Mannie Ogletree
Cornerback
Limestone College
Alex Khvatov: What are your measurements?
Mannie Ogletree: Height: 5’10, weight:190 and 40yd: 4.53.
Alex Khvatov: Describe your overall experience at the FCS Bowl in Daytona Beach, FL.
Mannie Ogletree: First of all, I was grateful and humbled to be invited to participate in the bowl game. I enjoyed every minute of it whether it was practice, meetings, meeting other athletes, receiving valuable information or the game. The competition level was high, and I loved to see how I matched up with fellow athletes at the same level.
Alex Khvatov: Coming out of high school what programs showed interest in you?
Mannie Ogletree: Prairie View A&M University, Presbyterian College, Catawba College, Limestone College, Savannah State University, Fairmont State University and Coastal Carolina
Alex Khvatov: Why did you choose Limestone College?
Mannie Ogletree: I technically didn’t choose Limestone first. It kind of chose me. Coming out of high school I signed to play at Catawba College. I ended up withdrawing from Catawba due to family issues during the season. While I was home out of school, I received a call from Mike Furrey who was the head coach for Limestone College at the time and he brought me in as a walk on. I am forever grateful for the opportunity he gave me.
Alex Khvatov: What are your strengths?
Mannie Ogletree: My biggest strength is my availability. I have the tools to play any position on the backend. I am a great lateral mover and use patience to guard slots at the nickel. I can play outside the numbers and use multiple techniques from press or off man. I can also play safety and be a centerfielder showcasing my pedal, hips and range. From either of the positions, I am a solid tackler and have the physicality to maintain.
Alex Khvatov: What areas of your game are you trying to improve on?
Mannie Ogletree: Of course, there is always room for improvement and one area that I plan on improving is maintaining my weight. Another area of my game that I am working on improving is my press coverage at the line of scrimmage. I also plan on improving my film study habits.
Alex Khvatov: Tell us about your overall career.
Mannie Ogletree: Coming out of high school, I signed to play collegiate football at Catawba College. My tenure there was cut short after I withdrew during the season because of family issues. A year later, I received an opportunity to walk-on at Limestone College. Sitting out two years, I appreciate the game so much more and take nothing for granted. My first year back on the field was average. I shared reps with another corner and started six games. The next year, I played a lot better and was on track to receive All-Conference honors until I got injured and missed five games. My senior year was my best year. I finished the season with four picks and seven pass break ups. I also received All-Conference and SAC AstroTurf Defensive Player of the Week.
Alex Khvatov: What is the highlight of your career up to this point?
Mannie Ogletree: So far, the highlight of my career has been being selected as All-Conference.
Alex Khvatov: What is your biggest accomplishment in college that you are most proud of?
Mannie Ogletree: The biggest accomplishment in college was being selected SAC AstroTurf Defensive Player of the week.
Alex Khvatov: What is your favorite NFL team?
Mannie Ogletree: Pittsburgh Steelers.
Alex Khvatov: Who is your favorite NFL player?
Mannie Ogletree: Tyrann Mathieu.
Alex Khvatov: What is the most important trait for a CB?
Mannie Ogletree: The most important trait for a CB is mental toughness. You have to know that playing CB, you may give up some catches possibly a touchdown, but you have to be strong enough mentally to stay locked in on your technique and make plays.
Alex Khvatov: Before the ball is snapped, what are the tendencies that you are looking for from the offense?
Mannie Ogletree: First, I start by looking at the WR that I am matched against. I watch how he comes to the line, if he sprints to the line and gets ready or if he comes to the line lackadaisical. I look for small details like if he is jittery or doing something small like fixing his gloves. I also watch his stance and distance from the sideline to eliminate some routes that I know he can’t run from film evaluation. I look for the down and distance and what their go to plays are for that formation.
Alex Khvatov: What players on your team should we keep an eye on for next season?
Mannie Ogletree: Mandre Ogletree, Quay Brown, Ken’Darius Frederick, Marleek Reid, Jerko’Ya Patton, Malik Brooks, Juwan Scott and Bernard McCall.
Alex Khvatov: Who was the toughest player that you faced on an opposing team?
Mannie Ogletree: #2 from Mars Hill.
Alex Khvatov: What do you enjoy most about football?
Mannie Ogletree: Football relates so much to life. You get out exactly what you put in, and you can’t cheat the grind. You got to respond through all the adversity of the game, the ups and downs just like life. Football teaches you how to be humble when you’re at your highest and keep your head up and grind when you’re at your low. I love the grind, seeing all the work that you put in come to light because success is beautiful.
Alex Khvatov: What is your definition of a leader?
Mannie Ogletree: A leader is someone that is willing to sacrifice anything for the success of the individuals around him.
Alex Khvatov: What are your hobbies?
Mannie Ogletree: Enjoy time with my family and listen to music.
Alex Khvatov: What do you want to do with your life after your football career is over?
Mannie Ogletree: I would love to own a training facility for athletes to come and compete, train and receive guidance. I would love to pour knowledge into younger athletes and help them receive exposure/resources they need to achieve their goals.
Alex Khvatov: What five words best describe you?
Mannie Ogletree: Relentless, fearless, humble, spiritual and innovative.
