TCU Horned Frogs College Football Pregame Quote, 12/29/2022

That first game you played against Colorado, you guys were playing fast, tackling really well, very physical. You went through the spring learning this style. What was it like to grow down on the field and come off the field with that type of that production that night?

DYLAN HORTON: I feel like everyone was playing within themselves. They were getting better. And I feel the system was working for us.

What are you looking forward to at the next level? Do you think about it at all?

DYLAN HORTON: I haven’t. I feel like I’m just thinking about next week, especially playing each game. So I haven’t even thought about my future.

Have you guys been able to enjoy this week a little bit, knowing that it’s still kind of business as unusual?

DYLAN HORTON: Initially when he got out here, we had a day to explore and then we got ready for the game. The first day was nice.

Jake [Boozer] and your buddy Steve [Avila] were just talking about the impact that Coach [Sonny] Dykes had obviously in his first season. What do you attribute some of this early success of Coach and the program and teammates in the first year?

DYLAN HORTON: I feel like the emphasis on nutrition and discipline has been key in our development. It has just allowed us to be there and be more responsible.

As you are sitting here on Thursday of Fiesta Bowl week, are you tired of fielding questions about Michigan’s offensive line?

DYLAN HORTON: Not necessarily. We respect what they have. They have a good offensive line.

What type of personal challenge is that to you and your group, being up to the task of meeting that offensive line and slow one of the nation’s best running backs.

DYLAN HORTON: Well, they are really one of the best. I feel like we have to stop their running game.

And then as you look at this week — we’re getting close to 48 hours to kickoff — how would you describe the progression of the week from when you got here and trying to enjoy your surroundings and atmosphere and now getting pretty locked in. What are your thoughts?

DYLAN HORTON: Right. I believe as we get closer, I feel like as the time is coming, we know what will happen in a few days.

Getting a sense for the 3-3-5 system from your vantage point of a defensive lineman. What are the benefits in playing in that? Are there any challenges?

DYLAN HORTON: Right. Well, 3-3-5 allows more defense to be on the field. And as the defensive lineman, you have to emphasize your responsibility and hold the gaps.

When you think about the 3-3-5, when did you feel comfortable in the system as a team? How long did it take for the unit to hit its stride this year?

DYLAN HORTON: Right. I feel like in the spring we got a good understanding of how the defense should work. Through the practices and everything, we felt more comfortable.