Oct 26, 2013; San Diego, CA, USA; Fresno State Bulldogs safety Derron Smith (13) celebrates with teammates after making a defensive stop in overtime to secure a 35-28 win against the San Diego State Aztecs at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Intangible Qualities
Aside from his impressive set of skills and playmaking ability, Derron Smith also brings a lot of key intangibles. He has been elected as a team captain twice by his teammates, and has drawn praise from coaches and observers for his leadership qualities. Defensive coordinator Nick Toth has stated that he relies on Smith to be the coach when he’s not around, and Smith seems to take that responsibility seriously. Both Toth and Fresno State Head Coach Tim DeReuyter have spoken highly of Smith’s leadership.
Smith also has worked hard to improve elements of his game every offseason, as referenced on the previous page with his tackling. This offseason, he dedicated himself to improving as a tackler – despite being the second-leading tackler on the team two years in a row – and put in extra time in the weightroom, adding an additional 10 pounds of muscle to his lanky frame before the season. His work ethic is well above par, and in fact DeReuyter referred to Smith as “probably the hardest worker on the team.” Smith’s work ethic and preparation is a great compliment to his high football IQ and his impressive physical talent, and will ease his transition from the M0untain West to the AFC West, where he will battle Philip Rivers as opposed to Cody Fajardo.