Pinkerton's Lane signs for UNH

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February 13, 2008

By Ryan Lambert

Pinkerton football coach Brian O'Reilly has said that, while it's great for Astros lineman Josh Lane to get a full scholarship to the University of New Hampshire, it might be the Wildcats who got the better of the deal.

Lane, a versatile lineman who won three straight state titles with the Astros, signed his National Letter of Intent to attend UNH on Thursday, Feb. 7.

"I think they've got themselves quite a find," said O'Reilly. "I think they're going to discover that he will be an impact player for them, as he was for us. I know that he's not going to have an issue in college. None whatsoever. We already know that. He's the best lineman we've ever had. Of those 11 full scholarship kids we've had, four were linemen, and he's the best."

Lane said he opted to be a Wildcat over several other suitors because the school is emerging as a Division 1-AA power, and because of his desire to stay in-state.

"That's basically the two reasons I chose UNH," said the 6-foot-2, 275-pound senior, who will play center and guard in college. "I like the program and the coaches and everything, and it's in-state and local. I'm excited to go. (Now) I only need one hunting and fishing license. It's nice being close to home. The main reason is to go hunting and fishing and come back home on the weekends and see the people that live around here. I can bring all my laundry home."

The reason UNH was so interested is what O'Reilly called a rare talent to dominate defensive linemen at the line of scrimmage.

"What they're going to discover is what kind of an impact he makes at the line of scrimmage," O'Reilly said. "He doesn't just block people. He gets into their bodies and dominates them. You don't get that from a lot of kids in high school, even the really big ones that go on to college, they might eventually get that, but many never learn that. He already has it figured out. That's why UNH is getting an impact player. Even they probably had reservations (about his height), but if he was 6-4 or 6-5, he could play for any team in this country."

Lane said he plans to redshirt next year, barring a situation where UNH asks him not to. He is also the second member of his family to accept a Division 1 scholarship. His older brother Jason plays for Northeastern.

"It was a big stress relief just knowing that that's all done with, and my decision was made and I don't have to worry about any more decisions," said Lane. "I just have to worry about getting into shape and playing football. (Finally signing) was definitely awesome. There was a big expectation and I didn't want to be the brother that didn't get the scholarship, because Jason got one. There was that pressure there, but getting rid of it was really good."