Quietly, ex-Husker Licht helps Patriots stay strong
By Dirk Chatelain WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITER Published Saturday April 28, 2012
Born in Fremont, Licht grew up in Yuma, Colo. — his dad was in the irrigation business. He cheered the Big Red and attended a game every year. When he was in high school, NU recruited him as a walk-on. He joined the freshman class of Will Shields and Trev Alberts.
He began his career at linebacker. Then McBride made a schematic change that became quite famous. He switched from a 5-2 to a 4-3. Suddenly there was a glut of middle linebackers. Licht moved to guard and joined the scout team. Assistant Kevin Steele gave him the task of lead-blocking on isolation plays. At 235 pounds, he was no match for Kenny Walker, Mike Croel and Mike Petko. “My bell got rung like you wouldn't believe,” Licht said.
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In New England, “it stops and starts” with Belichick. “He's one of the only coaches that can run it all, that has the focus and intelligence.” In 2011, the Patriots had 18 undrafted players, Licht said. It's not always about finding the best talent, it's about finding the right pieces. Belichick has a specific vision for building a team. He finds ways to gain an edge. Acquiring versatile players like Woodhead and Julian Edelman. Getting rid of stars whose production no longer merits their paycheck. It's better to part ways with a player too early than too late. Belichick cares only about winning, Licht says.
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