Returns as a starter on the defensive line . . . had a slow spring start but came on late . . . coaches look for him to make things happen.

2007: Started all 11 games on the defensive line . . . recorded 27 tackles, including 20 solo stops . . . had four tackles for a loss . . . had four tackles against West Alabama . . . recorded four tackles at Tennessee Tech . . . had a season-high five tackles against Tennessee State.

2006: Saw action in nine games . . . registered five tackles on the season . . . had two tackles at Georgia Tech . . . had two tackles at Jacksonville State.

2005: Redshirted . . . contributed as part of the Bulldogs' scout team.

High School: Named Blount County's Defensive Player of the Year . . . named All-State and All-Area . . . also played baseball and basketball.

Personal: Born March 15, 1987 . . . son of Alan Smith and Diana Whatley . . . majoring in business.