2008: Played in all 12 games, making five starts...started first three contests of the season and at Southern Utah and Missouri State...had 30 total tackles, including 17 solos stops...had a season-high eight tackles at Illinois State...had five solos and three assists against the Redbirds...had six tackles at South Dakota State...also forced a fumble against the Jackrabbits...had three tackles, including two solos at Ohio State...had two stops in six games...both were solos against Southern Illinois and Western Illinois...had a single tackle at Missouri State...broke up a pass versus North Dakota State...credited with 380 snaps played on defense...earned his second letter.

2007: Played in all 11 games as a member of special teams units and was a reserve in the secondary...credited with 13 total tackles, including eight solo stops...had a season-best three tackles against Indiana State...had two tackles, both solos against Stony Brook and Southern Illinois...had single stops in six games...had a half tackle for loss at Indiana State...returned a recovered fumble three yards against Lock Haven...one of six true freshmen to see playing time...played a team-high 235 snaps on special teams units...earned his first letter...Named to Gateway Honor Roll.

High School: As a senior recorded 82 total tackles, including 39 solo stops...had double figures in tackles on four occasions...recorded six interceptions...had seven pass breakups and blocked two field goals...was a second-team all-district pick.

Personal: Parents are Susan and Oscar Gooden...has a sister...born July 18, 1989...has a Life Rank with the Boy Scouts...attended same high school as current Penguin tailback Jabari Scott...Sanford D. Rivers Family Scholarship Recipient 2008-09...major is business marketing.