— When you talk about “Rome the Philosopher,” can you elaborate about how that shows up?

Rome is an ultimate leader. He is one of those people where, when he walks into the GM’s office, when he walks into the CEO of a company’s office, he’s going to really be able to talk and speak to them in a way where they’re going to feel like he’s on the same level that they’re on. But also his teammates will feel that way. So he has this philosophical, make-you-think approach to how he leads people.

But then there are moments where this animalistic, tough guy comes out of nowhere. And you’re like, “Hey, hold up, you’re not allowed to be a tough guy like that. You’re supposed to be this reserved, calm, cool, collected customer. Then all of a sudden you’re out here ready to rip someone’s head off.”

But that’s the cool part about Rome. He knew when he had to be philosophical in his approach with his teammates but also when he needed to have that brute force to lead them into the position where we were going to the national championship game.

— He talked about the game-winning touchdown catch he made against Oregon in October as his favorite clutch play of the year. What do you remember about the play and his hunger for those moments?

The ball wasn’t even supposed to go to him on that play. He was back side in that concept. We were in a three-by-one (receiver set) to the field (side) and he was the single receiver to the back side. And honestly, we as a staff watched as the quarterback (Michael Penix) let them know, “Hey, I want us to run this instead.” For all of us, it was like, “Great call! I’m glad that’s what the call was going to be.” Because we’d rather put it in Rome’s hands at that time, in that moment, and see what would happen. And there was never a doubt from us at all that he would make the play.

But one of my favorite plays — obviously Rome made a lot of spectacular plays this season — I loved the one in the cold rain against Oregon State where we needed a first down late in the game to seal the win. Back-shoulder throw, same kind of play concept. Caught it and then he got up and waved goodbye to the crowd.

Obviously he thrives on those moments. Because every time he makes a big play, it’s almost iconic. So I would keep putting him in those situations. That’s all I know.

— I’m going to give you a third play because it speaks to exactly what you’re talking about. Ryan Poles was at the Apple Cup game against Washington State in late November and said on that last drive of the game, the fourth-and-1 play from well inside your own territory was a moment for him.

The reverse? Oh, yeah. Absolutely.

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