Michigan State University Athletics
Spring Football Sideline Report: Kyle Cook
3/29/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
March 29, 2006
How do you see this team being different than last year's squad?
"I see it different in the way the older guys are approaching it. For guys like me - the seniors - it's our last season. Throughout winter conditioning and here early in spring ball, I've seen a lot more leadership coming from the seniors and juniors - the guys who were juniors and sophomores last year. I also see a lot of the young guys playing with a lot more enthusiasm too, compared to what we had last year."
After being elected a spring captain, how does your role change?
"I don't think it changes too much. I've always tried to be a leader, both vocally and by example. It's an honor for me to have that title, especially to be voted captain by your teammates. Other than carrying that title, I honestly don't think my role is going to change too much."
How are you feeling coming off of shoulder surgery, and what will be your involvement in spring practice?
"So far, I'd have to say that I feel pretty good. It's been about two months since the surgery and everything is going as planned. Thus far this spring, I haven't participated in any contact drills. As we get into more hitting, I'll step aside and help coach some of the younger guys."
What are some of the most valuable things that you have learned from past players and your position coach (Jeff Stoutland)?
"I definitely learned things like hard work and dedication from guys like Joe Tate, Paul Harker and Brian Ottney. Coach Stoutland has always stressed doing everything full speed and playing the game the way it was meant to be played. All of these things have helped me develop as a player."
Can you provide the fans with a player's name that they should expect to be reading and hearing about this season?
"As far as the offensive line is concerned, I see a guy like Jesse Miller, or even John Masters, emerging as a big-time contributor. I think those guys are ready step up and show the fans what they can do. It also wouldn't shock me if one of the younger guys comes out of nowhere and has an impact."
What has been your favorite stadium to play in?
"I think every stadium has a different atmosphere, but I'd have to say Ohio State along with Notre Dame rank among the top venues. But when you compare atmospheres, there was nothing like Spartan Stadium two years ago against Wisconsin. By far, it had to be the best game, both in terms of the outcome against an undefeated team and the wild environment for a night game in front of our home crowd."
How do you want Spartan fans to remember you when your playing days are done?
"First, I want to be remembered as a guy, who was extremely dedicated. Second, I want them to talk the physical way I played the game. Lastly, I want the fans to remember me as an emotional player - as a guy that played the game with great passion."
What is it like being Drew Stanton's roommate?
"It's troubling at times, but it also has its benefits. As much as he likes to bust my chops at times, he's a good guy, a great teammate and most importantly, a great friend."
Do offensive linemen deserve more media attention?
"I really don't know if we deserve it. Most offensive linemen I know don't want the attention, and they honestly don't really care about the publicity. That is unless your name is Gordy Niebylski. I'm sure most guys wouldn't mind having their name in the newspaper every once and a while, just because of how much hard work they put in. I can think of only one guy, namely Gordy, who would want to read his name in the paper everyday. As offensive linemen, we know our role is to do the dirty work in the trenches. We get our satisfaction by doing our jobs - that's all we care about."
Q&A conducted by Drew Stanton, MSU Sports Information intern.
