Spotlight on all-state OL

One of the top overall prospects in the Northeast is a lineman that excels on both sides of the ball. With size, speed, and the toughness coaches love in a football player, he's sure to be one to watch down the road.

Offensive guard/defensive tackle Jason Gagnon stands 6-foot-2 and weights 275-pounds, running the 40-yard dash in a flat 5.0 seconds. As a junior he was named all-state and is widely viewed as the best returning lineman, whether on offense or defense, in all of New Hampshire.

"I'm getting mail mostly from schools up here in this region," said Gagnon, a Manchester (N.H.) Manchester Memorial prospect. "Boston College, Syracuse and UConn are the three big ones that have sent me mail, and I've gotten some things from some good schools with smaller football programs. I won't rule them out, but it would be tough for me to pass up on a Boston College or Syracuse if they were to offer."

Gagnon has also received mail from Nebraska, something he views as a very positive sign.

"I know they've got a new coaching staff, and I'm really excited that they're looking at me. That school is known for their linemen on offense and defense, so I'm holding out hope that a lot of big-time schools like that will offer me down the road."

Gagnon can play on either side of the ball, but gave some insight as to where he thinks he can best succeed.

"I just love to get on the field and play, whether on the offensive or defensive line," he said. "I think I've probably been most dominant on the defensive line. I haven't really played too many guys that can block me, and there's nothing like getting a sack or just blowing past somebody. I've got the mentality of a defensive player. But I have the skills to play offensive line too, so whatever will be best for my future I'm okay with."

Gagnon has been an all-state selection in New Hampshire for two years now, as both a sophomore and a junior.