Missouri State

At MSU: Mike Taylor started nine games at nose tackle for the Bears last year in his first season in a Missouri State uniform, so he's expected to be a fixture again on the 2008 defensive line. Of his 23 total tackles last season, 15 of them came in three games -- six against Illinois State, five vs. Central Arkansas and four at Southern Illinois. Taylor also had two tackles each against Youngstown State, Western Illinois and Indiana State and one each against Missouri-Rolla and UNI. He transferred to Missouri State in January, 2007 from San Bernardino (Calif.) Valley College.

Background: Taylor was a two-time all-conference performer at SBVC, recording 52 tackles and 10 sacks as a sophomore. He was a first team all-state standout at Colton High his senior year and helped lead his team to an undefeated season, recording 15 sacks.

Personal: Christopher Michael Taylor was born 4/19/87 in Redlands, Calif., the son of Chris and Patty Taylor. He is majoring in general business.