PLEASE EXCUSE MY RED SHADED GLASSES FOR A MINUTE:

I asked my wife tonight if she now understood why I lost my mind screaming at the top of my lungs a few years ago as Mario Williams, the then high school prospect, pulled out an NC State hat and placed it on his head, announcing his decision to join the Wolfpack family on Countdown to Signing Day. I absolutely cannot believe it. I have been looking forward to this draft for several weeks now, as a both a football fan and a Wolfpack fan. With 2 potential first round picks, and more surely to follow in the later rounds, it is going to be a good day. But never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that Mario would be picked #1. I was part of the crowd that believed he was being used as leverage to get Bush to come down on the asking price. Even after they specifically said, “we aren’t using him as a bargaining chip”, I still didn’t believe it. So tonight, my buddy Stonecoldjz called me and broke the news. I’m on cloud nine! Sounds a little funny that I am so excited about having a #1 draft pick from NC State, but I love my Pack, so that’s just the way it is. I also know that Mario is a first class guy, very respectful young man (unless you’re an opposing QB). He deserves everything he gets and we are proud of him.

Just a few links about Super Mario:

Texans sign Mario Williams with No. 1 pick

Mario Williams Bio

6 year, $54 million deal

Texans to draft Williams No. 1, not Bush

Obviously, the number one on the list is USC, followed closely by Ohio State and Florida State. But I thought I would link to the rest of the article to make sure you didn’t miss it. I’m getting really excited about the draft this weekend, and these kind of articles are what are getting me prepped for it.

Stewart Mandel: What does it say about the Wolfpack’s offense that despite boasting a defense that produced the top two defensive ends in this draft — including potential No. 1 pick Williams — and as many as six overall draftees, N.C. State went just 12-11 the past two seasons.