Lydon has lofty goals
Playing at perennial power St. Ignatius in Cleveland, Ohio, it's no wonder Emmett Lydon has set lofty goals for the 2007 season.
"I want to (obviously) win the state championship," said the 6-foot-1, 220-pound Lydon, whose Wildcats have won a state record nine Division I titles since 1988.
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But Lydon, a middle linebacker, also has some big individual goals.
"I want to make all-state, get over 100 tackles, and add a couple hundred rushing yards."
Those goals, while substantial, are well within the reach of the talented junior. Lydon recorded 100 tackles and four forced fumbles in 2006, helping the Wildcats to their 19th consecutive playoff appearance.
Lydon will anchor the Wildcats' defense but will also see increased time in head coach Chuck Kyle's offensive backfield next fall, lining up as fullback. He saw limited time there last season.
Lydon, who runs a 4.75-second 40-yard dash, has a solid mix of size and athleticism. The college scouts have taken notice and he is generating major interest from Division I programs.
"I went to Pitt's junior day last week and Michigan State's junior day as well," Lydon said. "I've also been invited to practices at Wisconsin and Purdue."
A trio of ACC programs also has expressed interest including Virginia, Boston College, and NC State. The Cavaliers and Eagles are two programs that interest Lydon.
"I haven't visited Boston College yet but I like them and my uncle went there," Lydon explained. "I also hear a lot of good things about Virginia."
He will have the opportunity to see those two programs up close, as he plans on camping in Blacksburg and Boston this summer.
Is Lydon looking for anything in particular in a college?
"Not really," he said. "Basically just the overall direction of the program."
While Lydon has already caught the attention of college scouts, he knows he has areas for improvement.
"I need to work on my pass coverage and watch more film to study the game," said Lydon, who prides himself in his run support skills and playing sideline-to-sideline.
A 3.75 student, Lydon plans on taking the ACT and SAT in April.