University of North Texas Athletics
2010 Player Preview ? Daniel Prior
8/20/2010 12:00:00 AM | Football
Height/Weight: 6-2/228
Class: Sophomore
Position: Linebacker
Signed: In 2009 from Henderson High School
2009 Key Stat: 10 ... As a true freshman, Prior saw action in 10 games for the Mean Green and racked up seven tackles, including five solo. Just like last season, Prior is listed at the No. 2 at middle linebacker for the Mean Green in '10 behind A.J. Penson.
Why he will start: Prior will have to beat out his senior competition, Penson, who has yet to miss a game in his three years at NT. While that probably isn't going to happen, Prior will see plenty of time in relief and on special teams, and can count on taking over the job as NT moves into the new stadium in '11.
Why he won't start: Penson is slated as the starter with a week left in fall camp, and will likely earn the job again. With two year of eligibility left, Prior is the linebacker of the future for the Mean Green and has certainly been impressive at times.
Don't' forget: Prior racked up over 300 tackles in his career at Henderson High School, and was also a versatile tight end. He tallied four catches for 63 yards at TE as a senior.
Overall: Prior will make an impact for NT in '10 on special teams and as a reserve MLB behind A.J. Penson. If needed, Prior will fill in nicely in the linebacker corps thanks to a competitive fall camp. The sophomore has been impressive in camp, and has made several nice hits in the "W" drill and in 11-vs-11 action.
