Former TCU Defensive Tackle James Vess Commits To Roughnecks
December 16, 2009 - Indoor Football League (IFL)
West Texas Roughnecks News Release
ODESSA, TX. : The Odessa Roughnecks have announced on Wednesday, December 16, 2009 that former Texas Christian University defensive tackle, James Vess, has committed to the Roughnecks for the 2010 IFL season. Vess (6'3", 282 lbs.) was with the Horned Frogs program from 2005 to 2008, and was a starter on the defensive line for two seasons ('06, '08). The Fort Worth, Texas native gave the TCU defense a dynamic interior presence during his senior campaign in 2008 after missing his entire junior season in 2007. In 13 games played during the '08 season, Vess finished with 22 total tackles including four tackles-for-loss. Additionally, Vess posted three total tackles in the Horned Frogs 2008 Poinsettia Bowl victory over No.9 Boise State, 17-16. TCU finished 11-2 overall in 2008 and ended the season as No.7 in the AP and USA Today Polls. Vess was part of a TCU defense that led the nation in total defense in 2008 and he was an honorable mention All-Mountain West Conference selection at the conclusion of the regular season.
"James was a starter for a very successful Division-1A college program. He was one of the key players that helped TCU develop the success that they've had over the past few seasons. We think he will be an outstanding player for us in 2010." stated Odessa Roughnecks Head Coach, Chris Williams.
As a sophomore in 2006, Vess played in 11 games overall and started in the last eight games for the Horned Frogs. Vess posted 32 total tackles with 8.5 tackles-for-loss and four sacks. He earned TCU Defensive Player of the Week honors twice and recorded a sack in four of his last seven games that season. Vess posted a career-best six total tackles against New Mexico and closed out the year with a tackle for a four-yard loss in the Horned Frogs Poinsettia Bowl win over Northern Illinois.
In 2005 as a true freshman, Vess played in 11 games and registered seven total tackles. He recorded a season-best three solo tackles in TCU's 38-17 win over Army. Vess attended Boswell High School where he made 35 total tackles with 11 tackles-for-loss and four sacks as a senior in 2004. Vess ranked 94th on the Dallas Morning News Area Top 100 list following his senior season. Before making a commitment to TCU, Vess was previously offered scholarships from Baylor, Colorado State, Purdue and SMU.
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- Former TCU Defensive Tackle James Vess Commits To Roughnecks - West Texas Roughnecks
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