Played defensive end as a prep in Louisiana, where he won two state championships. Was recruited as a defensive lineman and redshirted in 2007. Saw limited action in 13 games in ’08. Appeared in 12 games as a reserve guard in ’09. Entered ’09 as the starter at right guard, but in the season opener broke his right leg in three places and incurred ligament damage in his ankle — missed nine games before returning to play in the final three games, including a start in the Cotton Bowl against Texas A&M. Healthy in ’11, started all 14 games — the first five at right guard, the final nine at left guard after an injury forced a line shuffle — and tallied 112 knockdowns. Team captain has already graduated.