Watch: Sorsby, Corleone Fall Camp Practice Day 2
(Video courtesy Cincinnati Athletics)
Fall camp is underway for the Cincinnati Bearcats, and QB1 Brendan Sorsby is sounding—and looking—like a man on a mission. The Indiana transfer is entering his second year with the program, and if his candid, confident media availability is any indication, he's ready to take on more ownership of his role as a leader.
Command and Control: Sorsby in the Driver’s Seat
Sorsby’s comfort level with the playbook has taken a massive leap forward. He says the difference from last year is "night and day"—and it shows. Whether it’s pre-snap adjustments or route corrections mid-drive, he’s now directing traffic with poise. That includes calling out alignments to teammates like Cyrus Allen on crossing patterns, ensuring precision and timing.
“Just verifying with them as they’re running across... being able to do that this year is nice,” Sorsby said.
Body by Nico: Transformation Season
Sorsby didn’t just transform mentally—he transformed physically. Under the guidance of strength coach Nico Palazeti, he dropped 8 pounds of body fat and added 10 pounds of muscle, completely reshaping his frame since transferring from Indiana.
“That picture everybody thinks was my freshman year? No—that was last January,” he laughed. “I was a little fat and out of shape, but Nico got me right.”
Thanks @NikoPalazeti for the upgrade🤣 pic.twitter.com/z0Aa4NdFFw
— Brendan Sorsby (@Brendan_Sorsby2) July 25, 2025
Building Chemistry: One Route at a Time
While he admits to missing a few throws during "routes on air," Sorsby emphasized that chemistry with his wide receivers is ahead of schedule. The summer grind is paying dividends, and mistakes are more about timing tweaks than misreads.
“We watch it on film together, or I’ll shoot them a text at night. We’ll get it corrected.”
And that trust? Mutual.
Trenches Talk: O-Line Holding Firm (Even in Helmets)
While pads are still to come, Sorsby praised new left tackle Joe Cotton and the rest of the offensive line for solid pass blocking—even if the defense is a bit too eager to claim W's in no-contact drills.
“The protection’s been good for me, so I can’t complain. We’ve got a really talented front.”
Mental Edge: Deep Ball Confidence, Conference Familiarity
Sorsby is bullish on his big-play ability this year thanks to upgraded weapons on the outside. “We got some really talented wideouts—guys that can roll,” he said.
And after a year of learning the Big 12’s week-to-week chaos, he's ready to compete. While last year was about getting close, this season is about closing.
“We were in a lot of one-score games last year... we know we can win games.”
The Bearcats were 1-4 in one-score games last season.
Defense Getting Loud—and Better
The Bearcats' secondary has been a thorn in Sorsby’s side early in camp, but in the best way. He’s going back and forth with vocal DBs like Logan Wilson and Matt McDoom, fueling competitive fire on both sides.
“They’re always letting me know about it too. But they’re going to get the best out of me, and I’m going to get the best out of them.”
Camp Life: Embracing the Grind
Back at Camp Higher Ground for a second year, Sorsby is thriving where others might wilt. He’s one of the guys who likes the grind, the isolation, and the bonding—and he’s passing that energy to younger teammates.
“Just hang out with the guys that like to be here and hope that our energy rubs off on you.”
Would he stay longer?
“I’d stay two weeks... now that we’re going back after one.”
Final Word: Motivation is Quiet, But It’s There
While Sorsby remains humble, he admits he sees those preseason (quarterback) rankings—and he knows where he stands.
“I’m good buddies with a lot of those guys... but yeah, it’s motivation. I want to be the best in the conference. Regardless of the rankings.”
Bottom Line:
Sorsby enters fall camp looking leaner, sharper, and more in control. If he continues to elevate his chemistry with receivers and command in the huddle, don’t be surprised if he moves up those same rankings he’s not checking… but definitely sees.
Corleone was recently named to both the Bronko Nagurski Trophy (nation's best defensive player) and Outland Trophy (best interior lineman) watch lists for the upcoming season after earning All American honors the past two seasons. The Colerain High School product is also a three-time All-Conference selection.
Full Contact, Full Go
After being sidelined from contact drills last year due to a medical issue, Corleone is relishing every snap in 2025.
“It’s exciting. It’s a blessing, man. I don’t want to use the wrong word on here… but yeah.”
The difference?
"Night and day. No more holding back. No more watching from the sidelines. Just pads popping and plays being made."
Emerging as a Vocal Leader
Corleone admits he’s grown the most in his ability to lead out loud. His journey—from health concerns to camp warrior—has helped him appreciate every rep and every moment.
“This game could be taken away from you early if you don’t take all the small steps. I can’t stop smiling, man. I came a long way.”
Now he’s encouraging teammates, guiding younger linemen, and setting the tone for a unit that looks to dominate.
DL Room Upgraded: More Length, More Looks
With Micah Coleman and Jaylon White-McClain added to the mix, Corleone raved about the flexibility and firepower of the defensive line.
“Them game changers… now we got that length we’ve been missing. We can give different looks, put people in different spots to get after the quarterback.”
And with Marcus Parker stepping up under the mentorship of veterans, the Bearcats’ D-line depth might be its most dangerous weapon.
Iron Sharpens Iron: Going at it with Gavin
One of the most entertaining parts of Corleone’s session? His rivalry with offensive lineman Gavin Gerhardt.
“We’ve been doing competition the whole offseason. I think it’s tied 22.”
That battle is fierce, friendly, and foundational for Cincinnati’s physical identity. Corleone says those one-on-one matchups are making both units tougher—and hungrier.
Mental Focus: Locked in for the Final Ride
Corleone knows what’s at stake. This is his final season, and he’s dialed in like never before. Having clarity about his health, role, and goals has given him tunnel vision in the best way possible.
“This is the most I’ve practiced in years… just taking the game plan head on, leading my boys, doing the little things right—that’s going to take us a long way.”
Camp Life Perspective: A Vet’s Take on Higher Ground
While some younger players are already feeling the grind of camp, Corleone is embracing it.
“People hurting on day two. I’m like, brother—it used to be two weeks!”
He’s all in on the value of High Ground—as a physical and emotional bonding tool—and he’s helping the younger generation understand why it matters.
The Steak Dinner Scoreboard
While in Frisco, TX for Big 12 Media Days, it was rumored that Corleone ate a 72 oz steak for dinner....and also took one back to his room for a "snack" later that night.
In case you were wondering—yes, even a nose tackle gets rationed at the team dinner table while at Camp Higher Ground.
“Only one steak. I asked how many I could get. She said only one. I did a number on it.”
And no, he didn’t finish the second one he tried to sneak back later.
Bottom Line: Corleone’s Comeback is Complete
From medical setbacks to full-throttle leadership, Dontay Corleone is the emotional engine of Cincinnati’s defense—and maybe the whole team. He’s stronger, louder, and more appreciative than ever, and the Bearcats are feeding off that energy.
Next Up: Cincinnati’s defense is looking for a bounce-back—and they’ve got a leader who’s ready to deliver it.