Aug. 17, 2011
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IOWA CITY, Iowa — Aside from being named to multiple preseason All-American teams, University of Iowa junior offensive tackle Riley Reiff has also landed spots on the Lombardi and Outland trophy watch lists.
The 6-foot-6, 300-pound Reiff was a second-team all-Big Ten selection as a sophomore.
Reiff is spending the early days of camp working on the `little things.’ As far as expectataions, he is leaving that up to the media.
What does it mean earning all the preseason recognition and be noted as one of the top offensive linemen in college football?
“I really don’t know. You can say `thanks’ or whatever but I don’t know what it means. I just know I have to get better at the little things and go from there.”
What do you think you’ve improved on most from last year to this year?
“There are a lot of things. I’ve been really working on my hand placement. But overall, I’ve just been trying to get better in every aspect”
What is it about University of Iowa football in regards to its tradition of developing NFL offensive linemen?
“There is obviously a storied tradition here, and it’s an honor to play offensive line at this school. To play under coach (Reese) Morgan and coach (Kirk) Ferentz — they’re both really good coaches. Like I said, it’s an honor to be able to play here.”
In what ways have you grown since playing as a redshirt freshman?
“Understanding the playbook. Not just understanding what you do, but what the other guys around you are doing. That makes a huge difference when you see the big picture instead of a small vision.”
This year the offensive line is considered to be a major strength of Iowa’s team. What is it about the unit that makes it so strong?
“We have a lot of work to do. Hopefully we can get it together in these next few camp practices, and can get clicking.”
Who do you attribute your rise to being one of the top offensive linemen in the nation?
“We have got really good coaches around here. I’ve played with some great guys; Brian (Ferentz) was kind of a mentor to me. There are a lot of guys. The offensive linemen, they help each other out and that’s something special here.”
What is the best thing about playing at Kinnick Stadium?
“The fans. To see how excited they get is quite a deal. People are working all week and they look forward to coming to the Hawkeye game. They spend a lot of money for game tickets, and it’s kind of special.”
Thus far, what is your favorite memory in a Hawkeye uniform?
“Winning the Orange Bowl my redshirt freshman year. That season alone was pretty special, it was a fun time. But it’s all been fun, I tell you what. It’s been fun my full three years here, and I’m looking forward to having more fun.”
This year’s team is flying under the radar on the national scene. What are your expectations for the 2011 Hawkeyes?
“I don’t have any expectations. That’s for the media to do.”