From having little experience playing safety, Rob Thompson has adjusted quite smoothly to the position that he switched to during fall camp last year as a true freshman.
Thompson was recruited as a cornerback, which was his primary position in high school, however, the Gloucester Township, N.J. native Thompson was moved to safety early in fall practices.
“I played safety somewhat in high school, so the switch was not hard at all,” said Thompson.
The biggest difference for Thompson has been making some of the defensive calls, something he did not have to do at cornerback.
“The hardest challenge I have learned about safety is to know when to make specific calls in certain situations,” he said.
Over the last season, Thompson has blossomed to who he is as a player today.
“I am much more confident with myself as a safety today. My performance has much improved,” he said.
Compared to the 2013 season, Thompson has been settling in the new position more and more.
“Last year was nerve racking,” said Thompson. He played in 10 games last year as a true freshman, compiling 20 tackles, while also playing on special teams.
Thompson played in his first collegiate game in front of almost 50,000 fans at East Carolina.
“Playing in a stadium filled with 50,000 people was unlike anything I have ever experienced,” said Thompson.
The transition from high school to college football has been an adjustment for Thompson as well.
“The biggest difference is the speed of the game. The game moves faster,” he said.
With the 2014 season just around the corner, Thompson wants to have an impact on the defense.
“My main goal is to start this season,” he said.