Wide receiver Dylan Drummond leads all Eastern Michigan receivers with 19 receptions as the team finished their non-conference schedule with a 3-1 record just four games into his sophomore season. Drummond has become an essential part of the Eagles' offense by forming great chemistry with senior quarterback Mike Glass III, but the wide receiver still isn't satisfied.
"My biggest strength as a wide receiver is my route running, which I have been working on a lot," Drummond said. "My biggest weakness . . . is my physical presence. I can block. I can get in front of people but I want to be a guy that people are worried about in the run game."
Even with success coming early in his career, Drummond focuses more on the team than personal statistics.
"If I have one catch and we win the game, then that is a win. Sure, everyone will think about wanting more catches and wish that they contributed more, but at the same time really just helping the team win is most important."
Drummond, in his second year with the team, has spent a lot of time working with Glass. The senior quarterback is also in his second year with the team. Drummond first worked with Glass as a freshman, before he was the starter, and helped them build chemistry.
"It has carried over to the field this year," Drummond said.
Three of four Eastern Michigan contests have been decided by one score or less, despite having great records on paper. Even with the game on the line, the team oozes with confidence. Drummond said he feels like the Eagles high-tempo two-minute offense is a strong suit for the team and whenever they are in a tight situation, feel confident.
Matthew Sexton blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown, in the team's most recent game against Central Connecticut State, giving the Eagles the victory with 10 seconds remaining. However, it was Drummond who was back deep to receive the kick if it had not been blocked by Sexton.
"Before it happened, I was thinking that I was taking this thing to the house," Drummond said. "I heard the thud when he blocked it and ran as fast as I could to the end zone."
Before scoring a touchdown in the opening drive against Central Connecticut State, the Eagles offense started off with a three-and-out in each of the first three games. Drummond spoke about why he thinks the offense has some difficulty in moving the ball early in games.
"I think that as an offense, we are being tentative. We need to understand that we can score on our first drives, we can get first downs," he said. "We don't need to build up to it. That was a big focus for Central Connecticut and that is why I think we came out firing."
Drummond and the Eagles will have this Saturday off before returning to action in Mount Pleasant as they take on Central Michigan on Oct. 5 at 3 p.m. In just his second year, Drummond knows the significance of this game.
"I can tell for the guys that have been here, how big it has been to them. Last year it was big for me as well. I think just being here longer, the Michigan MAC rivalry, its big. I just hope it keeps getting bigger."
