Leach plans to run his way onto the Minnesota football scene after his coming-out party as East Ridge's leading rusher last year. Behind a more experienced line, the junior running back anticipates more yards and, he hopes, more wins in the upcoming football season. Here's a closer look at Leach:

Favorite sports movie? "Miracle on Ice"

Growing up, I idolized... Maurice Jones-Drew. Thirty-two teams passed on him in the first round, despite having a great combine, because of his height (5-7) and small frame.

What traits do you two share as running backs? We're both downhill runners, who run with power and run hard.

First thought that runs through your mind when the QB hands you the ball? Find an open space.

To be a great running back, one has to be ... tough and durable.

A running back is only as good as ... he wants to be.

Top five running backs of all time are... Barry Sanders, Walter Payton, Adrian Peterson, Emmitt Smith and Herschel Walker.

Pre-game superstitions? I like to read bible verse Philippians 4:13: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength." It means that I can accomplish anything.

What's a good motivator for you before a big game? One song that pumps me up, gets me going, is this song featuring Ray Lewis and Brian Dawkins. They say motivational quotes or give speeches on the song over violins.

If you could suit up for any college football team in the nation, which would it be? Ohio State They're built on strong tradition, and I like the way they play.

CRAIG MALVEAUX

QUICK Q&A: Nick Leach, East Ridge football

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