Lamonte McDougle named freshman All-American for West Virginia

West Virginia has potential to become a major player in the Big 12 Conference thanks to Lamonte McDougle.

The standout on the defensive line had a breakout season as a true freshman and he is still being recognized for his valiant effort to help West Virginia earn seven wins in the regular season.

McDougle’s signing last year was a big triumph in recruiting for the Mountaineers. According to Scout.com, he was a top 100 defensive lineman and the No. 29 lineman in the South. The Florida native is a little undersized and it is obvious when looking at the field in warmups.

McDougle is about a head smaller than other defensive linemen but that doesn’t hold him back at all. In fact, his size (5-foot-10, 295 pounds) may prove to be an advantage because of the leverage he has against most offensive linemen. In his first season with West Virginia, McDougle earned his way into the starting lineup and thrived with his chance to make an impact.

For his efforts, McDougle was named a freshman All-American by ESPN. His mother, Octavia, was overjoyed by the news and took to Twitter to express her excitement. The family support has pushed McDougle this season, no doubt.

McDougle, himself, is a a self-motivated player. He also went on Twitter to show his thoughts on the news. It wasn’t so much a pat-yourself-on-the-back moment for him, but more of a way to prove his doubters wrong.

McDougle’s motivation will carry him into next season and hopefully the defense can be improved. With more experience, the unit might just be one of the best in the Big 12 next season. McDougle’s statistics include 22 total tackles and two stats. He will likely double or triple those next season.

Against Oklahoma State was his best game all around as he stood out when West Virginia attempted to make a comeback against the Cowboys. He had six total tackles in that game. The week before against Baylor, he had two tackles for a loss which resulted in a loss of seven yards for the Bears.

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McDougle has been a success story for defensive coordinator Tony Gibson, head coach Dana Holgorsen and West Virginia as a whole. Recruits who may be undersized have a home at West Virginia. Overlooked and underrated guys can also thrive, just like McDougle is right now.