Hey Vern! Good for Gholston
I remember this past OSU season, standing in the endzone long after the Northwestern game had ended. Across the field walks Vern Gholston and his family. They were joking about the fact that big Vern had just scored his first touchdown on any level. He walked over to me and former Buckeye Mo Hall. We teased him about not having an endzone dance prepared. Knowing Vern, a celebration dance is about as likely as a Rich Rodriguez fan club meeting in Columbus. That means, not likely.
He modestly described the play, how it was the first touchdown he’d scored at any level of football--he wasn’t sure what to do when the play was over. Of course, Vern had only played a couple years of high school ball prior to Ohio State. It’s not like he’d had many chances. Then Vern and his family headed off for a nice night together. His parents so proud of what their boy had already accomplished.
When Vernon became the 6th overall pick in the NFL Draft Saturday, it was proof that polite and polished can compete in a league of brash and loud personalities. Of course, Vern’s not exactly a church mouse--dude’s a monster! Let’s just skip his freakishly strong arms and chest. His football talent, while still developing, is relentless. He punished quarterbacks at times this season, drew more double teams than expected, and--despite what many draft “experts” have said lately--Vern does not take plays off. He might not have been as involved in a defensive scheme at certain times, but it’s not like he just decided to “turn it on” in certain games.
Gholston will be a factor in the NFL, in my opinion. He’s playing for a team in the Jets filled with OSU grads (Mangold, Nugent, etc...) and in desperate need of a pass rusher. He’ll grow into that role and will serve the team and league well as a quiet soldier. He’ll be great with kids and fans--approchable and likeable.
Ohio State turns out many players who fit Vern’s mold (think AJ Hawk, Carpenter, Gonzo, etc...) and it’s another sign when good kids get good leadership, the results are what you’d expect.
