Junior Anthony Gray embraces a new role, now eyeing a career in pro football

The defensive line of the Southern Miss Golden Eagle football team has come under fire some the past two years, but one consistent force has been nose tackle Anthony Gray.

Last year, the senior defensive tackle from Philadelphia,  Miss, led the team in sacks, proving himself on the USM defensive line. He has given up that stat line this year in favor of playing nose guard, which has him seeing many more double teams.

"It's not as easy," said Gray. "But I've always been the big guy. I was the big guy in high school, and I've always been double-teamed. I always knew if anyone was going to play the nose, it was going to be me."

While it has lead to less sacks and tackles, it has allowed the rest of the defensive line to step up and make plays. The team has already surpassed its sack count from last year – thanks in part to the change at nose tackle.

"The coaches felt like I needed to play it," the senior lineman said. "I took on the role playing the nose tackle. I knew I wouldn't have as many sacks or be as productive (statistically) as I was at (defensive) tackle, but I understood the role. I'm not complaining, and I think I'm playing my role well."

Gray isn't the only one who has noticed his own talents, as he has begun to receive media attention as one of the up and coming nose tackles in college football. Both cbssportsline.com and nfldraftscout.com list Gray as one of the top 20 tackles coming out in the 2011 draft, with plenty of time and room to rise.

"Every player looks himself up online," said Gray. "I've seen all the ratings and stuff, but the only thing I'm worried about is our record. We have to get to a bowl game, and I need to do what I can for my team and not worry about myself."

The coaches are aware of the presence the nose tackle has brought to the team and the defensive line as well.

"[Gray] is as talented of a guy as there probably is in college football," defensive coordinator Todd Bradford said. "He plays better and better the better shape he gets in. If he ever can get himself in the shape I think he needs to be in, he'll have the opportunity to play in the NFL and make a lot of money. Its all up to Anthony."

But for Gray personally , its all about being on the field and bringing his "A game" every time.

"I never knew coming out of high school, I never knew I would have this kind of publicity," said Gray. "At that time, I was just glad to play high school football, and right now college. If anything goes any further, I'll be proud of that too."