Penn State's new defensive coordinator, Ted Roof, helped lead Auburn to a national title in 2011, but the defense wasn't exactly the driving force of that team. It finished 78th in the nation, allowing an all-time program high 405.8 yards per game.
In the spring, Roof said he expects more physical play from his defensive backs and wants to unleash the linebackers into the backfield more often. Amos appears ready to grant Roof's wish.
"If you can't play man at corner, you shouldn't be playing corner," Amos said. "You have to be prepared for all of it. I hope we run some man to man and do a lot of different things. We worked on a lot of stuff in the spring."
For the team's wide receivers, it has been a fun few months of combat with their defensive counterparts, who have taken a liking to the team's new physical style. Every day, there's a battle, and senior wide-out Justin Brown and Amos haven't shied away from each other. Of course, it's all in good, competitive fun, Brown said.
"He's a physical guy, a bigger guy and he's athletic," Brown said. "He likes to compete. Me and Adrian go at it and we're not going to back down."
Amos may still be seen as a kid to some — a 19-year-old sophomore with some, but not a lot of game experience in the Big Ten. But to him, and those who know him best, those games he played in last year and his hard work right now will only help him grow.
"It gave you more confidence and experience. That's the way you really get better," Amos said. "You get a feel for Big Ten play and the speed of the game. Getting thrown out there in big games, it helps you."
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