Troy University Athletics
Photo by: Edward Fieder
Troy's Other Big Man is Ready to Shine
8/24/2011 1:47:00 PM | Football
In an offensive line filled with experienced juniors and seniors, one redshirted freshman has stepped up and is in the mix for a starting job at right tackle for the 2011 Troy Trojans.
The other big man, otherwise known as Terrence Jones, is a 6-foot-3, 307-pound force.
Jones, a Huntsville native, is set to make the transition from a redshirt season to starting. He put much effort into his off season work, and in training camp. Despite an early setback, the effort has paid off.
“I worked hard on the scout team last year,” Jones said. “I worked real hard in the weight room. I'm just trying to get in better shape.”
The off-season work was almost undone on the very first day of fall camp when Jones succumbed to the early August heat. But he bounced right back.
Jones brings a unique skill set to the offensive line. While he may be big and strong, he also brings athleticism.
“He's really athletic for a big guy,” Trojans offensive line coach Jim Schlarman said. “He's got great feet. He's very athletic for a big, young, freshman tackle. Being big and athletic is a good combination.”
Jones can attribute some of his athletic success to another sport he played in high school. Jones spent his winters playing basketball.
“Move my feet,” Jones said, when asked about what skills he has brought to football from basketball.
Jones is doing just that, and it is certainly noticeable on the offensive line where he is often overshadowed by Outland Trophy candidate James Brown, a senior at left tackle, and other veterans. Still, great things are expected from Jones this season.
“He is a guy that's worked hard for us. He had a real good spring,” Schlarman said. “We're expecting big things out of him. Even though he is only a redshirt freshman, we think he can have a big year for us.”
While Jones might have a dominating presence in the trenches, off the field he is as humble as can be.
“He is pretty quiet and reserved,” Schlarman said. “Terrence gets his work done and keeps his mouth shut. He goes about his normal, every day business. As a coach, you kind of appreciate those guys. He is just all about getting the job done and doing it right.”
That work ethic has allowed him to earn the respect of his teammates as well.
“All the other guys have taken a big time liking to him,” Schlarman said.
Jones is looking forward to excelling in his first season and not letting his teammates down.
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