Interview with Ben Tate, RB, Auburn

TFE: Well, first thanks for taking the time today to talk with The Football Expert and congrats on a very strong combine performance. I want to get your opinion though, what are some of your thoughts on your combine experience?
Ben Tate: It was great working with some of the top guys. It was fun but tiring.

TFE: What are some of the things you want to improve on before your Pro Day?
Ben Tate: I'm not worried about improving, but more focused on maintaining.

TFE: Describe your game in three words or less.
Ben Tate: Smart, physical and Fast

TFE: What do you feel is your greatest strength as a football player and what area do you feel you need to improve in?
Ben Tate: I think my vision and speed/strength combination is my strength, and I think I can always improve in every facet of the game.

TFE: What NFL player do you do you think you compare favorably to?
Ben Tate: I don't know to be honest with you. I never really spent too much time watching the NFL, because I was always so busy training and watching tape on my opponents, but I've heard people compare me to Ronnie Brown of course since he's from Auburn and is a similar style player.

TFE: Who is the best player you have faced during your college football career?
Ben Tate: Patrick Willis when he was at Ole Miss. And he is doing great in the NFL now.

TFE: What is your greatest football moment to date?
Ben Tate: Senior Year of High School Playing in State Championship game.

TFE: Did you have a favorite pro team growing up? Favorite player?
Ben Tate: Like a lot of people, I was a Cowboys fan because of Emmitt Smith. He was fun to watch.

TFE: How instrumental was Coach Tuberville/Chizik in your progression?
Ben Tate: Very much so. They helped me understand the game a bit better and helped me with the things I need to work on. They also helped make me a better and more mature person.

TFE: What have former college teammates now in the NFL told you about preparing for the league?
Ben Tate: I haven't gotten too much advice yet actually. I will definitely be reaching out to Ronnie and some of those guys soon, but at this stage, I've been relying on myself.

TFE: What is the one thing you will most miss at college?
Ben Tate: Being with my teammates. The camaraderie and the college life is something that I really enjoyed.

TFE: Where is the best place to get a bite to eat in your college town?
Ben Tate: Longhorns Steakhouse. I loved going there after a big win.

TFE: What was your favorite college course and why?
Ben Tate: I loved them all. LOL.

TFE: Any pregame rituals? Food? Music?
Ben Tate: Not really. I just got myself into a zone mentally in different ways each week.

TFE:What is something football fans may not know about you?
Ben Tate: I'm very quiet a lot of the time, but I do like to play jokes on people a lot.

TFE: Thanks a lot for your time Ben, I appreciate it.