Baldwin may not play at all against the Badgers, not unless something happens to starting left tackle Jack Mewhort. But his goal is to claim that starting job next year, where he may battle
Cleveland Heights grad Kyle Dodson for the job, and to prove he's ready now if needed.
For a defensive player who only played tight end on offense in high school, and had never pass-blocked before the move, that's pretty good progress. The Florida A&M game gave Baldwin a taste of what offensive line in college football is like.
“It feels a lot better than sitting on the sideline after a long week of practice,” Baldwin said.
Because, no matter what side of the ball it is, playing is the point.
“Since moving over to offensive line I feel a lot more comfortable,” Baldwin said.
With his long arms and 6-foot-6, 310-pound frame, Baldwin believes his body type is a better fit for the offensive line. That's what the coaches saw in him, and he's glad they saw it. If he's starting next season as a fifth-year senior, he'll be even happier about it.
