Was a first-team all-state selection as an Ohio prep. Appeared in seven games as a true freshman in 2008, making three tackles, one tackle for loss and one sack. Started all 13 games at nose tackle in ’09 and contributed 41-8-5 with one forced fumble. Was a constant force for the Bearcats’ defense in ’10, playing more than 80 plays per game, and recorded 48-6 1⁄2-4 with one pass batted down. Left the Syracuse game with a neck injury. Awarded All-American Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year honors from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) in April ’11. Named Big East co-Defensive Player of the Year in ’11 after leading the conference in tackles for loss and amassing 70-21 1⁄2-9 1⁄2 with one pass batted down and two forced fumbles in 13 starts from his DT position.

Very good body length. Improved instincts and play recognition — was quick to feel blocking pressure and play off blocks. Very good production (191⁄2 career sacks). Tough, hardworking and effortful. Solid, wrap-up tackler. Recorded among the best 20-yard shuttle times (4.44 seconds) and 3-cone drill times (7.26) of any defensive tackle at the Combine. Makes residence in the weight room.

Will come off the ball upright and get stuck on blocks. Takes on blockers too narrow-based and lacks anchor strength to dig his heels in the dirt and hold ground vs. the double-team. Plays short-armed and hand use is raw — does not strike with violence or power. Curiously dropped 15 pounds from the Combine to his March 2 pro day, where he weighed 280 pounds.

Matured as a senior, made his final season his best and had a solid showing at the Senior Bowl, as his stock has continued to climb. Still must prove that he can be more than a rotational nickel rusher in the pros, but clearly has upside to grow into a starter and might even warrant looks as a 3-4 defensive end.