Matt Patricia Updates: Developing Depth Critical For Buckeyes

COLUMBUS — Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia met with the media following practice on Monday. He talked about his defense, players like CJ Hicks and others, and the need to build depth this season. The highlights of everything that Patricia had to say can be found below.

• On CJ Hicks: “He’s a tremendous guy.” He is always trying to please. He is eager to learn. Skill set wise, he’s very unique because of his background and explosive power. He’s got pop. He is similar in frame to past outside linebacker/pass rushers he’s worked with in the past.
• On evaluating recruits and not being too critical: At the NFL, you are very critical of everything because the body of work is so great for all prospects/players. Now in recruiting, you look at physical attributes because you’re going to have to teach them the position. It’s been awesome to watch how good players have gotten over the last 25 years. You try to project, how big are they going to get, how much faster, powerful, etc. You look at little things, like knee bend or ankle flex, hip fluidity. You can coach the other things, like the finish or ball skills.
• On Malik Hartford: “I think he’s had a great spring.” That goes back to the weight room too. He’s done a great job of training his body. He moves better. He can play either safety position. Has great range. Now just needs to continue to work on eye control and his reads.
• Is the defensive line going to have enough depth? He’s used to the 16-game season, so he knows depth is critical. Flexibility is key too. You can have depth, but you need to have the players in the right position.
• On building relationships with players: It’s been great being here. “I’m just excited.” Wants to teach and mentor, but he also has to learn from these coaches and what the players are capable of doing. “Right now I feel like I’m the student.”
• On meeting with recruits: “It’s been a little while for me on that deal.” There is so much coming at these players. “I kind of feel for them.” He’s as direct as honest as he can be with them. Really enjoying the process of meeting players and families and building relationships.
• Why is this not a backwards career move? This is not a backwards move. Very blessed with his NFL career. He started out as a college coach and this is a great opportunity to get back to that. “It’s Ohio State. This is the top. I’m pretty lucky to be here.” It’s a great opportunity to go coach.
• You need to have an urgency in the spring. Have to be intentional about everything you do.
• On the nickel: “I do like the flexibility of the big nickel and the nickel…” in building a versatile defense.
• Do you have a feel for how good this defense can be? Hate to make that statement too early, but there are great young men here right now who have the work ethic and drive that you need to be successful and keep the standard.

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