The Buckeyes have recruited solid offensive line prospects (see The Brew Crew), and much of the blame for poor development falls on the shoulders of Coach Bollman. The Buckeyes have upgraded their coaching staff and strength and conditioning coach, but they are struggling to get commitments from offensive linemen.
Last year, we saw Taylor Decker, Joey O'Connor, and Kyle Dodson flip to Ohio State before National Signing Day. They were much needed prospects for the Buckeyes, but now the Buckeyes are in need of more linemen. Buckeye fans are wondering why linemen aren't filing into Columbus, and I think it has to do with expectations of the line.
The new offense is going to call on linemen to be very versatile. The offense needs them to be able to be aggressive run blockers while also being able to hold their own in space. Part of running the read option is the offensive linemen being athletic. Quickness on the interior allows the offense to operate much faster.
One prospect that fits the bill of what Ohio State's looking for in the 2013 class is Khaliel Rodgers. Ohio State is very interested in Rodgers, and Rodgers has shown interest in the Buckeyes. I recently had a chance to chat with Khaliel to find out a little more about him and his relationship with the game of football. Here's the conversation:
JM: To start off, when and why did you start playing football?
KR: I started playing football when I was 6 years old because my older brother was playing.
JM: Were you successful right when you started playing?
KR: I actually started playing tight end. I was ok.
JM: You've been best known in the recruiting world for not backing down from competition and even calling guys out. Have you always had this attitude, and how does it help you on the field?
KR: Yeah, I've always had a competitive attitude when I play the game, and I always wannna prove that I'm the best because I work really hard. It helps a lot on the field.
JM: Do you play other sports, and if so, how do they help your game?
KR: I wrestled for 2 years (Freshman & Sophomore), and it definitely helped me out by keeping me balanced.
JM: What's your favorite thing about playing football?
KR: I love to impose my will on the opposing players.
JM: I bet those guys have long nights when they line up across from you. What's your best memory of playing football at any age?
KR: When I was 14, I played winter league. I grabbed a fumble and ran for a touchdown.
JM: You have a great combination of quickness, strength, and good footwork. I know you've trained with Flash Training (Delaware), but what area of your game do you focus on most?
KR: I focus on the mental part of my game because that is the strongest part of the game.
JM: Do you have any pre game rituals? What gets you fired up for games?
KR: Chief Keef, Meek Mill, and Wocka Flocka songs get me fired up.
JM: Last question, what's one thing you want Buckeye Nation to know about you?
KR: I'm a hard worker, and I play this game with a passion.
Khaliel Rodgers (6'3 310 lbs.)
Elkton, MD
Class of 13 - C/OG
Scout Profile
Rivals Profile
Khaliel Rodgers, to me, needs to be at the top of Ohio State's list for offensive linemen. He plays with amazing intensity and attitude, but he is also very athletic. He's extremely quick for his size and very powerful. There's a reason he doesn't back down from competition, and it's because he is always trying to prove that he's the best. This is one offensive lineman that I've been big on for awhile because I believe he would flourish in the new Ohio State offense. The Buckeyes would benefit from having his attitude and athleticism on their line. Rodgers has constantly brought home camp MVP and strongest OL awards.
I look forward to hearing more from Khaliel in the future and want to thank him, again, for taking the time to chat with me. Buckeye Nation, this is one guy that you want playing on your line.
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