North Carolina State University Athletics
The Jalan and Jaylen Show
4/11/2015 12:00:00 AM | Football
RALEIGH, N.C. - At the Kay Yow Spring Game fans were saying a lot about Jalan and Jaylen. Between redshirt freshman quarterback Jalan McClendon and sophomore fullback Jaylen Samuels, the offense had a good day.
Samuels rushed for 28 yards on three carries, and caught 3 passes for 65 yards today. Last season, fans got a small taste for what Samuels can do, as he averaged 9.5 yards per rush and 16 yards per reception.
He has spent the off-season "working hard, lifting hard, doing all the running and conditioning and getting ready for next year, for another great season."
When asked about how he felt about his performance today, Samuels responded by saying, " I made a big improvement from last year, I am still working though and it is only going to get better from here."
Samuels had a 50-yard reception today, something he hopes to do for the Pack more this season.
"They are trying to spread me out. When Coach Canada calls the plays I am just going to go out there and make them and do what I've got to do."
When asked about what he is looking forward to most next season Samuels said, "moving on, playing different competition, I have more experience so it should be easier for me, I am just really, really excited for the season."
McClendon was redshirted last season and got to play in Carter-Finley in front of fans for the first time. When asked about his experience today he responded by saying, "It was a great experience, a little nerve racking at first, however, I think I did ok, I still have a couple of things to work on."
McClendon got a lot playing time today, playing for the White team in the first half and moving to the RED and working withe the first team in the second half. He was 16-35 for 144 yards.
This spring he has been focused on learning the offense. "I have been working with Jacoby, with him mentoring me and stuff like that, trying to figure out what I need to do and what I don't need to do."
Next season McClendon said he is most looking forward to "a bowl game" he went on to say, "I am ready to win, and have a great season."
He is planning on using this new season to learn, get stronger and get to play for the pack.
The 2015 season has a lot in store for the two and it should be exciting to see.
