Walk-On's Independence Bowl Q&A: Derrick Tangelo

DURHAM, N.C. – With the Duke football team putting the finishing touches on its preparation in advance of the Walk-On's Independence Bowl on December 27, sophomore defensive tackle Derrick Tangelo spoke with GoDuke.com about the upcoming trip and his growth on the field during his first two seasons in Durham.

In search of their third bowl victory in four years, the Blue Devils will travel to Shreveport, La., on Saturday before facing Temple on Thursday.

Tangelo has started 11 of Duke's 12 games this season, compiling 43 total tackles to go along with 4.0 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. After seeing limited action as a freshman, the Potomac, Md., native has evolved into a mainstay within the Blue Devils' defensive line as a sophomore.

GoDuke.com: How has your role on the team changed this season compared to last season and what has that transition been like for you?
DT: “Last season, I just came in and had to learn as much from [former Duke defensive tackle] Mike Ramsay as possible. He was a senior D-tackle and I was a freshman. I didn't really play a lot, so I just had to learn and get my mental reps, stuff like that. Transitioning into this season, I worked in the rotation and got my coach's trust. I've been starting now. It's just been awesome. I'm just trying to make plays."

GoDuke.com: What lessons have you learned from DT Edgar Cerenord and Co-Defensive Coordinator Ben Albert?
DT: “They just told me to relax and play. Last year, I was tense in a lot of situations. I was not playing as fast as I should. But this year, I feel like I'm letting myself loose. I'm just letting the game come to me, reading my keys and playing with more confidence.”

GoDuke.com: What is it like to start off your Duke career playing in consecutive bowl games?
DT: “It's a great honor. Our coaches have been saying the people of the past make the people of the future. We want to pay homage to the people who worked hard in the past and show them we're trying for them. We're trying to get this W for them.”

GoDuke.com: As you engage in these pre-bowl practice sessions before departing for Louisiana, what goals do you have to try to get better in advance of squaring off with Temple?
DT: “We're just trying to focus on the fundamentals and having fun playing football. We are trying to remember our senior class that we're about to miss. We're cherishing every moment with them, but working hard at the same time. I think that's the motto going into practice.”

GoDuke.com: What are you most excited for surrounding the trip to the Walk-On's Independence Bowl?
DT: “I'm just excited to see the city. I've never been to the state of Louisiana. I'm excited to see what they have out there. It's going to be a great game. Temple is a very good team, so I'm excited to play.”

GoDuke.com: With National Signing Day earlier this week, what memories do you have in regard to what that experience was like for you?
DT: “I'll remember that day forever. It was a great day to see my parents happy. My mom was crying. Just knowing that you found a university that cares for you is fantastic. It was a great feeling just to sign and be a part of a family.”

GoDuke.com: What is a favorite holiday memory you have with your family?
DT: “One day, my dad was trying to bring the Christmas gifts out and he had bought me a PlayStation. He was walking out with it, slipped on some ice and threw it in the air. It got crushed. I was so sad. He was crying because he had hurt his ankle. He didn't even care about the PlayStation. He thought I was crying because he was hurt, but I was crying because of the PlayStation!”

GoDuke.com: Did you ever end up getting a PlayStation?
“Yeah, I got the PlayStation.”

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