Recently I was able to conduct an interview with Notre Dame offensive guard, Mike Gandy. Mike will more than likely be one of the top 3 guards selected in April's draft. At 6'4", 305, Mike is very agile and is a devestating run blocker. He impressed scouts at the Senior Bowl where he showed how strong and athletic he is. Mike was a 1st team All-Independent selection in 2000, as well as a Sporting News All-American. Below is some info on Mike, followed by our interview.
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Name: Mike Gandy
School: Notre Dame
Position: OG
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 305
40 Time: 5.18
Draft Status: 2nd or 3rd round projection
My View: Mike is an extremely quiet, laid back guy. He's a fierce competitor and is a proven winner. He demonstrates excellent run blocking skills and is extremely agile and athletic for a man his size. He played both LG and RG while at Notre Dame, so he's a very versatile player which adds value. He should be able to come in and get some playing time immediately. He's got the skills to be around for quite some time.
INTERVIEW:
Q: What kind of person will an NFL team be getting when they draft you?
M.G.: I'm a hard worker, a winner, and a fierce competitor. I come from a solid background and I live my life as a good person.
Q: What have you heard about your draft status?
M.G.: I've heard I'll be selected on the first day, but I haven't heard anything definite yet.
Q: What are your plans after your football career is over?
M.G.: I want to start my own business. I like the idea of working for myself. I like the freedom. I've always wanted my own company, I just don't know what kind of company I want.
Q: What are your three playing strengths?
M.G.: My three strengths are my athletecism, my toughness, and my strength.
Q: Do you have any weaknesses that you're looking to improve on?
M.G.: I don't think I have any glaring weaknesses, but I think I can get better in all areas. I'm always looking to improve my game. I think I need to get better with my technique, but that's about it.
Q: Are you mentally ready for the NFL?
M.G.: I believe I am. Playing at Notre Dame, we had to be mentally tough. I think I was in the right program to get mentally ready for the NFL.
Q: Are you physically ready as well?
M.G.: I'm ready physically. I think it's just a matter of adjusting to the speed of the next level. Once I get in my comfort zone, I'll be fine. It's just like going from high school to college. I'm just stepping up a level.
Q: What are you doing to stay focused?
M.G.: I don't really pay attention to what people say about where I'll be drafted. I don't really care. I just want to get on a team and show that I can contribute right away. I do the same thing now that I did when I was preparing for a college game. I workout and train. It keeps me focused.
Q: How do you think you compare with Chad Ward and Steve Hutchinson?
M.G.: We all played together at the Senior Bowl. I think all of us are big, strong, athletic, physical guys. It's hard to say who's going to be the best, but I know I stack up well with both of them.
Q: Can you make an impact in your rookie year?
M.G.: Yes. That's the plan. I want to show the team that drafts me that I'm going to be one of the best at my position and that I'll be in the Pro Bowl for years to come.
Q: What was the combine like for you?
M.G.: It was really tough. The hours were really bad with all the interviews and the doctors pulling all over you. The good thing was that I was able to sit and talk with the scouts and coaches and listen to what they had to say. The combine is a big deal now. I had a great experience.
Q: What are your career goals?
M.G.: I want to help my team win a Super Bowl ring. That's what we play for. That ring can help you forget about everything negative.
Q: What teams have shown the most interest in you thus far?
M.G.: The Bucs, Jets, Cardinals, Niners, and Browns all seem to be interested.
Q: What was your favorite team as a kid?
M.G.: I'm from Texas, so the Cowboys were my favorite team.
Q: Would you like to play for them now?
M.G.: I'd love to play in Dallas. It's close to home, but we'll just have to wait and see where I go.
Gambill: Thanks for your time Mike! Good Luck in the NFL!
Gandy: Thanks Matt. I apreciate it.
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