Exciting Times in Newberry as ‘Porkchop’ Takes the Field
Newberry, South Carolina is buzzing with anticipation as the local college football team gears up for the upcoming season. Among the standout players to watch out for is a freshman who has already made quite the name for himself in high school football—Grayson White, affectionately known by his teammates as Porkchop.
A Unique Nickname with a Story
It’s not every day that a football player gets a nickname like “Porkchop.” Grayson White shared a fun anecdote about how he got it: “I got called that at a camp my junior year by Dabo [Swinney].” It seems that this name has stuck with him all the way to Newberry College, where his unique presence is already making waves.
A Versatile Player
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing in at 275 pounds, White is not the typical quarterback. He was a disruptive force for the Camden Bulldogs, leading them to two state championships by using his unmatched ability to both throw and run the football. “He can run the football, he can throw the football, so he brings so many different aspects to the game that it’s hard not to use him,” said Newberry defensive coordinator Stephen Flynn, highlighting the myriad talents that White brings to the field.
Transitioning to College Football
Now donning the defensive line jersey at Newberry College, White is adapting to new expectations in what he refers to as “being a d-lineman.” He expressed how this transition has come with its own unique challenges: “It’s great, being a d-lineman now I’m allowed to be a little bit bigger. I had to put on a couple pounds, gain some muscle for the fall.” This cheeky acknowledgment of his transformation speaks to his commitment to excelling at the college level.
The Coaching Staff’s Confidence
Newberry’s football head coach Todd Knight shared his enthusiasm for having a player like White on the team. “He’s fell right into it. The kids on the team love him because of his versatility,” Knight added, highlighting how White’s previously unseen d-tackle skills have surprised many.
A Unique Practice Experience
For those who think they know college football, the Newberry Wolves are looking to turn their perceptions on their head. According to Flynn, “They’ve never seen a d-tackle throw the football for us before, and we’re doing that at practice.” It’s exciting to consider how creative the coaching staff can be with a talent like White, which is sure to keep both opponents and fans on their toes.
What’s Next?
As excitement builds in Newberry, all eyes are set on September 7 at 7 p.m. That’s when the Wolves kick off their season against Valdosta State. Fans are expected to come out in droves to support their team, and you can be sure that Grayson “Porkchop” White will be a name on everyone’s lips.
Whether you’re a lifelong supporter of Newberry College football or new to the game, this season promises to be a thrilling ride with so many talented players, especially with someone as unconventional as White in the lineup. Be sure to mark your calendars as the countdown to kickoff begins!
