2012-GameRelease-Divisional

The improved footwork, mentioned by Harbaugh, is a result of Davis’ repetition at playing on the right side
of the line. At Rutgers, Davis starred on the left side of the ball.
“I feel more conscious of the steps I need to take,” Davis explained. “It’s more about making it a habit.
You can do it right once they remind you, but if you can make it a habit, that’s the hardest part.”
Footwork is one thing Davis has improved on, but communication remains vital in his development,
especially with former tackle Alex Boone getting first-team reps at right guard.
Davis believes playing next to Boone is off to a great start in early OTA sessions.
“Our personalities do fit,” Davis added. “It’s cool playing next to a dude like Boone.”
The two linemen might be forging an even greater on-field relationship this offseason, but they actually
first met when Davis was touring Ohio State on a high school visit. Davis just so happened to catch
Boone’s Buckeyes take on their bitter rival, the University of Michigan. To this day, Davis recalls Boone’s
intensity from the sideline and instantly being impressed with the lineman.
“I remember seeing Boone’s intensity and thinking, “I like that guy,” Davis recalled.
Flash forward to 2012 where the two have been playing side-by-side, Boone is speaking highly of Davis,
the same way the New Jersey native described the Ohioan.
“It’s been great,” Boone said. “I feel like a big cheeseburger, in there between him and (center) Jonathan
(Goodwin). I love it.”
“I think he’s doing a great job,” Boone continued. “I think one of things we had concerns about was runblocking
together, but it ended up being great. His feet are phenomenal this year and in pass pro, we
haven’t had any problems yet.”
Blitz protection, sight adjustments and many other details of playing offensive line will have to be ironed
out between the two as they head into the season, but Davis is enthused by the early stages of their
working relationship.
As for Davis, offseason goals include increasing strength and knowledge of the playbook. The young
lineman also wants to get his core stronger.
“I want to at least get 1 and ½ abs showing,” Davis said with a grin. “That’d be nice.”
But more importantly, Davis wants to continue the “jump” in his play.