WCU concluded its fifth practice of the spring; 10 dates after Spring Break
Prior to Western Carolina: Enrolled at Carson Newman for the 2011-12 academic year and was a member of the football team but did not see game action; High School: Named first team All-Region in 2010 ... Received the Wendy's Heisman Trophy from Stephens County ... Helped lead SCHS to region championships in 2007 and 2008 ... Also played baseball as a prep.
Personal: Full name is Jake Robert Thornton ... Is the son of Robert and Cathy Thornton ... Has one sister, Mollie ... His grandfather, Billy Shaw, played for the Buffalo Bills from 1960-69 and was a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1999.
