Collegiate Times

Tech linebacker, Quillie Odom, explodes into a tackling dummy in practice on Wednesday.

"Spring practice is intense. They just kind of threw us out there in the fire, so we've got to do everything," Odom said. "We've got to take a lot in at one time. It's intense and that's how it's going to be during the game, so I'm ready for it."

Hailing from Manassas, Va., Odom saw limited action in his initial season as a Hokie, participating in seven games.    

"I've been just trying to get into the film room as much as possible.  That's the key - to watch film, get in there and get all the plays down because coverage is a big thing in this defense," Odom said.

With all of the youth set to play at linebacker in the fall, the potential starters have taken the time to learn from recent Hokie greats.

"We've watched some of the old practices from last season (and) Xavier Adibi, Vince Hall. We've watched some of those guys and their technique, and it helps us with our technique," Odom said.

Since the linebacker position has produced so much talent in recent years, Foster believes the new players have plenty to live up to.

"We have a certain level of expectation," he said. "We've developed a tradition of linebackersb and I expect them to play that way. They have to uphold that deal, and I think they want to.  You can tell by their attitude and their attention in meetings and their work ethic on the field."  

The new players certainly realize this recent tradition.  That, along with the many returning starters, means the pressure will be on the likes of Odom, Rivers and Johnson to play their position well and help maintain Tech's status as one of the nation's top defenses.

"There's obviously pressure, just a little bit," Odom said. "As far as living up to them, I just want to be able to get in there and do my part for the team.  That's most important - just be able to do my part to not let the team down.  So, I'm trying to learn my part and learn everything I can in the film room."

Foster said that the inside linebacker situation won't be fully settled once spring practice concludes.  However, he is happy with progress being made by his potential starters.

"It's a good start for us," Foster said. "I'm pleased so far.  Is it where we want to be?  No.  But I like their work ethic and attitude."

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