By Ashley Hargrove
ashley@athensnews-courier.com
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Growing up around football in the south, there was hardly a Saturday during the fall that Amos Draper didn’t flip across an Alabama or Auburn game and stop to watch it.
The former Tanner High standout always dreamed of one day getting to take the field at a place like Jordan-Hare or Bryant Denny Stadium.
Today, that dream will become a reality for the Arkansas State redshirt freshman, as he and his teammates take the field against Auburn to kick off the 2010 college football season.
“I’ll probably be nervous for about the first play or two,” Draper said. “But after that then I’ll settle down.”
Upon graduation in 2009, Draper had originally signed a scholarship to play football at UAB, but later transferred to Arkansas State where he now is a second-string defensive tackle for the Red Wolves. According to the former 2A All-State Alabama Lineman of the Year, he credits his hard work in the off-season getting him to where he is heading into today’s game.
“I’ve really been working hard this off-season doing a lot of film study and studying the playbook in hopes of being able to get some playing time this year,” Draper said.
While most of the fans inside Jordan-Hare will be cheering for the Tigers today, Draper will have a few fans of his own on hand.
“Both of my parents will be there, so it will be good to see them,” Draper said. “I haven’t seen them since I was home in June.”
Regardless of how the game turns out, Draper said he is excited about the opportunity.
“Last year I didn’t get to make any trips with the team, so I’m glad that I’ll finally be able to this year,” he said.
Kick-off between Auburn and Arkansas State is set for 6 p.m. on Fox Sports Net.
