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Michigan’s Chris Partridge talks DPJ’s return, playing freshman Dax Hill
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There’s not much doubt that Michigan special teams coordinator and safeties coach Chris Partridge likes having more playmakers on his unit. In particular, he’s happy Donovan Peoples-Jones is back in the mix and five-star freshman Dax Hill is making some contributions.
Peoples-Jones has played in the last two games for Michigan after missing the first two with an injury. He’s had just three opportunities to return punts this season — all of those coming against Rutgers. While he’s only earned 18 yards thus far, Partridge says it’s nice to have the wide receiver’s playmaking ability back at the return position.
“He’s dynamic. He’s elite back there,” Partridge to Angelique Chengelis of the Detroit News. “He puts fear into opponent punt teams. It’s a huge boost.”
In each of his first two seasons, Peoples-Jones has returned one punt for a touchdown. He’s fielded a total of 68 kicks for 588 yards and two scores in his career.
Hill also made a huge splash on Saturday on special teams, obliterating a Rutgers return man on a punt return. It’s been his shining moment of the season.
Partridge says Hill’s speed is what sets him apart from many on special teams.
“He’s the fastest guy on kickoff, on punt,” Partridge said. “He’s maybe the fastest guy on the team.”
Both Peoples-Jones and Hill have had limited time on the field this season, Peoples-Jones due to injury and Hill because of youth. But both are getting the opportunity now, and it seems Partridge is pretty pleased to have both on the field.
It probably makes his job a little bit easier.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB