02-28-2020, 02:58 PM
(This post was last modified: 02-28-2020, 03:08 PM by FurFurFurson.)
James Manson, interviewer (JM): Thanks for joining us here on “3rd and 20”. I’m your host, James Manson and today, you are in for a TREAT! The DSFL draft is just days away, and we’re joined today by three amazing prospects. Today, we’re focusing on the defensive side of the ball. Joining us will be Safety - Buck “Nasty” Thornton, Linebacker - Lawrence “Reel Deal” Bass, and Cornerback - Chester “Candy” Sweets. Welcome guys.
Chester Sweets (CS): Ay, thanks for having us. It's good to be here!
Lawrence Bass (LB): Thanks for having us. I’m excited and a little nervous.
Buck Thornton (BT): Yeah, excited and nervous too. Luckily Chester will do all the talking for us.
CS: I’m just excited, B! We’re here, baby. This is us!
JM: Don’t be nervous, guys! We’re gonna have some fun. So, all of you are entering the DSFL in just a few days. What are your first impressions of the spectacle and what it’s like in the convention center?
CS: Man, this place is crazy. There’s so much energy in the air. I’m eating it up. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. What else can we do?
LB: There’s so much going on! I’m just keeping my head up and focusing on staying ready for anything. People keep asking me where I’m gunna get drafted, and I’m like, if I already knew that, I wouldn’t be here, ya know?
BT: The vibe around here is really positive, which I dig. Everyone seems to want to genuinely get to know us. It’s hard to stay focused sometimes and keep your ego from getting too inflated *coughs* Chester…
CS: Ay, man, I’m here to work. This is just how I get through. There’s so much attention, like Buck said, it can be easy to lose focus. If I’m talking about the game, though, there’s no chance I’m not locked in.
JM: So, what have you all been doing this week? For those of us that haven’t even been on the inside, tell us a little about the process.
CS: *Looks at Buck with a raised eyebrow and laughs* Man, there are eyes everywhere. Buck loves it! All the attention on him. There are scouts, agents, coaches everywhere. We go out to dinner, you look around and half the people in there are connected to the league. You just gotta be yourself.
BT: *sighs* Actually, it’s not that bad. Hard part is finding the hours to get your training in. Just ‘cause we’re here, doesn’t mean we don’t have work to do.
LB: Exactly, Buck. Lots of interviews and media events. Everything is constantly moving. I’d rather be at a really hard practice all day, honestly! It feels like every hour I’m running around to go to another meeting or interview. Don’t get me wrong, I’m so happy to be here doing it all. But, man, it adds up!
CS: *Looks around to Bass and Thornton* What’s the craziest question you got so far? I heard someone got asked if they thought their mom was hot or not.
LB: What, bro? No way! I haven’t had anything that wild. A lot of them have asked about my dad being a pro wrestler. And some of these scouts man! I won’t say who, but someone offered me some crazy stuff if I’d let them represent me.
CS: Have you been around the Dallas front office? That’s a crazy place. Gonna be interesting to see how that expansion team pans out. Myrtle Beach is another real interesting place. That locker room is filled with some odd balls. Active, welcoming, but odd balls no less.
BT: You’ll fit right in!
CS: Wait LB, your dad WRESTLED?!
LB: Wrestles. Still at it. He’s the Broncbuster.
BT: I could pin your dad.
LB: That’s a match I’d pay to see. But, be careful what you wish for. That’s all I’m sayin.
BT: Let’s get it! I’m always down for some friendly competition
CS: Hah, that’d be a sight! I haven’t seen your dad. I gotta take Buck, even if it ain’t no folkstyle match. Buck, you got the swag to get into the ring in front of thousands and make a show?! That’s crazy, LB! Can we go see him?
LB: Absolutely. He’s always happy to meet fans and make new ones.
CS: *Throws arms around Bass and Thornton* Man, we’re in here!!
LB: Honestly, I was really hoping to go through the process with someone like you, Sweets. A guy that kinda takes the eyes and the pressure off. You’re making this media stuff a lot easier.
BT: It does help. I love Sweets. I’m just getting to know Lawrence but it’s nice to have some guys by your side in this process. I imagine it would be very overwhelming without them.
LB: Agreed. Maybe we could end up playing together, too.
CS: You think so? Imagine the three of us. They don’t want it. Alligator Arms gang!
LB: It’s possible. I mean, look at us. Linebacker, Corner and Safety. A team could mess around and take all three of us and load their defense in a single draft.
JM: You have a point, Lawrence, but wait a minute. We’ve gotta back up. What did that scout offer you?
CS: Let’s just move on, man.
LB: Oh man, I don’t want to say or get anyone in trouble. Let’s just say he must’ve felt really good about my draft status.
JM: Well, did you accept?
CS: Did he accept? What is this…
LB: No way, man! I don’t know anything about that man. I let my play represent me.
CS: Man, you better be careful! This is a dangerous conversation.
LB: I know. I know. Can’t sell my soul. Did anyone offer you guys stuff?
CS: Naw, man.
BT: Yeah some have offered me some stuff, but they want too much in return. I’m just gonna enter the draft and see what happens.
CS: Man, y’all’s draft hype must be up there. I’m definitely not having this experience.
BT: Oh I have it on good authority that yours is high too...
JM: If I may offer some advice, I’d suggest that you all read anything you intend to sign very carefully. You never know what some of these crooks will try to slip in there.
JM: Moving on though, let’s shift gears a little bit. Why don’t you guys tell me about one of your biggest fears? And don’t give me any of those lame answers like “snakes” or “spiders.”
LB: My biggest fear in football, is to not be feared. If receivers and H-Backs aren’t scared of me or respecting my presence on the field, then I’ve failed. That would be awful. My high school position coach told me that. Make them fear you. Make sure they have to know where you are at all times. Takes their heads out of their game plan and makes for nervous hands.
JM: Very interesting answer! I like that. What about you Buck?
BT: Fear is a natural part of life, but I try not to let it drive me. But I have a great opportunity here to provide for my mom and brothers and letting it slide by is not really an option.
CS: Buck said it. It's normal to have. It's not even a bad thing. Fear keeps you alive. On the field, though, it's just a game. We take it seriously, don’t get me wrong. But, I have a sister in the military who has seen live action. Walk through the neighborhoods of Jacksonville at night, see those zombies losing their minds. I know families where the kids have to find a way to feed themselves. That’s fear. We’re out here playing a game. That’s my fear, that I don’t do enough for my family and community. My mom and dad are expecting to use the gift I have to make an impact, especially out here in Florida. It can be ugly. I wanna change that. So, yeah, I talk, cuz I’m always looking for that next opportunity. You don’t know where that might come from.
LB: Good for you, Ches. We gotta give back. It’s only natural once you make it. A rising tide lifts all boats.
CS: If I was a wideout in the DSFL this coming year, though, my biggest fear would be going across the middle. Man, this class is deep at DB and LB!
JM: Ok. Ok. Good answers all around. You guys are making my job quite easy. I love it! If you work this well together on the field with your teammates, I can definitely see you having great careers!
LB: Thank you, sir.
CS: That’s how we work. Thank you.
BT: Appreciate the confidence, James.
JM: You’re all welcome. I’m enjoying myself, hopefully as much as you are.
JM: Now then, let’s take a stroll down memory lane. Let’s hear about your best and worst memories on the field. You all have plenty to choose from, I’m sure.
LB: Better get the bad out of the way first. I still have nightmares about losing to Florida my Freshman year. That game was miserable. It was hotter than Candice Parker out there! And I was not where I needed to be with my conditioning yet. 3rd quarter, I’m basically dead, but coach calls my number to sub in. I’m cheating up to the line a little bit more than I should, to limit my distance to the QB. He saw that and audibled out of the play. He pump faked a screen, then handed it off to the back and he ran straight through my chest. Lord, I’ll never forget that. That boy was about 5’9” standing on a phone book, but he made me look like I should’ve still been in high school. Real wake up call for me.
JM: Good thing Neyland only holds 100,000 people, so no one saw that.
BT: Dang! ONLY 100k?? That sounds like a lot to me!
LB: 102,455. I’ll never forget that number! But, I got back on him the next year in the swamp. I think he had about 15 yards all game.
CS: Payback, baby!
LB: My best memory though, other than running through the T one last time, is probably a tie between breaking the UT tackle record, and winning the natty. I mean, that’s why we play the game. That’s the ultimate team award, and it felt so good to make that history for Tennessee with my guys. But something about breaking that record, and against Bama, it just felt so special to me. Whenever a recruit reads through the record books, they're gunna see my name next to the all-time great VFLs. It's an amazing feeling.
CS: You called your shot, too! Not too many people get away with that!
LB: Haha! I guess I did! Man, people asked me about that interview all year and, for a while, I felt stupid for ever saying it. But, I meant it at the time, so I just used it to fuel me and the team for the rest of the year.
CS: It ain’t stupid, if you can back it up.
JM: Us media heads had a field day with it at the time, especially during the build up to the playoffs and after you made good on it. It was great content for the season, if I do say so myself.
LB: Glad I could be of service. Man, I feel like I’m talking too much. How about you, Buck? What was your best memory?
BT: Best memory is getting on the field with my little brother, Jack. We were killing Azusa Pacific my senior year and putting the second string on the field. I convinced our coach to let me on with the second team, so I could play with Jack for the first time. Had to whip his ass into shape a bit, but it was fun. Worst memories are pretty much the big playoff losses. I do have an embarrassing sports memory, but it’s kind of funny now. I raced biathlon when I lived in Fairbanks and I was leading one of my races by a mile. On our second-to-last shoot I hit five out of five targets, turned and got on my way, ready to run away with the win. Then I see one of the staff rushing towards the track yelling at me. Apparently I shot someone else’s target, so I had to do all 5 penalty laps and ended up losing the race. I definitely look back at that and laugh, and now I’m sure Chester won’t let me live that down cause I’ve never told him that one before.
LB: That's brutal, Buck! I don't see why they couldn't just have the next fella shoot your targets though. Seems like an easy enough fix.
BT: It’s just a rules thing. I lost my focus and it cost me. But it was a good lesson to learn, and probably helped me in the long run.
JM: Sure looks like it did, Buck! What about you Chester? Anything that stands out in your memory?
CS: I got to grow up playing with my family and those are some of the best times. I can’t tell you how many championships we won on school teams and travel clubs. My mom and dad were either coaching us or cheering on the sideline. I was real blessed growing up, and to this day. Few people get that, and I will forever be grateful..I’ll never forget when I ran towards the wrong basket when we were like 8 or 9, though. My dad is losing it, yelling at me on the sidelines. I go to lay it up and my older brother Jackson just lays me out, shoves me before I can throw it up and make it. I must’ve looked at him like a dog left out in the rain. I was so heartbroken. My big brother just KILLED me. He shook his head and helped me up. After the game, and I had gotten my oranges and juicebox, we talked about focus and staying tight. That was how it was in my family. He wasn’t mad, but I was expected to not make such a careless mistake in the future, even at that age.
JM: There’s a solid family theme with all of you. It's great to see. All you GMs out there, these three are definitely not in it for themselves. I’ll tell you that much!
JM: Now then, here’s a fun one. What was your go to pre-game or post-game meal?
LB: That’s easy, man. Pre-game, the nutrition team had us all fixed up. Shout out Ashley. She always hooked me up with a lil' somethin sweet to get my rush goin. But, it was usually some chicken and veggies; standard stuff. Post-game, tho? Shoooowee! Raising Cane’s chicken, baby! Get that Caniac combo, extra toast! Yes, sir!
CS: You go to a fried chicken place and get Extra TOAST?!
LB: Absolutely! That stuff slaps! They get that butter just right. Yessir! Miss me with the coleslaw, though. Trust me, the Caniac comes with plenty of chicken though.
BT: I ain’t even heard of Cane’s.
CS: No Cane’s in big, bad Anchorage?
BT: There might be, but I was all the way up in Fairbanks. Anchorage is six hours south. You don’t know cold till you’ve been to Fairbanks.
LB: That’s a shame! We gotta get you to Knoxville and change that.
CS: Bro, you got Nashville Hot Chicken!
BT: Post game for me was Mama’s cooking. Always. Go home and get that home cooked meal after a hard game. I try to eat before games, but I always get nervous. I can usually get a smoothie down and if it’s a late game I’ll do eggs and bacon before that. Nothing fancy.
CS: Fried chicken is my favorite, but LB’s right, pre-game, it's gotta be the healthy stuff. It's crazy how much better I feel when I get the right foods. That was big for us in San Diego. You know, it's all beaches there. Hah. But forreal though, modern dietary programs seem to make a huge difference. Post game, though? Ice cream. My family hates it. I’ll turn my living room into a war zone! But I’ll go through a couple pints after a game. Them little Talenti containers, though, the sundaes. Those are the best. We usually have a half dozen in the freezer.
LB: Bet! What’s your favorite Talenti flavor? Mine’s the Sea Salt Caramel. But, I also mess with Ben and Jerry’s heavy. The Tonight Dough kills me every time.
CS: Oh man, I could eat all of ‘em. You making me choose though? I gotta go Dark Chocolate Cherry, the Layers. Tastes like those filled cherries from Valentines. Cordures? Cordools? Whatever. They’re smacking.
LB: Cordials hahaha!
CS: Yeah, cordules!
BT: *looking at James* What are these guys talking about…
CS: Cordoods, man! You ain’t never had ‘em?
BT: Bro, I’m from Alaska, we barely got McDonald’s.
LB: I’ll get you some for V-Day, Buck. Don’t want you to be left out.
CS: That’s cute.
JM: You guys seem to be really enjoying yourselves now. That’s great.
JM: Let’s get to some bravado talk. Which of you three is going to have the best combine numbers?
BT: Well, one of my biggest strengths is endurance, so I expect to have solid numbers across the board. I would like to put up 20+ on the bench. I’m not kidding myself that I’m going to put up the best 40 time but I would LOVE to beat Sweets and shut him up a bit haha.
LB: I don’t know if my numbers are going to be too shocking, but I’m going to give everything in those drills. I’m hoping for 30 reps on the bench and maybe a 4.50 40. If I get under 4.5, I’ll be super happy. Hopefully, I can turn some heads and move up the boards a little bit. Chester over here though, I bet he’s got some burners.
CS: Haha, you know it. But at this level, everyone’s fast, man. The differences are so minute. Everyone can ball. I’m not really worried about the numbers, though. There’s a difference between speed and game speed. And you can’t put intimidation into a draft number. Right, Buck? How do you measure a wide receivers’ alligator arms ‘cuz he doesn’t want to go over the middle?
LB: Man, that’s a really great point! Doesn’t matter how fast they are, if they slow up because they’re scared to come over the middle.
BT: Yeah, once I start putting my body on people, they’ll see what I’m about.
CS: There you go, Buck Nasty!
JM: That’s very true. All of you are great athletes at this level. It’s almost more about your brain at this stage.
JM: Speaking of athletes, this is one of the largest draft classes we’ve ever seen. It’s almost impossible for GMs to get through every name and separate them. So, help them out. What’s going to separate you three from all the other draftees?
CS: I can’t speak for everyone, but at least for us, us 3 here… We’re here to work. We got a job to do, and we’re going to do it. We’re gonna make our opportunities because we don’t take time off. Whether that’s film, talking to vets, studying the playbook, whatever. We’re gonna push harder than the competition. Some of these GMs have asked me, “Who do you see as your biggest rivals at the cornerback position?” and I’m like “I don’t compete against cornerbacks, or safeties, or linebackers. I’m looking to blow up the offense as much as I can, and I’m looking for those warriors to go into battle with me.
LB: Chester said it pretty well. We’re gonna work harder than anyone else in this league to make an impact from the jump. I don’t like to talk a lot and blow smoke where the sun don’t shine. But, when I’m on that field or in the weight room, I’m in a different zone. I just see the plays develop and make my move. I may not be the fastest or the strongest, but my instincts have rarely ever led me wrong. My coaches have always preached that I should trust my instincts, and I listen.
BT: Yeah, it’s hard to demonstrate work ethic in one week, and mostly using words. But, people will notice us once we get in the league. I don’t see many people taking time out of their self-promotion this week to get in some training hours, but LB and Sweets have been joining me in the gym every day, so far.
CS: That’s the thing about Buck. Even these last few weeks. I know guys are taking time off, relaxing, soaking it up. That’s a quick way to lose focus. That speaks to Buck as a leader. He’s got us in there, pushing the competition, making sure we’re still on track. We just keep moving forward. I mean, I make a mistake on the field, and “Boom!” That's six. It's a big blow to my team and I’m not happy. But, I have to bounce back. We all know that. We’re gonna keep moving, keep pushing. Grinding. That’s why who you surround yourself with is so important, especially at this stage as we enter pro ball.
BT: Appreciate the kind words, Sweets, but I can only lead people who are willing to be led. It doesn’t matter how much you yell or ride someone’s ass if they can’t take it and improve because of it. Every piece of the puzzle is important, not just the leaders.
LB: Buck has definitely been great for keeping us sane. The gym is like a sanctuary from me. I can dial in and focus on getting stronger, and get my mind off all the extra stuff going on out here. My dad always told me to have a short memory on the field, but hold grudges. Forget that last play, but keep a note on who made you look bad, and don’t let it happen again. Sometimes, I take the grudges out on the weights.
BT: I like that. And next chance you get, knock’em on their ass.
LB: *nods* Yessir.
JM: Your dad played ball in college didn’t he, Lawrence?
LB: Yes, sir. He was a Defensive End at UT. Loved to hit a quarterback.
JM: Has he influenced your game any? I remember him having a nasty spin move.
LB: Oh, most definitely. He’s taught me some things about manipulating linemen and moving their weight around. He was a great player, so there’s plenty to draw from.
CS: Bro, when do I get that 1 on 1 coaching? Have you seen how big these linemen are?!
JM: Did he teach you that spin move?
LB: That’s a trade secret. I cannot confirm or deny. But, Ches, if you play your cards right, we might be able to work something out.
JM: How about your mom? She was a student athlete as well, was she not?
BT: Yeah, Bass got them good genes!
LB: Wow! You did your research!
JM: It’s easier to do so when you get paid for it!
LB: I guess so. But, yeah, my mom played basketball and softball in high school and college. She was an All American short stop at UT. That’s actually how my parents met; at one of her games. He came up to her after and talked about her play. The rest is history I guess.
JM: Fascinating stuff. How about you two? Were your parents athletes as well?
BT: My dad played some high school football, but that’s about it. He worked hard at everything he did, and so does my mom, so that has translated into my game.
CS: The whole Sweets squad balls out. That started with my mom and dad. They both played sports. Everything. Growing up with 5 brothers and sisters, we had to stay busy. We were always playing sports. There were usually a few of me and my brothers and sisters on the same team ‘cuz we’re so close in age. My mom and dad both coached our teams regularly.
JM: Did you work well with your siblings, or were you always trying to one up them or show you were the best?
CS: We’re family, man. Things are never perfect, but we’re tight.
BT: Yeah, you think Sweets is something now...you ain’t seen nothin till you see all those Sweets kids together. It’s a whole ‘nother level.
CS: *looks around to Buck and Lawrence* I mean, look at these guys. I’ve competed with both of them. Even on the same team, we don’t always agree. And that’s what’s supposed to happen. Iron sharpens iron. If I’m screwing up, I don’t need someone to tell me, “It's ok.” No, it's not. We need to get it right! Now. My family was the same way. You aren’t perfect. But you need to get it together. Me and my family, we had each other’s backs. And with that, we hold each other accountable. You’ll hear me say it often: Iron sharpens iron.
JM: Can’t argue with that.
JM: Outside of your talented families, who do you all try to model your game after? Who do you look up to or try to learn from?
CS: Man, hands down, Deon Taylor. I always feel connected to the guys who come out of the South, it's just a special place here. I know he's from KC, but it's similar. And he was IT! Playing cornerback, your main goal is to be consistent and not allow the big play. No free plays. But, you regularly have the opportunity to make a game-changer. Taylor, he was doing that. He got his hands on the ball and turned the tide for his teammates. He scored. A pick-six is gonna get your team going. Then I get to jump BACK on the field and do it again? Yes, please.
BT: There are a lot of players that I try to emulate. Kam Chancellor, Troy Polamalu, Ray Lewis. I’ve always admired Pat Tillman too. The guy had an insane motor and work ethic and I respect the hell out of who he was and what he did. Also, I really love training with professional MMA fighters. You can’t get to a high level in MMA without some kind of drive, and their workouts are super fun!
LB: Buck, that Legion of Boom was one of the greatest defenses, all time. Loved watching them demolish teams. But, in this league Austin Roenick is a guy I admire. I don’t think he gets as much credit as he deserves as one of the best defensive players in the league’s history. I’m pretty sure he still holds the record for most career tackles and always knew how to strip that ball out. Man is an animal! And, obviously, Kurt Hendrix. Dude, was an absolute beast and an easy choice for the Hall of Fame. I hope to be in there with him one day.
JM: Do you think Roenick should get in the Hall as well?
LB: Absolutely! I think he’ll get in eventually. Shoot! He may still have some left in the tank!
JM: You have all made it clear that you love football and working out. But, tell me, what do you like to do off the field? Do you have any hobbies?
CS: Buck, you can’t just say working, either!
BT: *laughs* Okay okay...I do like shooting though. I’m always going to the range with my brothers when I’m home on the weekends. If I’m drafted it’ll be nice to have some money to take some trips to go skiing as a family. We haven’t done that in forever. Does training MMA count as work? Cause I think that’s pretty fun too…
LB: At this point, people should know that Buck has a bed in every gym and dojo across America.
BT: Yeah yeah...maybe I should get out more.
CS: You know that’s right! For me, I try to spend time with family whenever possible. This week has been crazy fun because my whole family is out in Jacksonville. Everyone took time (and money) to come out and be there for me. And it's been huge. We don’t usually get together like this. I’m grateful. One thing that folks may not know about me, though, is that I like to surf. I never really messed with it in Florida but beach culture is real out in San Diego. These dudes wake up super early, hit the waves, chill for the day, then head back out. There’s really nothing like it. And not a whole lot of Jacksonville boys jumping on a board out there!
BT: You’ll have to teach me if we end up on the same team!
LB: Man, you aren’t scared of sharks? I don’t think I could ever get out there and do something like that, knowing those killers are lurking!
JM: We can add that to your list of fears, I guess!
CS: Man, I get it. And yeah it happens. I won't even go into my start out there. Yall. THEY GET SHARK WARNINGS! But when you're out there, it doesn't happen too much and when it does, nobody really trips. So, I just got used to it.
LB: I don't think you'll catch me out there any time soon. Much rather be inside. I actually really like to play Dungeons and Dragons. I do so much physical activity in my life with practices and workouts, so it’s fun to flex that creative side of my brain.
JM: Now that is surprising! What kind of character do you play? I’m guessing a barbarian.
LB: Nah, nah. I could see why you’d think that, but it’s nice to be in a completely different head space when I’m in that world. I play as a Tiefling Wizard. All the spells and stuff are really cool and having a character with high intelligence makes me feel smarter in real life. It’s relaxing, honestly. Everyone is really into their character and some of us do voices and draw scenes that we’ve been in. Definitely not as lame as people would have you think. Shout out to the DND Gang!
CS: Bro, “You're a nerd!”. But, you know what? Me too. I played it a bunch in college. We'd pull all nighters, especially Thursdays because no one had class on Friday. I had a bad ass little halfling sorcerer. Just TEARIN' it up! It's a good way to relax from all the physicality of ball.
LB: You play too?? I never saw that one comin, but we'll take all the players we can get! We should start a session in the offseason for league guys!
BT: How do you guys even find these games? I’ve never even met anyone who plays that. Lord of the Rings is about as nerdy as I get...Do you guys like dress up and stuff?
CS: Man, I wanna be like “I’m not that nerdy!” but I’m already in it. But, no, no dress up. But, I got a little figurine! *laughs hysterically*
LB: If you're really curious and want to find games, there are forums with this kind of stuff everywhere. Facebook groups and Reddit are both great sources. I started with a group of friends back home in middle school. Some of us moved away for college, but we try to do games over Skype every couple weeks. It's honestly more about the people you play with, than the actual game itself.
BT: Dang you guys are actually making this sound pretty fun! Y’all are good salesmen. Are you sure you chose the right career?
LB: Oh most definitely! But, if you want to come play some time, I'm sure we could link up. Or you could even just observe for a session. But, don't get it twisted. Football is my first love, and always will be.
BT: I don’t doubt that! I’ll be crashing your next game for sure.
JM: Well, gentlemen, this has really been a pleasure. I feel like people really learned a lot about all of you today. Anyone you want to say “hello” to back home?
CS: I wanna say what’s up to the whole Sweets Squad: Mom, Dad, Jason, Jaron, Jackson, Chicky, and Charmagne. I love y’all! Thanks for having us, James!
LB: Thanks so much, James, for making this a fun experience. Shout out to mom and dad. And, Go Vols!
BT: Jack, Phil, and Billy, my little bros. Mom probably won’t see this unless it’s in the paper, but I love her. And rest in peace, Dad.
JM: There’s three excited young men. And it’s an exciting time in the DSFL and NSFL. This new draft class is the largest we’ve ever seen and it will be fascinating to see how it all shakes out. Best of luck to you all. Thank you for joining us on “3rd and 20.” I’ll see you next time, with even more prospects from this year’s class. God bless, and good night!
*please split earnings between FurFurFurson (Buck Thornton), revuhlution (Chester Sweets), and RussDrivesTheBus (Lawrence Bass)
Chester Sweets (CS): Ay, thanks for having us. It's good to be here!
Lawrence Bass (LB): Thanks for having us. I’m excited and a little nervous.
Buck Thornton (BT): Yeah, excited and nervous too. Luckily Chester will do all the talking for us.
CS: I’m just excited, B! We’re here, baby. This is us!
JM: Don’t be nervous, guys! We’re gonna have some fun. So, all of you are entering the DSFL in just a few days. What are your first impressions of the spectacle and what it’s like in the convention center?
CS: Man, this place is crazy. There’s so much energy in the air. I’m eating it up. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. What else can we do?
LB: There’s so much going on! I’m just keeping my head up and focusing on staying ready for anything. People keep asking me where I’m gunna get drafted, and I’m like, if I already knew that, I wouldn’t be here, ya know?
BT: The vibe around here is really positive, which I dig. Everyone seems to want to genuinely get to know us. It’s hard to stay focused sometimes and keep your ego from getting too inflated *coughs* Chester…
CS: Ay, man, I’m here to work. This is just how I get through. There’s so much attention, like Buck said, it can be easy to lose focus. If I’m talking about the game, though, there’s no chance I’m not locked in.
JM: So, what have you all been doing this week? For those of us that haven’t even been on the inside, tell us a little about the process.
CS: *Looks at Buck with a raised eyebrow and laughs* Man, there are eyes everywhere. Buck loves it! All the attention on him. There are scouts, agents, coaches everywhere. We go out to dinner, you look around and half the people in there are connected to the league. You just gotta be yourself.
BT: *sighs* Actually, it’s not that bad. Hard part is finding the hours to get your training in. Just ‘cause we’re here, doesn’t mean we don’t have work to do.
LB: Exactly, Buck. Lots of interviews and media events. Everything is constantly moving. I’d rather be at a really hard practice all day, honestly! It feels like every hour I’m running around to go to another meeting or interview. Don’t get me wrong, I’m so happy to be here doing it all. But, man, it adds up!
CS: *Looks around to Bass and Thornton* What’s the craziest question you got so far? I heard someone got asked if they thought their mom was hot or not.
LB: What, bro? No way! I haven’t had anything that wild. A lot of them have asked about my dad being a pro wrestler. And some of these scouts man! I won’t say who, but someone offered me some crazy stuff if I’d let them represent me.
CS: Have you been around the Dallas front office? That’s a crazy place. Gonna be interesting to see how that expansion team pans out. Myrtle Beach is another real interesting place. That locker room is filled with some odd balls. Active, welcoming, but odd balls no less.
BT: You’ll fit right in!
CS: Wait LB, your dad WRESTLED?!
LB: Wrestles. Still at it. He’s the Broncbuster.
BT: I could pin your dad.
LB: That’s a match I’d pay to see. But, be careful what you wish for. That’s all I’m sayin.
BT: Let’s get it! I’m always down for some friendly competition
CS: Hah, that’d be a sight! I haven’t seen your dad. I gotta take Buck, even if it ain’t no folkstyle match. Buck, you got the swag to get into the ring in front of thousands and make a show?! That’s crazy, LB! Can we go see him?
LB: Absolutely. He’s always happy to meet fans and make new ones.
CS: *Throws arms around Bass and Thornton* Man, we’re in here!!
LB: Honestly, I was really hoping to go through the process with someone like you, Sweets. A guy that kinda takes the eyes and the pressure off. You’re making this media stuff a lot easier.
BT: It does help. I love Sweets. I’m just getting to know Lawrence but it’s nice to have some guys by your side in this process. I imagine it would be very overwhelming without them.
LB: Agreed. Maybe we could end up playing together, too.
CS: You think so? Imagine the three of us. They don’t want it. Alligator Arms gang!
LB: It’s possible. I mean, look at us. Linebacker, Corner and Safety. A team could mess around and take all three of us and load their defense in a single draft.
JM: You have a point, Lawrence, but wait a minute. We’ve gotta back up. What did that scout offer you?
CS: Let’s just move on, man.
LB: Oh man, I don’t want to say or get anyone in trouble. Let’s just say he must’ve felt really good about my draft status.
JM: Well, did you accept?
CS: Did he accept? What is this…
LB: No way, man! I don’t know anything about that man. I let my play represent me.
CS: Man, you better be careful! This is a dangerous conversation.
LB: I know. I know. Can’t sell my soul. Did anyone offer you guys stuff?
CS: Naw, man.
BT: Yeah some have offered me some stuff, but they want too much in return. I’m just gonna enter the draft and see what happens.
CS: Man, y’all’s draft hype must be up there. I’m definitely not having this experience.
BT: Oh I have it on good authority that yours is high too...
JM: If I may offer some advice, I’d suggest that you all read anything you intend to sign very carefully. You never know what some of these crooks will try to slip in there.
JM: Moving on though, let’s shift gears a little bit. Why don’t you guys tell me about one of your biggest fears? And don’t give me any of those lame answers like “snakes” or “spiders.”
LB: My biggest fear in football, is to not be feared. If receivers and H-Backs aren’t scared of me or respecting my presence on the field, then I’ve failed. That would be awful. My high school position coach told me that. Make them fear you. Make sure they have to know where you are at all times. Takes their heads out of their game plan and makes for nervous hands.
JM: Very interesting answer! I like that. What about you Buck?
BT: Fear is a natural part of life, but I try not to let it drive me. But I have a great opportunity here to provide for my mom and brothers and letting it slide by is not really an option.
CS: Buck said it. It's normal to have. It's not even a bad thing. Fear keeps you alive. On the field, though, it's just a game. We take it seriously, don’t get me wrong. But, I have a sister in the military who has seen live action. Walk through the neighborhoods of Jacksonville at night, see those zombies losing their minds. I know families where the kids have to find a way to feed themselves. That’s fear. We’re out here playing a game. That’s my fear, that I don’t do enough for my family and community. My mom and dad are expecting to use the gift I have to make an impact, especially out here in Florida. It can be ugly. I wanna change that. So, yeah, I talk, cuz I’m always looking for that next opportunity. You don’t know where that might come from.
LB: Good for you, Ches. We gotta give back. It’s only natural once you make it. A rising tide lifts all boats.
CS: If I was a wideout in the DSFL this coming year, though, my biggest fear would be going across the middle. Man, this class is deep at DB and LB!
JM: Ok. Ok. Good answers all around. You guys are making my job quite easy. I love it! If you work this well together on the field with your teammates, I can definitely see you having great careers!
LB: Thank you, sir.
CS: That’s how we work. Thank you.
BT: Appreciate the confidence, James.
JM: You’re all welcome. I’m enjoying myself, hopefully as much as you are.
JM: Now then, let’s take a stroll down memory lane. Let’s hear about your best and worst memories on the field. You all have plenty to choose from, I’m sure.
LB: Better get the bad out of the way first. I still have nightmares about losing to Florida my Freshman year. That game was miserable. It was hotter than Candice Parker out there! And I was not where I needed to be with my conditioning yet. 3rd quarter, I’m basically dead, but coach calls my number to sub in. I’m cheating up to the line a little bit more than I should, to limit my distance to the QB. He saw that and audibled out of the play. He pump faked a screen, then handed it off to the back and he ran straight through my chest. Lord, I’ll never forget that. That boy was about 5’9” standing on a phone book, but he made me look like I should’ve still been in high school. Real wake up call for me.
JM: Good thing Neyland only holds 100,000 people, so no one saw that.
BT: Dang! ONLY 100k?? That sounds like a lot to me!
LB: 102,455. I’ll never forget that number! But, I got back on him the next year in the swamp. I think he had about 15 yards all game.
CS: Payback, baby!
LB: My best memory though, other than running through the T one last time, is probably a tie between breaking the UT tackle record, and winning the natty. I mean, that’s why we play the game. That’s the ultimate team award, and it felt so good to make that history for Tennessee with my guys. But something about breaking that record, and against Bama, it just felt so special to me. Whenever a recruit reads through the record books, they're gunna see my name next to the all-time great VFLs. It's an amazing feeling.
CS: You called your shot, too! Not too many people get away with that!
LB: Haha! I guess I did! Man, people asked me about that interview all year and, for a while, I felt stupid for ever saying it. But, I meant it at the time, so I just used it to fuel me and the team for the rest of the year.
CS: It ain’t stupid, if you can back it up.
JM: Us media heads had a field day with it at the time, especially during the build up to the playoffs and after you made good on it. It was great content for the season, if I do say so myself.
LB: Glad I could be of service. Man, I feel like I’m talking too much. How about you, Buck? What was your best memory?
BT: Best memory is getting on the field with my little brother, Jack. We were killing Azusa Pacific my senior year and putting the second string on the field. I convinced our coach to let me on with the second team, so I could play with Jack for the first time. Had to whip his ass into shape a bit, but it was fun. Worst memories are pretty much the big playoff losses. I do have an embarrassing sports memory, but it’s kind of funny now. I raced biathlon when I lived in Fairbanks and I was leading one of my races by a mile. On our second-to-last shoot I hit five out of five targets, turned and got on my way, ready to run away with the win. Then I see one of the staff rushing towards the track yelling at me. Apparently I shot someone else’s target, so I had to do all 5 penalty laps and ended up losing the race. I definitely look back at that and laugh, and now I’m sure Chester won’t let me live that down cause I’ve never told him that one before.
LB: That's brutal, Buck! I don't see why they couldn't just have the next fella shoot your targets though. Seems like an easy enough fix.
BT: It’s just a rules thing. I lost my focus and it cost me. But it was a good lesson to learn, and probably helped me in the long run.
JM: Sure looks like it did, Buck! What about you Chester? Anything that stands out in your memory?
CS: I got to grow up playing with my family and those are some of the best times. I can’t tell you how many championships we won on school teams and travel clubs. My mom and dad were either coaching us or cheering on the sideline. I was real blessed growing up, and to this day. Few people get that, and I will forever be grateful..I’ll never forget when I ran towards the wrong basket when we were like 8 or 9, though. My dad is losing it, yelling at me on the sidelines. I go to lay it up and my older brother Jackson just lays me out, shoves me before I can throw it up and make it. I must’ve looked at him like a dog left out in the rain. I was so heartbroken. My big brother just KILLED me. He shook his head and helped me up. After the game, and I had gotten my oranges and juicebox, we talked about focus and staying tight. That was how it was in my family. He wasn’t mad, but I was expected to not make such a careless mistake in the future, even at that age.
JM: There’s a solid family theme with all of you. It's great to see. All you GMs out there, these three are definitely not in it for themselves. I’ll tell you that much!
JM: Now then, here’s a fun one. What was your go to pre-game or post-game meal?
LB: That’s easy, man. Pre-game, the nutrition team had us all fixed up. Shout out Ashley. She always hooked me up with a lil' somethin sweet to get my rush goin. But, it was usually some chicken and veggies; standard stuff. Post-game, tho? Shoooowee! Raising Cane’s chicken, baby! Get that Caniac combo, extra toast! Yes, sir!
CS: You go to a fried chicken place and get Extra TOAST?!
LB: Absolutely! That stuff slaps! They get that butter just right. Yessir! Miss me with the coleslaw, though. Trust me, the Caniac comes with plenty of chicken though.
BT: I ain’t even heard of Cane’s.
CS: No Cane’s in big, bad Anchorage?
BT: There might be, but I was all the way up in Fairbanks. Anchorage is six hours south. You don’t know cold till you’ve been to Fairbanks.
LB: That’s a shame! We gotta get you to Knoxville and change that.
CS: Bro, you got Nashville Hot Chicken!
BT: Post game for me was Mama’s cooking. Always. Go home and get that home cooked meal after a hard game. I try to eat before games, but I always get nervous. I can usually get a smoothie down and if it’s a late game I’ll do eggs and bacon before that. Nothing fancy.
CS: Fried chicken is my favorite, but LB’s right, pre-game, it's gotta be the healthy stuff. It's crazy how much better I feel when I get the right foods. That was big for us in San Diego. You know, it's all beaches there. Hah. But forreal though, modern dietary programs seem to make a huge difference. Post game, though? Ice cream. My family hates it. I’ll turn my living room into a war zone! But I’ll go through a couple pints after a game. Them little Talenti containers, though, the sundaes. Those are the best. We usually have a half dozen in the freezer.
LB: Bet! What’s your favorite Talenti flavor? Mine’s the Sea Salt Caramel. But, I also mess with Ben and Jerry’s heavy. The Tonight Dough kills me every time.
CS: Oh man, I could eat all of ‘em. You making me choose though? I gotta go Dark Chocolate Cherry, the Layers. Tastes like those filled cherries from Valentines. Cordures? Cordools? Whatever. They’re smacking.
LB: Cordials hahaha!
CS: Yeah, cordules!
BT: *looking at James* What are these guys talking about…
CS: Cordoods, man! You ain’t never had ‘em?
BT: Bro, I’m from Alaska, we barely got McDonald’s.
LB: I’ll get you some for V-Day, Buck. Don’t want you to be left out.
CS: That’s cute.
JM: You guys seem to be really enjoying yourselves now. That’s great.
JM: Let’s get to some bravado talk. Which of you three is going to have the best combine numbers?
BT: Well, one of my biggest strengths is endurance, so I expect to have solid numbers across the board. I would like to put up 20+ on the bench. I’m not kidding myself that I’m going to put up the best 40 time but I would LOVE to beat Sweets and shut him up a bit haha.
LB: I don’t know if my numbers are going to be too shocking, but I’m going to give everything in those drills. I’m hoping for 30 reps on the bench and maybe a 4.50 40. If I get under 4.5, I’ll be super happy. Hopefully, I can turn some heads and move up the boards a little bit. Chester over here though, I bet he’s got some burners.
CS: Haha, you know it. But at this level, everyone’s fast, man. The differences are so minute. Everyone can ball. I’m not really worried about the numbers, though. There’s a difference between speed and game speed. And you can’t put intimidation into a draft number. Right, Buck? How do you measure a wide receivers’ alligator arms ‘cuz he doesn’t want to go over the middle?
LB: Man, that’s a really great point! Doesn’t matter how fast they are, if they slow up because they’re scared to come over the middle.
BT: Yeah, once I start putting my body on people, they’ll see what I’m about.
CS: There you go, Buck Nasty!
JM: That’s very true. All of you are great athletes at this level. It’s almost more about your brain at this stage.
JM: Speaking of athletes, this is one of the largest draft classes we’ve ever seen. It’s almost impossible for GMs to get through every name and separate them. So, help them out. What’s going to separate you three from all the other draftees?
CS: I can’t speak for everyone, but at least for us, us 3 here… We’re here to work. We got a job to do, and we’re going to do it. We’re gonna make our opportunities because we don’t take time off. Whether that’s film, talking to vets, studying the playbook, whatever. We’re gonna push harder than the competition. Some of these GMs have asked me, “Who do you see as your biggest rivals at the cornerback position?” and I’m like “I don’t compete against cornerbacks, or safeties, or linebackers. I’m looking to blow up the offense as much as I can, and I’m looking for those warriors to go into battle with me.
LB: Chester said it pretty well. We’re gonna work harder than anyone else in this league to make an impact from the jump. I don’t like to talk a lot and blow smoke where the sun don’t shine. But, when I’m on that field or in the weight room, I’m in a different zone. I just see the plays develop and make my move. I may not be the fastest or the strongest, but my instincts have rarely ever led me wrong. My coaches have always preached that I should trust my instincts, and I listen.
BT: Yeah, it’s hard to demonstrate work ethic in one week, and mostly using words. But, people will notice us once we get in the league. I don’t see many people taking time out of their self-promotion this week to get in some training hours, but LB and Sweets have been joining me in the gym every day, so far.
CS: That’s the thing about Buck. Even these last few weeks. I know guys are taking time off, relaxing, soaking it up. That’s a quick way to lose focus. That speaks to Buck as a leader. He’s got us in there, pushing the competition, making sure we’re still on track. We just keep moving forward. I mean, I make a mistake on the field, and “Boom!” That's six. It's a big blow to my team and I’m not happy. But, I have to bounce back. We all know that. We’re gonna keep moving, keep pushing. Grinding. That’s why who you surround yourself with is so important, especially at this stage as we enter pro ball.
BT: Appreciate the kind words, Sweets, but I can only lead people who are willing to be led. It doesn’t matter how much you yell or ride someone’s ass if they can’t take it and improve because of it. Every piece of the puzzle is important, not just the leaders.
LB: Buck has definitely been great for keeping us sane. The gym is like a sanctuary from me. I can dial in and focus on getting stronger, and get my mind off all the extra stuff going on out here. My dad always told me to have a short memory on the field, but hold grudges. Forget that last play, but keep a note on who made you look bad, and don’t let it happen again. Sometimes, I take the grudges out on the weights.
BT: I like that. And next chance you get, knock’em on their ass.
LB: *nods* Yessir.
JM: Your dad played ball in college didn’t he, Lawrence?
LB: Yes, sir. He was a Defensive End at UT. Loved to hit a quarterback.
JM: Has he influenced your game any? I remember him having a nasty spin move.
LB: Oh, most definitely. He’s taught me some things about manipulating linemen and moving their weight around. He was a great player, so there’s plenty to draw from.
CS: Bro, when do I get that 1 on 1 coaching? Have you seen how big these linemen are?!
JM: Did he teach you that spin move?
LB: That’s a trade secret. I cannot confirm or deny. But, Ches, if you play your cards right, we might be able to work something out.
JM: How about your mom? She was a student athlete as well, was she not?
BT: Yeah, Bass got them good genes!
LB: Wow! You did your research!
JM: It’s easier to do so when you get paid for it!
LB: I guess so. But, yeah, my mom played basketball and softball in high school and college. She was an All American short stop at UT. That’s actually how my parents met; at one of her games. He came up to her after and talked about her play. The rest is history I guess.
JM: Fascinating stuff. How about you two? Were your parents athletes as well?
BT: My dad played some high school football, but that’s about it. He worked hard at everything he did, and so does my mom, so that has translated into my game.
CS: The whole Sweets squad balls out. That started with my mom and dad. They both played sports. Everything. Growing up with 5 brothers and sisters, we had to stay busy. We were always playing sports. There were usually a few of me and my brothers and sisters on the same team ‘cuz we’re so close in age. My mom and dad both coached our teams regularly.
JM: Did you work well with your siblings, or were you always trying to one up them or show you were the best?
CS: We’re family, man. Things are never perfect, but we’re tight.
BT: Yeah, you think Sweets is something now...you ain’t seen nothin till you see all those Sweets kids together. It’s a whole ‘nother level.
CS: *looks around to Buck and Lawrence* I mean, look at these guys. I’ve competed with both of them. Even on the same team, we don’t always agree. And that’s what’s supposed to happen. Iron sharpens iron. If I’m screwing up, I don’t need someone to tell me, “It's ok.” No, it's not. We need to get it right! Now. My family was the same way. You aren’t perfect. But you need to get it together. Me and my family, we had each other’s backs. And with that, we hold each other accountable. You’ll hear me say it often: Iron sharpens iron.
JM: Can’t argue with that.
JM: Outside of your talented families, who do you all try to model your game after? Who do you look up to or try to learn from?
CS: Man, hands down, Deon Taylor. I always feel connected to the guys who come out of the South, it's just a special place here. I know he's from KC, but it's similar. And he was IT! Playing cornerback, your main goal is to be consistent and not allow the big play. No free plays. But, you regularly have the opportunity to make a game-changer. Taylor, he was doing that. He got his hands on the ball and turned the tide for his teammates. He scored. A pick-six is gonna get your team going. Then I get to jump BACK on the field and do it again? Yes, please.
BT: There are a lot of players that I try to emulate. Kam Chancellor, Troy Polamalu, Ray Lewis. I’ve always admired Pat Tillman too. The guy had an insane motor and work ethic and I respect the hell out of who he was and what he did. Also, I really love training with professional MMA fighters. You can’t get to a high level in MMA without some kind of drive, and their workouts are super fun!
LB: Buck, that Legion of Boom was one of the greatest defenses, all time. Loved watching them demolish teams. But, in this league Austin Roenick is a guy I admire. I don’t think he gets as much credit as he deserves as one of the best defensive players in the league’s history. I’m pretty sure he still holds the record for most career tackles and always knew how to strip that ball out. Man is an animal! And, obviously, Kurt Hendrix. Dude, was an absolute beast and an easy choice for the Hall of Fame. I hope to be in there with him one day.
JM: Do you think Roenick should get in the Hall as well?
LB: Absolutely! I think he’ll get in eventually. Shoot! He may still have some left in the tank!
JM: You have all made it clear that you love football and working out. But, tell me, what do you like to do off the field? Do you have any hobbies?
CS: Buck, you can’t just say working, either!
BT: *laughs* Okay okay...I do like shooting though. I’m always going to the range with my brothers when I’m home on the weekends. If I’m drafted it’ll be nice to have some money to take some trips to go skiing as a family. We haven’t done that in forever. Does training MMA count as work? Cause I think that’s pretty fun too…
LB: At this point, people should know that Buck has a bed in every gym and dojo across America.
BT: Yeah yeah...maybe I should get out more.
CS: You know that’s right! For me, I try to spend time with family whenever possible. This week has been crazy fun because my whole family is out in Jacksonville. Everyone took time (and money) to come out and be there for me. And it's been huge. We don’t usually get together like this. I’m grateful. One thing that folks may not know about me, though, is that I like to surf. I never really messed with it in Florida but beach culture is real out in San Diego. These dudes wake up super early, hit the waves, chill for the day, then head back out. There’s really nothing like it. And not a whole lot of Jacksonville boys jumping on a board out there!
BT: You’ll have to teach me if we end up on the same team!
LB: Man, you aren’t scared of sharks? I don’t think I could ever get out there and do something like that, knowing those killers are lurking!
JM: We can add that to your list of fears, I guess!
CS: Man, I get it. And yeah it happens. I won't even go into my start out there. Yall. THEY GET SHARK WARNINGS! But when you're out there, it doesn't happen too much and when it does, nobody really trips. So, I just got used to it.
LB: I don't think you'll catch me out there any time soon. Much rather be inside. I actually really like to play Dungeons and Dragons. I do so much physical activity in my life with practices and workouts, so it’s fun to flex that creative side of my brain.
JM: Now that is surprising! What kind of character do you play? I’m guessing a barbarian.
LB: Nah, nah. I could see why you’d think that, but it’s nice to be in a completely different head space when I’m in that world. I play as a Tiefling Wizard. All the spells and stuff are really cool and having a character with high intelligence makes me feel smarter in real life. It’s relaxing, honestly. Everyone is really into their character and some of us do voices and draw scenes that we’ve been in. Definitely not as lame as people would have you think. Shout out to the DND Gang!
CS: Bro, “You're a nerd!”. But, you know what? Me too. I played it a bunch in college. We'd pull all nighters, especially Thursdays because no one had class on Friday. I had a bad ass little halfling sorcerer. Just TEARIN' it up! It's a good way to relax from all the physicality of ball.
LB: You play too?? I never saw that one comin, but we'll take all the players we can get! We should start a session in the offseason for league guys!
BT: How do you guys even find these games? I’ve never even met anyone who plays that. Lord of the Rings is about as nerdy as I get...Do you guys like dress up and stuff?
CS: Man, I wanna be like “I’m not that nerdy!” but I’m already in it. But, no, no dress up. But, I got a little figurine! *laughs hysterically*
LB: If you're really curious and want to find games, there are forums with this kind of stuff everywhere. Facebook groups and Reddit are both great sources. I started with a group of friends back home in middle school. Some of us moved away for college, but we try to do games over Skype every couple weeks. It's honestly more about the people you play with, than the actual game itself.
BT: Dang you guys are actually making this sound pretty fun! Y’all are good salesmen. Are you sure you chose the right career?
LB: Oh most definitely! But, if you want to come play some time, I'm sure we could link up. Or you could even just observe for a session. But, don't get it twisted. Football is my first love, and always will be.
BT: I don’t doubt that! I’ll be crashing your next game for sure.
JM: Well, gentlemen, this has really been a pleasure. I feel like people really learned a lot about all of you today. Anyone you want to say “hello” to back home?
CS: I wanna say what’s up to the whole Sweets Squad: Mom, Dad, Jason, Jaron, Jackson, Chicky, and Charmagne. I love y’all! Thanks for having us, James!
LB: Thanks so much, James, for making this a fun experience. Shout out to mom and dad. And, Go Vols!
BT: Jack, Phil, and Billy, my little bros. Mom probably won’t see this unless it’s in the paper, but I love her. And rest in peace, Dad.
JM: There’s three excited young men. And it’s an exciting time in the DSFL and NSFL. This new draft class is the largest we’ve ever seen and it will be fascinating to see how it all shakes out. Best of luck to you all. Thank you for joining us on “3rd and 20.” I’ll see you next time, with even more prospects from this year’s class. God bless, and good night!
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*please split earnings between FurFurFurson (Buck Thornton), revuhlution (Chester Sweets), and RussDrivesTheBus (Lawrence Bass)