Every once in awhile we run with something controversial that leads to a significant amount of debate on the subject. We had a lot of great posts, and some not so great anonymous posts, but since the majority of those not so good anonymous posts came from the same person over an over again I found it amusing.
My point in writing the article was to point out that there was a much better way for the athletic department to handle these type of things when they come up. I think most rational people can agree with that.
Once again we keep this place pretty positive during the year and are in a mode now where we judge by results on the playing field each week during the season. However this site isn't to be confused with the Ty Willingham Fan Club. You can't even come close to being objective or fair when you ignore the day to day reality (good or bad) that surrounds the way the program is currently being run.
I don't have a fire Ty agenda at all. I want to see the team win, the players to have fun, and the stadium to be full every weekend. I want to see our players graduate, stay out of trouble, and live to see a rebuilt Husky Stadium.
If Willingham is the guy that takes us there I have absolutely no problem with it. I will however continue to question his leadership at times when needed. Anyone who is 11-25 does not get a free pass on scrutiny and fair criticism.
Here are two posts that take opposing views that are very well thought out and deserve mention. I think both of these guys hit the nail on the head from opposing angles.
The first post is from ROB N who is one of our regular readers.
Alright, everyone and their mothers has thrown in their two anonymous cents. I'm frankly a little surprised at the fervor with which several guys have stood up for Ty. It, in some bizarre way leads me to believe that he must be doing something right in that if he's got these guys in his corner, he must be holding a certain level of favor amongst some of the important boosters and donors. Then again, 1/3rd of the country still supports George W.
Do your critics regarding this Queeg series realize you started this blog to bolster support for Ty? Minus a little jab in backtalk the other day, it seems you tend to give Ty the benefit of the doubt in football-related matters and have been quick to sing his praises when he succeeds, the recruiting class of '08 for example. I'm not sure where you stand on issues of Ty's employment, neither as the future coach of this program nor whether you could rewrite the past. It doesn't really matter. Your allegiance to the team and program has been unwavering, so good riddance to the idiots who won't allow you to expose a character flaw in a man you might still consider the best chance for the team's near or long-term success.
Coach blew it on this one. Maybe he'd take it back, I don't know. He ought to want to.
To all of those in Husky Nation who are sick of Ty Willingham as a topic, you must appreciate that he's Dr. Frankenstein as well as Captain Queeg (he created this monster). Except for the most resolute of the Montlake rabble-rousers, every Husky fan in the world would love to track Chris Polk's challenge for the permanent starting role. Would like a semblance of a depth chart at DT. Would be interested to know from what distance Ryan Perkins can still split the uprights.
That is all stuff we can talk about!
When Ty restricts the stories that come out of lower campus, the restriction itself becomes a story. Apparently Ty believes he can win an intelligence war with his football opponents and that will give him an edge that will lead to more wins. I wonder how many 4th quarter leads slipped away at Husky stadium because the place was only 3-4's full.
Is Ty a good coach? Has he been a victim of sub-par talent? The answers are debatable. He put together several winning seasons at Stanford, at least after he had the chance to put his team together. He had Notre Dame in the chase for a national championship, then left the program with a back to back BCS Bowl roster. Ironically, Willingham was chased out of South Bend for too man blowout losses, but at Washington it's been the narrow ones that have had us pulling our hair out. At best he's good, at worst he's bad. I guess he's always inconsistent.
Despite another tough schedule, this is likely TW's career-defining season. He had the chance to bring in some guys— any talent gaps will be tough to justify; he adjusted his supporting cast and any late game breakdowns should fall on his shoulders; for this season to be a success, he needs a signature win, an upset that sets the tone for the season. If Ty limps in with 6 wins, I'll still consider this year a failure.
If that's the case, he'll be lucky to get fired with the plausible deniability that he just got shafted again from an unreasonable and impatient fan base. He'll point to his off-field successes and make sure his future employers know just how bad the team was when he took the helm. He'll point to whatever lucky coach gets Jake Locker as a senior and call the 2010 Rose Bowl the house that Ty built.
If Ty can haul in 8 regular season wins, which I believe is more realistic than a lot of frustrated fans, then I think some people should just shut up. Not you, John, but some people. The Willingham era has been frustrating so far, but this team is very near a verge, very close to almost breaking out. Wins this year will largely come from one good recruiting class and one great recruiting class, a coaching shakeup, and Ty's ability to keep his team on his side despite the $#!+storm that has blown in. That would all be evidence of good coaching, his poor PR aside.
8 wins could mean a contract extension and perhaps the moment the tide turned, launching the golden age of TW's era and burying the bad memories of Neu and Gilby's wake.
I supported Emmert's decision to keep Ty on for this year because I felt it was both the honorable decision as well as the correct (or at least least premature) decision. My support wavers by the day. If the Dawgs can end the season with at least 8 wins (either 7 in the regular season + a bowl win or 8 in the RS and a bowl loss), I won't have to regret that support. Anything less and I'm done making his excuses.
Keep doin' what you're doin' cuz you're doin' it well. Your position as a blogger is important specifically because it frees you from needing that inner-office memo to publish your editorial when you know what's what.
Sorry for taking so much space. See you at Autzen?
The next post is from Husky Fan in NY.
While the Tyee office and/or athletic department could've handled it better, that's not the main issue here. So this guy wants to cry that he wasn't told nicely enough that he broke clearly stated rules?!?
Somebody call the WAAAAAAAMUMBALANCE!!!! THIS ISN'T NAM PEOPLE, THERE ARE RULES HERE!
People that get to attend practice have to agree to those rules and they know (or should) full well that these practices, particularly right now, are under strict scrutiny. For all things holy, we open AT Oregon! If any purple veins bleeding Husky fan can’t at least try to make it a point to just follow the rules as they are clearly stated then this wouldn’t even be an issue, but these guys just ignore the rules and the UW has said “ENOUGH”.
The UW has EVERY RIGHT to dictate the rules as they see them – it’s not just Ty either. James had closed practices, Lambo, and Gilby too. This program is bigger than some stupid fan that can’t keep his big mouth shut on message boards.What’s even more disturbing is that Dawgman lets these guys post those reports knowing full well that the UW doesn’t want to see that on message boards.
It’s like they set Ty up to look bad no matter what. Again, this is a huge game in 11 days and UW has a large advantage in having a new DC and is most likely engaging a bit of gamesmenship with the Locker injury and possibly some others. If one guy posts anything about his privileged access then other people might think it's ok as well and go into even more detail. If you can't handle the ramifications of breaking rules by which you agreed to abide, don't break them in the first place!
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Now You Know the Rest of the Story
You might have noticed the Captain Queeg posts in the blog the past two days and thought to yourself what the heck is going on? What is this leading up to? What does Captain Queeg have to do with Washington Husky football?
Well Husky fans, I have a very sad story to tell you.
Coach Tyrone Willingham has a new policy in force this year that the Tyee's who are invited to watch practices aren't allowed to post about their experience on the internet. Obviously they don't want anyone posting sensitive information that could result in an opponent gaining a competitive advantage. I can respect that. I do get information from friends that do attend practices and I do not post that information even though it is second hand.
A member over at Dawgman who is the nephew of Husky legend Bo Cornell went to a UW football practice last week. He wrote a positive post about his experience that had very little if any information about the practice.
This guy was totally pro Willingham and up till last week he actually believed that Willingham should be given an automatic five year extension. This guy was Willingham's biggest fan and I wouldn't be surprised if he didn't have a signed Ty poster on the wall of his bedroom.
When Willingham became aware of the post on Dawgman he had the athletic department track him down and permanently ban him from attending practices. His family who have owned the tickets for decades were threatened with the restriction of their Tyee privileges as further punishment.
Here is the post that raised Ty's ire, you be the judge. Was there a single thing in there an opponent could use? Did it deserve such a harsh reaction?
Was quite happy with the intensity and the effort that was being put forth by the players.
Got a chance to watch Donatell and JD work together with the defense. Lots of coaching and it was clear all the players were totally engaged and helping one another.
Some players showed some serious fire. Bulyca just exploded on a guy for slacking. I watched each line going through drills and there was absolutely no screwing around. Not putting anything out there, but I was quite happy to see a couple things.
Chris Polk isn't the only Polk with speed....wow. Chris Polk's family was there and they were having a good time.
I personally really like this coaching staff. Donatell is first class. Gervias is a total stud. I really hope it stay intact from the HC on down.
I have seen the recruiting process first hand and I think from a recruiting stand point they know what they are doing. Regardless of what many say.
If it is a 4 win season I would still be inclined to see TW another year. Though I don't think it would happen. There is a certain player with the number 10 on his jersey who loves playing for Willingham. Remember that when you bash the coach that there are others that take it personally and they know about it.
Considering this coaching staff and the level experience and their level of desire to be here this staff will not fail. Like Fleenor said we cannot pin the season on one player. They have got to put it together as a team
He sums his feelings up with this comment.
"This is what I get for being 4 year typologist.......dirt kicked in my mouth for supporting Ty and his coaching staff. I am saddened by this and have always looked forward spending this time with Dad and getting a chance to go to practice. I have shrugged off the mounds of complaints about Ty and didn't give them much weight. I can only imagine what the big donors must feel like."
So you fly off the handle and permanently ban this guy from going to practice and threaten his family with the restriction of their Tyee privileges after they have been contributing to the program for over thirty years?
How hard is it to make a friendly phone call and remind the poster of their Internet practice posting policies and retain a friend of the program?
If this was an isolated incident I wouldn't even bother posting it, but I get calls a couple times per week concerning the way Willingham treats current players, former Husky players, alumni, boosters and in this case the common fan who idolized him.
There are so many people out there that don't have a clue what the coach is doing behind his purple curtain. It is high time that people started getting a glimpse of the real Ty Willingham. It isn't very pretty.
Well Husky fans, I have a very sad story to tell you.
Coach Tyrone Willingham has a new policy in force this year that the Tyee's who are invited to watch practices aren't allowed to post about their experience on the internet. Obviously they don't want anyone posting sensitive information that could result in an opponent gaining a competitive advantage. I can respect that. I do get information from friends that do attend practices and I do not post that information even though it is second hand.
A member over at Dawgman who is the nephew of Husky legend Bo Cornell went to a UW football practice last week. He wrote a positive post about his experience that had very little if any information about the practice.
This guy was totally pro Willingham and up till last week he actually believed that Willingham should be given an automatic five year extension. This guy was Willingham's biggest fan and I wouldn't be surprised if he didn't have a signed Ty poster on the wall of his bedroom.
When Willingham became aware of the post on Dawgman he had the athletic department track him down and permanently ban him from attending practices. His family who have owned the tickets for decades were threatened with the restriction of their Tyee privileges as further punishment.
Here is the post that raised Ty's ire, you be the judge. Was there a single thing in there an opponent could use? Did it deserve such a harsh reaction?
Was quite happy with the intensity and the effort that was being put forth by the players.
Got a chance to watch Donatell and JD work together with the defense. Lots of coaching and it was clear all the players were totally engaged and helping one another.
Some players showed some serious fire. Bulyca just exploded on a guy for slacking. I watched each line going through drills and there was absolutely no screwing around. Not putting anything out there, but I was quite happy to see a couple things.
Chris Polk isn't the only Polk with speed....wow. Chris Polk's family was there and they were having a good time.
I personally really like this coaching staff. Donatell is first class. Gervias is a total stud. I really hope it stay intact from the HC on down.
I have seen the recruiting process first hand and I think from a recruiting stand point they know what they are doing. Regardless of what many say.
If it is a 4 win season I would still be inclined to see TW another year. Though I don't think it would happen. There is a certain player with the number 10 on his jersey who loves playing for Willingham. Remember that when you bash the coach that there are others that take it personally and they know about it.
Considering this coaching staff and the level experience and their level of desire to be here this staff will not fail. Like Fleenor said we cannot pin the season on one player. They have got to put it together as a team
He sums his feelings up with this comment.
"This is what I get for being 4 year typologist.......dirt kicked in my mouth for supporting Ty and his coaching staff. I am saddened by this and have always looked forward spending this time with Dad and getting a chance to go to practice. I have shrugged off the mounds of complaints about Ty and didn't give them much weight. I can only imagine what the big donors must feel like."
So you fly off the handle and permanently ban this guy from going to practice and threaten his family with the restriction of their Tyee privileges after they have been contributing to the program for over thirty years?
How hard is it to make a friendly phone call and remind the poster of their Internet practice posting policies and retain a friend of the program?
If this was an isolated incident I wouldn't even bother posting it, but I get calls a couple times per week concerning the way Willingham treats current players, former Husky players, alumni, boosters and in this case the common fan who idolized him.
There are so many people out there that don't have a clue what the coach is doing behind his purple curtain. It is high time that people started getting a glimpse of the real Ty Willingham. It isn't very pretty.
Captain Queeg Continued
Another episode which highlights Queeg's behaviors occurs when a quart of strawberries vanish from the wardroom icebox.Remembering how he helped solve a mystery involving a similar theft when he was an ensign earlier in his career, Queeg attempts to recreate his former accomplishment by insisting the strawberries were pilfered by a crewmember with a duplicate key.
Queeg orders every key on the ship collected, and a thorough search made. During the search, the captain is confronted with evidence that the messboys ate the strawberries. Queeg loses all enthusiasm for the search, though he orders it to continue, and it is continued in a desultory way amid public mocking of the captain.
To be continued...
Monday, August 18, 2008
Ty Speak on EJ Savannah
One of the more amusing things you can do during the day is watch one of Ty Willingham's press conferences on http://www.gohuskies.com/ . It gets very interesting watching Ty react to a question he doesn't want to hear and by the way that applies to most questions asked by the media.
Chris Fetter's from Dawgman decided to ask Ty about the status of EJ Savannah today.
A question was asked about E.J. Savannah and whether or not he would be available for the Oregon game with the amount of practice time missed, and Willingham asked if we had seen him at practice. A follow up was asked to find out Savannah's status and TW was unsure as to why the question would be asked. When asked if E.J. was on the team or off the team, TW simply said, 'Your eyes are as good as mine'. And it was left at that.
If you watch the replay of the conference, and watch Ty's face you get a pretty good idea that EJ may have played his last down as a Husky while Ty is head coach.
Ty had these comments on Jake Lockers return to practice.
"TW said that Jake did '100 percent' more than he's done since the injury because before that he was doing '0 percent'. He added that Locker won't be expected to be 100 percent for a while, and 'wouldn't even be 100 percent the day he gets there'."
When asked what he and doctors saw in Locker, Willingham said, "Jake. That's what we saw: Jake. Jake's eager, anxious and ready to get involved."
OK, so what in the heck does that all exactly mean?
Confer among yourselves.... .
Chris Fetter's from Dawgman decided to ask Ty about the status of EJ Savannah today.
A question was asked about E.J. Savannah and whether or not he would be available for the Oregon game with the amount of practice time missed, and Willingham asked if we had seen him at practice. A follow up was asked to find out Savannah's status and TW was unsure as to why the question would be asked. When asked if E.J. was on the team or off the team, TW simply said, 'Your eyes are as good as mine'. And it was left at that.
If you watch the replay of the conference, and watch Ty's face you get a pretty good idea that EJ may have played his last down as a Husky while Ty is head coach.
Ty had these comments on Jake Lockers return to practice.
"TW said that Jake did '100 percent' more than he's done since the injury because before that he was doing '0 percent'. He added that Locker won't be expected to be 100 percent for a while, and 'wouldn't even be 100 percent the day he gets there'."
When asked what he and doctors saw in Locker, Willingham said, "Jake. That's what we saw: Jake. Jake's eager, anxious and ready to get involved."
OK, so what in the heck does that all exactly mean?
Confer among yourselves.... .
Captain Queeg
Lieutenant Commander Philip Francis Queeg, USN, is a fictional character in Herman Wouk's 1951 novel The Caine Mutiny.
I am sure you have all seen the movie in which Humphrey Bogart does an excellent job playing the excessively paranoid Captain Queeg.
In the novel it quickly becomes apparent that Queeg is prone to eccentric behavior. Queeg displays an oppressive command style and is prone to unprovoked angry outbursts. From the first, he begins to make mistakes that endanger his ship. After refusing the assistance of his predecessor in command, he grounds the Caine on a muddy shoal his first time underway. He panics in a fog and nearly collides with a battleship, and passes the blame to his helmsman, starting a series of incidents that eventually results in a scripted court-martial and mental breakdown of the helmsman.
To be continued... .
I am sure you have all seen the movie in which Humphrey Bogart does an excellent job playing the excessively paranoid Captain Queeg.
In the novel it quickly becomes apparent that Queeg is prone to eccentric behavior. Queeg displays an oppressive command style and is prone to unprovoked angry outbursts. From the first, he begins to make mistakes that endanger his ship. After refusing the assistance of his predecessor in command, he grounds the Caine on a muddy shoal his first time underway. He panics in a fog and nearly collides with a battleship, and passes the blame to his helmsman, starting a series of incidents that eventually results in a scripted court-martial and mental breakdown of the helmsman.
To be continued... .
The Monday Morning Wash
This is the time of year when UW football beat writers start pulling their hair out. Conference teams are scrimmaging up and down the coast and the writers who cover Washington are just guessing whether UW had a scrimmage on Saturday or not. No word was given of a scrimmage before or after practice by Coach Tyrone Willingham.
We are talking some serious secrecy when a coaching staff doesn't even let you know if they plan on scrimmaging or not. Oregon on the other hand had a scrimmage on Saturday that was open to the media and public.
Bud Withers of the Seattle Times drove down to Eugene to take it in.
Nate Costa, believed to be the guy who will take the first snap when Washington visits the Ducks on Aug. 30, struggled in his first live action since injuring a knee last October, completing only 2 of 10 pass attempts and failing to get the Oregon offense into the end zone.
The results of this scrimmage were pretty mixed. Is the Duck defense so good that they smothered the UO offense, or is the offense in total rebuild mode right now?
Costa went up against the number one defense and had a tough day. Roper on the other hand went up against the #2 defense and looked like he was making a potential move to take over the starting job. The competition is getting very close and both QB's may see action against UW.
According to Ted Miller of ESPN most of the offenses in the Pac Ten struggled against the defense in scrimmages this past Saturday.
You will notice once again that there are no links to a Washington scrimmage because Willingham isn't talking. He may get around to it during his Monday press conference if he is in the mood.
Sounds like some of the Pac-10 offenses had trouble linking up
Looking Forward
This is the halfway point in camp and the number one goal Washington has this week is to get kids like Jake Locker, Brandon Johnson, Mike Gottleib, Byron Davenport, and Victor Aiyewa back into practice.
Most of us expected to see Locker back late last week. He has been throwing and running stairs, but he has not returned to full contact work.
The Huskies have double practices on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of this week. The final or first scrimmage of the year depending on if Willingham will let us know should be this coming Saturday.
UW has the day off next Sunday and on the following Monday starts its game week preparations.
Backtalk with Nathan Ware 2008
Nathan and I haven't done an edition of backtalk since spring practice concluded. This week we attempt to talk about the team in general as we march through training camp. Next week we will start focusing on the Oregon game.
Here's edition #1 of the 2008 season of my weekly talks with John Berkowitz, a fellow UW blogger who runs a successful UW blog on blogspot.com. John and I talk each week throughout the season and give our thoughts on what's happening with UW athletics.
Locker and Johnson are Back
Husky fans can heave a heavy sigh of relief today because Jake Locker was back at practice this morning. Also back in pads were tailbacks Brandon Johnson and Brandon Yakaboski. Safety Victor Aiyewa appeared to be going full speed, as did backup center Matt Sedillo, who was still in a red no-contact jersey. Cornerback Byron Davenport was not present. Freshman defensive tackle Alameda Ta'amu was also not on the field. As far as Ta'amu goes I think he is a kid they are going to be careful with ala Jaun Garcia which means he will only go once during two a days.
We are talking some serious secrecy when a coaching staff doesn't even let you know if they plan on scrimmaging or not. Oregon on the other hand had a scrimmage on Saturday that was open to the media and public.
Bud Withers of the Seattle Times drove down to Eugene to take it in.
Nate Costa, believed to be the guy who will take the first snap when Washington visits the Ducks on Aug. 30, struggled in his first live action since injuring a knee last October, completing only 2 of 10 pass attempts and failing to get the Oregon offense into the end zone.
The results of this scrimmage were pretty mixed. Is the Duck defense so good that they smothered the UO offense, or is the offense in total rebuild mode right now?
Costa went up against the number one defense and had a tough day. Roper on the other hand went up against the #2 defense and looked like he was making a potential move to take over the starting job. The competition is getting very close and both QB's may see action against UW.
According to Ted Miller of ESPN most of the offenses in the Pac Ten struggled against the defense in scrimmages this past Saturday.
You will notice once again that there are no links to a Washington scrimmage because Willingham isn't talking. He may get around to it during his Monday press conference if he is in the mood.
Sounds like some of the Pac-10 offenses had trouble linking up
Looking Forward
This is the halfway point in camp and the number one goal Washington has this week is to get kids like Jake Locker, Brandon Johnson, Mike Gottleib, Byron Davenport, and Victor Aiyewa back into practice.
Most of us expected to see Locker back late last week. He has been throwing and running stairs, but he has not returned to full contact work.
The Huskies have double practices on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of this week. The final or first scrimmage of the year depending on if Willingham will let us know should be this coming Saturday.
UW has the day off next Sunday and on the following Monday starts its game week preparations.
Backtalk with Nathan Ware 2008
Nathan and I haven't done an edition of backtalk since spring practice concluded. This week we attempt to talk about the team in general as we march through training camp. Next week we will start focusing on the Oregon game.
Here's edition #1 of the 2008 season of my weekly talks with John Berkowitz, a fellow UW blogger who runs a successful UW blog on blogspot.com. John and I talk each week throughout the season and give our thoughts on what's happening with UW athletics.
Locker and Johnson are Back
Husky fans can heave a heavy sigh of relief today because Jake Locker was back at practice this morning. Also back in pads were tailbacks Brandon Johnson and Brandon Yakaboski. Safety Victor Aiyewa appeared to be going full speed, as did backup center Matt Sedillo, who was still in a red no-contact jersey. Cornerback Byron Davenport was not present. Freshman defensive tackle Alameda Ta'amu was also not on the field. As far as Ta'amu goes I think he is a kid they are going to be careful with ala Jaun Garcia which means he will only go once during two a days.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
WSU Snags Three In State Recruits
Gino Simone, Kirby Moore and Jamal Atofau all committed to Washington State today. Atofau from Bellevue never showed any interest in Washington and that lack of interest was mutual. Simone and Moore are surprises because both have HS teammates playing at Washington and had official vists last week. Simone played with Willingham's son and was coached by current Husky RB coach Steve Gervais.
Washington is loaded at receiver and can survive without Moore, and Simone, but you hate to lose a couple of in state guys that you wanted. The uncertainty of Willinghams tenure after this season obviously played a big part in their decisions along with the chance of immediate playing time across the mountains.
UW needs to win some early games to solidify its next recruiting class. The news this week that Fellner and Coleman had committed is nice, but when you lose kids in your own backyard you have to start closely examining what you are doing.
Washington is loaded at receiver and can survive without Moore, and Simone, but you hate to lose a couple of in state guys that you wanted. The uncertainty of Willinghams tenure after this season obviously played a big part in their decisions along with the chance of immediate playing time across the mountains.
UW needs to win some early games to solidify its next recruiting class. The news this week that Fellner and Coleman had committed is nice, but when you lose kids in your own backyard you have to start closely examining what you are doing.
Puppy Chow
Deandre Coleman from Garfield committed to Washington this week. He is the top recruit from Washington and the top defensive tackle on the West coast. The only knock on Coleman is his grades. He has a long way to go over the next twelve months if he wants to avoid going the JC route to start his college career. Imeka Iweka from Rainier Beach was in the same category and never made it in. He is playing JC ball somewhere and the Huskies are no longer recruiting him.
Coleman has a cousin named Eric Smiley who is also a highly regarded recruit. He moved from Washington to Arkansas last year to get away from some not so great influences. He is currently spending the Summer working on his grandfathers farm in Alabama. The reason I mention Smiley is that he wants to go to Washington and he is the same caliber recruit that Coleman is. The bonus on Smiley is that grades are not a problem. You have to wonder why the Washington coaches haven't offered him yet. Seems like he would be a great package deal with his cousin.
The announcement by Coleman means Washington now has five commitments for the year. Expect the next two to come sooner than later. WR's Gino Simone and Kellen Moore are pretty close to popping the question. The only thing holding them back is the uncertainty around Willingham. With every commit that uncertainty begins to chip away. Add a win over Oregon in the first game and all the dominoes start falling into place.
Injuries
There are a lot of nagging injuries in camp this year. The latest on the list is Victor Aiyewa who has a groin pull. I just wrote a feature on Victor and no sooner than it was published he goes down for the count for a bit.
Injuries are part of training camp and they happen every year. Nobody at this point on the squad has been penciled out of the opener at Oregon, but you hate to see projected starters losing reps on a young team. All the players listed below are day to day except Anthony Gobern who is going to be red shirting.
Coleman has a cousin named Eric Smiley who is also a highly regarded recruit. He moved from Washington to Arkansas last year to get away from some not so great influences. He is currently spending the Summer working on his grandfathers farm in Alabama. The reason I mention Smiley is that he wants to go to Washington and he is the same caliber recruit that Coleman is. The bonus on Smiley is that grades are not a problem. You have to wonder why the Washington coaches haven't offered him yet. Seems like he would be a great package deal with his cousin.
The announcement by Coleman means Washington now has five commitments for the year. Expect the next two to come sooner than later. WR's Gino Simone and Kellen Moore are pretty close to popping the question. The only thing holding them back is the uncertainty around Willingham. With every commit that uncertainty begins to chip away. Add a win over Oregon in the first game and all the dominoes start falling into place.
Injuries
There are a lot of nagging injuries in camp this year. The latest on the list is Victor Aiyewa who has a groin pull. I just wrote a feature on Victor and no sooner than it was published he goes down for the count for a bit.
Injuries are part of training camp and they happen every year. Nobody at this point on the squad has been penciled out of the opener at Oregon, but you hate to see projected starters losing reps on a young team. All the players listed below are day to day except Anthony Gobern who is going to be red shirting.
- Jake Locker - Hamstring
- Byron Davenport - Ankle
- Brandon Johnson - Calf
- Mike Gottleib - Hamstring
- Juan Garcia - Foot
- Anthony Gobern - Shoulder Surgery
- Brandon Yakaboski - Hip Flexor
- Matt Sedillo - Minor Concussion
- EJ Savannah - Academic Problems
- Curtis Shaw - Personal Leave of Absence
Jake Locker is obviously getting closer to getting back on the field. I think if he had to play a game tomorrow he would be out there. Hammies can be a nagging injury if you don't rest and rehab them properly. UW wants Jake to be healthy all season so they are willing to sacrifice time this camp to achieve that goal.
Freshman making an impact
Kavario Middleton is really moving up the depth chart. Expect him to get plenty of playing time against Oregon in passing situations. Johri Fogerson and David Freeman have taken advantage of the absences of Yakaboski and Johnson. Both are on a track to play this season. Most of the receivers are in line for playing time. Jordan Polk, Jermaine Kearse, and Cody Bruns in particular have been very impressive. Devin Aguilar, and Anthony Boyles are also in the mix.
On the defensive line Alameda Ta'amu, Senio Kelemente, and Everette Thompson are all on schedule to play opening night. All three of these kids showed up in great shape ready to play. Senio missed the first couple of weeks of practice because of an NCCA Clearinghouse mix up, but the coaches love this kid. He has a motor that just won't quit.
Whats Happening
Tyrone hasn't announced it but the Huskies could be having their first scrimmage today with two weeks to go till the opener. Don't count on Jake or any of the players listed above to participate much or at all. UW has a goal of getting everyone healthy by the 25th of August. Game week practice is the most important week of camp and if a player misses that week his chances of playing against Oregon are not very good.
This hasn't been a very open camp. We speculated in the off season that Ty might loosen things up this year to give the media a better view of what is going on. That hasn't happened. In fact this is the tightest camp information wise he has run since he became coach at Washington. The press conferences haven't shed much light on where the Huskies are right now either.
I will be back later in the day with updates from practice.
Ryan Tolar - UW Difference Makers
Sophomore OG Ryan Tolar from Pasco has been a difference maker almost from the moment he arrived on campus. The coaches were very tempted to play him right away, but ended up wisely redshirting him to allow him to get rid of the baby fat and build some strength. Tolar is going to end up being a four year starter on the Washington offensive line, and he should be around to see the Huskies challenge for a conference championship before he leaves.
The thing I like best about Ryan is the intensity he brings to the team. This kid was born to be a Husky and plays every minute like it is going to be his last. He blocks very well, and has the ability to pull and lead which really gets the running game going. The kid is 6'5 320 so when he gets moving you really don't want to be in front of him.
Don't be surprised if he garners All Pac Ten honors at the end of the season because he is developing into the best lineman we have in a group of very good lineman. Last season he was named second team freshman All American, and this year he should be one of the better guards on the West Coast.
Ryan sat out this past spring to recover from an injury, but is currently 100% for fall camp. He is the official back up center in addition to his duties at offensive guard going into the season due to Garcia's injury. Matt Sedillo will be the starter till Garcia is ready, but Tolar will moved over in case of emergency. Ryan has really never played center, and it isn't an easy switch because of all the new line calls you have to learn. Hopefully Garcia is back to strength after the first bye week as planned.
Tolar takes protecting Jake Locker pretty seriously. When Locker was knocked out of the Oregon State game with a viscous borderline hit Ryan responded by getting ejected himself after going after throwing a nasty forearm under Alfalava's chin. Willingham may not have been publicly pleased, but Husky fans love the nasty attitude Ryan Tolar brings to the game. With all the cheap shots Jake received last season it is good for opposing teams to look at film and realize that Ryan isn't going to put up with that.
Ryan Tolar helps lead a veteran offensive line that are going to be difference makers for Washington this season.
The thing I like best about Ryan is the intensity he brings to the team. This kid was born to be a Husky and plays every minute like it is going to be his last. He blocks very well, and has the ability to pull and lead which really gets the running game going. The kid is 6'5 320 so when he gets moving you really don't want to be in front of him.
Don't be surprised if he garners All Pac Ten honors at the end of the season because he is developing into the best lineman we have in a group of very good lineman. Last season he was named second team freshman All American, and this year he should be one of the better guards on the West Coast.
Ryan sat out this past spring to recover from an injury, but is currently 100% for fall camp. He is the official back up center in addition to his duties at offensive guard going into the season due to Garcia's injury. Matt Sedillo will be the starter till Garcia is ready, but Tolar will moved over in case of emergency. Ryan has really never played center, and it isn't an easy switch because of all the new line calls you have to learn. Hopefully Garcia is back to strength after the first bye week as planned.
Tolar takes protecting Jake Locker pretty seriously. When Locker was knocked out of the Oregon State game with a viscous borderline hit Ryan responded by getting ejected himself after going after throwing a nasty forearm under Alfalava's chin. Willingham may not have been publicly pleased, but Husky fans love the nasty attitude Ryan Tolar brings to the game. With all the cheap shots Jake received last season it is good for opposing teams to look at film and realize that Ryan isn't going to put up with that.
Ryan Tolar helps lead a veteran offensive line that are going to be difference makers for Washington this season.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Victor Aiyewa - UW Difference Makers
Victor was one of those rare finds when he was recruited. He was a kid from Texas that had only played football for two years. Despite the lack of experience the sculpted safety from Texas earned time on special teams as a freshman last year because he just knocks the snot out of people and the Huskies were short handed. The coaches would have loved to have redshirted him, but his ability to elevate the play on special teams, and possibly get some time at safety when Jason Wells was injured accelerated the decision.
This spring he went out an won a starting job at safety. There is also a pretty good chance that he is going to be able to hold onto it during camp as Jason Wells works his way back from a knee injury. Victor and his back field mate Nate Williams really opened up some eyes this spring because they really began to lay some serious lumber.
Washington frankly hasn't had this type of talent and depth at the safety position for most of this decade. The last time we had this type of talent at safety was when Hakim Akbar, and Curtis Williams were leading the team to a Rose Bowl.
Safety is back at Washington, and the position is deep. Backing up Aiyewa, and Williams will be seniors Jason Wells, and Darin Harris who are both former starters. Behind those two you have walk on junior Tripper Johnson who ran with the two's most of the spring, and freshman Greg Walker from San Diego. Another probable addition in the next couple of weeks may be O'Dea's Johri Fogerson who has been impressive working out with the TB's during the first two weeks. With a glut of talent on that side of the ball Fogerson just may find a home over on defense. vince taylor is working with the receivers right now, but safety may also be his ultimate destination.
I list Victor Aiyewa as a difference maker in only his second year in the program because for the first time in nearly a decade we are going to have true enforcer over the middle. Look what Taylor Mays, and Patrick Chung do for their teams and you get a glimpse of what Victor's future at Washington is going to look like.
I am not forgetting CJ Wallace's, and Jason Wells contributions either, but the lack of depth, and talent around them really hurt the defenses that they led.
The Washington defensive backfield that has been maligned ever since the last Holiday Bowl loss against Texas is about to re-emerge from a long slumber. The young talent led by Aiyewa, Williams, and Richardson is ready to explode, but most importantly the positions are all four deep in quality depth. The biggest problem Washington has had under Willingham has been simply having enough DB's ready to play each week so they can execute the defense the way it has been designed. It is pretty tough to compete with only six healthy DB's, and the coaching staff has had to deal with that over the past three years.
In 2008 look for Victor, and Nate to have break out seasons, and be near the top of the list in 2009 when the media starts picking their pre season All Pac Ten defensive teams.
This spring he went out an won a starting job at safety. There is also a pretty good chance that he is going to be able to hold onto it during camp as Jason Wells works his way back from a knee injury. Victor and his back field mate Nate Williams really opened up some eyes this spring because they really began to lay some serious lumber.
Washington frankly hasn't had this type of talent and depth at the safety position for most of this decade. The last time we had this type of talent at safety was when Hakim Akbar, and Curtis Williams were leading the team to a Rose Bowl.
Safety is back at Washington, and the position is deep. Backing up Aiyewa, and Williams will be seniors Jason Wells, and Darin Harris who are both former starters. Behind those two you have walk on junior Tripper Johnson who ran with the two's most of the spring, and freshman Greg Walker from San Diego. Another probable addition in the next couple of weeks may be O'Dea's Johri Fogerson who has been impressive working out with the TB's during the first two weeks. With a glut of talent on that side of the ball Fogerson just may find a home over on defense. vince taylor is working with the receivers right now, but safety may also be his ultimate destination.
I list Victor Aiyewa as a difference maker in only his second year in the program because for the first time in nearly a decade we are going to have true enforcer over the middle. Look what Taylor Mays, and Patrick Chung do for their teams and you get a glimpse of what Victor's future at Washington is going to look like.
I am not forgetting CJ Wallace's, and Jason Wells contributions either, but the lack of depth, and talent around them really hurt the defenses that they led.
The Washington defensive backfield that has been maligned ever since the last Holiday Bowl loss against Texas is about to re-emerge from a long slumber. The young talent led by Aiyewa, Williams, and Richardson is ready to explode, but most importantly the positions are all four deep in quality depth. The biggest problem Washington has had under Willingham has been simply having enough DB's ready to play each week so they can execute the defense the way it has been designed. It is pretty tough to compete with only six healthy DB's, and the coaching staff has had to deal with that over the past three years.
In 2008 look for Victor, and Nate to have break out seasons, and be near the top of the list in 2009 when the media starts picking their pre season All Pac Ten defensive teams.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Kibbles
The team hosted the annual 101 club luncheon today. The media was not granted access to the players and Ty Willingham had little to share with the media during his press conference.
Over at TE Kavario Middleton is making a move up the depth charts. He is listed as the #2 behind Walt Winter with Mike Gottleib still sidelined by a strained hammy. Chris Izbicki has temporarily fallen to the bottom of the list. He entered a plea of not guilty today for a couple of misdemeanors he alledgedly committed at the White River Amphitheater. I have no idea of what he thinks he isn't guilty of since he almost broke a breathalyzer with his reading. I guess that is what attorneys are for. I am sure Chris will eventually be forgiven, but don't plan on seeing him play much or at all against Oregon.
The NCAA Clearinghouse admitted that may made a mistake concerning Senio Kelemente's transcipts and he should have been eligible from the start of camp. Not much you can do about the NCAA or the IRS when they make a mistake.
The Huskies have one practice today at 3:30 pm and then another two on Friday.
Ted Miller
Ted Miller continued his series of best case and worst case scenarios with Washington featured today. I like the best case scenario a lot better.
Ted's Best Case
After four lead changes, the Ducks, down 30-28 drive to the Huskies 25. After a QB sneak and a spike, four seconds remain and Matt Evensen comes out for the game-winning field goal.
Blocked, by freshman Kavario Middleton. The Huskies come home to a raucous Husky Stadium and crush No. 15 BYU 35-10.
Ted's Worst Case
Washington starts strong at Oregon, taking a 10-7 lead in the second quarter. But when Jake Locker tries to twist for an extra yard on a third-and-4 run, he hurts his knee. The offense falls silent, and the Ducks roll after halftime, 44-20. The next day, it's revealed that Locker is out for the rest of the season.
Ted's Absolute Worst Case
And Emmert then hires John Mackovic.
Nathan Ware
As usual Nathan puts out something interesting to ponder for Dawgfans.
If you ask any UW fan what UW needs to improve the most in 2008, most would say "play better defense". But, UW's biggest enemy in 2007 was the 2nd half. Obviously, defense is part of that equation. Consider these stats. Here are UW's games from 2007 with the halftime score of each game.
New Commit
Washington picked up a highly touted safety from Fresno California today when Nate Fellner announced he was going to attend UW. Fellner is rated as the 6th best safety recruit in California by Scout. This was good news for the program as Fellner joins four other recruits who have committed over the last thirty days. He chose UW over WSU, Stanford, and san Diego State.
Over at TE Kavario Middleton is making a move up the depth charts. He is listed as the #2 behind Walt Winter with Mike Gottleib still sidelined by a strained hammy. Chris Izbicki has temporarily fallen to the bottom of the list. He entered a plea of not guilty today for a couple of misdemeanors he alledgedly committed at the White River Amphitheater. I have no idea of what he thinks he isn't guilty of since he almost broke a breathalyzer with his reading. I guess that is what attorneys are for. I am sure Chris will eventually be forgiven, but don't plan on seeing him play much or at all against Oregon.
The NCAA Clearinghouse admitted that may made a mistake concerning Senio Kelemente's transcipts and he should have been eligible from the start of camp. Not much you can do about the NCAA or the IRS when they make a mistake.
The Huskies have one practice today at 3:30 pm and then another two on Friday.
Ted Miller
Ted Miller continued his series of best case and worst case scenarios with Washington featured today. I like the best case scenario a lot better.
Ted's Best Case
After four lead changes, the Ducks, down 30-28 drive to the Huskies 25. After a QB sneak and a spike, four seconds remain and Matt Evensen comes out for the game-winning field goal.
Blocked, by freshman Kavario Middleton. The Huskies come home to a raucous Husky Stadium and crush No. 15 BYU 35-10.
Ted's Worst Case
Washington starts strong at Oregon, taking a 10-7 lead in the second quarter. But when Jake Locker tries to twist for an extra yard on a third-and-4 run, he hurts his knee. The offense falls silent, and the Ducks roll after halftime, 44-20. The next day, it's revealed that Locker is out for the rest of the season.
Ted's Absolute Worst Case
And Emmert then hires John Mackovic.
Nathan Ware
As usual Nathan puts out something interesting to ponder for Dawgfans.
If you ask any UW fan what UW needs to improve the most in 2008, most would say "play better defense". But, UW's biggest enemy in 2007 was the 2nd half. Obviously, defense is part of that equation. Consider these stats. Here are UW's games from 2007 with the halftime score of each game.
New Commit
Washington picked up a highly touted safety from Fresno California today when Nate Fellner announced he was going to attend UW. Fellner is rated as the 6th best safety recruit in California by Scout. This was good news for the program as Fellner joins four other recruits who have committed over the last thirty days. He chose UW over WSU, Stanford, and san Diego State.
The Weekly Poll Question
Last week we asked how many games are the Huskies going to win this year?
Twelve - 4% (7 votes)
Eleven - 1% (1 votes)
Ten - 1% (2 votes)
Nine - 4% (6 votes)
Eight - 17% (29 votes)
Seven - 24% (40 votes)
Six -14% (24 votes)
Five - 10% (17 votes)
Four - 10% (17 votes)
Three - 4% (7 votes)
Two - 3% (5 votes)
One - 2% (4 votes)
Zero! - 5% (9 votes)
Most of the group felt the team would win between six to eight games this year. One thing that was interesting is the number of people who voted that they would go undefeated. If you are out there give us a reason in the comments section.
This week we ask:
Do you think the Huskies will beat Oregon in the Opener?
Twelve - 4% (7 votes)
Eleven - 1% (1 votes)
Ten - 1% (2 votes)
Nine - 4% (6 votes)
Eight - 17% (29 votes)
Seven - 24% (40 votes)
Six -14% (24 votes)
Five - 10% (17 votes)
Four - 10% (17 votes)
Three - 4% (7 votes)
Two - 3% (5 votes)
One - 2% (4 votes)
Zero! - 5% (9 votes)
Most of the group felt the team would win between six to eight games this year. One thing that was interesting is the number of people who voted that they would go undefeated. If you are out there give us a reason in the comments section.
This week we ask:
Do you think the Huskies will beat Oregon in the Opener?
This may be one of the most important games in Willingham's coaching career. If you win this one it is going to set the tone for the season and give Ty some breathing room. The Ducks come into this one favored by a couple of touchdowns. Nobody expects the Huskies to win, but don't tell the coaches and the players. They expect to win.
Montlake Jake Locker - UW Difference Makers
The legend in the Pacific Northwest is that when Jake isn't quarterbacking the Huskies he is practicing walking on water, turning water into wine, working toward solving the Israeli/Palestinian dispute, walking elderly ladies across Montlake Boulevard, and discovering the cure for cancer.
It is really hard not to like this kid because he personifies and is a throw back to everything that has been Husky over the past 100 years. You look into this kids eyes and you see a little Bob Schloredt, Marques Tuiasosopo, and Don Heinrich mixed in to his makeup. Make no mistake about it, this kid has the potential to be the best quarterback that Washington has ever had.
I bring up Bob Schloredt because he was a two way player at Washington. He played a ferocious safety, and he was an excellent QB who led his team to two Rose Bowls. Bob was known for his running more than his throwing. I bring up Don Heinrich because he just still may be the best passing QB we have ever had. One thing Heinrich, and Schloredt both had was great leadership skills and the ability to elevate the play of everyone else around them. Jake has the ability to run like Schloredt, throw like Heinrich, and lead like Marques Tuiasosopo. He also has the ability to play about anywhere on the field and be an All American. Jake would make one heck if a safety.
Jakes goal in 2008 is to complete 65% of his passes! Think about that for a minute, only three Washington QB's have thrown for over 60% over the past 60 years! His position coach Tim Lappano thinks it is a doable goal even though he only completed 47% last year while learning the offense. This past Spring he accomplished that goal in scrimmages, and in the spring game, he also has been doing that in informal preseason workouts, and his continued that in the first week of practice the fall.
This past spring the Husky offensive coaches spent some time hanging out with Urban Meyer and his staff in Florida watching the Gators go through spring drills. Lappano says it is just uncanny how similar Tebow, and Locker are in makeup. Lappano feels that Jake has the ability to put together a Tebow like season in 2008.
On offense all the pieces are there to make it happen because everything starts with an experienced and talented offensive line. The only questions are at receiver, and running back, but the players vying for those positions may just be the most talented group Washington has had to work with since the mid 1990's. If those kids jell early, and all indications so far have been positive, this could be a breakthrough season for the Washington offense, and Jake Locker.
Jake's goal for 2008 is simple, complete more passes, improve accuracy, and try to get out of bounds before taking viscous hits from the head hunting defenses that will be targeting him. Make no mistake about it, there will be someone shadowing Locker in every game he plays this season. He isn't going to sneak up on anyone anymore. If Jake gets close to 60% this team is going to go bowling in 2008. He only completed 47% last year, but his receivers didn't do him any favors because we would usually count around 5-6 dropped balls each week. If those balls had been caught there is a pretty good chance the team would have won 4-5 more games in 2007.
The players surrounding Jake in the skill positions may lack experience, but like we said above they have a lot of talent. I feel Jake now has the experience to go along with the ability to elevate the play of those inexperienced pieces. I look for Jake to have a big season in 2008. If he does the Huskies should return to a bowl game. Maybe if we are lucky a cure for cancer is just around the corner.
It is really hard not to like this kid because he personifies and is a throw back to everything that has been Husky over the past 100 years. You look into this kids eyes and you see a little Bob Schloredt, Marques Tuiasosopo, and Don Heinrich mixed in to his makeup. Make no mistake about it, this kid has the potential to be the best quarterback that Washington has ever had.
I bring up Bob Schloredt because he was a two way player at Washington. He played a ferocious safety, and he was an excellent QB who led his team to two Rose Bowls. Bob was known for his running more than his throwing. I bring up Don Heinrich because he just still may be the best passing QB we have ever had. One thing Heinrich, and Schloredt both had was great leadership skills and the ability to elevate the play of everyone else around them. Jake has the ability to run like Schloredt, throw like Heinrich, and lead like Marques Tuiasosopo. He also has the ability to play about anywhere on the field and be an All American. Jake would make one heck if a safety.
Jakes goal in 2008 is to complete 65% of his passes! Think about that for a minute, only three Washington QB's have thrown for over 60% over the past 60 years! His position coach Tim Lappano thinks it is a doable goal even though he only completed 47% last year while learning the offense. This past Spring he accomplished that goal in scrimmages, and in the spring game, he also has been doing that in informal preseason workouts, and his continued that in the first week of practice the fall.
This past spring the Husky offensive coaches spent some time hanging out with Urban Meyer and his staff in Florida watching the Gators go through spring drills. Lappano says it is just uncanny how similar Tebow, and Locker are in makeup. Lappano feels that Jake has the ability to put together a Tebow like season in 2008.
On offense all the pieces are there to make it happen because everything starts with an experienced and talented offensive line. The only questions are at receiver, and running back, but the players vying for those positions may just be the most talented group Washington has had to work with since the mid 1990's. If those kids jell early, and all indications so far have been positive, this could be a breakthrough season for the Washington offense, and Jake Locker.
Jake's goal for 2008 is simple, complete more passes, improve accuracy, and try to get out of bounds before taking viscous hits from the head hunting defenses that will be targeting him. Make no mistake about it, there will be someone shadowing Locker in every game he plays this season. He isn't going to sneak up on anyone anymore. If Jake gets close to 60% this team is going to go bowling in 2008. He only completed 47% last year, but his receivers didn't do him any favors because we would usually count around 5-6 dropped balls each week. If those balls had been caught there is a pretty good chance the team would have won 4-5 more games in 2007.
The players surrounding Jake in the skill positions may lack experience, but like we said above they have a lot of talent. I feel Jake now has the experience to go along with the ability to elevate the play of those inexperienced pieces. I look for Jake to have a big season in 2008. If he does the Huskies should return to a bowl game. Maybe if we are lucky a cure for cancer is just around the corner.
Puppy Chow
The only two skill positions set right now are QB and FB. You could say since Jake Locker has been out all week with a hamstring strain that position is also up in the air. You hate to see Jake lose work, but it is a good thing for Ronnie Fouch to get extra work since he is just a heartbeat away from having to lead this team.
It is good to hear that Paul Homer and Luke Kravitz are scheduled to get extra opportunities in games this year. I have always felt that they should get more of a chance to catch the ball coming out of the backfield and over the middle. It is a great changeup type of play. Both of these guys can knock down DB's like bowling pins when they catch the ball in stride.
Willingham is being pretty coy about the tailback position. We kept hearing rumors that Brandon Johnson was having trouble with his knee. Now we hear it is just a strained calf muscle which limits his work, but is not a season long reason for concern. Brandon Yakaboski is a bigger concern since he has a chronic hip flexor thing going. He has missed time in his two fall camps and during spring. He needs to get some reps to ever be a factor in this offense. I could see him moving over to LB at some point because they really like the three freshmen.
If you were playing a game tomorrow the pecking order at TB would be C.Polk, Griffin, Freeman, and Fogerson. Expect Freeman to burn his redshirt this season. The coaches really like the way this kid performs. I could see him as one of the possible answers out of the slot also.
Over at WR it looks like Vince Logan is going to be your starter opposite D'Andre Goodwin. Logan is a very good athlete who can catch the ball and block. He has had a good camp and has shown he can be very consistent. Cody Bruns, Jermaine Kearse, and Jordan Polk are all going to play a lot this year. All three of these kids have impressed so far. Walk on Charles Hawkins will be in the top seven and Chancellor Young is also going to get a fair shot at playing time. Aguilar has been coming on lately to make a bid. Boyles still looks pretty light but I doubt they red shirt him since he sat out last season. Vince Taylor is likely to redshirt and I still think his future is safety once the depth setlles out on this side of the ball.
Kelemete Cometh
Senio Kelemente was at practice yesterday and the coaches have indicated that they are going to give him every chance of cracking the rotation on the line. I saw a few pictures of him and he is a ripped 290 lbs.
We should find out about Craig Noble anytime. His test results are due to arrive any day. Having his big body out on the practice field is a real big plus. Ta'amu, Kelemente, Noble, and Thompson are definitely the foundation of future Rose Bowls.
Nathan Ware
Nathan is back at it over at his blog. Our weekly feature Backtalk with Johnny B will continue this season. We are working on the first edition this week.
So many good Pac-10 storylines for the upcoming season, let's take a look at some of the issues that we'll be tracking.- Is anyone going to steal the conference crown from USC this year? I've lost track of how many Pac-10 titles they've won in a row at this point (actually, they've won 5 in a row). 2008 should be another title season for them.
Bob Condotta
Hats off to Bob Condotta over at the Seattle Times. Bob kept his blog going almost ever day during the off season. Today he has an article with the Dawgfather.
It is good to hear that Paul Homer and Luke Kravitz are scheduled to get extra opportunities in games this year. I have always felt that they should get more of a chance to catch the ball coming out of the backfield and over the middle. It is a great changeup type of play. Both of these guys can knock down DB's like bowling pins when they catch the ball in stride.
Willingham is being pretty coy about the tailback position. We kept hearing rumors that Brandon Johnson was having trouble with his knee. Now we hear it is just a strained calf muscle which limits his work, but is not a season long reason for concern. Brandon Yakaboski is a bigger concern since he has a chronic hip flexor thing going. He has missed time in his two fall camps and during spring. He needs to get some reps to ever be a factor in this offense. I could see him moving over to LB at some point because they really like the three freshmen.
If you were playing a game tomorrow the pecking order at TB would be C.Polk, Griffin, Freeman, and Fogerson. Expect Freeman to burn his redshirt this season. The coaches really like the way this kid performs. I could see him as one of the possible answers out of the slot also.
Over at WR it looks like Vince Logan is going to be your starter opposite D'Andre Goodwin. Logan is a very good athlete who can catch the ball and block. He has had a good camp and has shown he can be very consistent. Cody Bruns, Jermaine Kearse, and Jordan Polk are all going to play a lot this year. All three of these kids have impressed so far. Walk on Charles Hawkins will be in the top seven and Chancellor Young is also going to get a fair shot at playing time. Aguilar has been coming on lately to make a bid. Boyles still looks pretty light but I doubt they red shirt him since he sat out last season. Vince Taylor is likely to redshirt and I still think his future is safety once the depth setlles out on this side of the ball.
Kelemete Cometh
Senio Kelemente was at practice yesterday and the coaches have indicated that they are going to give him every chance of cracking the rotation on the line. I saw a few pictures of him and he is a ripped 290 lbs.
We should find out about Craig Noble anytime. His test results are due to arrive any day. Having his big body out on the practice field is a real big plus. Ta'amu, Kelemente, Noble, and Thompson are definitely the foundation of future Rose Bowls.
Nathan Ware
Nathan is back at it over at his blog. Our weekly feature Backtalk with Johnny B will continue this season. We are working on the first edition this week.
So many good Pac-10 storylines for the upcoming season, let's take a look at some of the issues that we'll be tracking.- Is anyone going to steal the conference crown from USC this year? I've lost track of how many Pac-10 titles they've won in a row at this point (actually, they've won 5 in a row). 2008 should be another title season for them.
Bob Condotta
Hats off to Bob Condotta over at the Seattle Times. Bob kept his blog going almost ever day during the off season. Today he has an article with the Dawgfather.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Ty Speak
You have to wonder what Willingham is up to in his press conferences.
This is what we get for listening to the head coach, but it turns out Brandon Johnson is being sidelined because of his lower right calf, which he strained last Wednesday. This has to be good news to Huskies fans as we reporters ran with some inaccurate information from Tyrone Willingham, who said Johnson was out because of his knee, on which he had surgery in May.
All this time we were told it was bad knee, but not the case.
It will be very interesting when one of the beat reporters eventually gets Curtis Shaw on the phone.
Confident and sure, Perkins is determined to keep a job at which he was pretty successful last season.
Correct Grammar
I had a reader last week who is a fan and a former English teacher who offered to edit my blog because I keep making repetitive mistakes with comma's. I am going to take him up on the offer because reason #1 for doing the blog was to refine my lost writing skills. It is a very kind offer. It has been thirty years since the correct grammar and punctuation was beaten into me at O'Dea.
Hopefully he will go easy on the leather strap!
I think he also should volunteer to help out Molly Yanity from the PI. She seems to have her commas down, but she could use some help from our resident wordsmith.
"It should be able to the job," Perkins said.
Perkins said the kickers are kicking every day and he has "backed up pretty far."
When I asked him about the pain he endures he said, "Well, when it goes in, I don't really feel it.
A little bit afterwards, the pain might start to shoot, but it's a lot better when it goes in."
Jokes aside, Perkins spent the offseason strengthening his core, focusing on his abdomen and thighs.
"The quad has to do some overtime because it keeps the keen together," he said.
He did no kicking at all and stayed off the knee as much as he could.
I apologize for the excess of comma's but it could be worse as you can see above.
That is the nature of blogging. You pour it out in a ra ta tat manner and sometimes the rules go out the window.
This is what we get for listening to the head coach, but it turns out Brandon Johnson is being sidelined because of his lower right calf, which he strained last Wednesday. This has to be good news to Huskies fans as we reporters ran with some inaccurate information from Tyrone Willingham, who said Johnson was out because of his knee, on which he had surgery in May.
All this time we were told it was bad knee, but not the case.
It will be very interesting when one of the beat reporters eventually gets Curtis Shaw on the phone.
Confident and sure, Perkins is determined to keep a job at which he was pretty successful last season.
Correct Grammar
I had a reader last week who is a fan and a former English teacher who offered to edit my blog because I keep making repetitive mistakes with comma's. I am going to take him up on the offer because reason #1 for doing the blog was to refine my lost writing skills. It is a very kind offer. It has been thirty years since the correct grammar and punctuation was beaten into me at O'Dea.
Hopefully he will go easy on the leather strap!
I think he also should volunteer to help out Molly Yanity from the PI. She seems to have her commas down, but she could use some help from our resident wordsmith.
"It should be able to the job," Perkins said.
Perkins said the kickers are kicking every day and he has "backed up pretty far."
When I asked him about the pain he endures he said, "Well, when it goes in, I don't really feel it.
A little bit afterwards, the pain might start to shoot, but it's a lot better when it goes in."
Jokes aside, Perkins spent the offseason strengthening his core, focusing on his abdomen and thighs.
"The quad has to do some overtime because it keeps the keen together," he said.
He did no kicking at all and stayed off the knee as much as he could.
I apologize for the excess of comma's but it could be worse as you can see above.
That is the nature of blogging. You pour it out in a ra ta tat manner and sometimes the rules go out the window.
Juan Garcia - UW Difference Makers
Who is the last Rick Neuheisel recruit remaining on the Washington roster? I think that is a pretty easy question to answer because it is fan favorite Juan Garcia.
Juan was on all the national watch lists this year because he is rated as the #2 center on the West Coast behind California's Alex Mack who may just be the best center in the country. Everything was looking pretty good for the 6th year senior who had battled plenty of adversity to overcome injuries, and potential academic hurdles to last this long. Juan in fact didn't even have to come back this year because there was a pretty good chance that he would have been drafted last spring. After the Hawaii game he decided to come back for one more year to boost his draftability, and also help the Huskies get to a bowl game and save Coach Tyrone Willingham's job which was in jeopardy.
Everything was going on schedule until one afternoon in the Dempsey this spring when he was carted off the field after suffering the dreaded Lisfranc injury that ended Isaiah Stanback's career early at Washington. He had two options, have surgery which would have ended his career, or hope for a miracle that it would heal on it's own. As we near the end of the first week of camp all signs are encouraging that the miracle is close to happening as Juan has been able to participate in most non contact drills.
This week has been a big test because it has been the first time he has participated in contact drills to test the foot to see how it is doing. The coaches of course will be closely monitoring him and limiting his reps, but if all goes well we can expect to see Juan back in action for the BYU game even though his goal is to play against Oregon. If he doesn't have any setbacks that goal may just be a reality.
Right now he is inspiring everyone around him and making them work harder. Coach Denbrock said the other day that the conditioning of his line is excellent this year. Juan has inspired guys like Casey Bulyca to really turn it on this year. Most of these kids are in the best physical shape of their life.
As for 2008 Juan has a few things to work on other than his foot. He needs to improve his snapping in the shot gun formation. Too many balls were errant last season forcing Jake Locker to lose a fraction of a second fishing for the ball. The best thing Juan can do for the offense this year besides returning is improve in that area.
You really have to like this kid because he has made the most of his opportunity at UW after arriving in the program as what they used to call a Prop 48 kid. He has earned his degree, he has been an exceptional student, and most importantly whether he plays football in the NFL or not he has a bright future which will allow him to accomplish all his personal goals.
I don't think a kid ever failed at Washington who was a Prop 48. LB Anthony Kelley comes to mind who arrived the same way, last time I heard Anthony was considering going for his doctorate. The lesson to be learned is test scores, and GPA are not absolute guides when it comes to determining a future students ability to learn and achieve success.
Juan Garcia is a difference maker for Washington even if he doesn't play a single down in 2008. With the positive reports coming out of camp that is beginning to look very doubtful. Any player that inspires his teammates to push it to a new level is a difference maker in my book.
Juan was on all the national watch lists this year because he is rated as the #2 center on the West Coast behind California's Alex Mack who may just be the best center in the country. Everything was looking pretty good for the 6th year senior who had battled plenty of adversity to overcome injuries, and potential academic hurdles to last this long. Juan in fact didn't even have to come back this year because there was a pretty good chance that he would have been drafted last spring. After the Hawaii game he decided to come back for one more year to boost his draftability, and also help the Huskies get to a bowl game and save Coach Tyrone Willingham's job which was in jeopardy.
Everything was going on schedule until one afternoon in the Dempsey this spring when he was carted off the field after suffering the dreaded Lisfranc injury that ended Isaiah Stanback's career early at Washington. He had two options, have surgery which would have ended his career, or hope for a miracle that it would heal on it's own. As we near the end of the first week of camp all signs are encouraging that the miracle is close to happening as Juan has been able to participate in most non contact drills.
This week has been a big test because it has been the first time he has participated in contact drills to test the foot to see how it is doing. The coaches of course will be closely monitoring him and limiting his reps, but if all goes well we can expect to see Juan back in action for the BYU game even though his goal is to play against Oregon. If he doesn't have any setbacks that goal may just be a reality.
Right now he is inspiring everyone around him and making them work harder. Coach Denbrock said the other day that the conditioning of his line is excellent this year. Juan has inspired guys like Casey Bulyca to really turn it on this year. Most of these kids are in the best physical shape of their life.
As for 2008 Juan has a few things to work on other than his foot. He needs to improve his snapping in the shot gun formation. Too many balls were errant last season forcing Jake Locker to lose a fraction of a second fishing for the ball. The best thing Juan can do for the offense this year besides returning is improve in that area.
You really have to like this kid because he has made the most of his opportunity at UW after arriving in the program as what they used to call a Prop 48 kid. He has earned his degree, he has been an exceptional student, and most importantly whether he plays football in the NFL or not he has a bright future which will allow him to accomplish all his personal goals.
I don't think a kid ever failed at Washington who was a Prop 48. LB Anthony Kelley comes to mind who arrived the same way, last time I heard Anthony was considering going for his doctorate. The lesson to be learned is test scores, and GPA are not absolute guides when it comes to determining a future students ability to learn and achieve success.
Juan Garcia is a difference maker for Washington even if he doesn't play a single down in 2008. With the positive reports coming out of camp that is beginning to look very doubtful. Any player that inspires his teammates to push it to a new level is a difference maker in my book.
Pac Ten Alley
The loss of Curtis Shaw for the season may be one of the most challenging holes for Washington to fill over the next two weeks. The Huskies designed the position around Chris Polk and Curtis Shaw. Polk has moved to TB to take over for an ailing Brandon Johnson which means the two guys the position was meant for are no longer available.
Just guessing here but David Freeman and Jordan Polk sound like a couple of possible answers they may be looking at. Both of those guys have pretty good speed even though Shaw who was a true burner was faster. If you decide to go larger Kavario Middleton and Chancellor Young are looking for playing time. They both would give Locker a couple of bigger targets to look at.
Looking Ahead to Pac Ten Openers
The Pac Ten schedule kicks off on Thursday, August 28 with Oregon State playing at Stanford. This is going to be an interesting contest for both schools. The Cardinal are on the rise and an opening win over the Beavers would get some momentum going. Oregon State on the other hand is out to prove their program is reloading rather than rebuilding. I have to go with the Beavers but like any opener there is likely to be some surprises. This one is going to be a lot closer than people think.
ASU takes on Northern Arizona in their opener and it is exactly the type of shake down exhibition that Dennis Erickson needs to start the season rolling. This one isn't going to be much of a contest.
Arizona opens with Idaho and should be able to put up 50 points on the Vandals with their high powered offense. One of the interesting things to keep an eye on will be the Wildcat defense. If they give up to many points to Idaho it won't bode well for them in conference play.
Michigan State visits California in a big game for both schools. On paper this should be a pretty close game. This game is going to be a tossup with a slight edge to Cal because they are at home. MSU is a veteran team with most of their players coming back on offense and defense. The Bears are replacing a lot of talent but early reviews show that the players that are steeping in are pretty talented. Make no mistake, this is going to a be a big early game.
USC goes on the road to take on Virginia. Al Groh has done a nice job at Virginia and was named ACC coach of the year in 2007. The Trojans are struggling on offense in camp, but the boast the best defense in the country. USC won't need to score many points to beat these guys, but those lack of points will give pundits second thoughts about the Trojans invincibility.
Oklahoma State travels to take on Washington State in Seattle at Qwest Field. WSU is an unknown quantity this year with a new head coach, a rebuilding culture, and a team lacking some serious depth. The Coug's do have some tools on offense, and it will be interesting to see how Rogers does at QB. Oklahoma State is an offensive powerhouse and they should have no problem dominating the Cougar defense all night.
On September 1st Tennessee invades the Rose Bowl to play UCLA in a Monday night tilt. The Bruins are in rebuilding mode right now trying to break in a new QB in time for this big time opener who will play behind an offensive line filled with question marks. Rick Neuheisel loves big games but this is one he would rather pass on. Conventional wisdom says Tennessee should have no problem making a statement against the Bruins.
Pac Ten Alley
Now its time to take a walk down the coast to see what our neighbors are up to.
Oregon unveiled a huge new scoreboard for Autzen Stadium to show the Kenny Wheaton replay again on August 30th
The new scoreboard is up and running as of yesterday. Check out this video on the Register Guards website. This thing is HUGE!
Addicted to Quack responds to Ted Miller's best and worst case scenario for the Ducks in 2008.
In the last couple days, Ted Miller has been running through the best and worst case scenarios for each Pac-10 team. Today, he went over Oregon's. Reading this will get you excited and depressed all at the same time. The thing is, I could see it going either way. We have a very talented team. If the offense clicks, then many good things will happen.
Stanford announced today that Tavita Pritchard the hero of last years USC upset is going to be the starting QB for the opener. Tavita is the nephew of former WSU star Jack Thompson.
Ted Miller has a nice interview with him on his ESPN PAC Ten blog.QB position, they we will be screwed, especially if we can't get momentum early.
Stanford's defense is something to potentially get excited about in 2008.
For a defense that ranked near the bottom of most major Pacific-10 Conference statistics last season and then watched its up-and-coming coordinator leave for Michigan, Stanford seems awfully optimistic it can make stops this fall.
Here is a day eight practice report from Tucson.
The Arizona Wildcats' ninth practice in eight days was uneven early on, but turned competitive during 11-on-11 drills toward the end. Quarterback Willie Tuitama connected with Terrell Reese on a handful of passes, the longest one going for 50 yards. Rob Gronkowski caught a seam pass for about 30 yards. Freshman quarterback Matt Scott worked with the second-team offense again Monday and looked good. He turned the ball over when end D'Aundre Reed stripped him as he scrambled, forcing a fumble.
Darian Hagan is making an impression early in camp for California.
It's better late than never, and Darian Hagan appears to have figured out that much. A much-heralded recruit coming into Cal, Hagan may not have progressed as quickly as some would have wished. But his camp performance thus far suggests he could soon erase those sentiments, according to defensive coordinator Bob Gregory. Following Friday's practice, Gregory gave an update regarding the second cornerback slot. "I think Chris Conte is doing OK. I think Darian Hagan, right now after five days, is playing as good as he has played since he's been here, so that's really, really good to see," he said.
The Oregon State blog has been burning some gas and rubber going between Portland and Corvallis.
Building the DamNation, in our continuing effort to serve you in the best way possible, we bring you the finest practice reports money can't buy. We have searched and searched and driven from Portland to Corvallis a few times for your reading enjoyment.
USC's offense is sputtering in practice, but part of the reason is they are squaring off against the #1 defense in the country.
The running game was nearly non-existent and offense had a rough day against the defense, although the QBs looked poised. Aaron Corp started the scrimmage with the first team but Pete Carroll said it was merely his turn and not a sign of who replaces Mark Sanchez. The blocking needs to improve in the next scrimmage.
ASU needs to improve their offensive line in 2008 if they want to got to the next level.
Fifty-five last season was the number of sacks that ASU allowed in 13 games, a school record that brought no joy. Sun Devils fans probably can't read that sentence without grimacing. Fifty-five is painful. Fifty-five is the difference between the Holiday Bowl on Dec. 27, and the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day. Fifty-five is motivation.
Is it time to push the panic button at UCLA?
So on the second day after Ben Olson went down at Spaulding the Bruins had a sluggish day on offense (or a dominating one on defense from another pov). The sloppy offensive performance (to start the Monday of second week of Fall practice) led to Neuheisel making a comment about being “concerned” about offense, which set off immediate concern trolling by local reporters who seemed to be pouncing for the opportunity to hit the panic button.
Eyewitness report from Pullman.
That's right Crimson Nation, Cougar football is BACK. This morning the boys put on full pads for the first time this season and got after it. Having learned from my mistakes I made sure I had plenty of juice for my camera and came away with some good images of the morning's action on Rogers Field. There was a lot to see, so today I promise less jibber-jabber from yours truly, and more pictures of your 2008 Washington State Cougars in action.
BYU concentrates on the backups in scrimmage.
With several of BYU's offensive stars laying low, it didn't take long for their backups to break loose in Saturday's scrimmage at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Junior tight end Andrew George, redshirt freshman running back J.J. DiLuigi and true freshman wide receiver O'Neill Chambers shone in BYU's first full contact work of fall camp. Electing to keep starters like junior tight end Dennis Pitta, sophomore running back Harvey Unga and junior wide receiver Austin Collie on the sideline, the BYU coaches took a look at some talented second-unit players.
The Oklahoma offensive line will be one of the nations best in 2008.
Oklahoma’s offensive line has the three things that all coaches want that particular unit to have – size, strength and depth. The starting five are all seniors and stand tall with Loadholt (6-8/337), Robinson (6-5/335), Cooper (6-3/290), Walker (6-3/284) and Braxton (6-6/304). That is an average of (6-5/310) just in case you were wondering.
The Domer Sports Report reflects on the rebuilding process.
It seems idiotic to even imply that Notre Dame could be the biggest surprise team in 2008 but the statement alone makes everyone realize how far it is the Irish have fallen. One year ago they were coming off of back-to-back BCS appearances and seemed primed for the spotlight for years to come once again. However, 3 wins and 9 losses later they enter 2008 looking to gain back some of the respect that was lost on the national level a year ago.
Just guessing here but David Freeman and Jordan Polk sound like a couple of possible answers they may be looking at. Both of those guys have pretty good speed even though Shaw who was a true burner was faster. If you decide to go larger Kavario Middleton and Chancellor Young are looking for playing time. They both would give Locker a couple of bigger targets to look at.
Looking Ahead to Pac Ten Openers
The Pac Ten schedule kicks off on Thursday, August 28 with Oregon State playing at Stanford. This is going to be an interesting contest for both schools. The Cardinal are on the rise and an opening win over the Beavers would get some momentum going. Oregon State on the other hand is out to prove their program is reloading rather than rebuilding. I have to go with the Beavers but like any opener there is likely to be some surprises. This one is going to be a lot closer than people think.
ASU takes on Northern Arizona in their opener and it is exactly the type of shake down exhibition that Dennis Erickson needs to start the season rolling. This one isn't going to be much of a contest.
Arizona opens with Idaho and should be able to put up 50 points on the Vandals with their high powered offense. One of the interesting things to keep an eye on will be the Wildcat defense. If they give up to many points to Idaho it won't bode well for them in conference play.
Michigan State visits California in a big game for both schools. On paper this should be a pretty close game. This game is going to be a tossup with a slight edge to Cal because they are at home. MSU is a veteran team with most of their players coming back on offense and defense. The Bears are replacing a lot of talent but early reviews show that the players that are steeping in are pretty talented. Make no mistake, this is going to a be a big early game.
USC goes on the road to take on Virginia. Al Groh has done a nice job at Virginia and was named ACC coach of the year in 2007. The Trojans are struggling on offense in camp, but the boast the best defense in the country. USC won't need to score many points to beat these guys, but those lack of points will give pundits second thoughts about the Trojans invincibility.
Oklahoma State travels to take on Washington State in Seattle at Qwest Field. WSU is an unknown quantity this year with a new head coach, a rebuilding culture, and a team lacking some serious depth. The Coug's do have some tools on offense, and it will be interesting to see how Rogers does at QB. Oklahoma State is an offensive powerhouse and they should have no problem dominating the Cougar defense all night.
On September 1st Tennessee invades the Rose Bowl to play UCLA in a Monday night tilt. The Bruins are in rebuilding mode right now trying to break in a new QB in time for this big time opener who will play behind an offensive line filled with question marks. Rick Neuheisel loves big games but this is one he would rather pass on. Conventional wisdom says Tennessee should have no problem making a statement against the Bruins.
Pac Ten Alley
Now its time to take a walk down the coast to see what our neighbors are up to.
Oregon unveiled a huge new scoreboard for Autzen Stadium to show the Kenny Wheaton replay again on August 30th
The new scoreboard is up and running as of yesterday. Check out this video on the Register Guards website. This thing is HUGE!
Addicted to Quack responds to Ted Miller's best and worst case scenario for the Ducks in 2008.
In the last couple days, Ted Miller has been running through the best and worst case scenarios for each Pac-10 team. Today, he went over Oregon's. Reading this will get you excited and depressed all at the same time. The thing is, I could see it going either way. We have a very talented team. If the offense clicks, then many good things will happen.
Stanford announced today that Tavita Pritchard the hero of last years USC upset is going to be the starting QB for the opener. Tavita is the nephew of former WSU star Jack Thompson.
Ted Miller has a nice interview with him on his ESPN PAC Ten blog.QB position, they we will be screwed, especially if we can't get momentum early.
Stanford's defense is something to potentially get excited about in 2008.
For a defense that ranked near the bottom of most major Pacific-10 Conference statistics last season and then watched its up-and-coming coordinator leave for Michigan, Stanford seems awfully optimistic it can make stops this fall.
Here is a day eight practice report from Tucson.
The Arizona Wildcats' ninth practice in eight days was uneven early on, but turned competitive during 11-on-11 drills toward the end. Quarterback Willie Tuitama connected with Terrell Reese on a handful of passes, the longest one going for 50 yards. Rob Gronkowski caught a seam pass for about 30 yards. Freshman quarterback Matt Scott worked with the second-team offense again Monday and looked good. He turned the ball over when end D'Aundre Reed stripped him as he scrambled, forcing a fumble.
Darian Hagan is making an impression early in camp for California.
It's better late than never, and Darian Hagan appears to have figured out that much. A much-heralded recruit coming into Cal, Hagan may not have progressed as quickly as some would have wished. But his camp performance thus far suggests he could soon erase those sentiments, according to defensive coordinator Bob Gregory. Following Friday's practice, Gregory gave an update regarding the second cornerback slot. "I think Chris Conte is doing OK. I think Darian Hagan, right now after five days, is playing as good as he has played since he's been here, so that's really, really good to see," he said.
The Oregon State blog has been burning some gas and rubber going between Portland and Corvallis.
Building the DamNation, in our continuing effort to serve you in the best way possible, we bring you the finest practice reports money can't buy. We have searched and searched and driven from Portland to Corvallis a few times for your reading enjoyment.
USC's offense is sputtering in practice, but part of the reason is they are squaring off against the #1 defense in the country.
The running game was nearly non-existent and offense had a rough day against the defense, although the QBs looked poised. Aaron Corp started the scrimmage with the first team but Pete Carroll said it was merely his turn and not a sign of who replaces Mark Sanchez. The blocking needs to improve in the next scrimmage.
ASU needs to improve their offensive line in 2008 if they want to got to the next level.
Fifty-five last season was the number of sacks that ASU allowed in 13 games, a school record that brought no joy. Sun Devils fans probably can't read that sentence without grimacing. Fifty-five is painful. Fifty-five is the difference between the Holiday Bowl on Dec. 27, and the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day. Fifty-five is motivation.
Is it time to push the panic button at UCLA?
So on the second day after Ben Olson went down at Spaulding the Bruins had a sluggish day on offense (or a dominating one on defense from another pov). The sloppy offensive performance (to start the Monday of second week of Fall practice) led to Neuheisel making a comment about being “concerned” about offense, which set off immediate concern trolling by local reporters who seemed to be pouncing for the opportunity to hit the panic button.
Eyewitness report from Pullman.
That's right Crimson Nation, Cougar football is BACK. This morning the boys put on full pads for the first time this season and got after it. Having learned from my mistakes I made sure I had plenty of juice for my camera and came away with some good images of the morning's action on Rogers Field. There was a lot to see, so today I promise less jibber-jabber from yours truly, and more pictures of your 2008 Washington State Cougars in action.
BYU concentrates on the backups in scrimmage.
With several of BYU's offensive stars laying low, it didn't take long for their backups to break loose in Saturday's scrimmage at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Junior tight end Andrew George, redshirt freshman running back J.J. DiLuigi and true freshman wide receiver O'Neill Chambers shone in BYU's first full contact work of fall camp. Electing to keep starters like junior tight end Dennis Pitta, sophomore running back Harvey Unga and junior wide receiver Austin Collie on the sideline, the BYU coaches took a look at some talented second-unit players.
The Oklahoma offensive line will be one of the nations best in 2008.
Oklahoma’s offensive line has the three things that all coaches want that particular unit to have – size, strength and depth. The starting five are all seniors and stand tall with Loadholt (6-8/337), Robinson (6-5/335), Cooper (6-3/290), Walker (6-3/284) and Braxton (6-6/304). That is an average of (6-5/310) just in case you were wondering.
The Domer Sports Report reflects on the rebuilding process.
It seems idiotic to even imply that Notre Dame could be the biggest surprise team in 2008 but the statement alone makes everyone realize how far it is the Irish have fallen. One year ago they were coming off of back-to-back BCS appearances and seemed primed for the spotlight for years to come once again. However, 3 wins and 9 losses later they enter 2008 looking to gain back some of the respect that was lost on the national level a year ago.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Puppy Chow
TE Mike Gottleib has a pulled hamstring and Walt Winter has been elevated to #1 TE. You would have thought that Izbicki would have moved to #1 but off field problems this past summer is one reason it isn't happening. Another eason is Winter just might be the best blocker and blocking is a more important requirement at this time than pass catching at TE. Kavario Middleton is still swimming like all freshman do. Once he gets the play book down he is still going to need a year in the program to put on the muscle required to block efficiently. With two and a half weeks till the Oregon game Gottleib is going to be most likely ready to play anyway.
Coach Willingham expects Curtis Shaw to return to the program once his family issues are worked out. No timetable on that one but we have heard whispers that it may not till be spring.
Alameda Ta'amu has made a good impression this camp and is expected to join the rotation at defensive tackle. Senio Kelemente should join the team no later than the end of the week. Craig Noble should be getting his test results very soon. If they are positive expect him to hop a plane and be here the next day.
Nathan Ware is Back!
Nathan Ware is back at it after vacillating for the past month on whether he wanted to continue doing his blog. We are all glad that Nathan decided to continue because he does a fantastic job each day.
Part of my hesitation has been my lack of anything good to say. Like many of you, I'd describe my fanhood as "highly irritated" given the state of current affairs. I felt like if I didn't have something good to say I shouldn't say anything at all.
I can feel the pain Nathan.
Coach Willingham expects Curtis Shaw to return to the program once his family issues are worked out. No timetable on that one but we have heard whispers that it may not till be spring.
Alameda Ta'amu has made a good impression this camp and is expected to join the rotation at defensive tackle. Senio Kelemente should join the team no later than the end of the week. Craig Noble should be getting his test results very soon. If they are positive expect him to hop a plane and be here the next day.
Nathan Ware is Back!
Nathan Ware is back at it after vacillating for the past month on whether he wanted to continue doing his blog. We are all glad that Nathan decided to continue because he does a fantastic job each day.
Part of my hesitation has been my lack of anything good to say. Like many of you, I'd describe my fanhood as "highly irritated" given the state of current affairs. I felt like if I didn't have something good to say I shouldn't say anything at all.
I can feel the pain Nathan.
Mesphin Forrester - UW Difference Makers
Mesphin was almost an after thought for most Husky fans when he was recruited. He came in with a DB class that included Okeobor, Bankhead, Sanders, Harris, and Goldson. Okeobor had a string of terrible knee injuries, Bankhead never got in, Sanders dropped out his first year, Goldson only played two years because he had to go the JC route, and Harris had to sit out a full year with a back injury. Five years later the most important DB recruit in that class turns out to be Mesphin Forrester.
He has played both corner, and safety, but as one observer told me he was a cornerback in safeties body. you could see him struggle a bit with the position in 2007 when Jason Wells went down. His best moments have been playing in the nickel. This year he moves to CB fulltime and is trying to hold off Byon Davenport for one of the starting positions. No matter who gets the starting nod both will play quite a bit in 2008.
The thing I like best about Mesphin are his hands. The kid rarely drops the ball when it is thrown at him, and that has resulted in some pretty big interceptions since he landed on campus. his biggest was alst season when he returned one for 54 yards against USC. I think he will thrive at CB this year because he has plenty of experience, and the less physical side of the field suits him much better than safety. I think it is a great move because now you have a physical, experienced cornerback, 6'2 200, as opposed to a kid that may just not be physical enough for safety.
This is Mesphin's 5th year on campus, and he is one of the survivors of Gilbertson's one and only recruiting class. Only 15 of the 23 ended up playing at Washington, and only nine iron men remain from what was supposed to be a top twenty recruiting class. These kids have been through a lot over the past five years, and it would be great if Mesphin and his fellow seniors could finish up their careers with a bowl game in 2008.
He has played both corner, and safety, but as one observer told me he was a cornerback in safeties body. you could see him struggle a bit with the position in 2007 when Jason Wells went down. His best moments have been playing in the nickel. This year he moves to CB fulltime and is trying to hold off Byon Davenport for one of the starting positions. No matter who gets the starting nod both will play quite a bit in 2008.
The thing I like best about Mesphin are his hands. The kid rarely drops the ball when it is thrown at him, and that has resulted in some pretty big interceptions since he landed on campus. his biggest was alst season when he returned one for 54 yards against USC. I think he will thrive at CB this year because he has plenty of experience, and the less physical side of the field suits him much better than safety. I think it is a great move because now you have a physical, experienced cornerback, 6'2 200, as opposed to a kid that may just not be physical enough for safety.
This is Mesphin's 5th year on campus, and he is one of the survivors of Gilbertson's one and only recruiting class. Only 15 of the 23 ended up playing at Washington, and only nine iron men remain from what was supposed to be a top twenty recruiting class. These kids have been through a lot over the past five years, and it would be great if Mesphin and his fellow seniors could finish up their careers with a bowl game in 2008.
Ed Donatell - UW Difference Makers
When UCLA's Dewayne Walker decided to stay on with UCLA after being passed up for the head coaching position many Husky fans were disappointed. Walker is a good coach with excellent recruiting ties in Southern California. Those recruiting ties made him even more valuable to a Northwest school.
I personally always thought of Walker as more of a flavor of the month type of guy, so when he passed on Washington I wasn't too upset. Its no knock on Walker, but it wasn't like he was the only guy in the country who could coach a defense.
When the Huskies hired Donatell I really got excited. What Ed brings to the program is a lot of experience from the NFL, plus the type of bloodlines we like since he started his career at Washington under Don James, spent time with Keith Gilbertson at Idaho, and was the DC for the Atlanta Falcons under Jim Mora Jr..
Ed has spent 12 of the last 13 seasons as an assistant coach and defensive coordinator in the National Football League and has coached 12 players who have earned Pro Bowl recognition. Last season he was a special assistant with the New York Jets. He served as defensive coordinator from 2004-06 for the Atlanta Falcons.
Prior to his time in Atlanta, he served four seasons as Green Bay's defensive coordinator under Mike Sherman. During his stint in Green Bay, Donatell's defense led the NFL with 144 takeaways, an average of 36 a year and led the league with 2.25 forced turnovers per game.
Even though his defense hasn't played a down yet he has fans and players excited. Practices this spring indicated that he was capable of providing the most maligned defense in Husky history with a complete 180 degree turnaround. Part of that turn around will come from being in the right place, at the right time. Kent Baer never had the tools at his disposal that Donatell will have this season in the defensive backfield. To be fair to Baer he had around six guys each season he could count on over the past three years. Donatell on the other hand will have plenty of depth, talent, and experience back there in 2008.
Washington has a proud defensive tradition that goes back to the days of Jim Owens. Win or lose when you play the Huskies you were going to hurt the next week. In fact teams often lost the next week after Washington softened them up. For some reason that began to fade under Neuheisel, and under Willingham it became non existent.
Husky fans love an attacking defense, and Donatell promises to return that attacking tradition to the football field in 2008. You aren't going to recognize these guys this season. No more lining up ten yards off the line of scrimmage. This defense is going to take its chances and start playing aggressively to win rather than passively not to lose.
Ed Donatell is going to be the biggest Husky difference maker in 2008 if he can turn around a defense that ranked 94th nationally last year in scoring defense (giving up 31+ points per game), 99th in pass defense (261+ yards per game and 27 touchdowns) and pass efficiency defense, and 102nd in total defense.
I personally always thought of Walker as more of a flavor of the month type of guy, so when he passed on Washington I wasn't too upset. Its no knock on Walker, but it wasn't like he was the only guy in the country who could coach a defense.
When the Huskies hired Donatell I really got excited. What Ed brings to the program is a lot of experience from the NFL, plus the type of bloodlines we like since he started his career at Washington under Don James, spent time with Keith Gilbertson at Idaho, and was the DC for the Atlanta Falcons under Jim Mora Jr..
Ed has spent 12 of the last 13 seasons as an assistant coach and defensive coordinator in the National Football League and has coached 12 players who have earned Pro Bowl recognition. Last season he was a special assistant with the New York Jets. He served as defensive coordinator from 2004-06 for the Atlanta Falcons.
Prior to his time in Atlanta, he served four seasons as Green Bay's defensive coordinator under Mike Sherman. During his stint in Green Bay, Donatell's defense led the NFL with 144 takeaways, an average of 36 a year and led the league with 2.25 forced turnovers per game.
Even though his defense hasn't played a down yet he has fans and players excited. Practices this spring indicated that he was capable of providing the most maligned defense in Husky history with a complete 180 degree turnaround. Part of that turn around will come from being in the right place, at the right time. Kent Baer never had the tools at his disposal that Donatell will have this season in the defensive backfield. To be fair to Baer he had around six guys each season he could count on over the past three years. Donatell on the other hand will have plenty of depth, talent, and experience back there in 2008.
Washington has a proud defensive tradition that goes back to the days of Jim Owens. Win or lose when you play the Huskies you were going to hurt the next week. In fact teams often lost the next week after Washington softened them up. For some reason that began to fade under Neuheisel, and under Willingham it became non existent.
Husky fans love an attacking defense, and Donatell promises to return that attacking tradition to the football field in 2008. You aren't going to recognize these guys this season. No more lining up ten yards off the line of scrimmage. This defense is going to take its chances and start playing aggressively to win rather than passively not to lose.
Ed Donatell is going to be the biggest Husky difference maker in 2008 if he can turn around a defense that ranked 94th nationally last year in scoring defense (giving up 31+ points per game), 99th in pass defense (261+ yards per game and 27 touchdowns) and pass efficiency defense, and 102nd in total defense.
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