Mustangs junior LB Denzel Talifero: Don't Sleep on Muir

The same day Altadena Patch sat down with Muir head football coach to talk about the state of the Mustangs after the summer practice session, I also got a chance to chat with junior linebacker Denzel Talifero, who'll be one of the main defensive playmakers for Muir this fall.

As a sophomore, Talifero was second on the team in tackles (73), and his four sacks led the squad in 2010.

Talifero said he expects to play all three linebacker positions this year. He certainly looks up to the challenge, after adding what looks like a couple of pounds of muscle and at least an inch to the 6-foot, 210 pound frame that roamed the sidelines at Muir last year.

Granted I only spoke with Talifero for a couple of minutes, but in that brief time he managed to leave quite the impression. He carried himself with a confidence rare for a rising junior (he wasn't shy about Muir's goal this year: winning a championship), and his body language spoke to a man secure with his role on the team.

Be sure to check back with Altadena Patch on Tuesday morning to catch our interview with center Addison Farmer, who'll anchor Muir's brand new offensive line.