D'Brickashaw Ferguson Is Growing Force On Offensive Line
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By Andrew Dressel
April 21, 2003
There’s nothing like being thrown directly into the fire. Last season, D’Brickashaw Ferguson, one of the top prospects from the state of New York, became the first true freshman in school history to start as an offensive lineman in the season opener. The rookie played surprisingly well against an older, more experienced Colorado State defensive line in the game, and drew accolades during the course of the brutal 14-game season in which he started every game (another UVa record). He subsequently earned All-American honors.
“He had a whole lot more ups than he had downs,” observed head coach Al Groh. “To be a rookie at left tackle and play every snap but about 15 or 16 during the course of a 14 game season is pretty remarkable.”
What’s even more remarkable is the fact that the last action he had seen on the gridiron was at Freeport High School in Long Island. Ferguson, after being installed as the starting left tackle at last summer’s training camp, was responsible for protecting QB Matt Schaub’s blind-side, and blocking for running and passing assignments. That’s a pretty tall order for an athlete still wet behind the ears.
In 2001, Elton Brown, a fellow lineman, became the first true freshman to start on the offensive line for the Cavaliers in 28 years, although he had a relatively smooth transition. Brown, unlike Ferguson, played on special teams, then became a reserve lineman before starting the final four games of the 2001 campaign.
Another advantage the 6’6, 333 lbs. Brown initially had was size. The 6’5 Ferguson, who weights in at a slim 265 lbs., has had to rely on other natural abilities such as very quick feet, great balance, and quick wits to counter his lack of experience and size. A wingspan that measures over seven feet (87 inches) doesn’t hurt.
“He’s a player that adapts very quickly,” commented Groh, “and he’s got a strong sense of confidence that things will work out well if he just applies himself and perseveres. He’s got very, very unusual physical skills for the position and now has had a chance to go through a winters-worth of off-season programs. He ought to be the complete package at that position.”Now with a year of experience under his belt, the rising sophomore, who is studying pre-law, views spring practice as just another chance to improve. “Every time you practice, you learn that you need to do something different and work a little harder,” stated Ferguson. “You learn about what you need to do better to improve yourself. Spring practice so far has been a very big learning experience. I think whenever you have experience, and on top of that, more repetitions and practice, that definitely puts you in a better position for next year.”The under-sized Ferguson will be in an even better position next season with more bulk weight on his tall frame. “I think the off season program has helped me gain some weight,” said Ferguson, “and I just feel that if I keep working out and doing what I need to do I’ll be in a great position for next season. From now until next season starts, there’s going to be plenty of time for me to improve myself physically and mentally.”