Melvin Ingram, Senior, Defensive End, South Carolina
Overview:
Often overlooked because of the monsters that resided in the SEC West, South Carolina finished the year as the number three defense in the nation (behind Alabama and LSU of course). Much of the Gamecocks’ success came from their defensive line and pass rushing ability. Along with freshman sensation Jadeveon Clowney, senior Melvin Ingram led South Carolina’s assault on opponents’ quarterbacks.
Culminating a long college career with his best season, Ingram racked up 10 total sacks on the year, good for third in the conference. He also led the team in tackles for loss. Although Clowney got all the attention being the number one player out of high school, Melvin Ingram was really the anchor to this defense with both his talent and experience.
Final Projection:
Much as is the case with fellow rush ends in the upcoming 2012 draft, Ingram could have expected to hear his name called in an early round whether he had a productive season or not. Teams need to be able to get to the quarterback. Since 2011 was so successful for Ingram, he may have pushed his draft stock into the end of the first round or at least early on day two.
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