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In an exclusive interview with BlackandGold.com, Grand Valley State Offensive Coordinator Tim Morrison explains why he believes Matt Armstrong has a legitimate shot at landing a spot on the 2014 Saints’ final 53 roster.

B&G.com: Coach Morrison, thank you for taking the time to give us your input on Matt Armstrong. We know that this is recruiting season, and your schedule is full.

Coach Morrison: It’s my pleasure.

B&G.com: Coach, do you have any direct or distant ties to the Saints or anyone on the staff?

Coach Morrison: In a way, I do. Your running backs’ coach, Dan Roushar, is a former Offensive Line coach at Michigan State. He probably doesn’t remember or knew of me, but I knew of him during that time. Grand Valley State (Allendale, MI) is not too far from the Spartans’ campus.

B&G.com: Why do you believe the Saints sought to get Matt Armstrong?

Coach Morrison: The recent success of Grand Valley State’s football program has had several players land on NFL rosters, or at least invited as UDFA’s. You may recall that the Saints also picked up one of our graduates, Tim Lelito. Matt is of the same mold of athletes. He has played center for most of his career, but is versatile enough to step in at right or left tackle if needed. Coach Roushar also knows a bit about him, since Matt attended high school in Lansing, MI.

B&G.com: What qualities about Matt work to his advantage in making the Saints final 53?

Coach Morrison: He’s smart. He spends a lot of time in the film room. His knowledge of the game is so in depth that I (as his coach) asked a lot of him in making calls in the game. Matt is explosive off the snap, ad more than holds his own in the trenches. He wants an opportunity to play, and works hard on each and every play. He will definitely compete for a spot and a chance to protect Drew Brees.


B&G.com: What was the most memorable performance you’ve seen from Matt Armstrong?

Coach Morrison: It was back in Matt’s sophomore year vs. the Colorado Buffaloes. Matt was playing opposite a huge and powerful nose tackle (former HS All American) who was looking to push Matt around the line of scrimmage. As it turned out, Matt DOMINATED the guy for 60 minutes; it wasn’t even a contest! We were all very proud of that performance. He has had other great performances, but that one stands out in my mind.

B&G.com: Is Matt likely to get involved in community outreach? If so, what?

Coach Morrison: Yes; very involved. Matt appreciates and never forgets where he comes from. His mom was a single parent, and his brother was a special needs child. He has a degree in criminal justice, and will likely look to work with underprivileged youth in detention centers. He reaches out to involve himself in efforts to help others in need. I’m sure he’ll be involved in the community in the New Orleans area.


B&G.com: What things separate Matt from others whose performances tails off down the road?

Coach Morrison: His mental approach to the game is outstanding. He will not shy away from competition. He will actually SHOW UP on the big stage; clutch time. By comparison, others may fade away when the stakes are high. To me, this is huge because that may be the difference between the player that steps up his game in going for an NFL roster spot vs. another who ends up being merely a camp body. I really believe that Matt has both the mental and physical qualities to make it in the NFL.

B&G.com: What type of player is Matt on the sidelines, in the locker room and in the game?

Coach Morrison: On the sidelines he is knowledgeable and a student of the game. In fact, he often comes back to me and other coaches and helps us recognize the things the defense is trying to do vs. our offense. He has keen situational awareness, and has a highly competitive drive. In the locker room he is soft spoken and doesn’t speak out that often. But when he does, the other players recognize that he usually has something to say that’s worth listening to; he’s earned their respect. Overall, you can say that Matt Armstrong leads by example.

B&G.com: Did Matt have a special adult, sibling or parent who served as a personal mentor?

Coach Morrison: His mother has been (and remains) a strong positive influence in his life.

B&G.com: Where do you expect to see Matt this season (practice squad; final 53)?

Coach Morrison: Seeing that Tim Lelito (comparable player) made the Saints’ roster, I believe Matt has the maturity, strength and work ethic to make the Saints’ final roster as well. Tim is very durable, and doesn’t miss games. He plays-through discomfort, and is a GAMER. I’m looking forward to seeing how the competition shakes out.

B&G.com: Coach Morrison, on behalf of the WhoDat Nation and Saints’ fans everywhere, thank you for giving us your unique perspective on Matt Armstrong. All the best to the Grand Valley State “Lakers” in the upcoming season.

Coach Morrison: You’re welcome. It will be fun to follow the Saints this season, and watching how it all unfolds.

Jack Vegas

This is the second story I've read about this guy and both times I've come away impressed.

Rugby Saint II

Yeah, he sounds real good. Lelito should be a starter and if so maybe we can get the same raw talent from his old team mate. He's a hard worker with lots of drive and determination. I want to watch him work at TC.

K Major

+1. And from what I gather, the dude prepares well. I like the hunger in him.

SmashMouth

Methinks we are fine at center...

hagan714

position is wide open and up for grabs. go get it.

Stealthman

Good post, Hagan. I agree.

All we have to do is remember that Armstead seemingly came out of nowhere. The rest is history.

QBREES9

The Saints always seem to find them. Good luck to him

SloMotion

Hmm, that's the second guy coming out of that program recently ... never thought of Grand Valley State as a 'football-factory' before ... I'm gonna' have to watch more Great Lakes Intercollegiate, .

the-commish

The coach said Armstrong is versatile enough to step in at tackle if needed... not guard... TACKLE. If that's true he could obviously play guard, and could make the ballclub. Versatility saves roster spots.