East Bay’s Fleming makes transition to offensive line

Posted Oct 1, 2009 by Nick Williams

Updated Oct 1, 2009 at 01:38 PM

Throughout his high school career, East Bay senior defensive tackle Dontavious Fleming has excelled on the defensive line. At 6-foot-4, 310 pounds, he’s more than most opposing team’s can handle.

Before the season, however, head coach Brian Thornton moved Fleming to offensive line, given the team’s low numbers at the position.

East Bay is 3-1 heading into Friday’s game at Durant, and Fleming’s size on the offensive line has greatly contributed to the Indians’ success.

“He had no complaints,” said East Bay offensive line coach Jim Hutchinson. “With his big body and him getting off the ball hard, its really helped us. It cuts out a lot of penetration. We run a lot of wall-off and seal-off formations and people have to run around him.”

Fleming realized the move was for the betterment of the team.

“Coach moved me to o-line because we didn’t have enough players, we didn’t have enough meat,” he said. “I loved it. I love making plays. Most of the yards came from my side. We’re a team and if he thinks I’m good on the o-line, I don’t mind.”

Fleming said he’s been moved back to the defensive line for Friday’s game, but will still see time on offense.