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Ann Arbor, MI – After Michigan’s 30-10 opening-day win over Connecticut, hybrid outside linebacker/defensive end Craig Roh, who stands at a lean 6’5” and 251 pounds, joked about how his body is not well-proportioned. The UConn offensive line learned about his “huge thighs,” which allow him to have an effective first step when coming off the edge. Denard Robinson stole the spotlight during the Wolverines’ opener on Saturday, but don’t be fooled into thinking that Roh wasn’t just as exciting to watch, even without the ball in his hands. One could be forgiven for losing track of Roh because he lined up all over the field. From the five technique to outside linebacker to middle linebacker, playing both in a three-point stance and with his hand off the ground, Roh was very rarely in the same spot twice. He recorded a tackle for a loss on the second play of the game and repeatedly beat his man, finishing with five tackles, two tackles for loss and numerous pressures on the quarterback. CFI spoke with Roh following the Wolverines’ victory.
 What would you consider yourself, a linebacker or defensive end?
Both. I’m a hybrid.
What does that hybrid role allow you to do?
This really shows where I can be. I can be back playing the linebacker position, I can rush the passer, I can hit the A gap, the B gap…I just love the versatility of this position.
Anything particular you love about coming off the edge?
I love hitting the quarterback. I love it! When I get there it’s…there’s nothing like it. I always want to get the sack. Always the sack, but you take what you can get.
Was it particularly nice having someone else chase Denard Robinson for a change today?
Yes! I had to chase that guy all spring and let me tell you, it’s not easy catching that guy.
The hybrid position you are playing now, are there the same responsibilities you had at the position last season?
The position I had last year and this year are very similar. They’re both hybrid positions except with this year’s position I have a little pass coverage responsibility. I just love the versatility of this position. I can go back and drop into coverage, and I can rush the quarterback or blitz the B gaps or C gaps.
Not many guys can play this hybrid role and have the kind of success you’re having. To what do you attribute that.
It’s my God given gifts, that’s my versatility. I mean, I’m not a huge guy and I’m not a small guy…I’m like right in between—the hybrid body.
What did you think of the team’s overall performance on defense versus UConn?
I felt we made plays when we needed to. We came out of the first series with a three and out. I felt we made a statement today.
Obviously next week’s game at Notre Dame is a big one. How much does it help to get the win today?
It helps your confidence monumentally. All these guys have worked so hard this offseason. They are so hungry. Guys are coming in, watching tape by themselves, lifting by themselves and it’s just great to see the fruits of our labor.
Where you surprised at all by the success you had against a very well-coached UConn team?
Yes. UConn is a good football team and we just came out and executed and our offense, put up points and our defense made plays when they needed to.
This hybrid role you play, is there anyone in the NFL you like to pattern your game after? Anyone you enjoy watching?
I think LaMarr Woodley plays that type of position. I love Jared Allen, he’s just an amazing pass rusher and a guy I think I have a similar body to. Hopefully, one day, I can be a pass-rushing sack master.
Photo Courtesy of U-M Athletic Department
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