Nov. 1, 2007
– A former walk-on, senior Stephen Hutchison has been a key player for the Lobos, coming off the bench at defensive end the past two years. Hutcison had much-needed shoulder surgery after the 2006 season and has once again been a strong gameday contributor in 2007. He has appeared in 44 games on defense and special teams, making four starts at defensive end.
Hutchison brings good size and tenacity to the position and plays with great energy. Nine of his 39 tackles over the past two seasons have been in the backfield, including six sacks. He was placed on scholarship in August of 2005 after redshirting the 2004 season.
The Elgin, Texas product has continued to be a key player in the defensive line rotation this fall, notching 16 tackles through eight games (one start), including 3.5 tackles for loss (three solo) and 1.5 sacks (one solo). He also has a safety and three quarterback hurries.
D.J. Renteria: Was there anyone you looked to as a role model growing up?
Stephen Hutchison: My parents. They were always there for me and pushed and encouraged me while instilling great values.
DR: What characteristics do you believe go into the making of a defensive lineman?
SH: Reaction and being physical are the two biggest things I feel are important. They are the vantage points we have as defensive linemen and a successful D-lineman takes advantage of them at all times.
DR: What is the best thing about playing college football at the Division I level?
SH: It is an awesome opportunity to get to know all kinds of people and places and really grow as a person.
DR: If you had to play on offense what position would you play?
SH: I would play offensive line to see what it is like to be on the other side of things.
DR: Who would you choose between Jennifer Lopez and Angelina Jolie?
SH: Jennifer Lopez. I hear (UNM offensive tackle) Devin Clark talking about her all the time!
DR: If you were stranded on a deserted Island and could bring two items with you what items would you bring?
SH: I would bring a girlfriend to keep me happy while I was stranded so at least I would be happy!
DR: Do you have any hidden talents that no one knows about?
SH: I am really good at fabricating things with metal. I do a lot of metal work as a hobby. I off-road a lot so I am in the process of building a rock crawler (off-road vehicle).