Oklahoma State University Athletics
From Setbacks to Success, Chinasa's Dreams Are Within Reach
October 18, 2010 | Cowboy Football
Oct. 18, 2010
By Katie Ann Robinson
OSU Media Relations
Ugo Chinasa came to Oklahoma State as one of coach Mike Gundy's top recruits in 2006, and since then he has upheld his duties and expectations as a defensive end, other than a minor setback his freshman year.
The Richardson, Texas, native had impressive stats entering his Cowboy career with 96 tackles, 11 sacks, six forced fumbles, two recovered fumbles and one interception that he returned for a touchdown at Berkner High School. Looking to contribute as a true freshman, an unfortunate accident during summer practice forced him to redshirt during the 2006 campaign.
“We had just gotten in trouble so at the end of practice Coach (Gundy) made us all do 25 sets of gassers,” Chinasa recalls. “On the 24th one, my Achilles tendon popped, and I fell over. I was bummed because I knew I would be out for the entire season.”
Chinasa pushed himself throughout the season to build up his strength and endurance to ensure a starting position the following season.
“I worked really hard every day at practice, doing everything I could to get better,” Chinasa said. “I definitely built a lot of toughness and strength that year, and that attitude kind of stuck with me ever since.”
For the past three years, Chinasa has made a tremendous impact on the Pokes defense with 67 total tackles and 8.5 quarterback sacks.
“He is a remarkable young man and an exceptional player,” OSU defensive coordinator Bill Young said.
“He listens well, does what he is told and gets the job done. You don't need to tell him twice what to do.”
The 6-foot-5, 255-pound defensive end played a huge role in OSU's success in 2009 after leading OSU with 6.5 sacks and recording a career-high 30 tackles. He led the team with nine tackles for loss and eight quarterback hurries.
After posting numbers like those, Chinasa was named to the 2010 Rotary Lombardi Award and Lott Trophy watch lists, and he anticipates a successful senior season as he wraps up his Cowboy career.
All-Big 12 honors, double-digit sacks, a Big 12 Championship and going to a BCS game are at the top of his wish list.
Although the 2010 campaign is still in its infancy, Chinasa is getting on track to accomplishing his goals with seven tackles, a pass breakup, a quarterback hurry, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. The Cowboys are also underway towards a successful season, winning three of their non-conference battles.
“He has shown a lot of improvement since last year,” Young said. “He's definitely going to make some noise this year and step up as a leader for OSU's defense.”
During August practices, Chinasa became the “go-to guy” for his teammates on the field. His understanding of the defense is second to none, and his vocal leadership is increasing every day.
“We want Ugo to be a little more vocal this year,” Young said. “He is such a good example on and off the field; we think that he could really show the guys what it means to be aggressive on defense. He's a very valuable player and plays a key role in our defense.”
Entering tonight's game vs. Texas A&M, Chinasa is more driven than ever before with hopes of becoming a top prospect for the NFL draft. Since he first stepped on campus in 2006, he finally realized his potential and hopes that this could be his breakout season.
“I'm definitely hoping that I get a chance at the NFL,” Chinasa said. “It's been a dream of mine for awhile now, and I hope I can showcase my talents and maybe impress a few scouts.”
As Chinasa continues to show off his competitive drive and strives to amplify his fearless approach on the field, he may soon become a leading role model for OSU defenders and the next Cowboy to watch on Sundays.
