(S1) - PT #1 - Draft Profile

[TheLoopster]

Mike McNoodle
Strong Safety
Michigan Wolverines #32
6'1"
207lbs

Strengths

Strength: McNoodle really puts the strong in Strong Safety. During his time at Michigan, opposing offensives were repeatedly shocked by his ability to push blockers aside and bring the ballcarrier down without missing a single step. Receivers and running backs alike feared being caught in the 'McNoose,' the term applied to McNoodle's ability to leverage his strength in order to force a fumble out of a player in almost any circumstance. A sure tackler, scouts have noted that, were he to pack on some extra pounds, McNoodle might be able to serve admirably as a linebacker.

Coverage: McNoodle is a phenomenal shut-down safety both in support of a corner or when left on his own. He rarely falls prey to jukes or other moves and sticks to his man like glue, allowing few receptions and even fewer touchdowns.

Leadership and Character: If you were to ask a player on the Michigan defense who's in charge, they'd point you to Mike McNoodle. A team captain his sophomore, junior and senior years, off the field McNoodle is the opposite of his tough, aggressive on-the-field play style - an amiable friend to anyone and an especially willing mentor to his younger teammates. While at Michigan he maintained a high GPA and was well-liked in the history department. His position coach is quoted as noting how "he always had his nose in some [expletive]ing book, the [expletive]ing nerd."

Weaknesses

Weak Ballhawk: McNoodle racked up few interceptions in college, seeming to be far more comfortable with breaking up or preventing a pass than catching it himself. His hands were seen to be a weak point in his game, as several of the interception opportunities he had during his tenure were given up after he bobbled the ball or let it slip right through his hands.

Injury History: During his freshman year, McNoodle tore his groin while mowing the lawn, causing him to miss most of the season. While he has not missed a game since, on several occasions he has had to sit out quarters while complaining of pain in the area he was injured, leading some to believe that the injury has not completely healed.

The Bottom Line

In a safety class brimming with talent, Mike McNoodle clearly distinguishes himself, and will be a day one starting Strong Safety in the league. Multiple All-Pro seasons and a historic career are far from out of question for him. His poor ballhawk skills may cause him to drop out of the first couple rounds, but any team that picks him up will be getting a superb tackler and coverage man with the potential to be a cornerstone of their defense for years to come.