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Temple offensive tackle Jaelin Robinson | A Q&A

The fifth-year senior was an opening-day starter at right tackle for the Owls.

Owls' Jaelin Robinson talks after Temple University football practice in Philadelphia, PA on September 4, 2018. DAVID MAIALETTI / Staff Photographer
Owls' Jaelin Robinson talks after Temple University football practice in Philadelphia, PA on September 4, 2018. DAVID MAIALETTI / Staff PhotographerRead moreDAVID MAIALETTI

Jaelin Robinson is relatively new to football. He didn't begin playing until his senior year at Wilbur Cross in Connecticut. Robinson had been a talented basketball player throughout high school.

In Saturday's opening 19-17 loss to Villanova, Robinson made his second career start at right tackle, and it was his 28th overall game. At 6-foot-6 and 325 pounds, he combines power with great footwork.

Question: How tough was it entering college with only one year of football experience?

Robinson: I knew it was going to be a challenge from the beginning. I tried to take one day at a time and get better at each thing.

How is your basketball game?

JR: (laughs) I haven't played basketball in about 2 1/2 years or so. I do miss it — I am not going to lie to you. I played basketball my entire life and football my senior year. I miss basketball every now and then.

If you played a basketball game with your Temple football teammates, could you still dominate?

JR: This team? Absolutely, 100 percent, there is no question about it.

Can you give a scouting report on your basketball game?

JR: Picture the power of Shaquille O'Neal and the finesse of Kobe Bryant.

Wait, if you had that kind of talent, shouldn't you be in the NBA?

JR: (laughs) I liked football a little better sometimes, some days.

How does it feel to be a starter in football?

JR: It feels pretty good. I focus on getting better and one thing at a time and really focusing on perfecting my craft.

You are getting a degree in criminal justice. What would you like to do with that after football?

JR: The plan is to pursue the NFL and then I would like to apply for the Secret Service, uniform division.

What inspired you to want to work for the Secret Service?

JR: That kind of came about in the last 1 1/2 years. I did some research and talked to people, and I am looking forward to it. Even if I do have a career in the NFL, I would like to do that down the road.