NC State’s Pharoah McKever looking to be disruptive to opposing QB’s

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — Pharoah McKever is a disruptive football player. He clearly knows how to get after the quarterback. He also has a knack for coming up with a big play. In fact the redshirt sophomore is just a few nights away from the first game of his second college football season. NC State will host Troy on Saturday in Raleigh.

“I’m just working on my craft as a defensive lineman, my fundamentals,” McKever recently told WWAY. “I am working on the details so I can be the best defensive lineman.”

When Pharoah McKever is in a game, more than likely the opposing offense has the need to throw the ball. That’s a great asset to have, but McKever still needs work on stopping the run. In essence, NC State head football coach Dave Doeren says the former South Columbus Stallion needs to develop an every down mentality.

“Pharoah is competitive and coachable, but you have to remember he was playing receiver and quarterback two years ago,” Doeren said. “It’s a mindset. The defensive line is just different. Your motor has to run the whole time to be good in that spot. It’s getting there, but it’s not there yet.”

Strong words, but words to learn from. McKever weighs in at 265 this season. That’s 15 pounds more than this time last year for # 87 for the Wolfpack. “How did you gain those 15 pounds? Just working in the weightroom, along with eating. That’s it.” The Wolfpack football players recently went through the rigors of media day. Last year McKever had to stand on the top row. This year he has a better standing on the NC State team. “I am glad I was on the first row this year,” McKever said. “Last year, I am afraid of heights just a little bit. I am 6 foot 7, so I like to be on the ground.”