Senior Spotlight: Derek DePasquale

It's July, which means it's basically football season, right? Well, we're certainly close. With that in mind, the BulldogBlitz.com Senior Spotlight continues today. Every day, until there are none left, we will profile one of Mississippi State's seniors entering their last year in Starkville.

No. 40 Derek DePasquale, kicker, 5-8, 180-pounds

How did he get here? DePasquale transferred in as a walk-on from the Colorado School of Mines where he played one season. He kicked in five games for the Orediggers making three of his seven field goal tries and all 17 extra points. DePasquale played his high school ball as a three-year starter at The Woodlands, Texas where he earned Academic All-State honors.

What did he do in 2010? DePasquale played in 11 games for the Bulldogs last season making 10 of his 12 field goal tries and all of his extra point attempts. He also recorded a special teams tackle. DePasquale set a school record with five field goals against UAB and made night straight at one point.

What does he need to do in 2011? With DePasquale's unusual transfer situation he has been listed incorrectly on the roster for the past two seasons. Luckily for Bulldog fans they have the good news of having their all-time accurate kicker back in the fold for one last year.

DePasquale may not have the strongest leg but is very accurate and consistent on his field goals. He also has that odd ball kicker mentality that as a coach you want.

DePasquale simply needs to continue doing what he is doing. He has made all 51 of his career PATs but could definitely use some work on his kickoffs if he continues to assume that role this season.

Coach's quote, Dan Mullen, head coach/ special teams coordinator - "Derek was very accurate back during the spring on the shorter kicks. He gets good height on the ball."