Page 2 Ⅲ Collegiate Times Friday, August 29, 2003 Table of Contents Chalk talk — Chalk Talk ...Page 2 We got a place down past reminds you most of your- Bear Bryant, Billy by Rajan Nanavati A. on the lake in Georgia self during your playing days? A. Graham, Faith Hill. Player Profiles: — spend part of the year down there, spend part Nic Sorenson – I was What are three of the ...Page 3 of the year back up here in the A. a in high Q. typical CD’s in Coach by Jana Renn mountains. Figure out what time school, so was he, and Beamer’s CD player? Jake Grove I’m going to play golf each day. he got called on to be the quarter- ...Page 4 back here, and he’s just a good, Faith Hill would be by Kumar Malhotra Would you rather smart player, wherever he’s called A. there, Shania Twain Kevin Jones Q. have won a national on. He’s very unselfish, but he would be there, and ...Page 5 championship as a was a smart player. I was a smart my daughter made by Rajan Nanavati player or a coach? player, but I sure as heck didn’t me a CD with all my favor- have any speed, so I had to be. ite tunes from the 60s. So Ernest Wilford/ If you weren’t coach- Well, since my play- the one Casey made me. Cols Colas Q. ng, what would you A. ng days are over, If you were stranded ...Page 2 be doing? ’m gonna say as a on a desert island, If you could have by Tim Winsky and Q. coach. I think that’d be a won- what three things coached or played John Wardach Q. think doing with- derful feeling for everyone if we would you want another sport at DeAngelo Hall A. out. Because back could share the highest honor. to have with you and why, the collegiate level, ...Page 7 when I was back at and family doesn’t count? what would it have been? by Rajan Nanavati Murray State coaching, I’d come Who is the great- Vegas Robinson ...Page 8 home, we’d have a bad game Q. est player you A Bible would be one, A. coached baseball in by Brent Anderson or a bad week of practice, and have ever coached? A. think a guide to suc- high school, and I wasn’t I’d tell my wife ‘I gotta figure cessful fishing would any good at that, so I’m gonna go out something else to do. This think the greatest be one — I feel like with basketball. Family coaching stuff is not for me,’ and A. all-around player is I’d need to eat. And then, a nice Matters she’d say ‘Well what else can you . That’s heavy jacket. Word Association: ...Page 11 do?’ and after I thought about it, not to slight any of the other And then maybe a pillow. Mike Vick — the best by Adam Abramson I’m not sure there’s anything people, but Michael changed this — talented else I could do. If I wasn’t program, changed the Atlanta If your family was Tech football — special Season Preview coaching, I’d prob- Falcons, and there’s not many peo- Q. throwing a dinner football fans — special Column ably be doing without. ple in the world who could do that. party, if you could The NFL — boring ...Page 14 invite any three Special teams — winning What do you plan to What Tech player from people, past or pres- Atlantic Coast Conference — exciting by Adam Abramson Q. Q. do when you retire? the present or the recent ent, who would they be? National championship — the goal

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Quarterback Award this year, which is given at the end of Leading the pack the season to the top QB in the nation. He is happy to be excelling on by Jana Renn tecting him this year. overtime loss at Syracuse. He bowl MVP hon- the field to the point where he Sports Assistant “The guys have been working also set a Big East Conference ors. is in the national spotlight after hard,” he said. “I think this year, record that game by Numbers such only two seasons in Blacksburg. For the past two years, Virginia we’re a little more mature than completing 23 of as these “It was a goal of mine,” Tech starting quarterback Bryan we were last year, and the guys 25 passes for an have Randall said. “I knew there Randall has spent his pre- have been working hard during astounding would be steps leading up to seasons trying to prove himself. the off-season to get stronger. 504 yards. it, but eventually that’s where I Beginning both the 2001 and 2002 Their work ethic has shown me a In wanted to be. That’s what I was campaigns as backup to Grant lot, so I think they’re going to be January’s working towards when I first got Noel, he knows what it’s like to much improved this year.” Diamond here. I didn’t know how fast it try and steal a starting job. Last year, Randall took over Walnut San Francisco was going to come, but eventu- However, this season, the roles the job of starting quarterback Bowl against Air Force, ally it was one of my goals to be are reversed. early in the season because of an he connected 18 of 23 able to say that I’m one of the It’s no secret to anyone in injury to Noel. He went on to win times in the air for 177 Randall top in the Blacksburg or in the college foot- his first six starts and set a single yards with no turn- nominated nation.” ball nation for that matter that the game school record by throwing overs. The impressive for the Davey true junior is in the driver’s seat five passes in a triple numbers earned him O’Brien National See RANDALL, page 9 and up-and-coming, red-shirt freshman Marcus Vick is hot on his tail. However, Randall doesn’t feel pressure, but rather takes pleasure in the fact that he must work very hard to keep his job. “It’s good to have somebody like that behind you pushing you,” Randall said. “You can never go to sleep on what you’re • Ladies Apparel doing, and you always have to be on top of your game. Having • Jewelry a guy that’s going to push you everyday to the best of your • Gifts potential is what you want.” • Cosmetics For Randall, there is a sense of ease knowing he is the starter and •Shoes it is his job to lose. •Intimate “I’m more comfortable now 109 N. Main St. than I was the last two years,” Downtown Blacksburg Apparel he said. “It’s my third year, and if 540.961.4038 •Accessories I’m not ready now, then I’ll never be ready.” Having Michael Vick’s brother breathing down his back would be enough to threaten anyone, Catholic Mass but Randall insists that it is just a little friendly competition. The in the two are actually friends. war memorial “We’re cool on and off the chapel field,” he said. “We’ve got a friendship to where we can chill with each other, hang out or look at film together. Of course on the field it’s competition, c but I wouldn’t expect anything 10am, 12noon, 8pm less from us. We’re not enemies. We’re not here to beat down at each other and see each other do bad; we’re here to see each other all are welcome do well and to push each other.” questions? One thing necessary for any newman community quarterback to excel is a strong 951.0032 203 otey st. [email protected] offensive line, and Randall has a blacksburg, va 24060 lot of confidence in the men pro- Page 4 Ⅲ Collegiate Times Friday, August 29, 2003 Jake Grove

The stereotypical view of an and gets none of the glory. predecessor. offensive lineman is that of a Virginia Tech center Jack “Lee was a great , overweight behemoth who could Grove, however, is not a stereo- but Kevin has the chance to be Front & eat his weight in fried chicken. He typical lineman. one of the greatest backs ever at is perceived as a huge, slow, mass Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, Virginia Tech,” he said. “When of flesh whose sole responsibility Grove carries his 300 pounds he gets tired, Cedric Humes and is to serve as a human shield for well across his solid frame. He is can come in the game, center the quarterback or running back a massive physical presence, one both of those guys are as good as by Kumar Malhotra behind him. He does the dirty who bench presses 490 pounds we’ve had here.” Sports Editor work, puts his body on the line (highest on the team) and has the Grove’s generosity with his ability to move — his time of 4.26 compliments is completely genu- seconds in the NFL shuttle run ine — he has no ulterior motives was tops amongst Tech offensive or hidden agenda, he is simply linemen. being a leader and doing his best Go Hokies! “I really worked on my to encourage his teammates. strength and my quickness in “I just try to motivate people to the off season,” Grove said “I’ve play the best they possibly can,” developed into one of the stron- he said. “Not everyone is going to ger players on the team and that have the same athletic ability or will help me this year.” be able to do the same things on Is Your Hokies Connection! The Hokies are hoping all that the field. But everyone can give extra work will pay off, as they their best every single play and Whether you're heading for the game or just out to are relying heavily on Grove to that is all I ask from people.” catch football fever at your favorite watering hole, anchor the offensive line. He is That workman-like approach Macado's makes it easy to stack the odds in favor of confident that the unit will be to the game appears to be paying able to get the job done and help off. In 2002, Grove was the only you having a great time! the team improve on its 221 yards offensive lineman to grade out per game rushing average from a above 80 percent each game. Tailgate Party Packs We're open at 8 am so you can order year ago. Additionally, he saw action and pick up all you need for a great tailgate - platters, bombers, “I think we have a chance to on a team-high 838 offen- sides and more. Please give at least 24 hour notice for 5 - foot be a really great offensive line,” sive snaps and registered a bomber sandwich orders. he said. “We have to play bet- team-high 43 knockdown ter every week; we have to keep blocks. He enters the 2003 season improving every week to be ranked No. 1 among all Division Pre - and Post - Game We're the ideal spot to meet your successful. I think we are doing 1-A centers by The Sporting friends before or after the game. Enjoy our Daily and Happy Hour that — we’ve come a long way News. “It’s an honor (to be rec- Specials. Shuttle to the stadium leaves from right in front of the from when we started practice ognized), but I’m not really con- Blacksburg Macado's. to where we are now and if that cerned with all that,” Grove said. continues, we should make a “If we win the national cham- mark on the Big East.” pionship this year, then all that TV's and Treats Skip the stadium and catch all the action on That mark will have to be made stuff will take care of itself. My our big - screens and other TV's. Don't forget Monday night sports without the help of running back goal this year, is not to be the best nights, where you can catch all the sports action while enjoying a Lee Suggs who has departed to center in the country — it’s to win Hindenberg sub (see below). It's a Va. Tech tradition! the NFL. Inheriting his role will a national championship.” be Kevin Jones; a back Grove While the pursuit of that cov- Open Late 7 Nights a Week feels has the opportunity to sur- pass the accomplishments of his See GROVE, page 16 Hours: Sun. - Thurs. 8 am - 12:30 am ; Fri. & Sat. 8 am - 1:30 am

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922 University City Blvd. 953-2700 115 north main street downtown blacksburg (540) 951.3566 www.matrixgallery.com Friday, August 29, 2003 Collegiate Times Ⅲ Page 5 Kevin Jones Carrying the load by Rajan Nanavati tations were sky high for the backs, along with the team as a Sports Editor dynamic duo of Jones and Suggs. whole to fall short of their goals. Jones looked very impressive “(Last season) was a disap- First you see the offensive and during the spring practices of pointment and something to defensive lineman running wind 2002 and visions of dual 1,500- build on,” Jones said. We’re sprints at the end of football prac- yard backs danced through the disappointed when we lose any tice, and you’re in awe of the fact mind of Hokie fans. The tandem game. We just got to go out there that a 280-pound lineman can run flashed their capability last sea- and focus.” that fast. Next you see the other son when they ran roughshod While walking off the field skill position players running through a Marshall defense that victorious at the San Francisco wind sprints, and despite the fact couldn’t stop either back despite Bowl, just minutes before the turn they may not be at top speed after lining up nine men along the line of the new year of 2003, Tech run- a long day of practice, they’re still of scrimmage. ning backs coach Billy Hite went jogging faster than most people But, a November slump where to Jones and simply stated one can . the Hokies lost three consecutive thing: with Lee Suggs going to At last you see Kevin Jones, games, coupled with a hamstring the NFL, it was Jones’ turn now. accompanied in his wind sprints injury suffered by Jones in the Even though he may already ROBERT DRAKE/SPPS only by fellow running back Mike loss against Pittsburgh, caused Running back sensation Kevin Jones (7) looks to regain his Imoh. When Jones runs, the flow both the tandem of running See JONES, page 16 2001 form as the feature back for the Hokies is as smooth as water, and though he may not be running at top speed either, blink your eyes at • Krazy Wings the end of this gasser, and you’ll be sure to miss him. Not bad for a running back • Salads who just added 15 pounds of muscle to his already inconceiv- • Sandwiches ably ripped frame. Ironically he Restaurant & Lounge may have gotten faster after the 1600 North Main Street • Blacksburg, VA 24060 weight gain. Quite simply, Jones • Burgers (540) 951-2828 doesn’t mess around. Inheriting the job of lead back from his • Fish former Untouchables partner Lee Suggs, Jones wants you to take it Chicken Wings to the bank: he’s going to break • Shrimp for 28 c each! 2,000 yards like he breaks ankles of defensive linemen trying to chase him. • Pasta “I’m trying to get 200 (yards) 951-2828 the first five games, that’s a • Steaks 10% off with College I.D. Take out also available. thousand early,” Jones said of the lofty but reachable goal. “That’ll put me on pace.” When you watch him in games, you’d be hard pressed to disagree. Jones still has that track- star speed, which he flashed dur- ing his freshman and sophomore season, along with the ability to shoot through only a small crease created by the offensive line like a cannon ball. If you happen to be on the other side of the hole Jones slips through, be prepared. The speed he has, coupled with the strength he carries makes the impact seem like getting hit by a freight train. After running for over 150 yards against both state rival Virginia and the eventual nation- al champion Miami Hurricanes during the stretch run of his freshman year in 2001, the expec- Page 6 Ⅲ Collegiate Times Friday, August 29, 2003 Ernest Wilford

that game were also a Hokie team record. In fact, the entire 2002 sea- Catching it son was a breakout year for Wilford. The sociology major led Tech in every major receiving statis- in full stride tical category including recep- tions (51), receiving yards (925) Even when he adjusts his near unstoppable combination and receiving (7). pawns to protect his king, it’s of size, speed and strength, Despite the success, Wilford by Tim Winsky as though he’s blocking on a Wilford has the ability to out- is focused on continuing his Staff Writer run play for Kevin Jones. leap smaller defenders, get growth and maturity as a “It makes me think and it behind the secondary for big player. When Virginia Tech senior split end Ernest helps me on the game field,“ plays and hang onto the ball “Individually, my goal is to Wilford plays a game of chess, he sees a differ- Wilford said. “It makes me in a of traffic across the be the most consistent player ent game. think through what people are middle. on the team right now,” Wilford He envisions himself accelerating down the trying to do to me … I love Syracuse knows the gifted said. sideline on a fly route when he pushes his castle chess.” No. 19 all too well. Wilford set “There’s always somebody up the board. Hokie fans love Wilford. Tech and Big East Conference out there that’s going to be He imagines himself knifing through the defense The 6-foot-4-inch, 220-pounder single-game records with 279 a better receiver than me,” on a slant pattern over the middle as he shifts his bishop. He has developed into one of yards receiving last year at the Wilford said. “So if I’m trying pictures himself running an out-pattern, stopping to drag a foot the premier receivers in all of Carrier Dome. to work hard to be the best inbounds, when he moves his knight. . Possessing a His four touchdown catches receiver, than I know I won’t get complacent in where I’m at.” The chances of that are about as likely as Michael Vick return- ing to play out his remaining two years of eligibility. Known as a beast in the weight room, Wilford takes the term work ethic to a whole new level. “I don’t think there’s anyone in this world that can work harder than I can,” Wilford GOLF RATES said. “I push myself to the max, Mon.-Thurs. $30.00 18 Holes and I don’t think there’s one coach that can push me more Fri-Sun. $39.00 18 Holes than myself.” His athletic ability and physi- Rates include cart fee. cal stature may resemble the Good Through Dec. 31, 2003 49ers’ , however, Wilford carries the humbleness STUDENT MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE of former Lions’ great Barry Sept. 1 - May 31 Sanders. $650 Virginia Capital Semester “I’m not one who celebrates if I make a touchdown catch and stuff like that,” said Wilford, who wants to become an FBI agent after his playing days are over. $ “I always keep God first,” he said. Make the most of your spring semester! While visions of the NFL still 7 remain in the back of his head Make the most of your spring semester with an For more information and application: behind national-championship OFFOFF exciting internship, challenging college courses, •ww w. v c u . e d u / c a p i t a l s e m e s t e r ; dreams, in t e resting guest speakers and all the drama of •Virginia Capital Semester, School of Government Wilford can guarantee one Virg inia politics. and Public Affairs, P.O. Box 842028, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA thing to any team interested College Students Experience Virg i n i a ’s capital city during the 23284-2028; or excitement of a legislative session while continuing in putting a NFL jersey on with ID Card •Contact Professor Ralph Hambrick at your studies on a full-time basis through course (804) 828-8053, (804) 828-1575 or him. work at Virginia Commonwealth University – and va c a p i t a l s e m @ v c u . e d u . “I think if someone was want- ea rn a $1,000 internship stipend. 1581 Turnberry Lane, Riner, VA 24149 381-4995 •Application deadline is Oct. 15, 2003. ing to draft me, they would get An equal opportu n i t y / a ff i rmative action university the hardest working player on Virginia Commonwealth University that team,” he said. Friday, August 29, 2003 Collegiate Times Ⅲ Page 7 DeAngelo Hall by Rajan Nanavati Sports Editor Big time players make big time plays in big time games. In Three-way threat college football, it’s that simple. After recording a blistering Beamer said. “A corner and to experiment with Hall. After covering, two touchdowns. The That is the bottom line. 4.15 seconds in the 40-yard dash a punt returner. After that, as learning the nuances of both third time around in the red With all due respect to run- last spring, the Hokies’ coaching much as we can get him in there and zone, when Rutherford saw Hall ning back Kevin Jones, quarter- staff has given Hall the green offensively, we’d like to, because from going head-to-head against covering Fitzgerald, he would back Bryan Randall and receiver light to not only shut down the he is a talented guy, he can make Tech wideout Wilford the past try the fade pass once again. Ernest Wilford, the coaching staff opposition’s top receiver along people miss, and if he touches two years, Hall feels he is ready Hall not only beat Fitzgerald and many Hokie fans believe with returning punts, but also to the ball enough times, I think to contribute despite the chal- to the exact landing spot of the the biggest playmaker on the get in about 30 snaps a game on it’s going to end up in the end lenges the new position brings. ball reading the play like a book, Virginia Tech football team may offense. zone.” “ is so natural he intercepted the pass in the be junior cornerback DeAngelo “First thing, he is a corner At 5 feet 11 inches and roughly to me,” Hall said. “It’s just like end zone and ran it back to the Hall. for us,” Tech head coach Frank 200 pounds, Hall has nearly going out there and walking. 50-yard line, one block short of prototype physical tools for a Offense, it’s kind of like running going the distance. next-level cornerback, as well as backwards — you can do it, but It’s that kind of playmaking a solid frame to be a very pro- you gotta work hard at it.” ability that the coaching staff ductive receiver. The coaching The scary thing is actually that wants to harness during all staff knew they had something Hall is in better condition than three facets of the game, after special on their hands from the past football seasons. He stayed watching a player like Ohio State day Hall walked in. in Blacksburg the whole summer University’s excel He emerged as a budding to work out, ran track during the on both offense and defense. star during the spring practice offseason to actually improve his Hall has seen former col- sessions of 2002 (the tail end of sizzling speed, all while adding legiate triple-threat players his true freshman year) and last a few pounds of muscle in the such as Charles Woodson of season often had to guard the weight room to handle the extra the University of Michigan and opposition’s best receivers one- hits he may take if someone actu- Champ Bailey of the University on-one as only a sophomore, ally catches him. of Georgia and has taken mental going up against receivers like But don’t think of DeAngelo notes on how they were able to Andre Johnson of Miami, Bethel as just a physical freak with have success. But there’s one Johnson of Texas A&M and Billy God-given athleticism. He’s as player whom he really looked up McMullen of Virginia, all of who meticulous as any person on to while growing up. were selected in the 2003 NFL the team with regards to detail “Always ,” Hall ROBERT DRAKE/SPPS draft. and the fundamental techniques. said. “Just that showtime, that DeAngelo Hall will have to shut down the opposition’s top wide But imagine the urge the Tech Despite cutting into whatever flashiness, that primetime image receiver, such as former Hurricane Andre Johnson. coaching staff must have had free time he may have left after and that speed. Speed kills.” football practices, he attends Contrary to “Neon Deion,” both offensive and defensive Hall has the more tough-minded meetings, diligently taking notes approach to defense. While during both. “Primetime” may be flashy, he Friday and Saturday night prefers the hard-nose, high-ener- during football season, he’s not gy, relentless attitude of defense. downtown at Woody’s or Big He reels off teams like the Ravens, Al’s taking down a drink or chat- Buccaneers, Raiders or Eagles as ting up the women. No, he’s in teams whose attitude in the sec- his room watching game film of ondary and defense overall he the team the Hokies are about admires, and mentions them as to play and of the wideouts the short-but-not-exclusive list of he’s going to be depended on teams he’d love to play for. to shut down during the game, “Defensive-minded teams,” maybe with a little bit of Jay-Z, Hall said, “I love their defensive 50 Cent or Biggie Smalls in the energy.” background, depending on his His dedication and passion mood. for the game of football comes Fool him once, you got lucky, from within, but may be easi- and you aren’t going to fool est to notice from the tattoo on him twice. In last year’s loss to the upper part of his left arm. Pittsburgh in early November, The body ink shows a picture Panthers quarterback Rod of Hall’s deceased older brother Rutherford spotted the 5-foot-9- Kevin Smith, who was shot to inch Ronyell Whitaker covering death in 1994. Smith introduced the 6-foot-4-inch Pittsburgh fresh- Hall to the game, and like a love- man phenom struck teenager, Hall was smitten on two different trips into the by it. He plays football to help Hokies red zone. Two fade pass- es to Fitzgerald with Whitaker See HALL, page 14 Page 8 Ⅲ Collegiate Times Friday, August 29, 2003 Vegas Robinson An odds-on favorite by Brent Anderson tackles and three , Robinson is a playmaker and Staff Writer despite missing three games with knows the Hokie system well. a sprained ankle. Robinson’s Fortunately the added weight has Big, strong, fast and intelligent. determination and tough play not infringed upon his speed. He This is how Virginia Tech foot- earned him a spot on the Butkus even set a new position record in ball head coach Frank Beamer Watch List for the upcoming year. 2000 by clocking 4.46 in the 40- describes Vegas Robinson. The Butkus Award, named after yard dash. Beamer said he will be count- the legendary Dick Butkus, is Robinson has been playing ing on the middle linebacker to given annually to the top colle- football since he was five years help lead the Hokie defense this giate linebacker. old and was also recruited by the season. Robinson said he doesn’t feel University of Alabama, Purdue A redshirt senior from any pressure to win the award. University, the University of Chesapeake, Robinson played a “I feel like personal goals will Virginia and the University of major role on defense last year come as long as your team plays North Carolina. He chose to come and said he is expecting even bet- good,” he said. to Tech on the advice of a good ter things in his second season as A powerful linebacker who friend from high school — former ROBERT DRAKE/SPPS a starter. bulked up from 210 to 250 Hokie wideout Emmett Johnson. Vegas Robinson (6) makes another open-field on UVa Last season he finished with 71 pounds since arriving at Tech, “I came down here and running back Wali Lundy. Emmett really sold me on it,” he said. “He told me this was a great place, so you have to take your friend’s word.” After having surgery on his ankle in the spring, Robinson worked hard over the summer to VT College Gear & Gifts rehabilitate it and is back at 100 Embroidery • Screenprinting • Promotional Products • Design percent. He said the best thing about playing middle linebacker 540-953-1293 • Fax: 540-951-7376 • www.hipeak.com is having the chance to just get 209 College Ave. • Blacksburg, VA 24060 • e-mail: [email protected] your aggression out. As determined and tenacious as Robinson is on the gridiron, he 2003 VT FOOTBALL takes a different approach off the field. He said he likes to relax and SCHEDULE hang out in his free time. Before the game he listens to rap music, AUGUST 31 CENTRAL FLORIDA such as Nas, to focus. “Downtown is okay, but I SEPTEMBER 6 JAMES MADISON like to chill on the weekends,” 18 TEXAS A&M he said. 27 CONNECTICUT He also prefers Playstation 2 to Xbox when biding his time so he OCTOBER 4 at Rutgers can play his favorite video game. 11 SYRACUSE(Homecoming) “Madden 2004, hands down,” 22 at West Virginia he said. In five years, Robinson said he NOVEMBER 1 MIAMI sees himself playing in the pros. If 8 at Pittsburgh this doesn’t happen, however, he 15 at Temple would like to do something with 22 BOSTON COLLEGE residential property manage- ment, which is his major. 29 at Virginia Robinson’s mom gets credit for giving him his unique first name. “(It came from) the television “Class of 2007” 100 Free* Party Cups show ‘Vegas,’ from way back in the day,” he said. “That was my with a Custom mom’s show, so she decided to H t-shirt GINIA TEC VIR ASS OF 2007 CL T-Shirt Order roll with that.” for of $250.00 or more With Robinson leading the $3.99! defense this year, the Hokies *12 oz smooth white cups with will look to him to roll over the Limit one per coupon one color imprint (offer ends October 31, 2003) (offer ends October 31, 2003) competition all the way to New Orleans. Friday, August 29, 2003 Collegiate Times Ⅲ Page 9 Randall: QB has title dreams Continued from page 3 is indifferent about all of the kind of in the same position last hype. year. Maybe we weren’t ranked The spotlight this year is “It’s good and bad,” he said. as high, but I think every- on the whole Hokie team as “It’s good to be recognized as body realizes this year that all they are ranked in the top 10 one of the top football programs that preseason hype doesn’t in preseason polls. Some are in the country, but at the same mean anything ... We have to even picking them to go to the time you really don’t want it come with our ‘A’ game every national championship. Randall to go to your head. We were week.”

c Page 10 Ⅲ Collegiate Times Friday, August 29, 2003

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siblings on and off the field. cially with classes and what to “My brother has shown me expect,” Nathaniel said. Family Matters how to conduct myself off of the Although Xavier is not going field,” Jonathan said. to be taking the field this year, by Adam Abramson my brother one more time was to pass, we are getting our jobs Nathaniel is also working on when asked which tandem of Associate Sports Editor something that was a factor, we done,” Kevin said. ensuring that Xavier’s experience brothers could accomplish more had remarkable seasons in high As far as experience, both at Tech off of the field is some- as a team on the field, the Lewis Every so often a major sports school and we want to have Nathaniel and Kevin have thing he can help with. brothers are quick to let everyone media outlet will run a “feel good remarkable seasons at Tech.” always worked hard at setting a “Academics are something I know. “Us,” the Lewis’ said, in story” on a set of brothers that Coming off back-to-back good example for their younger know I can help him with espe- unison. play the same sport. state championships in his final Rare is it that you find broth- two seasons, Xavier’s coach ers that actually play on the same prepared him for the pressure team. Try two sets of brothers. people would put on him to join Virginia Tech features the Adibi Nathaniel at Tech. and Lewis brothers suiting up “Coach Dee told me what to Unlimited for the Hokies’ stingy defense be ready for when it was time this year. to think about where I wanted Nathaniel and to play after high school,” Xavier always-on linebacker Xavier Adibi hail said. “I always kept my options from Hampton, and both played open and listened to Nathaniel under coach Bill Dee at Phoebus who told me to follow my heart.” High School. While Xavier is taking a year off high-speed Defensive tackles Kevin to red shirt, the Lewis brothers, and Jonathan Lewis represent will line up next to Nathaniel Richmond, coming out of Varina Adibi on the defensive line plan DSL High School. to execute Tech’s defense to its In their pre-Hokie days, it was full potential this year. the little brothers who did the “Our main goal this year is Internet most damage on the field. stopping the run, if we can shut “It probably was (Xavier), he down the run and force them at the speed was a lot better than I was com- ing into Tech,” Nathaniel said. of life Off of the field, the broth- ers spend a lot of time together although neither pair lives with each other. $ .95 “We don’t live together, but we a month for 3 months. $34.95 thereafter with modem are always together,” Kevin said. purchase. No contract required. “All of our classes are together so 19 Ask about other options. that makes it easy for me to see (Jonathan) off of the field.” Free high-strength junk e-mail Having an older brother and virus filters already playing for the Hokies No setup fee had different effects on the Easy plug & play connection younger brothers as they made a decision on which institution to 24/7 tech support take the field for every fall. PHOTOS BY TED MARTELLO AND BYRON KENNERLY/SPPS 20 MB web storage “There was a lot of influence WORK: Download a huge file The Lewis brothers (top) on my brother being here when in just 4 seconds. 3 e-mail accounts I made my choice,” Jonathan and Adibis (bottom) bond by WATCH: Download a video clip said. “Being able to play with terrorizing quarterbacks. in just 16 seconds. LISTEN: Download an MP3 in just 7 seconds. SURF: Download pictures in just 3 seconds. Call now. It’s going fast. PLAY: Super fast on-line gaming 1-800-262-2200

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19 Wilford 4 Hall 81 Shreve 17 Wilds 52 Martin 57 Carroll 83 Adibi 58 Tapp 18 Williams 60 Gibson 31 Daniels 77 Gore 48 Manning 42 Anderson 70 K. Lewis 25 Jones 43 Easlick 3 Randall 64 Grove 56 J. Lewis 32 Humes 37 Canter 5 Vick 68 Ramsey 45 Baaqee 76 Miller 41 Trott 72 Murphy 91 Lallis 71 Sandidge 79 Dunn 6 Robinson 61 Butler 33 Cooper 21 Crawford 99 Colas 22 Griffi n 86 Willis 95 Davis* 90 King

12 Johnson 8 Fuller 27 Hamilton 1 Green * Injury

19 4

52 83 18 60 48 Offense25 43 3 64 70 Defense 45 76 91 79 6 21 86 99

12 8

CHRIS HEUBERGER Page 14 Ⅲ Collegiate Times Friday, August 29, 2003 Hokies must survive November Hall: DB

Pennsylvania, New Jersey and in Blacksburg on Nov. 1 and Blacksburg more than one con- will take Adam Abramson West Virginia. their road to the national cham- secutive game is the following Beamer also has the luxury pionship will probably be in the week when the team travels snaps at WR Sit atop the hill in between of calling the shots on Worsham same position that ours is. Win across state to Philadelphia to Cassell Coliseum and the tennis Field seven times this year — out and see you in the Sugar play Temple (they’ll come back Continued from page 7 courts along Washington Street we as fans must show up every Bowl. to the ‘Burg first, of course). halfway through the week time even more electric than You know ESPN Gameday That game shouldn’t be a keep his brother’s memory before a game weekend and we were against University of will be there (if not, I’ll be problem, I only hope we can alive, and uses that as motiva- you can witness the first-string Virginia last year. upset) and finally we’re getting jump out to a big lead and give tion. squads prepare for the upcom- It won’t be all smooth sailing some love this year from the some of our big guns a little rest “He was the first person to ing opponent’s playing style. for our boys this year though, media. I think our boys on the as the regular season dwindles introduce me to football,” Hall But all of that means nothing as we play in the Big East for defensive line are going to tear down. said about his brother. when the ball leaves the tee on the last time. up Frank Gore and Brock Berlin Boston College travels here “When I met (football), I fell the opening kickoff with each Surely all of our conference because we as fans are gonna be Nov. 22 — our last Big East in love with it, like your first respective game as the season opponents will be looking to so live that Radford won’t need conference game. BC is a solid girlfriend. progresses. dethrone us as a conference a TV to know when the Hokies football team, but they aren’t “Just knowing that I have This year, the Hokies attempt powerhouse this year and there just made a good play. even a close second to a healthy someone to play for, trying to to tackle the task of filling the are a couple of Aggies who are Watch for Ernest Wilford to Tech football team. keep his memory alive,” Hall currently vacant Sears’ trophy looking for revenge as well. catch multiple touchdowns; Finally, the Commonwealth said about Smith’s influence. space that is waiting for a ten- To me, we have two seasons that man will show up to play. battle in Charlottesville. “Every time I do something ant in the Merryman Athletic this year, and we should get After our monumental vic- The Cavaliers are good, and positive out there, I think Center. through the first seven games tory, the team heads north to they have a couple of young about (Kevin). Every time I do The 2003 schedule for the victorious. Our second season Pittsburgh where it all went guys that weren’t around last something negative, I’m like ‘I Hokies appears difficult but starts on Nov. 1. Yes, November. downhill last year. year that should have an impact got you this next time around. surely leaves room for a strong We always have bad luck in Jimmy Williams, do me a this year. I know what I did wrong, I just chance to trudge through the November, and in four weeks favor and spy Larry Fitzgerald But after seeing how good got to keep going.’ season unscathed by defeat. this year, we have five games. until he comes over the mid- our youth is, I have no fear “I’m focused,” Hall said. Personally, I know our I think this is the year we dle and team up with Vegas that the Hokies will end the “We gotta go to the national beloved Hokies will be in New can do something like that. As Robinson on a bone crushing season with a victory, their 11th championship. I would like to Orleans this January if a couple everyone recalls, we had a late- hit, so he won’t even know who straight at that. Then, it is the bring a national championship of things roll our way. season collapse last year, and I hit him until he watches next Sugar Bowl. Give us anyone, to Blacksburg. We got a little A trip to New Orleans would highly doubt the veterans that morning’s 9 a.m. SportsCenter. except Oklahoma and we will spot up there in the trophy hall be the furthest Tech would take the field for the Hokies We will win. fill that vacancy that is just waiting for it. We already got travel this season, as they ven- would let that happen again. Our only point in the sea- chillin’ over near the practice the case, so I would love to ture from Blacksburg only to The Miami Hurricanes arrive son were we are away from fields. bring that.” Friday, August 29, 2003 Collegiate Times Ⅲ Page 15 Page 16 Ⅲ Collegiate Times Friday, August 29, 2003 Jones: Heisman in his sights Grove: Lineman

Continued from page 5 carries. hosts the best running back in the hopes for NFL career be one of the fastest running “Not gonna put the football nation, bar none. backs in the nation, he worked on the ground this year,” Jones “He’s ready for the challenge, Continued from page 4 his options open. out during the summer to said. he’s a great competitor and he’s “I’m hoping that I get draft- improve his speed. He’d catch at Opposing front seven’s really excited about this year,” eted national championship con- ed,” he said. “If that doesn’t least 100 balls every day to help beware: there’s nothing Jones Hite said. “He’s bigger, faster and sumes a majority of Grove’s time, happen, then I have gotten into make him a better receiver and fears, save God himself. Whether stronger.” he enjoys spending whatever free graduate school and would a more complete running back, he’s gotten himself up by listen- With that in mind, the goals time he has fishing in the New like to continue my education. and he spent more time in the ing to some Lil’ John and the East Jones has set for himself, outside River. Hopefully, I could get into col- weight room to gain those extra Side boys, or through the support the 2,000 yards are as lofty as the Grove is pursuing a degree legiate coaching.” 15 pounds to help him absorb the of his Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity expectations from Hokie fans. in residential property manage- With a great work ethic added hits he’ll take this season. brothers, Jones believes one thing: He wants the Big East and ment and is on pace to graduate and a positive, team-first atti- Plus, for those of you won- with all due respect from Jones to national championships. this year. Upon graduation, he tude, Grove shouldn’t have a dering — he’s worked on hold- the many great running backs “And the Heisman,” Jones would love the opportunity to problem finding work after col- ing onto the football during around the nation, Blacksburg added. play in the NFL, but is keeping lege.

JONATHAN DE GUZMAN