While many expected the University of Toledo’s pass defense to be a strength, few thought it would be anchored by a player in just his 19th game starting at cornerback.

Avery Smith, who was originally recruited as a quarterback, has done just that in his senior season, earning spots on the Chuck Bednarik and Jim Thorpe award watch lists.

“My first spring here, I was playing quarterback and then we got to exit meetings with coach Candle and we both thought I was too athletic to be a third or fourth-string quarterback,” Smith said. “It came down to what position on our team needed the most depth and corner was that position, so I made that switch and it's been good so far.”

Smith was a second team All-Mid-American Conference defensive back last year and is second in the league this season

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