Breaking It Down: Defensive Line

San Antonio, Texas- While watching the East squad practice today I took the time to evaluate the defensive lineman. The East squad defensive line has been a big topic of discussion amongst the Scout.com Recruiting Team this week.

Greenwood (Ind.) Center Grove defensive tackle J.B. Paxson, 6-3 and 265-pounds, has had an impressive week of practice. Paxson is quick off the ball, and he reads well. Paxson is a solid run-stuffer, and a tenacious pass-rusher. Committed to Purdue.

Louisville (Ky.) Central James McKinney, 6-3 and 270-pounds, suffered a hip injury early in the first session of the day. McKinney showed a good initial burst, and surge off the line of scrimmage. Overall, this week McKinney has struggled with the size of the East offensive line.

Louisville (Ky.) Ballard Earl Heyman, 6-3 and 260-pounds, Heyman missed Wednesday’s first practice session. During the second session, Heyman was his normal and consistent self. He was flying off the edge, and creating havoc in the backfield. Heyman missed the first session, due to having to retake his vision test.

Bolingbrook (Ill.)Ryan Bain, 6-2 and 264-pounds, obviously undersized, but he does not let that stop him. Bain uses his low center of gravity, and leverage to his advantage. Bain is very strong and powerful, and has a non-stop motor. The East offensive line averages 6-6 and 326-pounds across the front, and Bain has more than held his own this week.

Randallstown (Md.) defensive end Melvin Alaeze, 6-3 and 275-pounds, did not practice today. Alaeze has been very impressive, before missing today’s practice. Alaeze is an athletic marvel, he is so fast and strong. His wingspan is incredible. Alaeze will present problems for any offensive tackle off the edge.

The U.S. Army All-American Bowl will be played in San Antonio at the Alamodome on Jan. 15, 2005, and broadcast nationally on NBC at 1 p.m. Eastern. Scout.com is a sponsor, the official selection partner and exclusive on-line partner of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, as well as the associated U.S. Army Combine for underclassmen. The game features the top 78 football prospects in the country, East vs. West.