JoJo Wicker is looking to take the next step in 2016
It’s no secret that Arizona State sophomore defensive end JoJo Wicker has the potential to be one of the great defenders in the Pac-12.
In fact, when talking to head coach Todd Graham, it seems to be more a matter of when it happens than if it happens.
“JoJo’s biggest challenge is competing to be the best in the country,” Graham said. “He is really gifted, he has a knowledge and understanding of what he’s doing. He’s got a chance to be special. He’s not right now, but he’s got a chance to be and I love his attitude. He’s a dynamic player for us and is really a guy that needs to fill that role much like Will Sutton did.”
Wicker earned a starting spot as a true freshman, shifting from his high school position of defensive tackle to play more of an outside role. He finished his first season in Tempe with 21 total tackles (7.5 for loss) and four sacks, giving him confidence as he continues to learn the position in year two.
“To me it’s almost easier,” Wicker said of the new position. “When you’re inside most of the time you have to take on double teams and there’s a lot more you have to worry about…It depends on our front (whether I work inside). We have a 3-front where basically I’m playing tackle, so I’m still moving around.”
The still-young Wicker is expected to be surrounded by experience on the defensive line, as Ami Latu and Tashon Smallwood return as multi-year starters and have served as mentors to Wicker.
“I’ve learned how to be poised at all times,” Wicker said. “That’s probably the biggest thing (in college).”
One of the other pointers he’s picked up on has been the fundamentals to playing on the line at the college level.
“(Lining up properly) is very important,” he said. “Just from the single fact that you have to have those things to play and start. Starting here, coach Graham is going to be on that. Period. (Joe Seumalo) praises that, so that’s what we’re working on every day.”
Wicker has also received a boost from the veterans when it comes to adapting to the Sun Devil defense, which pressures an abnormal amount and puts a lot more strain on its defensive line than most.
“Our keys are looking at the ball the whole time,” Wicker said. “You have to find the pressure point, and another thing is looking at the board so you know what you’re doing at all times. You’re checking the sideline for your calls: nickel, base, the 3, the O, everything.”
Wicker said he’s lost weight in winter workouts, which better suits him to play outside and work as a pass rusher. While he’s currently listed at 275 pounds, though he said he weighs 265. He’s also said that the game has gotten easier to him through simplification, something he said is easier now that he has a year of experience.
Now, with a simplified mindset and a well-tuned body, Wicker is projected to make a major leap in his second season.
“I want to be a first-team All-American again,” Wicker said of the hype. “I just want to help my team win a championship, to be honest. That’s the biggest goal.”
