North Carolina State University Athletics
Chandler Steps into New Role at Left Tackle
9/12/2012 12:00:00 AM | Football
Sept. 12, 2012
Raleigh, N.C. - Some say the most important position on the Pack's offensive line is the left tackle, having to protect the blindside for QB Mike Glennon. Last week at Connecticut, the Pack had to make an adjustment at that position as Week 1 starter Rob Crisp was forced to miss the game due to injury.
In stepped redshirt Tyson Chandler.
Chandler came into the contest having played in 13 career games, but had just 26 career snaps under his belt, as his role last year was mainly on special teams. Against the Huskies, Chandler played 70 snaps, and with Crisp 'out indefinitely', Chandler will continue to man the left tackle spot.
"It was pretty exciting," said the North Plainfield, New Jersey native. "It was hard too. Rob is my roommate, he is like a brother to me. It was just good to get out there and get my feet wet.
"I just have to not get out of doing the normal things, just don't go crazy because of all the noise and all the fans trying to rattle you. It was a good experience (to get the start) on the road against a good opponent. I just have to stay calm and play like I can."
During his weekly press conference, coach Tom O'Brien spoke about Chandler's performance against the Huskies.
"I think he did okay," said O'Brien. "It was a tough situation for him. No. 48 for Connecticut was a really tough assignment for him. He hung in there and gave us four quarters worth and now we have a chance for him to practice and get better this week."
One big benefit for Chandler, was having senior R.J. Mattes lined up at left guard. Mattes has experience playing tackle, and was instrumental in helping Chandler adjust.
"It was pretty loud (at Connecticut), but having R.J. next to me at guard was a huge benefit," said Chandler. "He knows what to point out and he was unbelievable in just communicating with me when it got loud."
Chandler thought he handled the situation well, and is anxious to get back and improve in practice and take advantage of the opportunity this week and beyond.
"I felt a little anxious the first couple of snaps, but once you get into the flow you naturally calm down," said Chandler. "Another big thing was the adjustments during the game, handling situations you have not seen before.
It will be good to keep working hard in practice, and to see improvement both on the practice field and on game day with me just getting more experience."
