By W.A. Myatt
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Linebacker Jeremy Grove has started all 24 games in his freshman and sophomore seasons at East Carolina, making 205 tackles. Grove bench presses close to 400 pounds, has a 33-inch vertical jump and has run the pro shuttle in 4.2 seconds.

A left shoulder injury caused Grove to miss a portion of spring practice but the Frederick, MD, product is ready to pursue the goal of a Conference USA championship for the Pirates in his junior season.

Jeremy took time to talk Tuesday morning after practice

Q: Favorite TV show?

A: Eastbound & Down.

Q: Favorite Restaurant in Greenville?

A: Definitely Texas Roadhouse.

Q: Why do you wear number 53?

A: I came here and that's what they gave me. I wasn't really worried about my number, I just wanted to play - I just stuck with it.

Q: Do you have any pre-game superstitions?

A: Not really, but I do listen to In the Air Tonight by Phil Collins before every game.

Q: What's been your biggest thrill as a player at East Carolina?

A: Just going out there and having our fans support us. It's crazy running out there with our fans. They back us up so much � it's awesome to go out there and play for them.

Q: You ran the ball some in high school. What was your running style?

A: It was always power running. I didn't really have many moves.

Q: What would you be doing if you weren't playing football?

A: Probably hunting or fishing, or something like that.

Q: What is the defense's attitude going into this year?

A: I would say we're relentless. That's how we've been these past couple of practices. We're not doing everything perfect, that's what we're working for. But we're all getting after it, running to the ball. We cover up for each other � if someone does make a mistake, we've got ten other guys coming.

Q: What are your personal goals for this season?

A: I want to have twelve or more tackles a game, be an All-American and the conference player of the year.

Q: How would you describe walking out of the tunnel in Dowdy-Ficklen on game day to someone who's never had that experience?

A: It's wild. All you see is purple and gold. Jimi Hendrix starts playing, everyone starts clapping and yelling, purple and white smoke are coming up. It's an awesome experience. If you aren't pumped up to play, something's wrong with you.

Q: Who's been the most important person in your life?

A: My parents. They've always been behind me. They're honest with me � if I do something wrong, they'll tell me. If I do something right, they'll tell me.

Q: When did you get your first tattoo and what was it?

A: My first tattoo was my first spring here. It's under my arm and it says "One Life One Chance."

Q: What factors influenced your decision to play football at ECU?

A: I loved the family atmosphere when I came here. It's not a huge school, it's not in the city � I'm from the country so I liked that. I like the people, our team is close, including our coaches and all that.

Q: How would you describe Ruffin McNeill's coaching style?

A: It's kind of like what I said about my parents. If you do something good, he'll tell you. If you do something wrong, he'll get on you. I respect that a lot. I like that about him.

Q: If you had to describe yourself on the football field in one word, what would it be?

A: Relentless.