East Carolinian

Issue date: 9/25/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: AP

When it comes to versatile weapons, ECU's offense boasts Dwayne Harris, a dynamic triple-threat receiver.

While Harris' playmaking abilities keep opposing defenses in check, ECU's defense is beginning to turn to free safety Van Eskridge for a spark.

Eskridge, a former high school running back and kick returner, has proven to be a valuable asset when the ball is up for grabs or loose on the ground.

Just ask the N.C. State offense how difficult it was to stop him last Saturday.

After Eskridge snagged a tipped pass from Wolfpack quarterback Harrison Beck, the junior used a burst of speed to maneuver his way around the N.C. State offense and into the end zone for a 23-yard touchdown return, the game's first score.

The Shelby, NC native credits his time spent on offense and special teams on Friday nights as preparation for his latest collegiate role.

"If you happen to catch an interception or scoop up a fumble, you already know what to do when the ball is in your hands," said Eskridge. "Kickoff and punt returns help you the same way."

Eskridge played mainly defense at Shelby High School, but his limited time on offense yielded some staggering statistics. During his senior season, Eskridge rushed for 614 yards and nine touchdowns on 74 carries, an average of 8.3 yards per carry. He also totaled 428 kickoff return yards on just eight attempts, netting an astounding average of 53.5 yards per run-back.

"Being able to do more than one thing out there on the field helps me a whole lot now because playing offense helps you get an understanding of the things that the offense looks to do against you while you're on defense," Eskridge said.

Eskridge spent four years as a safety in high school, as well as his ECU redshirt season in 2005 as a strong safety-but made the switch to linebacker during his freshman season in 2006, following a string of player injuries for the Pirates.

The move paved the way for him to hold a rare distinction of earning all-conference honors at two different positions. In 2006, he was named to the Conference USA All-Freshman team after an impressive debut season as linebacker.

One season later, Eskridge earned All-C-USA Second Team honors at his current position, free safety. He totaled a team-high of 104 tackles and returned a fumble for a 50-yard touchdown against UTEP during that sophomore season.

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