Edwin Jackson is a senior linebacker who graduated from Westlake High.
In an interview with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Jackson talked about Georgia Southern’s thrilling victory against Florida last season, the style of play he expects from this season’s defense and the toughness of the Eagles’ schedule. (Answers were edited for clarity and space.)
Q: What kind of defense does coach (Willie) Fritz want to run this season?
A: Attacking the offense more and using physicality and our quickness and really getting after the quarterback. I feel like I have teammates perfect for the job as far as adapting to these changes. Our main thing is we want to get turnovers. That's one thing we enforce. We want to go and get the ball because that's the most important thing is getting back in the offense's hand. Our offense wants the ball, they want to score. They are ready to make plays, and we are going to get them that ball.
Q: What was it like here in Statesboro after the big victory at Florida last season?
A: It was amazing. It was indescribable, really. People from other states and family members you haven't heard from in years would call you and say, Man, that was your team? That was our Super Bowl. It was great to do that for the seniors. That was how we wanted to go out. It showed the world we can play a great team, an SEC team, and compete. And going into the Sun Belt, it's a great opportunity to continue to show new recruits and fans that we can compete at this level, and we can do it every week.
Q: Is that consistency going to be the key? This is a tougher schedule than any of you have seen.
A: Yeah, but I am definitely sure we can handle it. We have the coaching staff, and we definitely have the athletes to do it. You couldn't ask for a better opportunity. It's the perfect timing for everything. I can see everything falling into place every day in practice. We are giving it all we've got on the field.
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