Stampeding Through The Roster: #53 DT Elkino Watson

(Before we get going, we noticed that all the incoming freshmen have numbers now, and a few others, like Sterling Griffin from #17 to #2, have switched theirs. We'll go back and get everyone who we haven't covered yet, including all the incoming freshmen, before the season begins. No Bulls left behind.)

After taking a pause yesterday, let's resume the countdown with a player you're going to see more and more of as time goes by.

#53 DL Elkino Watson
Sophomore, 6'2", 287 lbs.

Stats in 2011: Played all 12 games as a true freshman, one of the few to see the field without redshirting. Started one game, against UConn. Had 33 tackles, 9 for loss, and one sack.

Current Spot on Depth Chart: Starting defensive tackle, although this may change later when Cory Grissom is healthy.

How Did He Come to USF: Watson was a big surprise on signing day in 2011, as Skip Holtz pried him away from Miami, Florida, and Louisville at the last minute, to much rejoicing around here from those of us who had electricity at the time. Watson is from Miami's Booker T. Washington High School, where he lettered for three years and recorded a total of 65 tackles and nine sacks.

Recruiting Rankings: Elkino got three stars from 247, another three from Scout, and four stars from Rivals, where he was Florida's #43 prospect in 2011.

Projected Playing Time In 2012: A lot, either as Grissom's backup or set up next to him in the starting lineup. Either way, Watson will see plenty of action in the defensive line rotation.