2024 Season-ending interview with The University of Chicago Jaceb Dickerson

 

Name: Jaceb Dickerson

School: The University of Chicago

Positions Played: Nose, DT

Class: 2028 (First-Year)

Height and Weight: 6’3, 255

Jersey Number: 56

 Who were some of the schools that recruited me?

 I was recruited by a number of high-academic D-3 institutions (Grinnell, Carnegie Mellon, UChicago, Grove City College, etc.) as well as local schools like Gettysburg and Millersville. Later in my recruitment, I received PWO’sfromo some FCS schools (Wagner, Saint Francis, and Colgate) but had committed to UChicago by then.

 What made me choose UChicago?

 Aboveall,l the elite academics. Few institutions rival the University of Chicago academically. I have opportunities and resources available to me that most student-athletes do not. Our program has a rich history and many great traditions. The team atmosphere/culture is also great; our coaching staff is knowledgeable and passionate about what they do. As we on the team like to say, UChicago is “where excellence goes to flourish.” 

 What was the biggest adjustment I made on the field coming from Gettysburg High School to the University of Chicago?

 Definitely being more physical and more deliberate with what I do. Playing against bigger, stronger, and faster competition affords me little opportunity to waste movement(s). Scouting and game planning for your opponents is critical if you want to be successful at the collegiate level. I became more violent and technical with my hand fighting during the preseason, and it brought me some success/production on the field.

Which part of the college game surprised me the most? 

The physicality, especially in the trenches. Pads are cracking every play. Tempers will flare, and it isn’t uncommon for guys to exchange words or a shove or two, even in practice.

What were my goals heading into my freshman season?

A: To 1) impress my coaches during preseason, 2) get stronger in the weight room, 3) become smarter as a football player, and 4) get playing time/start a game. I can proudly say that I accomplished all of those goals. I had an exceptional preseason, given I was two months removed from being medically cleared from shoulder surgery; my numbers went up in the weight room; I learned lots from my teammates and coaches, and I made one start (vs. Illinois College).

Which part has been the toughest?

 Balancing the rigorous academics and clubs/RSOs with football. Taking even three classes in-season can be a challenge given the accelerated nature of the courses here at UChicago (we have three nine-week trimesters as opposed to semesters). There's also the physical strain of playing football for fifteen straight weeks with only one bye. Between lifts, practices, and games, your body starts to feel it. Being proactive with treatment and recovery is critical if you want to play and perform at your best.

 You said you have been getting some playing time as a guard on field goals and point-after kicks. Had you done this while you were playing high school football?

 No, I was a long snapper for PAT/FG and for a punt as well. I played on KO and KOR as well as my sophomore and junior seasons.

 What has been the best part of being on the D-line in a college football game?

Causing mayhem with my brothers. I am extremely blessed to be a part of such a great DL room. Whether it’s celebrating a sack from the sideline or helping to make a tackle, every second I’ve spent on the defensive line has been a blast.

 What part of my game am I going to work on the most before the 2025 season starts?

My takeoff, pad level, and overall tenacity. I want to be as strong, fast, and nasty as possible coming into my second season. That means getting off the ball explosively, playing under my opponents and with separation, and making them feel me any chance I get.

Could you share with the readers which conference the University of Chicago is in and the teams in it?

Chicago is a member of the Midwest Conference (MWC). Our opponents include:
1. Monmouth College
2. Beloit College
3. Lake Forest College
4. Cornell College
5. Knox College
6. Ripon College
7. Lawrence University 
8. Illinois College
9. Grinnell College

What would I go back and tell a high school senior he should do to prepare for college football?

 Get in the weight room, work on your speed and agility, build relationships with your teammates and coaches before you get to campus, study your playbook if possible, and get excited. Just 7% of high school football players go on to play in college. If you are a part of that 7%, take it seriously; it is a real privilege. 

What has been the one thing that has shocked me about Chicago?

The academic freedom I am afforded. I can take whatever classes I desire, choose my major, etc. If classes conflict with practices, our coaches are very understanding. I was also fortunate to make the travel squad for all away games, including our season opener against Claremont Mudd-Scripps in Claremont, California. The travel/game day routine is much different than in high school. As for the city itself, it is amazing. Despite it getting a bad rap, I find Chicago to be safe, as long as you are aware of your surroundings and make good decisions. It has a rich history and great sports culture, and I am proud to call it home. 

 What am I planning on majoring in?

As of now, I am planning to double-major in Business Economics and Public Policy Studies.

What is my go-to snack?

I love fresh fruit, Greek yogurt with honey and granola, and trail mix. If I need something quick to tide me over between classes, I’ll grab a bowl of cereal from the dining hall.