Thursday, August 7, 2008

AAMU Bulldogs' defensive tackles taking committee approach

But Askew hopes someone steps up to "be the big dog"

Every few plays, Renaldo Askew jogs his 6-foot-2, 266-pound frame off the field to talk with Alabama A&M defensive line coach Ben Blacknall. It's a common theme for Askew and the rest of the defensive tackles. The unit hasn't been dominant since All-Southwestern Athletic Conference tackle Kevin Lockhart finished his career two years ago. Blacknall's job is to make sure progress is being made, and that's why he's in constant contact with his players.

"If we're going to be successful on defense," Blacknall said, "our tackles have to play well." Askew and Whitney Garrett, the lone senior, are the current starters. Frank Kearse and Marcus Powe will also see a lot of playing time. Askew said the group has gotten Blacknall's message. "There's a lot of pressure on us," he said. "Every day. Every practice. Every meeting. We've got to stay together and do what we've got to do."

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