he was sidelined after Week 4 with a hamstring injury. Before the injury, Cotchery was ranked 5th in the NFL in receiving yards. In his first game back from injury this past Sunday versus the Dolphins, Cotchery looked like he was back to early season form, reeling in 3 receptions for 70 yards.

The Wolfpack had one of their all-time best back in Carter-Finley this past Saturday, and the atmosphere in the stadium brought back a lot of memories for Cotchery.

"It's always fun to come back down here. The atmosphere is just so great," Cotchery said. "The fans are going crazy all the time, supporting the team no matter what. It just brings back a lot of great memories when you come back here."

Cotchery also forecasts good things for the future of the NC State football program, trusting that Coach O'Brien is the right man for the job.

"Coach O'Brien is doing a great job," Cotchery said. "We're fighting injuries a lot, but those guys are still out there battling hard, and I think we'll be able to turn it around."

Wolfpack fans have to be proud of having a player like Cothcery represent their school so well. Not only is Jerricho a tremendous player, but he is also a tremendous person off the field as well. Back in '06, Cotchery received the Kyle Clifton Good Guy Award, which recognizes consistent willingness, cooperation and professionalism in everyday dealings with the various departments in the organization. In '07 he was selected by the Jets staff as the 2007 Marty Lyons Award winner, given to the player who gives from the heart through charity and community involvement. The United Way in New York City also dubbed Cotchery as a Hometown Hero in '07 for his work off the field. He also established the Cotchery Foundation in 2007, which was formed for the purpose of inspiring children to conceive and achieve goals by providing programs and services designed to enhance their futures.

Check out all the great work that Cotchery is doing at the Cotchery Foundation.

Wolfpack In The NFL: Week 8

John McCargo had seen action as a reserve in 5 games going into week 8, but it wasn't until yesterday that the former NC State defensive tackle accumulated his first stats of the season. McCargo had 5 tackles (3 solo) in the Bills 10-31 loss to the Texans. The 5 tackles were a career high for McCargo and his first recorded tackle since week 17 of the 2007 season.

Philip Rivers led the Chargers to a much needed win over the Raiders yesterday. Rivers completed 16 of 25 passes for 249 yards. He also threw one touchdown and one interception, in the 24-16 victory.

Rivers has thrown for 2,036 yards (4th in NFL) and 11 touchdowns. He also boasts a 95.9 QB Rating (10th in NFL).

After recording 4 tackles through the first 5 games, Marcus Hudson has picked up the pace, recording 11 tackles in the past two games. Hudson recorded 4 tackles yesterday in the 49ers 14-18 loss to the Colts.

Hudson has 15 tackles this season.

Jerricho Cotchery was back to full strength yesterday, playing for the first time in 3 weeks. Cotchery recorded 3 receptions for 70 yards in the Jets 25-30 loss to the Dolphins.

Cotchery has 27 receptions for 430 yards and 1 touchdown this season.

Steven Hauschka had his most productive game of the 2009 season, accounting for 12 of the Ravens 30 points. He connected on field goals from 43, 35 and 31 yards in the Ravens 30-7 win over the Broncos, who entered the game undefeated.

Mario Williams was questionable heading into yesterdays game versus the Bills with a lingering shoulder injury. While Williams was active in the contest, he didn't record any stats in the box score.

Williams has 24 tackles (6 for loss), 3 sacks, and 1 forced fumble this season.

Torry Holt had a quiet game in the Jaguars 13-30 loss to the Titans yesterday, reeling in 2 catches for 17 yards.

Holt has 29 receptions for 424 yards this season.

Stephen Tulloch posted his lowest tackle total of the season in the Titans 30-13 win over the Jags yesterday, recording only 1 tackle.

Tulloch has 57 tackles (3 for loss) and 1 sack this season.


Manny Lawson had 4 tackles (3 solo) in the 49ers 14-18 loss to the Colts.

Lawson has 36 tackles (4.5 for loss), 1.5 sacks and 1 forced fumble this season.

Tank Tyler had 2 tackles in his second game as a member of the Panthers yesterday, as Carolina defeated the Cardinals 34-21.

Tyler has 25 tackles (1 for loss) this season.

Adrian Wilson had 5 tackles (4 solo) and 1 tackle for loss in the Cardinals 21-34 loss to the Panthers.

Wilson has 31 tackles (7.5 for loss), .5 sacks, 1 forced fumble and 1 interception this season.

After sitting out in week 6 against the Patriots because of a concussion, LeRoy Harris returned to action yesterday as a reserve in the Titans 30-13 win over the Jags.

Sean Locklear remains inactive with an ankle injury.

Wilson Named NFC Defensive Player of The Week

Former NC State safety Adrian Wilson was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance this past Sunday against the Giants. Wilson put up a stat line that exemplified why he was a All-Pro safety last last season (Wilson was also All-Pro in '06). He had 5 tackles (2 for loss), 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery and 2 passes defended. Both of the turnovers that Wilson was responsible for, were game changing plays. Wilson's interception, which was his first of the season, set up the Cardinals game winning touchdown. His fumble recovery on the Cardinals own 44-yard line stopped the Giants final attempt to tie the game in the final minutes of the fourth quarter.

Wilson is one sack and one interception away from becoming the 9th player in the history of the NFL to have 20 sacks and 20 interceptions in a career.

Adrian Wilson was drafted in the third round of the 2001 NFL draft out of NC State, after foregoing his senior season. He tallied 254 tackles in his three-year stint with the Wolfpack, which was the most by a defensive back since James Walker collected 289 (93-95). This Greensboro native has represented the Wolfpack and the state of North Carolina well in his NFL career.

Wolfpack In The NFL: Week 7

Adrian Wilson was an absolute nightmare for the Giants last night. His 5 tackles (2 for loss), 1 interception and 2 pass deflections were pivotal in leading the Cardinals to a 24-17 win over the Giants. The interception was Wilson's first of the season.

Wilson has 26 tackles (6.5 for loss), 0.5 sacks, 2 pass deflections, 1 forced fumble and 1 interception on the year.

After losing two straight games, the Chargers were in desperate need for Philip Rivers to come out and play his best, and that's exactly what he did. Rivers had his best game statistically yesterday, recording a quarterback rating of 122.6. At the end of the 37-7 victory over the Chiefs, he had thrown for 268 yards (60%) and 3 touchdowns (no interceptions).

Rivers has 1,787 passing yards (5th in the NFL), 10 touchdowns (3 interceptions) and has a QB rating of 96.1 (9th in the NFL) on the year.

Manny Lawson was active yesterday in the Houston Texans backfield, collecting 5 tackles (3 for loss), 1 sack and 2 QB hits in a 21-24 loss. Marcus Hudson also posted 4 tackles, his highest tackle total since week 5 of the 2007 season (he had 7 tackles against the Ravens).

Lawson has 32 tackles (4.5 for loss), 1.5 sacks and 1 forced fumble on the year.

Hudson has 8 tackles on the year.

After playing 2 games without a sack, Mario Williams was able to break that streak and battle through the shoulder pain in the Texans 24-21 victory over the 49ers. He created havoc in the 49ers backfield, racking up 3 tackles (2 for loss), 1 sack and 2 QB hits.

Williams has 24 tackles (6 for loss), 3 sacks and 1 forced fumble on the year.

Brian Clark caught his second pass of the season in the 7-35 loss to the Patriots. Clark's 13 yard reception was his first since week 1 versus the Cowboys.

Clark has 2 receptions for 30 yards on the year.

DaJuan Morgan had 1 tackle in the Chiefs 7-37 loss to the Chargers yesterday. The tackles was Morgan's first since week 3 versus the Eagles.

Morgan has 4 tackles on the year.

Tank Tyler had 1 tackle in the Panther's 9-20 loss to the Bills. This was Tyler's first game as a Carolina Panther, after being traded from the Chiefs last Monday.

Tyler has 23 tackles (1 for loss) on the season.

Scott Kooistra was inactive in the Bengals 45-10 over the Chicago Bears. Kooistra has been inactive in 4 straight games.

Wolfpack In The NFL: Injury Report Before Week 7

Jerricho Cotchery will not suit up against the Raiders tomorrow, and will miss his second straight week with a hamstring injury. Before suffering this injury, he was ranked 8th in the NFL in receiving yards, with 360 yards. Here is what New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan had to say about Cotchery's injury:

"Jerricho's not going to be able to play this week," coach Rex Ryan said yesterday to the New York Post. "I was hoping Jerricho [would] be able to do it, but to make that trip all the way out there, we feel it's best for him to stay back and rehab. . . . He's not going to play."

After playing through pain the past two weeks with an injured shoulder, Houston Texans defensive end Mario Williams is listed as questionable for tomorrow's match-up versus the 49ers.

After starting the first two games of the season, offensive linemen Sean Locklear has missed the past 4 weeks with a high ankle sprain. It has been reported that he is no longer wearing the boot and that he could be back in game shape with in a week or two.

After sitting out last week due to a concussion, offensive linemen Leroy Harris was hoping to get back into the swing of things this week. Word of his availability for tomorrow hasn't been released yet.

49ers cornerback Marcus Hudson is listed as probable with a shoulder injury in tomorrow's match-up against the Texans.

Offensive linemen Scott Kooistra has been inactive for the Cincinnati Bengals for the past three weeks.

Holt 3rd Fastest to 13,000

This past Sunday, Torry Holt reminded football fans across the nation that his name deserves to be mentioned in the short-list of greatest receivers to ever play in the National Football League. Holt showed up in a big way against his former team, posting his first 100-yard game since week 13 of the 2007 season. While crossing the century mark was a big deal for Holt, it was his 41-yard reception in the first quarter that made the most noise. The deep pass marked the longest of the season for Holt, but the most significant thing of this reception, was that it propelled him over the 13,000 yard milestone. Holt is the 12th player in NFL history to reel in 13,000+ yards in a career, and he accomplished this feat in 164 career games. Only two players in NFL history crossed the 13,000 barrier faster than Holt: Jerry Rice, 154 games; Marvin Harrison, 162 games.

Holt, who still has a couple of quality years left in the tank, will finish as one of the most prolific wide receivers to ever play the game. NC State fans should be proud that a player of Holt's quality, on and off the field, once donned the Red and White in Carter-Finley on Saturday afternoons.

Williams' '09 Campaign Ends Early

Former NC State defensive back, Brian Williams, will miss the remainder of the 2009 football season, after tearing his ACL in Sunday's win over the Bears. The injury occurred in the fourth quarter of the game, when Williams was defending a pass in the end zone, that was intended for Bears tight end Greg Olsen. The pass fell incomplete and so did the remainder of the 2009 season for Williams.

Williams, an 8 year veteran in the NFL, spent time playing with Minnesota (02-05) and Jacksonville (06-08) before joining the Falcons this season. After starting 7 games as a rookie for the Vikings, Williams has been a perennial starter at the cornerback position for his entire career. Through 8 seasons of play, Williams has played in 112 games and has accumulated 463 tackles, 60 pass deflections and 19 interceptions.

The loss of Williams will be a tremendous blow to the Falcons defense. Not only are they losing a starter, they are also losing a seasoned veteran that is a voice of leadership in the secondary.

Williams already had a good relationship with Falcons head coach Mike Smith before he landed in Atlanta prior to the start of the season. Smith was Williams defensive coordinator for two seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Smith understands the magnitude of losing a veteran like Williams.

"It's going to be a big loss for us but it's going to be an opportunity for another player on our squad," Smith said to the AP.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Williams.

Tank Tyler's Trade Is A Homecoming

On Monday, the Kansas City Chiefs traded former NC State defensive tackle Tank Tyler to the Carolina Panthers. Tyler was a third round draft pick by the Kansas City Chiefs back in 2007. He showed a tremendous ability to make an impact during the early stages of his NFL career. After seeing action as a reserve in 15 games as a rookie in '07, he moved into a starting role in 2008, starting all 16 games at defensive tackle. This season has proven to be a different story for Tyler. With the arrival of new coach Todd Haley also came a new defensive scheme. In the transition from a 4-3 defense to a 3-4 defense, the number of defensive linemen necessary was reduced by 1. Last season Tyler got to start alongside veteran Ron Edwards, but this season the two had to battle for the position in the middle of the new 3-4 scheme. Coming out of the preseason camp, it seemed like the Chiefs were going to allow Tank to be the man in the middle, but after starting the first two games, Haley made the executive decision to insert Edwards as the starter.

The initial news of being traded was deflating for Tyler, but once he heard which team he was being traded to, his spirits were lifted.

“I mean, my heart just dropped,” Tyler told the Gaston Gazette. “And then when he told me where I was traded, my heart started smiling again. It’s a blessing.”

Tyler is a native of North Carolina, playing his high school football at E.E. Smith in Fayettville, North Carolina. Tank was also an All-ACC performer as a defensive tackle at NC State. Needless to say, the return to North Carolina was nothing short of a homecoming for Tyler.

“I grew up idolizing the Panthers,” Tyler told the Gaston Gazette. “The first NFL game I saw was in Charlotte. They played against (former New Orleans Saints receiver) Joe Horn, who was a Fayetteville guy.”

The Panthers addition of Tyler, brings much needed depth to a position that has been a weakness for the Panthers as of late. Tyler sees the Panthers defense as a perfect fit.

“This defense is attack-style as far as the line goes,” Tyler told the Gaston Gazette. “That is what I love to do. I love to attack. I just feel privileged to be a part of this defense. I’m going to take advantage of my opportunity.”

Tyler will begin practicing for the Panthers on Wednesday.

Wolfpack In The NFL: Week 6

Torry Holt's 101 yard performance (5 receptions) in the Jaguar's 23-20 win over the Rams marked the first time he has gone over the century mark this season. In fact, this was the first time that Holt has gone for over 100 yards since week 13 of the 2007 season, when he reeled in 135 yards against the Falcons.

Holt has 27 receptions for 407 yards through six games. It should be noted that Holt ranks 13th in the NFL in receiving targets, with 47.

The Denver Bronco's defense was a thorn in the side of quarterback Philip Rivers last night, and the Chargers fell below .500, losing 23-34. Rivers was sacked 5 times in the game, with one of them causing a fumble (he actually fumbled three times, but only one was recovered by the defense) in the fourth quarter that set up a field goal for the Broncos. Despite Denver's harassing defense, River's played well, throwing for 274 yards and a touchdown.

Rivers has thrown for 1,519 yards (6th in NFL) and 7 touchdowns (3 interceptions) through 5 games. He also has a quarterback rating of 91.8 and is completing passes at a 59% clip.

The Arizona Cardinals defense shut down the Seahawks with a very balanced effort in Sunday's 27-3 victory. In fact, the leading tackler only needed 4 tackles to lead the team, and that was Adrian Wilson. Wilson also had 2 tackles for loss and 2 QB hits.

Wilson has 21 tackles (4 for loss), .5 sacks and 1 forced fumble through 5 games.

To say that things were ugly for the Tennessee Titans defense on Sunday would be an understatement. The environment was perfect for a low-scoring game with the ground covered in snow, but Tom Brady saw it as a perfect opportunity to throw the ball for 380 yards and 6 touchdowns. In the 0-59 dismantling, Titans linebacker Stephen Tulloch had 12 tackles. Tulloch has reached double-digit tackle totals in 4 out of 6 games.

Tulloch has 57 (6th in NFL) tackles (3 for loss), 1 sack and 1 pass deflection through 6 games.

Steven Hauschka had a chance to be the hero for the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday against the Vikings, with a chance to ice the game at the end of regulation with a 44-yard field goal. Unfortunately, Hauschka's kick went wide left and the Vikings escaped with a 33-31 victory. Hauschka did connect on a 29-yard field goal at the end of the first half and connected on all 4 of his PAT's.

Hauschka has connected on 5 of his 7 field goal attempts through 6 games. Each of his missed field goals came from beyond 40 yards. He has connected on all 22 of his PAT's.

Mario Williams had 3 tackles (2 solo) in the Texans 28-17 victory over the Bengals. It should be noted that Super Mario has been hampered by an injured shoulder over the past couple of weeks, which might give reason for his quiet statistics over that stretch. He has been held out of contact in practice for the past two weeks, but the Texan team doctors feel that he is close to being back to 100%.

Williams has 21 tackles (4 for loss), 2 sacks and 1 forced fumble through 6 games.

Jerricho Cotchery did not play in the Jet's 13-16 overtime loss to the Bills due to a hamstring injury.

Cotchery has 24 receptions for 360 yards and 1 touchdown in 5 games.

Tank Tyler had one tackle in the Chiefs 14-6 victory over the Redskins. Tyler was traded prior to today's trade deadline to the Carolina Panthers. We will have more details on this trade later today.

Tyler has 22 tackles (1 for loss) through 6 games.

Brian Clark played as a reserve in the Buccaneers 21-28 loss to the Panthers. Clark has seen action in all 6 games this season for Tampa Bay.

Clark has 1 reception for 17 yards through 6 games.

DaJuan Morgan played as a reserve in the Chiefs 14-6 victory over the Redskins. Morgan has seen action in all 6 games this season for Kansas City.

Morgan has 3 tackles through 6 games.

Scott Kooistra was inactive for the Bengals for the third straight week.

After starting the first two games of the season, Sean Locklear still remains inactive with an ankle injury.

Leroy Harris was in active in the Titans 0-59 loss to the Patriots due to a concussion. Harris had seen action in all 5 games going into week 6.

Where Are They Now? Dantonio Burnette

Dantonio Burnette, known by many as “Thunder Dan,” was one of the greatest linebackers to ever come through NC State. An unforgettable moment for all Wolfpack fans was back in 2003, when Burnette spearheaded a heroic goal line stand against Notre Dame in the Gator Bowl. Maybe you remember when he haunted Clemson back in 2001, collecting a Carter-Finley record 24 tackles (2nd most in a single game in NC State history). It is very likely that when many of you sleep at night, there are permanent highlight reels of Levar Fisher (#44) and Dantonio Burnette (#45) creating havoc for opposing offenses. However it is that you remember Dantonio Burnette, it is a certain fact that he should be remembered.

Burnette’s imprint on the NC State record book is unmistakable. He ranks 2nd in tackles in a career (476), 5th in sacks in a season (9), 5th in tackles for loss in a season (17), and 3rd for tackles for loss in a career (41). After finishing his Senior season as a member of the All-ACC 1st team, Burnette was not done giving back to NC State. In fact, since arriving in Raleigh in 1999, he has yet to leave. He has since served the NC State football program as a Graduate Assistant, and he is currently the Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach.

We had the privilege of sitting down with Dantonio recently and asked him to share with us his story. We would like to give him the chance to tell his own story in his own words. Sit down in a comfortable chair with some coffee and enjoy as Thunder Dan tells his story.

How Thunder Dan Ended Up At NC State

Initially NC State was the first team to offer me a scholarship. They offered me right after my Junior year, and then a lot of other teams started coming on strong. My visit to NC State was actually the only one where I brought my mom and my sister. I went by myself to all of my other visits. It came down to NC State and Auburn. When Coach Bowden was fired, I decided I didn’t want to go to Auburn. I looked at NC State in a great way. I didn’t want to be too far away from home, but I also didn’t want too be to close.

When I came on my visit, I saw that it was a really young team. I saw it as an opportunity for me to come in and play. When I learned more about the academics at NC State, I decided that it was a place I would like to go spend 4-5 years. I ended up attending NC State and here I am 10 years later. I’ve gone from a player to a full-time assistant strength and conditioning coordinator.

Dantonio’s Top 3 Games Of His Career

Statistically my favorite game was probably against Clemson when I had 24 tackles (2001). I actually would have had around 30, but I missed 3 or 4 on Woodrow Dantzler. I think that was also one of the greatest games of his career as well.

I also think that one of my greatest games was against Georgia Tech when I had like 4 big stops on the goal line. I had 18 tackles and an interception. That game really stands out to me. I was the Chevrolet player of the game. It meant a lot to me because I was playing against my hometown team, Georgia Tech. My high school head coach’s son was actually the offensive coordinator for Georgia Tech at the time, so I sort of "had it out" for the running back that game.

But you can never forget the Gator Bowl. I had that big hit on Carlyle Holiday and then I came back into the game after I had been taken out. We had put the young guys in, and Notre Dame was about to score again, and I begged coach to put me back in, I was actually able to be a part of another goal line stand at the end of the game.

Life After Graduating College

Once I left NC State I was picked up as a free agent by the Pittsburgh Steelers. They were the first team to jump on me and I pretty much jumped on it quickly. I saw it as a great opportunity. It was also a pretty cool situation because Bill Cowher was a former NC State football player and he was known for spawning good linebackers. Then my agent ended up getting a call from the Atlanta Falcons, which was my hometown team, but I had already jumped on the train to Pittsburgh.

When I got to Pittsburgh I did a pretty good job. I made it all the way to the final cuts, and then I was released on waivers. After that I came back to Raleigh and was training here and also working as a personal trainer. During that time I got calls from NFL Euro, Arena League and Canadian League teams, but I was still set on seeing if there was a shot in the NFL.

It was while I was working as a personal trainer here in Raleigh that Coach Amato called me and asked if I was interested in being a Graduate Assistant. He told me that the position on the defense had already been taken, but there was an opening for a Graduate Assistant in the weight room. When he told me that I was excited and jumped on the opportunity. I always loved working out. It was something that was fun to me. I always saw it as an opportunity to help build up my body so I could put a better product on the field. This was a chance for me to start a career path. When I first came on with the staff I was still helping out some with the linebackers. As Coach O’Brien and the new staff were coming in, I was just graduating from Grad School. I got a degree in Sports Management for my undergrad and a Masters in Higher Education and Sports Management in grad school. Coach Rice and Coach O’Brien offered me an opportunity to stay here and work as one of the full-time strength and conditioning coaches. God opened up an opportunity and blessed me.

A Band of Brothers

When Coach O’Brien came here he started the Players Reunion and it has been a great thing. That’s one of the things that we look forward to every year, when we get to have all of the old players back. We’re all just one big family. The football team is like a fraternity to us. Since we were playing football we didn’t have the opportunity to go out there and be a part of different fraternities. We consider each other brothers and always look out for one another by always giving each other a call and trying to be a help to one another in any way that we can.

It was pretty cool playing with Levar Fisher because Levar was #44 and I was #45. It was hard to run away from us. Levar and I talk about it all of the time. We had some great years. When Levar and I stepped on the field we felt like we were the best group of linebackers. I also played out there with Brian Jamison, Pat Thomas and Freddie Aughtry-Lindsay. We called ourselves the ‘hunting dogs.’ We were the guys that made the tackles. We were the guys that made the big plays.

Working For Coach Rice As The Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach

Working for Coach Rice has been great. He’s the best strength coach in the country. I have never seen anyone who is so technically sound. He has an answer to every question that you could ask. I’m going into my third season in this position, and I have learned so much. It’s amazing how far I’ve come since the first year. At first I was just sitting back and learning things, but now it comes more naturally.

I tell the guys all the time that I wish I were in the position they are in today. Some of the stuff that we do now would have really helped my teammates and me when we were playing, especially when it comes to the area of stretching and flexibility.

The Chance To Give Back

I look at this opportunity as a blessing and a testimony for me. It’s a blessing for me to be able to give back. I know where I’ve come from and more than anything, I know where I’m going. I come from a single-parent home and I was the oldest of 6 kids. I was the father figure in the home. We have a lot of guys who come through the program who have been raised in similar situations. I want these players to always know that they can come to me with anything. I see these guys everyday and have a real good opportunity to get to know these guys on a personal level.

There is a story to every book. I come from a very religious family. Both my Uncle and my Grandfather are pastors. I grew up playing drums in the church. I always like to ask the players what church they go to. Russell Wilson’s actually started going to the church I attend. I am thankful for faith and I can always tell the guys that I know where my strength comes from.

What It’s Like Going Through The Tunnel On Saturday’s As A Coach

I still get goose bumps to this day coming out of the tunnel. The only thing that I miss these days is going out there and hitting people. I always tell the guys that when I come out of the tunnel that I feel like I’m still one of the players, but once I get back to the sideline it’s back to reality. Let’s get ready to watch guys like Nate Irving, Russell Wilson and Willie Young run around.

Wolfpack In The NFL: Week 5

Torry Holt - Despite the fact that the Jaguars got destroyed 0-41 by the Seahawks, Holt produced his best game since joining the Jaguars. He had 7 receptions for 95 yards and was targeted 11 times.

Holt has 22 receptions for 306 yards through 5 games.

Stephen Tulloch - Stephen Tulloch tied Keith Bulluck for the team high in tackles in Sunday night's 9-31 loss to the Colts, with 11 tackles.

Tulloch has 45 (8th in NFL) tackles and 1 sack through 5 games.

Brian Williams - Williams picked up his first interception of the season in the Falcons 45-10 beating of the 49ers. He also collected 3 tackles and a pass deflection.

Williams has 16 tackles and 1 interception through 4 games.

Jerricho Cotchery - In last night's 27-31 loss to the Dolphins, Cotchery posted his lowest statistical output of the season, recording 1 reception for 4 yards. The arrival of Braylon Edwards will likely decrease the amount of targets that Cotchery receives, but his addition creates a tandem to be reckoned with.

Cotchery has 24 receptions and 360 yards (8th in NFL) and 1 touchdown through 5 games.

Manny Lawson - Manny Lawson and the the 49er defense didn't put up one of their finer performances on Sunday, giving up 45 points to the Falcons. Lawson had 4 tackles, 1 tackle for loss and 1 forced fumble.

Lawson has 27 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, .5 sacks and 1 forced fumble through 5 games.

Marcus Hudson - Marcus Hudson picked up his 4th tackle of he season on Sunday in the Chiefs 20-26 loss to the Cowboys. Hudson has seen action in 3 games as a reserve corner behind Nate Clements.

Adrian Wilson - Adrian Wilson and the Cardinals got back on track this week, defeating the Texans 28-21. Wilson matched his season high with 6 tackles.

Wilson has 17 tackles, 2 tackles for loss and 1 forced fumble in 4 games.

Mario Williams - Williams was no where to be found in the Texans 21-28 loss to the Cardinals. Being hampered in practice with a minor shoulder injury last week in practice may have attributed to him not registering a tackle.

Williams has 18 tackles, 2 sacks and 1 forced fumble through 5 games.

Tank Tyler - After starting the first two games at Nose Tackle, he has played in a reserve role behind Ron Edwards the past three weeks. Tyler recorded 3 tackles in Sunday's 20-26 loss to the Cowboys on Sunday.

Tyler has 21 tackles and 1 tackle for loss through 5 games.

Dajuan Morgan - Morgan has seen action as a reserve in all 5 games this season playing behind Mike Brown at Strong Safety. Morgan didn't post any stats in Sunday's 20-26 loss to the Cowboys.

Morgan has 3 tackles through 5 games.

Brian Clark - Brian Clark has seen action at wide receiver in all 5 games this season for the Buccaneers. Clark is third on the depth chart behind Antonio Bryant.

Clark's only reception of the year came in week 1 for 17 yards.

Steven Hauschka - Hauschka didn't have a field goal attempt in the Ravens 14-17 loss to the Bengals. He did connect on both of his PAT's.

Hauschka is 4 for 5 in field goal attemps and 18 for 18 in PAT's through 5 games.

-Scott Kooistra - Kooistra has seen action in two games this season as a reserve Right Guard, but didn't see action in the Bengals 17-14 win over the Ravens on Sunday.

-Leroy Harris - Harris saw action as a reserve at Center on Sunday night in a 9-31 loss to the Colts. Harris has seen action in all 5 games this season.

-Sean Locklear is still inactive due to an ankle injury.

Wolfpack In The NFL: Week 4

-Philip Rivers tried to lead the Chargers back from a 28 point deficit, but in the end it wasn't enough. All of the weight was on his shoulders because Tomlinson could not get anything going on the ground (15 yards). Philip threw for 21/36 (58.3%) for 254 yards and 3 touchdowns (no interceptions). In the end his performance wasn't enough, and the Pittsburgh Steelers sealed the deal, with a final score of 38-28.

Through 4 games, Rivers has thrown for 1,245 yards (311.3 avg) at a 58.7% clip. He has 6 td's and 3 interceptions and his QB rating is 90.6. His 1,245 passing yards ranks 2nd in the NFL.

-Jerricho Cotchery accounted for more than half of rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez's passing yards this past Sunday. This statistic is brought into perspective when you realize that Sanchez threw for a measly 138 yards, 0 td's and 3 interceptions. Even though Sanchez proved to be human after playing like he had superpowers in the first three contests, Jerricho Cotchery remained the epitome of consistency. He led the jets in both receptions and receiving yards, with 5 receptions for 71 yards in the Jets 10-24 loss to the Saints.

Through 4 games, Cotchery has 23 receptions for 356 yards (89.0 avg) with 1 td. His 23 receptions rank 9th in the NFL and his 356 yards rank 5th.

-Manny Lawson and the rest of the 49ers defense put a goose egg up on the board, shutting out the Rams 35-0. Coming off of a game in which he collected a career-high of 11 tackles against the Vikings, Lawson tallied 5 tackles, .5 sacks and 1 tackle for loss in the stomping of the Rams.

Through 4 games Lawson has 23 tackles (5.8 avg), .5 sacks and 1 tackle for loss.

-Stephen Tulloch posted one his most quiet performance thus far in this weeks 17-37 loss to the Jaguars. He accounted for 5 tackles and picked up his first sack of the season.

Through 4 games Tulloch has 34 tackles and 1 sack. His 34 tackles rank 11th in the NFL.

-Mario Williams and the rest of the Texans defense picked up the slack this week and held the Raiders to a mere 6 points. Williams had 4 tackles and 1 sack.

Through 4 games Mario has 18 tackles, 2 sacks and 1 forced fumble.

-Torry Holt had 3 receptions for 42 yards in the Jaguars 37-17 win over the Titans.

Through 4 games Holt has 15 receptions for 211 yards (52.8 avg).

-Tank Tyler's 2 tackles this past Sunday in the 16-27 loss to the Giants was his most quiet performance thus far. With that being said he did make it into the backfield for the first time this year, grabbing his first tackle for loss.

Through 4 games Tank has 18 tackles (4.5 avg).

-DaJuan Morgan played as a reserve in the Chiefs 16-27 loss to the Giants. Morgan has seen playing time in all 4 games this year.

Morgan has 3 tackles this year.

-Marcus Hudson played in the 49ers 35-0 win over the Rams on Sunday and collected 1 tackle. This was the first time Hudson had seen the field since week 1 of the NFL season.

Hudson has 3 tackles this year.

-Steven Hauschka wasn't given the opportunity to even kick a field goal in the 21-27 loss to the Patriots, but he did connect on all three of his PAT's.

Hauschka is 4/5 on the year in field goal attempts and 16/16 on PAT's.

-Brian Clark and Leroy Harris both played in reserve roles on Sunday.

-Scott Kooistra did not play this week and Sean Locklear sat out again this week with an ankle injury.

Wolfpack In The NFL: Week 3

- Manny Lawson had the best game of his career on Sunday in a 24-27 loss to the Vikings. He recorded a career-high 11 tackles (7 solo), which led all 49er's. His previous career high came in Week 8 last season against the Seahawks, when he collected 9 tackles. Manny almost sacked Vikings Quarterback Brett Favre on the last play of the game, but he came up short and Favre came up with a heroic touchdown pass as time expired.

Manny has 18 tackles through three games (6.0 avg).

Jerricho Cotchery - Over the first three games of the season Jerricho Cotchery has been quieting all the critics that doubted his ability to be a legit #1 receiver in the NFL. The chemistry between Cotchery and rookie Quarterback Mark Sanchez seems to be getting better each week. Cotchery's performance on Sunday in 24-17 victory over the Titans marked his best output thus far in '09. He had 8 receptions for 108 yards and a TD (He was targeted 12 times). Jerricho also reeled in a 46 yard reception, which is his longest through the first three games.

Jerricho has 18 receptions for 285 yards through three games (Avg: 6 receptions for 95 yards).

Stephen Tulloch - Stephen Tulloch led all Titans defenders with 10 tackles on Sunday in their 17-24 loss to the Jets. Tulloch has led the team in tackles twice through three games. Here is Tulloch's official stat line from Sunday's game: 10 tackles (7 solo), 1 tackle for loss and 1 pass deflection.

Stephen has 29 tackles through three games (9.7 avg).

Brian Williams - Brian Williams was extremely active this past Sunday in the Falcon's 10-26 loss to the Patriots. He recorded 8 tackles (7 solo) and 1 pass deflection.

Brian has 13 tackles on the season (4.3 avg).

Steven Hauschka - The Ravens crushed the rival Cleveland Browns on Sunday 34-3 and Steven Hauschka had his best performance of the season, scoring 10 points. He connected on both of his field goal attempts (36 and 33) and went for 4 for 4 on PAT's.

Steven has scored 25 points on the year (8.3 avg). He has also connected on 4 out of 5 field goal attempts (Longest: 44 yards).

Philip Rivers - Rivers was solid against the Dolphins this past Sunday passing for 303 (18/33) yards in the 23-23 victory. Even though he didn't throw a touchdown in the game, he ran one in from 5 yards out. This rushing touchdown was the second of his career, with the other one coming back in 2007.

Philip has thrown for 991 yards, 3 TD's and 3 int in three games (85.1 QB RTG). He is averaging 330.1 passing yards per game.

Torry Holt - Holt had 3 receptions for 57 yards in the Jaguars first win over the season against the Texans.

Torry has 12 receptions for 169 yards on the year (Avg: 4 receptions for 56.3 yards).

Tank Tyler - Tank had his quietest performance of the season, collecting 3 tackles (all solo) in the Chiefs 14-34 loss to the Eagles.

Tank has 16 tackles on the season (5.3 avg).

Mario Williams - Mario also had a quiet game in the Texans 24-31 loss to the Jaguars. He had 3 tackles (3 solo).

Mario has 14 tackles and 1 sack thus far (4.7 avg).

Adrian Wilson - Adrian had 3 tackles (3 solo), with one of them being for a loss in the Cardinals 10-31 loss to the Colts. Adrian and the rest of the Cardinal defense have had a little bit of a rough start this season.

Adrian has 11 tackles through three games (3.7 avg).

DaJuan Morgan - After not showing up on the box score in week 2, Morgan recorded 1 tackle (solo) in the Chiefs 14-34 loss to the Eagles.

DaJuan has 3 tackles on the year.

-Leroy Harris has seen action in all three games for the Titans this season, but this past Sunday marked his first start of the season against the Jets.

-Scott Kooistra saw action as a reserve in the Bengals 23-20 victory over the Steelers.

-Sean Locklear didn't play in the Seahawks 19-25 loss to the Bears due to an ankle injury.

Wolfpack In The NFL: Week 2

-Jerricho Cotchery led the Jets in receptions and receiving yards with 4 receptions (6 targets) and 87 yards in their stunning 16-9 victory over the Patriots. Cotchery caught a 45-yard pass down the middle of the field during the third quarter, that set up the game-winning touchdown.

Through two games Cothcery has 10 receptions for 177 yards receiving.

-Tank Tyler led the Chiefs with 7 tackles (7 solo) in the Chiefs 10-13 loss to the Raiders. Tyler has collected 7 tackles in each game so far this season.

Through 2 games Tank has 14 tackles, 1 tackle for loss.

-Philip Rivers was 25/45 for 436 yards with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions (QB Rating: 85.0) in the Chargers 26-31 loss to the Ravens. Rivers nearly led the Chargers to their second victory in the final minutes of the game when he threw a pass to Naanee in the end zone that went right through his hands.

Through 2 games Rivers has thrown for 688 yards (60.5%) with 3 TD's and 3 INT's (QB Rating: 84.8)

-Mario Williams collected his first sack of the season in the Texans 34-31 victory over the Titans. He had 4 tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, and 2 QB hits.

Through 2 games Mario has 11 tackles (10 solo), 1 sack, and 2 tackles for loss.

-Adrian Wilson was back to his normal self this week, loading up the stat sheet with 6 tackles (5 solo), 0.5 sacks, 1 tackle for loss, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 QB hit in the Cardinals 31-17 victory over the Jaguars.

Through 2 games Wilson has 8 tackles, 0.5 sacks, 1 tackle for loss and 1 fumble recovery.

-Stephen Tulloch showed consistency, posting 7 tackles (4 solo) in the Titans 31-34 loss to the Texans.

Through 2 games Tulloch has 19 tackles and 1 tackle for loss.

-Torry Holt had 6 receptions (targeted 11 times) for 65 yards in the Jaguars 17-31 loss to the Cardinals.

Through two games Holt has 9 receptions for 112 yards.

-Steven Hauschka connected on his only field goal attempt from 33 yards out in the Ravens 31-26 victory over the Chargerrs. He was also was 4 for 4 in PAT's.

Through 2 games Hauschka is 2/3 on FG's and 9/9 on PAT's

-Brian Williams had 1 tackle (solo) in the Falcons 28-20 victory over the Panthers.

Through 2 games Williams has 5 tackles with 1 fumble recovery.

-Manny Lawson had 4 tackles (2 solo) in the 49ers 23-10 victory over the Seahawks.

Through two games Lawson has 6 tackles.

-Sean Locklear suffered a high ankle sprain in the game against the 49ers and is out indefinitely.

-Scott Kooistra has been moved from the inactive list to the active list.

Record Watch: NC State vs. Gardner Webb

This Saturday NC State Quarterback Russell Wilson is looking to make the game against Gardner Webb his 13th straight game without an interception. He is on the verge of breaking the NCAA record for Most Consecutive Passes without an Interception, which was set by Andre Woodson (Kentucky) over the '06 and '07 seasons. Wilson's only 33 passes without an interception away from eclipsing Woodson's record of 325.




Most Consecutive Passes without an Interception
Andre Woodson (Kentucky, 2006-07) 325
Russell Wilson (NC State, 2008-09) 293
Drew Willy (Buffalo, 2008) 284
Trent Dilfer (Fresno St., 1993) 271
Drew Weatherford (Fla. St., 2007) 270

There are also numerous players that are steadily climbing their way up the NC State History books this season. We will be tracking these records all season long, and look forward to seeing just how far each of these individuals can climb up the record books.

Career Passing Touchdowns
1. Philip Rivers, 2000-03 95
2. Jamie Barnette, 1996-99 59
3. Terry Harvey, 1991, 93-95 38
4. Shane Montgomery, 1987-89 31
5. Erik Kramer, 1985-86 30
6. Dave Buckey, 1972-75 22
7. Russell Wilson, 2008-pres. 21
8. Geoff Bender, 1991-94 19
Terry Jordan, 1989-92 19
Roman Gabriel, 1959-61 19
Jay Davis, 2002-05 19

Field Goals Made
1. Mike Cofer, 1982-84, 1986 50-68
2. Damon Hartman, 1988-91 48-75
3. Steve Videtich, 1992-94 42-53
4. John Deraney, 2003-06 40-58
5. Nathan Ritter, 1978-80 33-41
6. Marc Primanti, 1995-96 31-33
7. Adam Kiker, 2000-03 30-38
8. Gerald Warren, 1967-68 26-38
9. Kent Passingham, 1998-2000 22-32
10. Harold Deters, 1964-66 21-43
11. Jay Sherrill, 1974-77 20-43
12. Josh Czajkowski, 2007-pres. 18-21

Kickoff Return Yards
1. Ralph Stringer, 1973-77 78 25.5 1,988
2. Alvis Whitted, 1994-97 84 22.96 1,929
3. Darrell Blackman, 2004-07 70 26.3 1,842
4. Chris Williams, 1987-89, 91 62 21.9 1,358
5. T.J. Graham, 2008-pres. 44 25.1 1,103

Sacks
1. Mario Williams, 2003-05 25.5-156
2. Tyler Lawrence, 1990-93 24-157
3. Carl Reeves, 1991-94 22.5-197
4. Manny Lawson, 2002-05 21-163
Mike Jones, 1987-90 21-128
5. Ray Agnew, 1986-89 17-117
George Anderson, 1999-2002 17-94
7. Corey Smith, 1998-01 15.5-138
Patrick Thomas, 2001-04 15.5-98
9. Frank Bush, 1981-84 15-138
10. Wilie Young, 2005-pres. 14.5-101

Field Goal Percentage
1. Danny Deskevich, 1998 12-12 1.000
2. Marc Primanti, 1995-96 31-33 .939
3. Steven Hauschka, 2007 16-18 .889
4. J. Czajkowski, 2007-pres 18-21 .857
5. Nathan Ritter, 1978-80 33-41 .805
6. Adam Kiker, 2000-03 30-38 .789
7. Steve Videtich, 1991-94 42-53 .792
8. Ron Sewell, 1972-73 7-9 .778
9. Mike Cofer, 1982-86 50-68 .735
10. John Deraney, 2003-2006 40-58 .690

Tackles For Loss
1. Mario Williams, 2003-05 55.5-227
2. Carl Reeves, 1991-94 45-269
3. Manny Lawson, 2002-05 41-221
4. Dantonio Burnette, 1999-2002 41-153
5. Stephen Tulloch, 2003-05 40-113
6. Tyler Lawrence, 1990-93 38-139
7. Patrick Thomas, 2001-04 37-144
8. Oliver Hoyte, 2002-05 36.5-79
9. Willie Young, 2005-pres. 34.5-170
10. Levar Fisher, 1998-01 33-147
Clayton White, 1997-00 33-107

Wolfpack In The NFL: Week 1

Philip Rivers (QB) - Rivers showed tremendous poise as he marched the Chargers down the field with less than two minutes left in the game on Monday night. He went 6/7 in the final drive setting up a 5 yard touchdown run by Darren Sproles with 18 seconds left in the game, giving the Chargers a 24-20 victory. Rivers stat line: 24/36 for 252 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT (84.5 QB Rating)

Stephen Tulloch (LB) - Tulloch reassured the Tennessee Titans that inserting him into the starting lineup last season was a good plan. The Titans recently dropped linebacker Ryan Fowler, whose starting spot Tulloch took last season, showing that they had confidence in Tulloch. He led the Titans in tackles against the Steelers in a 10-13 loss, collecting 12 tackles (8 solo), 1 tackle for loss, and 1 fumble recovery

Mario Williams (DE) - Williams continued to show why he was chosen over Reggie Bush as the #1 draft pick a couple years back despite the fact that the Texans fell to the Jets 7-24. Williams stat line: 7 tackles (6 solo), 1 tackle for loss, 1 pass deflection

Jericho Cotchery (WR) - Cotchery and rookie Mark Sanchez had good chemistry in a game in which the Jets made a statement, defeating the Texans 24-7. After Laveranues Coles left for the Bengals, Cotchery moved into the #1 receiver role for the Jets. He fit the role well on Sunday, leading the Jets in receptions, collecting 6 receptions (targeted 7 times) for 90 yards

Tank Tyler (DT) - After a competitive battle with veteran Ron Edwards during the preseason, Tyler emerged as the starting Defensive Tackle in the Chiefs new 3-4 defense. Despite the fact that the Chiefs lost to the Ravens 24-38, Tyler reassured the coaches that they made a good decision, collecting 7 tackles (5 solo) and 1 tackle for loss

Torry Holt (WR) - After being released from the St. Louis Rams, Holt moved to Jacksonville, becoming the number one target for David Garrard. This past Sunday, the Jaguars fell to the Colts 12-14. Holt led the Jaguars with 47 yards receiving, reeling in 3 receptions (targeted 5 times).

Brian Williams (CB) - After recently being released from the Jaguars, Williams was quickly picked up by the Falcons, who gladly inserted him into the starting role at cornerback. Williams brings a lot of experience to the Falcons secondary and played well in the Falcons 19-7 win over the Dolphins. Williams stat line: 4 tackles (3 solo) and 1 fumble recovery (returned 53 yards).

Steven Hauschka (PK) - Hauschka went 1 for 2 in field goal attempts on Sunday in the Ravens 38-24 win over the Chiefs. He connected on a 44 yard field goal and missed one from 41 yards away. He was a perfect 5 for 5 on PAT's.

Other Pack Alum:

Marcus Hudson (CB) - 2 tackles (1 solo)
Manny Lawson (OLB) - 2 tackles (1 solo)
Adrian Wilson (S) - 2 tackles (2 solo)
DaJuan Morgan (S) - 2 tackles (2 solo)
Brian Clark (WR) - 1 reception (targeted 1 time) for 17 yards

Sean Locklear (OL) started for the injured Walter Jones in the Seahawks 28-0 shutout of the Rams.

Leroy Harris (OL) is second on the depth chart at LG, C and RG for the Tennessee Titans.

Scott Kooistra (OL) was inactive in the Bengals 7-12 loss to the Broncos due to a knee injury.

Stephen Tulloch: 'What Football Is All About'

Former All-ACC NC State Linebacker Stephen Tulloch is getting the NFL season started off tonight in grand fashion on NBC (8:30pm) against the defending Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers. Tulloch played for the Pack in 03-05, and was the MVP of the Meineke Car Care Bowl in '05, when NC State shut out South Florida. Since then he has moved into the starting middle linebacker role for the Tennessee Titans and according to him, they are ready for the Steelers tonight. Here is an excerpt from Tulloch's blog on his official website Tulloch55 concerning the magnitude of tonights game:

"Opening the season at Pittsburgh, the defending Super Bowl champions, first game for the NFL, the rivalry between the Titans and the Steelers, the whole world watching. This is what football is all about. If you’re a fan of football, you won’t want to miss it.

I feel good about us right now. My injury is behind me, I’m 100 percent. Pittsburgh always is a good game, we beat them during the regular season last year and the atmosphere is going to be electrifying. We definitely have all the right pieces in place, the team is much wiser, smarter, more experienced. I think we have a better understanding of what it takes to get to the next level and we’re just excited about the opportunity we have right in front of us. What better way could there be than to start the season off against Pittsburgh?

I’m very familiar with the Steelers offense. I’ve watched so much film I feel like I’ll pretty much be in the huddle with them. Our defense is geared for whatever they throw at us."


Check out Tulloch's blog entry in its entirety.

Make sure to turn on the tube tonight and check out one of the NC State alum playing on the big stage.

Tulloch Back In Action

After missing the Tennessee Titans first three preseason games, former NC State linebacker Stephen Tulloch got back in the action last night, starting at middle linebacker versus the Cleveland Browns. Tulloch collected 2 tackles in limited playing time and let Brown's running back Jamal Lewis know that he was back in town, unloading what was arguably the hit of the night on Lewis in the 2nd quarter. I'm sure that Tennessee was excited to have their starting middle linebacker back on the field. Tulloch was definitely excited when he told The Tennessean:

“It felt good to be out there running around," Tulloch said. “I wish I could’ve played more, but coaches wouldn’t let me play any more."

The Titans still have one more preseason game next Thursday, September 3rd, against the Green Bay Packers.

David Glenn Chats With Anthony Hill

David Glenn of the ACC Sports Journal got the chance to catch up with former NC State Tight End Anthony Hill this past Thursday on his radio show on 850 The Buzz. Here is a small taste of their conversation:


Hill on what’s similar between being a college freshman and an NFL rookie:

“Actually everything about it. It’s just kind of like you’ve got to start over from scratch. You have to perform in front of the entire team. You have to come up with some kind of entertainment. If the vets approved then they clapped and if they didn’t they’d boo you off the stage. … It’s kind of like an initation to a new family.”

Hill on the biggest change in going from college to the NFL:

“Everything is a lot more technical. Everyone’s fast, everyone’s physical and everyone’s big. So it’s like ‘What are you going to do to be better?’ I believe that comes with your techniques. We harp on being very, very technically sound.”

Hill on his chances of making the Texans’ final roster:

“I feel like I kind of have a place, just off of our preseason games and just the snaps I’m getting in practice and everything … I feel like I do have a role on this team.”


Click here to listen to their whole conversation for free.