For the most part, these past few months have been rough on everyone. 

It threw off high school and college football players, as spring and summer training was thrown off the regular schedule, and the start of the 2020 season has been delayed due to the virus concerns.
 
And while that is unconventional in many ways, it has benefited Wichita Falls Rider DE E'Maurion Banks (6'5, 280), who suffered a knee injury late in the 2019 season.

"This summer, I have been able to do some lifting and conditioning getting ready for the season. It's kind of bad that we have to have the season delayed," Banks said. 

"But I have to say that it's also good for me. I got hurt (knee) in the third round of the playoffs and had surgery in December. (The delay) gave me a little extra time to recover and get back."

Since the injury, he has been concentrating on building his upper body while working on getting better overall.
 
With his last season to kick off soon enough, Banks' overall attitude will change for his senior campaign. In short, there is more work to do, and he intends to get it done.
 
"I have been just thinking that with all that's going on, that God will get us through this. This season, I want to be there more for my team," Banks said. "I plan to be more of a vocal leader. For three years, I have been leading by example. Now, it's time for me to speak up more."
 
Banks says that he is back and healthy, ready to make another run in 2020. Last season, the Rider team went four rounds deep into the playoffs, finishing 9-5. For Banks, through 13 games, he ended up with 95 tackles and 16 sacks before his injury.
 
These numbers are impressive, and it drew the attention of college coaches from across the country. With many offers in hand, the three-star defender made his verbal commitment to stay in-state and play in the Big 12. 
 
"I committed to Texas Tech in April. It felt like home to me," Banks said. "I made a few visits there, and it's a great place for me. It's also not far from home for me."
 
Banks is a big-bodied guy and said that the Red Raider coaches would use him as a defensive end and slide him inside some at defensive tackle.