Collegiate Times

"I'm still learning," Graves said. "I have great people around me like Jason Worilds and Nekos Brown to help me out. They have helped me with my technique and given me tips on rushing the passer, so it's been real good."

"When I moved to tackle from end, he (Graves) was really helpful," Taylor said. "He was telling me it's the small things that really matter."

Graves' workout routines haven't changed since getting more reps at end. Dr. Mike Gentry, Tech's assistant athletic director for athletic performance, keeps things consistent for every player.  

The only change, Graves noted, was the increase in intensity.

Wiles is working with both Graves and Taylor to improve their footwork for the upcoming season. Down in the trenches, it's important to not get your feet displaced and lose power.

"It's more working on what I already know and perfecting that," Taylor said.

Taylor, at 6-foot, 262 pounds, is anything but a prototypical tackle with that frame. It's been something he's dealt with before, and he is one of the leaders in the weight room.

"I think I bring quickness and strength," Taylor said. "I'm not the biggest guy, but I compensate with my speed and strength."

Wiles is looking for Taylor to take that extra step and become a force in the middle of the line.

"The big thing for me with Demetrius going into spring was for him to be more of a playmaker for us," Wiles said. "He's athletic and a little undersized if you went off the measurables and the template of what's a tackle. He brings a lot of quickness and athleticism to the position, so I expect him to be more of a playmaker - not just holding up his gap, but actually making plays."

"Demetrius played a lot last year so he has a lot of it down," Graves said. "He continues to get better and his work ethic helps out a lot.  He helps push other people."

How good can this defensive line be? That's the million-dollar question. Even Wiles isn't sure.

"It's hard to say," he said. "I think it depends on how we mix in and stay healthy. We have a great group of kids. I love coaching these kids; they're fun to coach. They want to please and all have great attitudes. We will continue to improve."

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