The Wonderlic, Eric Berry, & Facebook: An Interview with Ben Tate

It's hard to find a player who has done more to improve his draft stock than former Auburn running back Ben Tate since January.

A solidly built back at 220 lbs, Tate blew away scouts at the February NFL Combine when he posted a 4.43 second 40 yard dash. He also managed 26 reps in the bench press, a number higher than many of the top offensive and defensive line prospects who lifted.

While his strong Combine showing surprised many, it didn't surprise the often outspoken Tate, who last Fall famously declared he was the best running back in the state of Alabama ('ja hear that Mark Ingram?).

Bleacher Report got the opportunity to catch up with Tate and talk everything from his love of social networking sites, his "ideal" NFL scenario, and who he hopes to knock heads with in the NFL.

Why Haven't You Gotten More National Attention?

Tate: I’m not sure why I’ve been underestimated to be honest with you. I know I have the ability, so by showing people who I am both on and off the field, I’ll slowly but surely gather the attention I deserve.

Rank the Top 5 Auburn Running Backs Ever. Are You On That List?

Tate: That’s a tough question. I’d have to say Bo was the best, but there have been so many great ones that it’s impossible to rank and impossible to say whether or not I am on that list.

Was it Hard to Root for 'Bama Guys to Do Well at the Combine?

Tate: Not at all. At the end of the day, we’re all people and we’re all working for the same thing so we respect each other. It’s a different attitude when we’re on the field but because we’re all in the SEC, I’m going to root for them to do well at the next level.

What's the Most Bizarre Question You Were Asked by a GM at the Combine?

Tate: I wasn’t really asked any crazy questions, but everyone always asks me this question because I guess people think they ask crazy questions.

Name One Thing You Wish You Could Change About Your Combine Performance

Tate: My 40 time. I would have had a faster time. A lot of people were shocked by my time but I know what I’m capable of. I would have liked to be number one.

Was the Wonderlic Hard?

Tate: It wasn’t hard. It took some concentration to recognize the tricks within the questions. They are simple questions that are worded in a challenging way.

You're from Maryland. Is Playing for the Redskins Your Ideal Scenario?

Tate: It would be nice to be back around home but it’s not the “ideal” scenario. I feel fortunate just for the opportunity to be drafted.

If Mark Ingram Were in This Draft, Who Would Get Taken 1st, You or Mark?

Tate: We’ll never know!

Cocky or Confident? How Would You Describe Yourself?

Tate: I'm a very confident player and person. Confidence is integral to my personality and while I let people know that, I also can prove it through my ability. It’s important that you can prove yourself, otherwise you have no right to be confident. I think cocky people are arrogant and I know I’m not that.

Compare Yourself to a Current or Former NFL Back

Tate: I can’t say that I compare to any current or former NFL back. I have my own style.

How Do You Use Social Networking Sites?

Tate: I’m on both Facebook and Twitter. You can check me out at www.facebook.com/BenTateRB and www.twitter.com/BenTateRB. It’s a chance for me to give fans a sense of who I am when I’m not on the field and it’s a chance for fans to give me feedback as I’m going through this process.

If You Could Only Follow One Person on Twitter, Who Would it Be?

Tate: To be honest I’m not too into it as far as seeing what everyone is up to, I just use it for my fans. But I guess I’d say Shaq. He is real funny and creative.

If You Could Only Choose One...Twitter or Facebook? Why?

Tate: I would use Facebook because I can use more tools to reach out to my fans. All the videos, links, articles and comments I post, as well as the things my fans post, are all available on a single page.

What is the Future of Pro Athletes Use of Social Networking Sites?

Tate: Endless possibilities. I think it’s great for the fans because I know when I was a kid I would have loved the opportunity to interact with NFL players. I think in the future it will be even more interactive for fans.

Is There a Rivalry Between You and Eric Berry?

Tate: I wouldn’t say we have a rivalry but we are two good players going out it and putting on a show. He’s a great player and I respect him.

Which College Opponent are You Most Excited to Play Against in the NFL?

Tate: I’m just excited about the opportunity to get out there. Once that day comes, I’ll worry about who, and focus on winning that battle.

Channel Your Inner-Ochocinco: What Would You Change Your Name To?

Tate: I would never change my name. That’s not my style and I’m proud to carry the tradition of my family.