Bright Futrure
SLIPPERY ROCK — Like most youngsters, Brandon Fusco had visions of playing in the National Football League.
Now that the Seneca Valley graduate is entering his senior season at Slippery Rock University, that vision remains — and it's coming into focus.
Fusco, a 6-foot-5, 310-pound center for The Rock, was named a first-team member of the Consensus Draft Services Division II Preseason All-America squad.
"That pretty much confirms what we already knew: That Brandon has a legitimate shot at playing football on Sundays," SRU coach George Mihalik said.
Fusco is a two-time first-team All-PSAC selection at center, despite not playing the position in high school. He was a guard for the Raiders.
"Not many linemen in our league have been three-time first-team selections," Fusco said. "I never got higher than honorable mention in high school, so I'm proud of what I've accomplished so far.
"I've been working on a lot of the little things, such as hand placement and agility, to try to enhance my chances of playing at the next level. I know I have to work harder at it, being in Division II."
There are about 50 former Division II players on NFL rosters right now, including New Orleans starting guard Jahri Evans (Bloomsburg) and Arizona starting guard Reggie Wells (Clarion).
Indiana (Pa.) University cornerback Akwasi Owusu-Ansah was drafted in the fourth round by the Dallas Cowboys this year.
Recent SRU tackle Mike Butterworth spent two seasons on the Atlanta practice squad and Rock receiver D.J. Flick enjoyed a successful Canadian Football League career in the past decade after being signed as a free agent and released by the Steelers."Brandon is athletic for a big guy, and, as a center, he's got a quick first step," Mihalik said. "Physical strength is his biggest asset."He's equally strong run blocking or pass blocking. He offers flexibility in that he can play center, guard or tackle."Fusco redshirted his first year at The Rock. SRU had a strong line returning the following season, but Fusco was talented enough to become a starter right away."We wanted to start our best five offensive linemen and the vacant spot was center," Mihalik said. "We put him there and the rest is history."The coach said that a number of pro scouts have told him they will be watching Fusco's efforts this fall.Fusco was named a second-team postseason All-American by Don Hansen's Football Gazette last year. He also finished third in regional balloting for the Gene Upshaw Division II Lineman of the Year Award and was named SRU's Offensive MVP.He is one of four starting offensive linemen returning for the 2010 season."I like the talent and experience we have," Fusco said. "I think we can win the conference and make a push for the national playoffs."SRU opens the season at 7 p.m. Sept. 2 against Merrimack (Mass.) University at N. Kerr Thompson Stadium.
