[OSUBasketballJunkie]

DDN

8/17/06

osu football
Buckeyes' Richardson eager to fulfill potential

By Doug Harris
Staff Writer
COLUMBUS — Defensive end Jay Richardson had always heard seniors talk about the inner transformation that occurs when a player suits up for one final season at Ohio State, but he never quite subscribed to the theory.
Until now, that is.
The senior from Dublin has been known for his largely untapped potential, having recorded just three sacks in 26 career games despite ample physical gifts. But he's determined to make the most of his final fling as a Buckeye.
He's added 15 pounds of bulk to his 6-foot-6 frame and reported to fall camp at 285. And he still gets off the ball faster than an airbag inflating at impact.
"I've heard from seniors how, during their last year, they get really focused, and I've always been like, 'Yeah, whatever,' " Richardson said. "But it's true. It's your last chance to show people how good you can really be.
"I feel I have a lot to prove, and there's a lot I haven't shown. That's why I've been working so hard."
After backing up classmate David Patterson at defensive end last season, Richardson is now listed as the starter, while Patterson has moved inside along with senior stalwart Quinn Pitcock at tackle.
Third-year sophomore Vernon Gholston and true sophomore Lawrence Wilson are fighting for the other defensive end spot, although the Buckeyes will keep other players involved among the front four with their typically deep rotation.
"He's got all the tools," defensive coordinator Jim Heacock said of Richardson. "He's got long arms. He's rangy. He's got good spring and quickness. And he's very competitive."
Richardson is one of 16 fifth-year players (out of the team's 19 seniors) and hasn't been shy about being vocal.
"He's really done a great job with leadership, which is what we really need on the defensive side of the ball," Heacock said. "He's just been focused all through spring and all through the offseason.
"I think he has an opportunity to have a great year. And for us to be a good defense, he's going to have to be a force on the edge."
Patterson, who is likely to end up as one of the team's captains, is constantly in Richardson's ear, telling him how good he can be.
"I feel Jay is a phenomenal athlete and has the potential to be one of the best players in the country," Patterson said. "And he's really been working hard.
"I always try to pump him up, but Jay knows. It's his senior year. And for all of us seniors, it's do or die. I'm looking for big things from Jay."