Inside Ohio State and Wisconsin Football with Kyle Dodson

I had the privilege to interview 2012 offensive line recruit Kyle Dodson.

Ohio State needed depth on the offensive line, especially at tackle. Dodson’s commitment was much needed. His de-commitment from Wisconsin set off a firestorm between their head coach Bret Bielema and Urban Meyer. 

I asked him about Bret, his comments and other topics related to Ohio State football and himself.

When did you know you wanted to come to Ohio State?

Kyle Dodson: Two days before national signing day, I was close to going to USC.

What was the deciding factor in choosing Ohio State?

KD: Coach Meyer! We talked a long time and I told him about my life, my past and how I wanted to do well in life. He really cared for me as a person. I just went down there last Thursday and he treated me and cared for me exactly the same way as he did when he was recruiting me. There was absolutely no change.

I also wanted to be close to family, especially my grandmother. Her health is not always the best and I wanted to be close so I could come home and take care of her if she needed me. She also worries about me and I did not want to be so far away that would cause her to worry more.

Bret Bielema angered Urban Meyer by accusing him of "illegal" tactics, your de-commitment was what seemed to incite Bielema to make those comments, why did Bret Bielema say these things?

KD: He was really upset because he really wanted me to play for him. I have not talked to him since I committed to Ohio State. I called him but he has not returned my call.

Did all the assistant coaches leaving Wisconsin contribute to your decision to commit to Ohio State?

KD: It played a big role. UW was losing a line coach and there would be all these coaches that I would have no prior relationship with. It was just too much for me to deal with.

Compare Urban Meyer with Bret Bielma?

KD: Bret is a great guy but I seemed to connect with coach Meyer a little more. We talked longer and related better and I began to trust him more.

Do you think you will play this year? What have the coaches told you?

KD: I do expect to play if I am healthy. My shoulder was recently operated on and I am currently doing rehab. I will start to lift weights in June. I go to the Cleveland Clinic twice a week for rehab and assessment. The doctors check on me and follow my progress. If they feel I am completely healthy, then I will play, but if not, I may red-shirt this year.

What position do you play?

KD: Left tackle

Is there a difference between left tackle and right tackle?

KD: There is not a huge difference in position but if the LT messes up, it can result in something bad, like a fumble. I can play either. I think Taylor Decker may be a tackle as well, and I think we are both interchangeable at either spot.

Which player in your recruiting class impresses you the most?

KD: Tommy Schutt. I look forward to playing against him and for us to make each other better.  We became friends on our official visit and we were also together during the All American game.

Michigan sites said that Kyle Kalis dominated Tommy Schutt during practice, what really happened?

KD: Are you kidding.  During practices, Tommy Schutt could barely be stopped.  Kalis and Tommy went back and forth against each other but Tommy was not dominated by Kalis or anybody.  He is going to be a great player at Ohio State.

How did you react when Kalis said that there will be blood on the field during the OSU vs. Michigan game?

KD: Kalis is my buddy and I think he was just joking around and it got blown out of proportion. There was another Michigan recruit that was talking smack and talking smack against me but I could not practice due to my shoulder, but let me tell you this, I can’t wait for the Michigan game, can’t wait.

What will you major in?

KD: Probably criminal justice.

What is your favorite food?

KD: Lasagna

Favorite NFL team and player?

KD: I am a huge Cleveland Browns fan and my favorite player is Joe Thomas. I want to be like him, he can move well and is strong, I love the way he plays.

Anything else you want to say to Buckeye nation?

KD: Buckeye nation, here I come!

Thank you so much for your time Kyle. We look forward to following your career.