NFL Draft Network

Northwestern safety, Brad Phillips, led his team in tackles despite playing through some injuries. The safety class in the 2010 NFL Draft has some depth. It may be a very strong group if a number of talented underclassmen decide to enter the draft early. Phillips is  smart, tough and a good football player. He may not dazzle decision-makers at the NFL Scouting Combine, but the game is about contact and played in pads, not shorts. I interviewed the Wildcats’ defensive coordinator, Mike Hankwitz, about his standout safety.

Denis Krusos: How has Brad’s game developed over the years?

Coach Hankwitz: He has become more physical, a better tackler and makes less mistakes. Brad is a student of the game and watches film to be prepared every week. His film work is one reason why he is frequently in position to make a play. I am not saying he does not make mistakes, but this is an area he has improved in.

Denis Krusos: What is his secret to forcing fumbles (4 through 12 games)?

Coach Hankwitz: It is a combination of being physical and delivering a big hit and being good at striping the ball. He has confidence in his tackling ability. Brad understands that you must secure the tackle first and then go for the strip. We practice going for the strip in practice. However, most players have difficulty executing it in a game. This is because they become concerned with missing the tackle. Brad can make the tackle and go for the ball at the same time.

Denis Krusos: Is it accurate to say that Brad is better defending the run than he is in pass coverage?

Coach Hankwitz: I can see why you would say that. Brad is a physical and a dependable tackler. He is under-rated in coverage. He gets a good jam at the line of scrimmage and has defended the slot receiver well. He has done a good job covering Eric Decker in the past.

Denis Krusos: Tell me more about his film study habits

Coach Hankwitz: Brad is very meticulous in his preparation. Film study is a tremendous strength of his. He is as good as anyone I have ever coached (note: Coach Hankwitz has 24 years of experience as a defensive coordinator). He spots tendencies and plays with anticipation because of this.

Denis Krusos: What were his responsibilities in your defense this year?

Coach Hankwitz: He is really interchangeable as a strong and free safety. His job was primarily to provide run support and be physical. Last year he was a nickleback in passing situations and even played some as a linebacker. We found that when we played against teams that used a lot of the spread offense that Brad could really help us. We needed a player at linebacker who could defend the run and cover a back or tight end. Brad could do that and he also is a good blitzer. Brad is also really in charge of our defense on the field. He helps get guys lined up correctly and tells them to be aware of certain plays. He is a really smart player. I came to Northwestern last year and installed a new defense. He picked it up really quickly and soon took charge.

Denis Krusos: Tell me more about his injuries this season?

Coach Hankwitz: Brad has played through shoulder and calf issues this year. He thought he could continue to play and get healthier as the season progressed. He was still productive even though he clearly was not 100%.

Denis Krusos: Does Brad have much experience playing on special teams?

Coach Hankwitz: He has not played special teams since I have been here (2 years). He is too valuable to us on defense. He is the type of player that will do anything his coaches ask of him. When he is asked to play on special teams in the NFL then I am sure he will give 100% effort.

Denis Krusos: Describe Brad as a person?

Coach Hankwitz: They do not come any better. He is the ultimate team player, a leader and he has a great work ethic. He will be a success in whatever field he chooses after football.

Denis Krusos: What does he have to work on to play in the NFL?

Coach Hankwitz: I really do not have the time to watch much NFL football. I think it really depends upon the scheme. I know he has the work ethic and the attitude to make it.