State cornerback Jett Jefferson overcoming frustrating season
Jett Jefferson’s first season in the Maroon and White had its share of frustrations and disappointments. The former juco transfer enjoyed a solid spring, worked his way into the starting lineup and then saw injuries prematurely end that season.
Eventually, Jefferson played in four games and had to medically redshirt. But now fully recovered, the Bulldog cornerback has worked his way back to battling for a spot opposite of Kelley Jones. Earlier this week Jefferson met with the media to discuss that journey:
Q: How frustrating was last year for you?
Jefferson: It was rough. I came in, played good in the spring, then I just couldn’t get out there with those guys. We’re back this year so I’m ready to go.
Q: What was it like having to watch and not play last year?
Jefferson: It was hard. I’m not going to lie. It was hard not being out there with the guys. But I cheered them on on the sidelines, you know, made sure they did what they had to do.
Q: Were there thing you were able to learn by not playing?
Jefferson: Yeah, you just try to teach the guys what to do and when to do it. Be a leader off the field even though you’re not playing and try to encourage them to do better.
Q: How different is it playing in Zach Arnett’s scheme?
Jefferson: It’s different. You know, every coach is going to be different so you’ve got to be able to adapt to the situation. You know, you be a leader, guide your teammates on and be able to play.
Q: What’s it like playing opposite of Kelley Jones?
Jefferson: It’s a blessing to be able to play again on the opposite side of Kelly. You know you’re going to get targeted because people don’t really throw at him much. So on the other side of it you have to be ready to play.
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Q: Do you see a more physical defense this year?
Jefferson: Yes, it is a difference. We’re much more physical. We’re bigger, stronger, we come out with energy. We play hard every play.
Q: Are there any receivers that have given you some trouble?
Jefferson: Man, all of them. All of them are great guys. They all can play, they all can run, they’re big guys. So when you go out there you’ve got to be ready to play every play.
Q: What did you see in the scrimmage Saturday?
Jefferson: In the scrimmage a lot of playing fast, a lot of physical playing by everybody. We’re coming together playing as a team and just play as a group.
Q: Who would you say was the defensive MVP of that scrimmage?
Jefferson: Good question. I’d give it to the whole defense. We played hard out there. I mean, I’ve got to give it to all of us.
Q: What areas are you working on this spring?
Jefferson: I’m working on my eyes, getting myself in better position as a player. That’s about it.
