Junior offensive lineman Will Devine has been a main cog up front for the Southwestern football team over the past two years. Recently, the Grapevine native had an opportunity to speak with Tony Baldwin, assistant sports information director, and touched on everything from the importance of the offensive line to his Star Wars obsession.
Baldwin: How did you decide to attend Southwestern?
Devine: The first time I was ever on campus was a middle school basketball camp. My pastor also told me about the new football program when I was looking around for schools. I went through the whole recruiting process and this was the best academic school that I was considering. I thought it would be a place that I would enjoy being at, and it has been.
Baldwin: You have been one of the mainstays on the Pirates' offensive line since coming here as a freshman two years ago. What do you enjoy about playing in the trenches?
Devine: I enjoy being able to hit someone every play. That's always fun. It's an important role for the team. I know that a lot of the game and our success relies on the offensive line, so it's been something we have tried to stress this season. I want to help the team as much as I can.
Baldwin: You have played all of the spots on the offensive line, except for center, in a game over your career. What are the challenges to learning all of the different positions and the blocking assignments?
Devine: When you get thrown into the fire, taking the time to think can slow you down. I think the mental aspect is the hardest part.
Baldwin: Who is the hardest defensive player on the team to block?
Devine: Justin Broussard is an excellent pass rusher. You have to be real quick to get out there in front of him. I would say a close second is Brandon Fleischmann. Both of them have a combination of speed and strength that make it a challenging task.
Baldwin: Your roommate, Zach Cole, led the Pirates with 13 tackles in last week's win over McMurry. Are you surprise by his success?
Devine: No. He's one of the hardest workers I know. I think everything is coming together for him. He's always understood the defense, but everything else seems to be clicking now. He's really filled out his role and I think he will have a lot more success this year.
Baldwin: Who was your childhood idol growing up?
Devine: I am close with my family. I tried to emulate everything they did. My older brother is someone I looked up to. He's four years older than me and he was a good role model.
Baldwin: How do you relax away from football?
Devine: I tried to get completely away from it. I try not to watch it. I'll watch other sports, like soccer, instead. I also like hanging out with my friends.
Baldwin: If you could have a role in any movie, which one would you choose?
Devine: Star Wars. That's my favorite movie series. I love the story. I started watching it when I was really young. I know everyone chuckles a little bit when I tell them that I love it, but I get really into it.
Baldwin: If you could switch positions for a day, what would you choose?
Devine: I would play running back. I think it would be fun back there and getting the ball. I would like to make some cuts with the ball in my hand.
Baldwin: Last week, the offensive line cleared the way for Dylan Wilburn to rush for over 100 yards. What is your feeling with how the line performed?
Devine: It's satisfying. When you see that down marker move up, that's satisfying. Coach (Tim) Byerly has set a goal for us to get to four yards per rush. So it's great to see that happen. We get to give Dylan a pat on the head and say, "nice run." I'm glad we are putting it together.
– SOUTHWESTERN –