GENERAL: After making the transition from the offensive backfield to a linebacking position prior to the 2007 season, Ford has developed into a mainstay on the Buffaloes' defensive unit, ranking among Buff leaders in total tackles over the past two seasons. The Lockney, Texas, native showed he's ready to assume a leading role when he made five tackles in addition to returning an interception 23 yards for a touchdown, in the 2009 Maroon-White Spring Game.
2008: Ford started 10 of 12 contests at outside linebacker, registering a total of 34 tackles (18 solo, 16 assisted), to go with 4.5 tackles for loss, one QB hurry and a forced fumble during that time. He missed the season-opener at Mesa State due to a thigh injury, and played in the next two games in a reserve role before assuming his starting position for the remainder of the season. He enjoyed a season-high four tackles on three occasions (at Eastern New Mexico, vs. Abilene Christian and vs. Tarleton State), registered three tackles against seven other opponents, had a season-high two stops for minus-four yards against Azusa Pacific and recorded a forced fumble in the Buffs' NCAA Playoff contest against Central Washington.
2007: Ford adapted well in his first season at outside linebacker, registering 41 total takedowns (16 solo, 25 assisted) over 11 games (he missed the Abilene Christian and Angelo State contests due to injury). That total ranked 10th among Buff tackle leaders and is seventh among 2008 returnees. Additionally, he had four tackles-for-loss totaling minus-20 yards, one QB sack for minus-12 yards, two recovered fumbles and one pass breakup. He enjoyed six tackles in his first defensive game (vs. South Dakota), recorded a sack and one TFL against Texas A&M-Commerce and posted a season-high eight tackles at Northeastern State.
2006: As a redshirt freshman, Ford showed his versatility at running back, appearing in 12 games. He collected 138 yards and two touchdowns on 26 rushes, while also contributing 90 yards receiving on 17 receptions, averaging 5.3 yards per carry and 5.3 yards per reception. He rushed for a season-high 32 yards on five carries in the Buffs' second round NCAA playoff game against Chadron State.
2005: Redshirt season.
HIGH SCHOOL: Ford was a two-time Texas Class 2A all-State selection, leading the Lockney (Texas) Longhorns to an 8-4 mark and an appearance in the area round of the Class 2A Division II playoffs. He was also a four-year letterwinner in basketball, baseball, tennis and track & field, earning all-District honors in both basketball and baseball. He was a Lockney HS Student Council President as well as a member of the LHS National Honor Society.
MAJOR: Ford is majoring in Sports & Exercise Science at WTAMU.
