Cincinnati Bearcats College Football Pregame Quote, 12/05/2021

On what it feels like being in the Playoff:

Just from 2017 to now, the journey has been unbelievable. From the progression from season to season, it’s been unreal. It’s thanks to Coach Fickell and his plan and staying humble and hungry.

On resetting the goals after finally making the Playoff:

The job’s not finished yet. You set goals at the beginning of the season and once you reach those goals, you set more. You never get complacent, and you always stay hungry. The sky’s the limit.

On the decision to come back this season:

This was part of the reason for me to come back. Not just for opportunities like this, but to be a leader. When me and guys like Des (Desmond Ridder, quarterback) and Myjai (Myjai Sanders, defensive end) leave, we want to be remembered as great leaders.

On being the first Group of Five team to get in the Playoff:

It’s a blessing. This is what you work for from day one since when you were a kid. Whenever you go out there, making the best of the opportunity.

On what it means for Coach Fickell to stay:

Coach Fickell’s a loyal guy, I knew he wasn’t going anywhere. He loves us, cares about us and we’re family.

On if he feels the team’s No. 4 ranking is accurate:

We don’t let rankings define us. We have to have that dog mentality. Whoever we step up against, it’s football.