Furman: Expected to serve as a reserve at middle linebacker behind returning veterans Mike Killian and William Marcus...will also contribute on special teams. 2003 -- Saw playing time in five games, nearly all on special teams...credited with a tackle versus Gardner-Webb (45-0 win). 2002 -- Saw limited action in two games but did not letter...recorded one tackle in 35-7 win over Chattanooga in regular season finale. 2001 -- Member of scout team...awarded redshirt and extra year of eligibility.

High School: 2001 graduate of Memphis University School...football coach was Bobby Alston...played fullback and linebacker...led team with 119 tackles, nine tackles-for-loss, a sack and fumble recovery his senior year...named to Memphis All-Metro and all-state teams.

Personal: Full name is Brent Hughes Wales Blankenship...son of Earl and Kim Blankenship...born July 7, 1982...economics major.