Going Into Battle

Roderick Battle was ranked the 13th best defensive end coming out of high school when he graduated in 2005. During his senior season at Douglass he had 15 sacks and 10 forced fumbles and was named the 2004 AJC AAAAA Defensive Player of the Year. This year Georgia has one of the best pair of defensive ends in the nation, but when they need a breather, Roderick Battle will be ready.

Dave McMahon -- How has practice been?

Roderick Battle -- It is been good. We are getting bigger, faster and stronger.

DM -- What about you?

RB -- I am not bigger, but I feel a lot quicker.

DM -- Are you a lot more comfortable here after a full year?

RB -- Yes, I am a lot more comfortable. It was a big change for me from high school to college, I feel better now.

DM -- What are you learning from Quentin Moses and Charles Johnson?

RB -- They taught how to watch game films so I can study how offensive lineman block and protect. They have showed me some good moves, too.

DM -- What about Coach Fabris?

RB -- He has so much energy. He really gets you motivated.

DM -- Do you have any defensive linemen in the pros that you are a fan of?

RB -- I was a big Buccaneer fan, so I liked Warren Sapp and Simeon Rice.

DM -- Do you keep in touch with your former high school teammate Brandon Sesay?

RB -- I try to. I haven't talked to him since May.

DM -- In your bio, it says you plan on majoring in broadcast journalism... is there a broadcaster you like?

RB -- I like the ESPN SportsCenter guys a lot because they have a good sense of humor.

DM -- Anyone in particular?

RB -- I like Stu Scott and Scott Van Pelt.

DM -- Thank you for your answers and keep on being as cool as the other side of the pillow.