Q: What has been the key to your success so far this season?

A: During camp I came out and worked hard. It’s a blessing for me to get a place on the team, a chance to play. I just come out and work hard every day, but it’s been a blessing.

Q: Did you expect to see this much playing time this early in your college career?

A: I really didn’t come in expecting anything. I was just going to come out and work hard. I’ve worked hard in the past, and it’s gotten me good places, so that’s just what I did.

Q: How did you prepare for the transition from high school to the Big Ten?

A: I came up here this summer and I worked out with (strength coach) Lou (Hernandez) a little bit. That was a big transition, going from high school to coach Lou. It’s a big swing, and he got me ready.

He’s a really intense guy. The first time I came here I was a little intimidated. But if you work hard he’ll appreciate that. That’s all you’ve got to do, really.

Q: Did you grow up an Illini fan?

A: I’m not a die-hard football fan, more basketball. I watched the team, and I rooted for them, so it’s a blessing to play for them.

Q: Does it mean more to you to be doing so well having been a fan?

A: It’s a great honor, because I have a lot of family and friends who get to come to the games. I have a lot of fan support out there, and I just appreciate that a lot.

Q: Describe yourself in five words:

A: Hard worker, that’s two words. Team player. I’m not sure. That’s four.

Q: If you had to be any cartoon character, who would you be and why?

A: I don’t watch cartoons, but let’s see. Let’s go with the roadrunner, he’s fast.

Q: What is the worst thing about being a freshman?

A: Adjusting to going to class and going to football. We’re at the football stadium almost all day, and right before that we’re at class. We have the study hall hours, so that’s good, but just that transition to doing your work and doing football.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about central Illinois people?

A: There’s some of us that are athletic. People don’t think we have any athletic white guys around here, but there are some.

Q: What is your favorite all-time Illinois sports moment, and last year’s basketball season is not an option?

A: When Illinois made it to the Sugar Bowl. That was a great feat for them, and there were a lot of people who turned into Illinois fans after that.