The disappointments of 2009 were so great for Ball State, coach Stan Parrish made it clear in the spring every starting spot was up for grabs this season.
That's how Davyd Jones, a senior and Muncie Central High alumnus, found himself caught in a position battle in fall camp one season after leading the Cardinals in tackles. His job at outside linebacker was still in doubt four days before opening night and was the last position decided.
Jones ultimately kept his starting job, fending off a strong push from sophomore Theon Dixon. Not only did Jones emerge from camp with a starting job, he got a new title added to his name as well: captain.
Jones was elected captain by his teammates, along with safety Sean Baker, running back MiQuale Lewis and left guard Michael Switzer. He said sharing the defensive captain's responsibilities with Baker is working well, especially because they have different personalities.
"We both lead the defense in our own ways," Jones said. "One might vocalize it; one might do it by his play. Regardless, we have respect from our team and our defense."
Being a captain is just part of Jones' job. He has to contribute as a linebacker. Jones made five tackles against Southeast Missouri State, his lowest single-game total since recording three at Auburn last season.
Jones said he could have played better against the Redhawks and is working this week to correct his mistakes and prepare for Saturday night against Liberty.
"I could have done some things different," he said. "There's no excuses for your position. I could have done a lot better."
Dixon, meanwhile, didn't make a tackle Thursday.
Jones and Parrish said they enjoyed the position battle and believe it helped both linebackers improve.
"Both have really elevated their game," Parrish said. "It was very, very competitive in there, and we're happy about that."
Jones is especially happy with how the competition turned out. In his final Ball State season, he is beginning to realize how much he has invested in football over the years and isn't taking anything for granted.
"When you're a senior, you actually realize how much you've been playing football, how much wear and tear your body has, and how much you give into it and how much you want back," he said. "Tomorrow you might not get the opportunity to play football, so you want to cherish it."
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