Channel 9’s next Big 22 Player to Watch, Providence Day defensive back Nate Dollard, has an advantage playing his current position thanks to his experience as quarterback growing up.
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Dollard takes the responsibility to run the offense and dictate things for that entire unit.
However, he gave it up to get on the field as a freshman at Providence Day, and that move paid off.
He’s ranked as one of the top players in the country. Now, he thrives on the isolation at cornerback and the pressure that comes with it.
“Being on an island by myself, it’s really on me to make the play,” Dollard said. I don’t really have to worry about my teammates too much, but I really like the thrill of going out there by myself and just making it happen, having to make a play.”
As one of the top players in the country playing for one of the top programs, he has a target on his back. He expects to get the best from the teams he faces this season. Everyone wants to try to score on the guy with offers from Oregon to Miami and everywhere in between, and Dollard is ready for it.
“You see that everywhere you go,” he said. “That comes with it. I enjoy it a lot. I want people to come at me. That’s what I play football for. But I’ve also seen the other side of it where people don’t really throw at me that much. Just being able to go out there and do what I’m supposed to do every play, people will really stop throwing at me.”
Our next Big 22 Player to Watch is one of Dollard’s teammates, linebacker Tre Geathers. We’ll introduce you to him Monday. These previews will continue until voting for our five finalists begins Sept. 4.
We’re profiling 22 players every weekday until voting for our five finalists on Sept. 4. Tune into Channel 9 each day to see local stars featured.
Channel 9 hosts Big 22 Media Day for young athletes
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