Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, October 18, 1995 TAG: 9510180064
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B-2 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: BEREA, OHIO LENGTH: Short
``He showed some toughness from the start of minicamp, and he's continued to work extremely hard,'' said Bill Belichick, the Cleveland Browns' coach. ``We're very pleased.''
Frederick, a second-round draft pick, has played regularly in six games, relieving Rob Burnett and Anthony Pleasant.
Entering Sunday's game against Jacksonville, Frederick is tied with Rich McKenzie for second on the team with 1 1/2 sacks and has 11 tackles. His best game came against Tampa Bay, when he had a sack and an assist and batted down a pass in 20 plays.
``We really needed Mike to come in and play well for us this season and he has,'' Belichick said. ``He was pressed into service as our third end when Rick Lyle went down with a back injury, and he's responded extremely well, especially for a rookie.''
Frederick said Pleasant and Burnett willingly have shared their game knowledge.
``Those guys have been great,'' he said. `` ... It's incredible what they've taught me already.''
``I don't expect to be on their level yet,'' Frederick said. ``They're two of the best ends in the game, and if I try to compare myself to them, I'd only get frustrated. They're both at a Pro Bowl level. I'm just trying to improve and give them the best effort I can.''
by CNB