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Nigerian lineman at MSU says the other football helps him chase QBs

When the Missouri State football team opens the season against Mizzou on Sept. 2, it will be Taiwo Oluwafunmila's 20th time playing in a football game.

Ever.

The Missouri State defensive end grew up in Nigeria and never considered playing American football until he was a junior in high school.

Three years after putting on football pads for the first time, Oluwafunmila is an important part of what could be a dominant defensive line at Missouri State.

"He's competing," said Dave Steckel, Missouri State head coach. "Right now, he's (second string) and getting a couple of (first string) reps here and there.