Get To Know Rutgers Football’s Incoming Freshman Mike Tverdov

With National Signing Day behind us, we had a chance to catch up with incoming defensive end Mike Tverdov of Union High. If the name sounds familiar it should, Mike is the younger brother of former Scarlet Knight Pete Tverdov. Check out Tverdov’s scouting report by our very own Chris Drabik. Here is a little bit about Mike as a young man and as a student.

Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

What was it about Rutgers University, outside of Football related reasons, that helped you make your decision to attend school there?

Besides the football aspect of Rutgers I chose them, because of the proximity to home and the education I am going to receive. Rutgers is strong in all of their departments and the networking opportunities and connections you get after leaving that place are unbelievable. There are tons of Rutgers Alumni all of the Tri-State area so that is only going to help me after I'm done with football.

What was it about Coach Ash that helped you choose Rutgers?

I've met a lot of coaches throughout my recruitment, but there are none like Coach Ash. From the start I had a strong impression on him. He's all about hard work and doing what you're suppose to do. He's a straight a guy and recruits really hard. There aren't many head coaches that recruit as hard as he does. His vision and plans for Rutgers are also huge too, because if we keep racking up Jersey talent we are going to get rolling again.

Will you be able to attend any spring practices while still attending Union High?

I don't live far from Rutgers and I go up there as much as I can so I will definitely be at some spring practices without a doubt

What other sports have you played as a youngster growing up?

When I was young I pretty much played everything that had a ball, but I also did wrestling for a few years. I played basketball and baseball along with football all up until high school where I put all my focus and time into football.

What do you enjoy most when you are not involved in school or football related activities?

Outside of school and football I usually spend my time with my friends or working, and I'm a movie guy so I'm always watching movies.

What football player do you admire most?

I admire JJ Watt the most. He is the most dominant defensive lineman in football, and he has an extremely good work ethic and attitude.

Who do you idolize outside of football?

Outside of football I idolize my older brother Pete.

What would have been your plans for after high school if you were not going to play college football?

If I wasn't going to college to play football I would probably be going into the military or working 24/7.

Is there a nickname that you go by with friends and teammates?

My friends and teammates call me Big Steak. I've had that nickname since my freshman year.

What professional or college sports do you watch other than football?

Besides watching football I'm really into college basketball and UFC. Occasionally I'll watch some Baseball.

What expectations do you have for yourself for the 2017 season?

My goals for the 2017 football season are to play as a true freshman, earn freshman all-big 10 honors, and help my team to reach an bowl game.

What would you like to say to all the Rutgers Fans who can't wait for the 2017 season to start?

To all the Rutgers fans out there, We all appreciate all the support you guys constantly give and you have a lot to be excited about. The future is bright and Rutgers Football is headed in the right direction. This is the start of something special!

Thanks Mike, and Best of Luck . ... . On The Banks of the Ole Raritan!