One of the top returning offensive tackles in the Big 12 Conference ... the biggest member of an offensive line that averages over 300 lbs. ... will play at a much lighter weight this season to take advantage of his outstanding athletic ability ...
2000 SEASON: Big 12 Coaches honorable mention All-Big 12 selection ... started all 11 games and played close to 775 plays and was penalized just three times ... had 50 knockdowns ... may have played his best game against Nebraska’s Kyle Vanden Bosch, who recorded just five tackles in the game ...
1999 SEASON: started all 11 games ... named to MU’s Champion’s Club three times ... part of an offensive line that led to 375 yards on the ground against Western Michigan ... helped spring running back Zain Gilmore to 165 yards rushing in a win over Texas Tech ...
1998 SEASON: After arriving for preseason drills in August, made his move to play as a true freshman ... played at right tackle in seven games behind senior Todd Neimeyer, with most of his snaps coming on PAT and field goal attempts ...
HIGH SCHOOL: A two-time all-state selection on offense and also an all-state basketball player who played in the Class 3A Final Four at MU’s Hearnes Center in 1997 and ‘98 ... nominated for the 1998 McDonald’s All-American Basketball Team ... also considered Nebraska and Oklahoma, but committed early to MU after attending the ‘97 Nebraska game ... coached by Bob Fairchild ...
PERSONAL: Son of Russell and Lana Bland ... born February 11, 1980 ... majoring in general agriculture.
