Outlining transfer Michael “Flip” Dixon’s skillset

In December, defensive back Michael “Flip” Dixon officially joined Rutgers football via the transfer portal from Minnesota. As a safety, he brings some good experience to the Rutgers backend.

While at Minnesota, Dixon started six games. In 30 career games, Dixon totaled 45 tackles, one interception, and three pass breakups. Before entering the transfer portal, the new Scarlet Knight was a two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree.

In 2019, the Georgia native was a three-star prospect in high school. Attending Southeast Bulloch High School, Dixon was named all-region in  2017, 2018, and 2019. During Dixon’s senior season, the defensive back recorded 47 tackles, three interceptions, two defensive touchdowns, and six pass breakups. According to 247Sports, Dixon was the No. 77 ranked recruit in Georgia and the No. 63 safety in the nation.

Evaluating Dixon’s skillset

Out of Statesboro, Georgia, the 6-2 210 lbs defensive back has experience playing in the Big Ten. In Minnesota, Dixon played safety for the Golden Gophers. Dixon showed signs of development during his sophomore year, recording 28 tackles in 11 games. His best performance came against Wisconsin, logging seven solo tackles in a 23-16 victory.

True freshman safety Michael Dixon (No. 11) saw a few snaps during Friday’s game against Iowa. He showed off his range, physicality and tackling skills around the box. I’m excited to watch him play more. #Gophers pic.twitter.com/TilbEyqhlp

— Daniel House (@DanielHouseNFL) November 15, 2020

Dixon is a good sized safety that can either roll down to the linebacker position to stop the run or play free safety roaming the middle of the field. He is an excellent tackler that is not scared to lower his shoulder to make a big hit. Dixon has experience playing wide receiver in high school, using his ball-hawk skills on defense. For a defensive back, Dixon has excellent hands and can make difficult catches.

His experience playing in the Big Ten will help the…