May 1, 2008

Randall McDaniel - Arizona State University
College Hall of Fame - Responses for Press Release

1 - How did you find out about the College Hall of Fame selection and what was your immediate response?
When I came home from work, there was a package from the Football Foundation. When I opened it, there was a football inscribed with my name and "2008 College Football Hall of Fame Class".

At first, I just stared at it trying to believe what it said. Over the years, other people would comment on how they thought I should be in the College Hall of Fame - but you never expect it to happen to you. It's unbelievable to me. It's humbling to be included in such an elite group.

However, it's always difficult for an offensive lineman to receive an individual award. I know the only way you can succeed in the trenches is to have five guys working together on every play.

So, I can't really accept this award without including Danny Villa, Kevin Thomas, Todd Kalis, Jim Warne and all the other linemen I played with at ASU.

2 - You played on some great Arizona State teams: what was your greatest college football memory?
My all-time favorite memory from my time with the Sun Devils is beating Michigan in the '87 Rose Bowl. We had amazing talent on that team. What I really loved was that we had an offensive line made-up of guys who all were born in Arizona - that was really special.

3 - Did you ever think during your high school, college or pro career that you would reach these pinnacles?
When I was growing up, I never imagined I'd get to play football for the Sun Devils...or earn a college degree...or have the chance to make a living playing the game I loved. When I stop and think about it now - it's still unbelievable to me! I'm just thankful that my parents made me value education and hard work - because without that - I would never have had any of these opportunities. It's all very humbling.

4 - Who were some of your early football influences, and how (and when) did you start playing the game?
I didn't start playing football until I was a freshman in high school. Before that, I was mostly a baseball and basketball guy. In my day, you wanted to play all the sports. So, I started football and track when I got to high school. I played tight end. The professional player I tried to be like was Kellan Winslow. I thought he was extremely talented and played "smart".

My biggest influence in sports was my dad. He always told me to work hard and do what was best for the team. He taught me to lead by example not by word. I was also influenced greatly by my high school Athletic Director, Mr. Fulton. He always told me I was more that just an athlete. He taught me that I should not let people define me - I should define myself.