One of the best surprises in the 2016 college football season has been Army West Point. The Black Knights have five wins and are looking for more in what could be their best season this decade. Leading the way in this resurgence has been linebacker/edge rusher Alex Aukerman.
The junior from Greenwood, Indiana, plays the SAM position but essentially acts as a disruptive pass rusher in Army's defensive scheme. He leads the team with 10.5 tackles for loss and five sacks with 36 tackles overall.
It should come as no surprise that Aukerman's athleticism and speed -- he joined Army as a safety recruit but has since moved up to linebacker -- stems from his time as a multi-sport athlete. At Center Grove High School, Aukerman played basketball and competed with the track and field team.
Aukerman's roots to West Point can be traced back to his family as both of his grandfathers, plus his great grandfather, were servicemen. His grandfather on his father's side was a first lieutenant while his grandfather on his mother's side was a specialist.
Army already has its highest win total since 2010. As it happens, that's the last time it went bowling. Army can get one step closer to bowl eligibility with a win over Notre Dame in the Shamrock Series on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET.
