LB Trey Baldwin has been on campus since January, but PowerMizzou.com chatted with the freshman as he goes through his first preseason camp.
PowerMizzou.com: You’ve been here since the spring semester. What improvements have you seen in yourself since the end of spring practice?
Trey Baldwin: I’ve gained a little more confidence. Moving to inside linebacker was a big jump, and just learning the position now, and getting comfortable, playing and getting confidence was my main focus.
PM: So wait, you’re at middle or weakside-linebacker now?
TB: I’ve moved to Will. My senior year, I played outside linebacker, and I moved inside to Will coming in.
PM: What’s the difference in what’s asked of you there, compared to the outside?
TB: Outside, I used to just have to read the tackle. If he stands up, it’s pass. If he blocks down, it’s run. Now, I have keys, like reading the backs, watching for pullers. It’s just basically using my eyes more and having to read more.
PM: What weight are you up to?
TB: 230.
PM: Is that where they want you?
TB: Yes sir, they want me at 230. I came in at 239, 240.
PM: Dropping that weight, what improvements have you noticed?
TB: My change of direction and speed.
PM: I know it’s early in camp and they probably haven’t said which freshmen will play, but what’s your expectation this year? There’s a big history of Missouri having true freshmen linebackers play special teams. Is that where you see yourself fitting in?
TB: Yes sir, just doing whatever it is to help the team.
PM: Are you getting a lot of work on coverage and returns?
TB: All the special teams except for field goal and field goal block.
PM: What’s your relationship like with Cale Garrett, as they only two freshmen linebackers?
TB: He’s awesome. You have to tell him one time and he already has it. That’s what I’m working on. I’m trying to get like him. But inside linebacker, you have to know a lot. It’s basically the quarterback of the defense. Just something I have to get used to.
PM: I know you’re more of a veteran already, but after getting to know some of the freshmen that you signed with, who is the funniest guy?
TB: I would have to say DeMarkus Acy.
PM: Who is the best dressed?
TB: Christian Holmes.
PM: Who’s the fastest new guy on the team?
TB: K9. On the field, it’s K9. But DeMarkus Acy off the field. He has track speed. But K9’s field speed is incredible.
PM: Who’s the strongest new guy on the team?
TB: Tre’Vour (Simms).
