Justin Trattou saw the field early and often last season as a true freshman. As a sophomore he figures to step into a Ray McDonald-like role, which means he will play up and down the line, both at defensive end and at the two tackle positions depending on the mismatches he can create. Gator Country caught up with Trattou Monday for a few questions about the upcoming season.
JEFF SQUIRES: How was the first practice back?
JUSTIN TRATTOU: It was good. It feels real good to get back out there with the guys and to start getting ready for the season.
JS: How does the defensive line look right now?
JT: Everybody had a great off-season. We worked real hard and everyone improved, so we’re trying to build on that.
JS: What kind of chemistry did you guys develop in the off-season?
JT: It was our first full off-season that we’ve all had together, so we pretty much went through all our workouts and worked out in the same groups. We worked on our lifts and then our football, and I think it’s starting to pay off.
JS: What is the tackle position looking like?
JT: It’s only the first day, so I can’t really say much.
JS: Are you looking forward to going up against any of the incoming freshman?
JT: Yeah…we have a bunch of new, talented guys and we’re hoping for them to contribute.