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Draft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Pat O’Donnell, P, University of Miami

pat o'donnellDraft Diamonds Prospect Interview: Pat O’Donnell, P, University of Miami
How many teams were recruiting you out of high school?
There were about a dozen D-I schools recruiting me out of high school

Where did you choose and why?
University of Cincinnati because I felt it was an up and coming program with the most to offer.

What were your goals for your senior year?
My goals were to get stronger, become more fundamentally sound, be named All-ACC and average over 45 yards per punt.
At your position, what separates you from the others?
I am more athletic than the normal punter. Also, through my experiences, I feel I am mentally tougher than anyone else at my positions.

Tell us what you look for when breaking down film?

I spend time watching my practice and game film to break down and improve my mechanics. Also, I watch the opponent’s punting formations to see their tendencies and evaluate their returners (i.e. how and where they catch punts/kickoffs in relation to where they are on the field).

Who was the toughest player you have ever faced?

Tavon Austin at West Virginia

If you could compare your play to one person in the NFL who would it be?

Steve Weatherford

What was the biggest obstacle in your life you had to overcome, and how did you overcome it?

I was faced the decision of whether or not I should transfer from the University of Cincinnati to the University of Miami. I feel I made the right choice with the guidance of my family. 

What system fits your style of play the best?
Pro- Style punt  

What is your biggest strength?

My leg strength and my consistency as a player. 

What is your biggest weakness?
At times I over analyze things.
If I were a GM and gave you a second to sell yourself, what would you say?

You will not be disappointed if I am on your team.

Growing up, who was your role model?

My father 

Who was your favorite team and player in the NFL and why?

Patriots. My favorite player would be Tom Brady because he was not the fastest or the best quarterback in the draft. He quietly got better and when his number was called he became the leader of the team.

What was the most tragic event that ever happened in your life and how did you overcome it?

My dad being diagnosed with cancer multiple times. I became more involved in my dads life and came home when ever I could. I eventually was faced with the decision to transfer closer to home to be there for my family. 

If you were to have dinner with three people dead or alive who would it be?

Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King, Christopher Columbus

With your first paycheck what would you buy?
I would put a down payment on a car. 

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