Nov. 1, 2007
– Senior Michael Tuohy has been a key member of the Lobo defense and one of the premier defensive ends in the Mountain West Conference throughout his career. Tuohy, who earned Freshman All-America honors in 2004, is a relentless, aggressive playmaker who plays with a high motor and a bit of a mean streak. He has also established himself as one of the best pass rushers in UNM and MWC history, ranking seventh all-time at UNM and fourth in MWC history with 17.0 career sacks (15 solo). The Moreno Valley, Calif. product also has 31.5 tackles for loss – 3.0 shy of the top-10 at UNM – in 40 career games (22 starts).
This fall he has been one of the most dangerous defensive linemen in the Mountain West and is putting together one of his finest seasons. Tuohy is tied for the team-lead with 2.5 sacks (2 solo, 1 assist) and second with 7.5 tackles for loss (5 solo, 4 assists). He has caused fits for opposing pass blockers each week, leading the team with 19 quarterback hurries – 8 more than any other player – and has also drawn 3 offensive holding penalties. Tuohy’s 30 total tackles (14 solo) are eight shy of his career-high as he helps to lead one of the league’s top rushing defenses.
D.J. Renteria: Who was your role model growing up that you shaped your life after?
Michael Tuohy: My mother was always a person that I looked up to as I was growing up. She is a great woman and has helped me greatly with a lot of things in life. I always liked Reggie White athletically. He was a big time pass rusher and a big dude.
DR: What characteristics do you feel are in important in the making of a defensive lineman?
MT: Being quick off the ball is a huge thing. Also being physical is very important. Playing mean and tough is a big part of playing D-Line.
DR: What is the best thing about playing college football at the Division I level?
MT: I love the fight that is involved in the game. Getting physical out on the field and fighting back and forth is great.
DR: You’ve seen a lot of players in your career – which ones from the past or present or have impressed you the most?
MT: Actually I am going to go back awhile and throw you into the mix! I would say you were the best defensive lineman I ever played around.
DR: If you had to play offense what position would you play?
MT: I would probably like to play wide receiver.
DR: Jennifer Lopez or Angelina Jolie?
MT: I actually am going to go with Vida Guerra. She is by far prettier then either of those two young ladies. She is gorgeous.
DR: What is your favorite place to eat around town?
MT: Dona Pepas Mexican food on Eubank!
DR: If you were on a deserted island and could only have two things with you what would they be?
MT: A TV is important so I can watch UFC. That’s pretty much all I am going to need.
DR: What person would you be for one day if you could?
MT: Michael Jordan. Just to see what it feels like to be that rich.