2024 Interview with Tippecanoe Offensive and defensive tackle Jeffrey Martin

 

Jeffrey Martin

Tippecanoe

Offensive and defensive tackle

2026

6’3 260

What are your goals for the 2024 season?

The number one goal always has and always will be to win a state title for the Tipp community. I believe, as a team, this is very possible for us in 2024.

Offensive line or defensive line—which is the hardest to play? Explain O-line or D-line; which one do you feel you are better at?

That’s a tough question; both have their difficulties for different reasons. Personally, I am more experienced at the defensive line, as I started most of the season there last year. Although I have been making a ton of improvements on the offensive side throughout camp with the help of our experienced seniors and our coaching staff, The defensive line is a tough position because you can never anticipate anything. You have to be ready for anything. Offensive line is tough because you know the play and what you are supposed to do, but defenses run so many different sets and fronts that you can never really have an exact prediction as to what they are going to do. You can prepare with practice reps and film, but with our program in place, teams oftentimes pull out new sets and moves to try and get an upper hand on us.

Who is the toughest teammate to square up again in practice?

The toughest teammate is the one who’s going the hardest that day. That changes every single day. Everyone at practice tries to give their all, but sometimes guys are sore and banged up, so whether it’s a sophomore or a senior, anyone can be the toughest to square up with in practice.

Who is the best player you have ever faced in a game?

Definitely Jake Wheelock from Stebbins last year; he now plays at Cincinnati.

Which game are you looking forward to the most this season? Explain

Butler, last year we had a good team and almost cleanly swept the rivals; expect that for Butler. We’ve been working very hard in camp this year, and I’m looking forward to another very competitive matchup. 

Which road stadium has been the best to play in?

I would have to say Piqua has a great facility, and our home fans always travel well when we play there. Every away game has a good atmosphere, but the facility is what pushes that one above the rest. 

Which road stadium is the toughest to play in?

Butler, especially last year. It was only a only a standing room, and you couldn’t hear a thing. It took good communication through teammates to even get the play calls in.

What has been the highlight of your football career so far?

I had the opportunity to travel with the team my freshman year and be on the sidelines with my older brother when Tipp beat Badin to win the first regional title in school history.

Would you share some of the camps that you have attended and the main things that you have been able to take from them?

I went to Yale at the end of June. It was a very constructive camp for me. Coach Wheeler is their offensive line coach, and his energy and demeanor were like none other. I took so much away from that camp that I’ve begun to use it back here in Tipp and share it with my teammates.

What is the strongest part of your overall game?

I would have to say my size and strength. I have worked hard in the weight room, becoming as strong as possible for this season. I think that I’ve gotten much bigger and stronger this season and am excited to help Tipp get to Canton in 2024.

I know it is a little early, but have you heard from any colleges? If so, could you name one or two of them?

I have heard from almost every school in the Ivy League either through email, physical mail, or XDM. I’ve received the most interest from UPenn and Yale.

Do you think private schools have an advantage over public schools?

Yes, but only to a certain extent. I believe football is much more about your culture and coaches than your skill level. With the staff we have and the bond between the team, I don’t think that any private school has an advantage over us.

Have you been to a Dayton University football game?

No, but I may be attending their week 1 matchup against Saint Francis, PA, this year.

Outside of sports, what are you doing for fun?

I run a sports media brand called JM Productions. I use my camera and graphic design skills to create content for mainly high school athletes around the Dayton area.

What is your favorite class or subject?

Without a doubt, I am very invested in the rich history of our country and the journey it took to get to where we are today.