The 11W Community Interview is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people. You submit the questions, vote on them, and then we pass the top ones on to the biggest names in the world of Ohio State athletics.
When he committed to Arkansas in August, North Little Rock standout KJ Hill did what most expected. The Razorbacks were the frontrunner for his services for some time, but certain schools like Alabama and Ohio State remained in the discussion following his senior season at NLR.
When Hill decided to re-open his recruitment, it was the Buckeyes – led by wide receiver's coach Zach Smith – and the Crimson Tide who challenged the in-state Hogs for Arkansas' top prospect. With less than two weeks to signing day, Hill and his family made an official visit to Columbus and on signing day morning he made it official: he was going to be a Buckeye after all. Hill's decision to explore other colleges was met with resistance from many inside of Arkansas' borders, a factor that made his choice much more complicated and difficult.
Today, on the heels of a 19-point performance that helped lead to a state title on the hardwood, Hill talks with 11W readers about his recruitment.
Is there an NFL or college player you look up to, who you like to model your game after/emulate? – Ricky Gingivitis
KH: I look up to Odell Beckham, Jr. I like his style of play, his route running and how he plays after the catch.
What was it that swayed you to Ohio State and what are you looking forward to the most when you make it to Columbus? – Buckeye4life050233
KH: I loved how I felt like I was family as soon as I got there, and not just a recruit. I hung with Johnnie Dixon and Vonn Bell and they treated me like their little brother. I love all the coaches, especially (wide receiver coach Zach) Smith and (Urban) Meyer. I'm looking forward to getting up there and putting in work with the team. I want to learn as much as I can in a small time.
Have you gotten to talk to Coach Smith a lot? Does the coaching staff outline a plan for you to work on before you get to Ohio State? –Gobucks2204
KH: Yes, I talk to Coach Smith and Coach [Chris] Ash the most now. They sent me the weight book and training videos. I have access to watch film also. Coach Smith will show me stuff to improve on for wide receiver work as well.
What about your skill set is the biggest plus you feel your bring to the table and what do you feel is most important for you to work on to improve your threat to opposing defenses and ascend the depth chart? – Logamaniac
KH: I think my best thing to me is when I get in space, the things I can do and how I can score. Getting my body ready for the college level is what I need to improve the most on before summer.
What is it like to have a legendary coach like Urban Meyer sit in your living room and tell you he thinks you're capable of helping our beloved Buckeyes retain the National Championship? – HouseHarleyBuilt
I loved how I felt like I was family as soon as I got there, and not just a recruit.
KH: It's like a dream to see that, honestly. What made it great is that I could feel he was wasn't blowing smoke like other coaches do. That made a big difference.
Do you have a hobby or activity that you enjoy outside of football? – Grysn
KH: l like to hunt and fish. I'm an outdoors person. I hunt deer, squirrel, rabbit and raccoon.
KJ, how do you feel about being the first OSU football player ever from Arkansas? Are there any younger players you will try to get to come play with you? – BuckeyeGrownFloridaliving
KH: It feels good to be the first one to start a legacy at a school. I probably would like (Oregon commitment) Dillion Mitchell from Memphis. We played basketball together.
I read there was a lot of anger over your late commitment to Ohio State. How much was directed to you and your family and how did you handle that? – Allinosu
KH: The whole state turned against me and my family. I just kept praying to God for strength to get through it. I don't know many people who've had the balls to do what I did and leave the state (laughs). You can see what happens.
Which WR position are you being brought in to play? Is the coaching staff going to give you an opportunity to try and return kicks and punts? – MacG91
KH: They said with my skill set I can play all three places; inside, outside, and jet/sweep motions. Yes I will have the opportunity to play on special teams as well. Anything I can do to get on the field, I will.
What was your favorite part of the recruiting process, and what was your least favorite? – Habu71
KH: The official visits were the best part. It was cool to see different places. And the worst? All the calls everyday. I really don't like talking like that so it was crazy and I'm glad it's over.
Go Bucks!
