The Cardinal Countdown: 59 Days Until Kickoff

*If you’re reading this message, we made it though. Nineteen days of offensive lineman is in the books for 2015. It looks like they snuck a couple more into the mid-50s but we can handle it. Well done everyone. We now move onto the defense (Grantham is pumped). It’s a different mindset with the big boys for sure, so please give me a moment to refocus…

#59 Aaron Ahner

Class: RS Junior

Ht/Wt: 6-3/259

Position: Defensive Line

Hometown: Okinawa, Japan

Twitter: @japan_man91

Thoughts: While Aaron may have more of a challenge seeing the field on a loaded defensive side of the ball than his brother Gabe will, who shifted to the O-line, he by no means is less athletic than those in front of him. One of the things that jumped out to me in the spring were the measurables from Aaron against the other lineman. Ahner was tied for first in vertical leap and broad jump, with Sheldon Rankins, and was at the top of the chart for his 40 time (4.62). To be fair, Aaron was noticeable absent from the rankings for bench press numbers and squats which brings into question if his finesse approach is lacking the physicality we need up front. I really like the story of both Aaron and Gabe making their way over here to play for the Cards and earn their spot on the scout team (See Day 64) which is a hell of an achievement in itself. As referenced above, the issue for Aaron, but good news for Cards fans, will be trying to steal reps from a ridiculously talented line. There is no hyperbole in saying we could very well place another four players in the NFL draft again this year from our front 7 alone. Seriously. The tides may shift soon to the offensive side of the ball, so hopefully Cards fans are enjoying the defensive juggernaut we have been fielding the last couple seasons. It’s pretty incredible the talent we are putting on display, and it hasn’t always been that way. I’m just as bad as the next guy in terms of looking ahead to how 2016 may play out or peaking at roster turnover but let’s really try and soak in what we have this year. I’m sure some Cards of past may disagree, but 2014 and 2015 may be the best back to back defenses the Cards have fielded in quite some time…if not ever. Enjoy it folks.

Sweet Tweet:

No matter what you order at waffle house they always manage to mess it up haha

— Aaron Ahner (@japan_man91) May 16, 2015

People try and get crazy with the All-Star Special or the Steak & Eggs platters. Don’t even try it. There is why too much to screw up. How you want the eggs cooked, what side you ordered, did you want the bread toasted, etc. Keep it simple folks. Order the Russ Special.

But please, whatever you do…don’t forget the sugar. "It wakes the food up"