Despite the fact that both defensive tackles Blair Bines and Charlie Noonan have seen only a few snaps during games this season, both are looking forward to seeing increased playing time as the Rutgers football team's season continues.
Bines, a former linebacker, was shifted to the defensive line during summer camp and saw his first start against Navy last week because of an injured ankle for defensive tackle Pete Tverdov. He had one tackle in the game against the Midshipmen.
Noonan also saw significant time last week against Navy because of Tverdov's ankle injury. He played well, registering two tackles in the game.
According to Noonan, Saturday's game against Morgan State will not be an easy one, as the Bulls have a major size advantage on the offensive line.
"The right guard has a really good motor. The whole line is big and solid," Noonan said. "Their [junior college] transfer at center looks pretty good too."
Linebacker Kevin Malast, a defensive team captain, had some positive things to say about Bines' transition to defensive tackle.
"He's learning it really well," Malast said. "He knew that coach [Schiano] put him there for a reason and that was for the team. Based on his size and speed, it's a great move for him and he's adapting."
Malast became very close with Bines when they were both playing linebacker and working together.
The defensive captain also hosted Noonan's recruiting trip several years ago.
"Noonan is a tough, hardworking kid," Malast said. He'll do whatever it takes to play. He's really committed to this program and really committed to winning."
Noonan saw his first real action against Navy and will most likely serve a similar backup role Saturday.
"I feel ready. I feel hungry," Noonan said. "I prepare as hard I can."
Even with Bines and Noonan performing well on the line against the Midshipmen, the absence of Pete Tverdov seemed to really sting the Knights' front four last week.
"Pete's the starter for a reason. It's a big deal. Pete's one of our leaders and it hurts with him not being there," Malast said. "But I think Blair did a really good job stepping in there. That's not easy to do and he just became a defensive lineman over the summer."
Noonan, along with Bines, said that he is ready to step up at moments notice as Tverdov's health continues to remain in doubt.
"We get equal reps in practice," Noonan said. "Injuries have slowed me down in the past but this time around I feel good enough to get in there and play."
Junior defensive end George Johnson has been struggling with an injury in practice and it seemed unlikely that he would play against Morgan State. But after making strides in practice today, head coach Greg Schiano said that it is looking more likely that Johnson will play.
"George surprised me here today," Schiano said. "Hopefully that's a good thing."
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