By Steve Patterson

The first time you might have heard of Dre Riddick was at Jim Tressel’s pre-Michigan press luncheon when he was named the Scout team offensive player of the week. But Riddick is a senior on the Buckeye squad and has already earned a couple of degrees as he works to get on the field and show pro scouts what he is capable of. We asked him about his draft status for this coming April and he set us straight on his plans to return to Ohio State for one more go at it. "My future in football is VERY up in the air at this point... I recently found out that I have one more semester of eligibility left by NCAA rules and due to the fact that I am not going to be very competitive in the draft, I'm looking at my options as far as utilizing that last semester."

At 6-2, 183lbs, Riddick has the size to take the ball away from smaller corners and told us about another big receiver that he has watched and learned from over his career. "My fundamentals have improved tremendously watching other seniors such as Roy Hall." He reported to us. He also mentioned a younger receiver that all Buckeye fans will be glad to hear might be ready to take the next step and become a more productive receiver. "This year, I see Albert Dukes stepping up and becoming a stand-out receiver." A lot of fans have questioned Dukes’ effectiveness with Robiskie, Hartline, and Small getting the most attention this previous year. If Dukes can supplement these three receivers, the core of the wide outs at Ohio State should be formidable when fall camp begins this coming season.

In addition to telling us about Hall and Dukes, Riddick looked back at his career at Ohio State and told us about one highlight that truly stands out. "My most memorable moment as a Buckeye is the clock running out on our 42-39 victory over Michigan." That was a special moment for all Buckeye fans, beating the second place nationally ranked Wolverines to win the Big Ten and advance to the National Championship game. Although Riddick has not gotten on the field to date, his ability on the scout team, and his achievements in the classroom make his time at Ohio State meaningful. "I received my degree on December 12th 2006 in Interactive Communication with a minor in Economics." He told us.

Finally, Riddick focused on the camps ahead and what he needs to do to achieve his lifelong goal. "With this extra time available, I'm taking the winter to get bigger, stronger and faster in preparation for my final season of competition. My long-term goal is and has always been to play in the NFL."