Recently, Dotting The “I” caught up with Monroeville (PA) Gateway Head Coach Terry Smith. Coach Smith was kind enough to answer our questions on 2009 Buckeye commitment Dorian Bell and even touched a little on Gateway DB/WR Corey Brown, who recently received a scholarship offer from the Bucks. Here is the interview:

1. What are Dorian’s biggest strengths and what are areas can he improve upon?
”Dorian’s biggest strengths are his speed and athleticism. He needs to continue to get stronger, faster and commit to being a student of the game”.

2. Why was Ohio State the best fit for Dorian?
”Ohio State was best for Dorian because first and foremost Jim Tressel. Secondly, Ohio State is a University that prepares their players for the NFL, which is a goal of Dorian’s. Third, he wants to play for a winner/champion”.

3. What impact do you think Dorian will have in his first season at OSU (i.e. start right away, play in the two-deep, play on special teams, red shirt,etc.)?
”I personally think Dorian is capable of contributing right away at Ohio State. I think at a minimum he will be a full time special team player. He is capable of starting from the first game”.

4. What impact do you think Dorian’s commitment will have on other recruits from Western Pennsylvania, and even nationally? Do the commitments of Terrelle Pryor and Dorian to Ohio State have a large impact on many players considering the Buckeyes from your area?
”Dorian’s impact will influence the area players greatly. Between him and Terrelle this will lead others to Ohio State (i.e. Jordan Hall)”.

5. Which position suits Dorian better-middle, strong side, or weak side linebacker?
”Dorian is capable of playing any of the linebacker positions”.

6. Do you think Dorian will make the NFL after his college career is over?
”Dorian has the potential to be a first round NFL player. Obviously, he must work at it and continue to get better but the talent is there”.

7. What do you expect from Dorian this season?
“I expect Dorian to have over a hundred tackles, over 10 sacks and a couple of interceptions returned for touchdowns. I am also expecting him to lead us to a championship”.

8. What is Dorian’s best off-the-field quality?
”Dorian’s best off the field quality is his work ethic. He works hard for what he has”.

9. What role did you play in Dorian’s recruitment and how did that effect his decision, if at all?
”My role in my player’s recruitment is to provide a resource to get the answers necessary. I have to try and help my players sift thru what is truth and what is not”.

10. What is Corey Brown’s current recruitment status with Ohio State or other colleges in general?
“Corey Brown just received his Ohio State offer Monday May 12^th. He is considering the Buckeyes, Notre Dame, Alabama, UNC, Tennessee, Michigan among others”.