2009 Record: 10-4
2009 Bowl: Texas Bowl (beat Missouri 35-13)
Final 2009 AP Ranking: Not Ranked (received 85 points placing them 28th)
Head Coach: Ken Niumatalolo (18-10 All-Time)
Schedule: Maryland (9/6), Georgia Southern (9/11), at Louisiana Tech (9/18), at Air Force (10/2), at Wake Forest (10/9), SMU (10/16), Notre Dame (10/23), Duke (10/30), at East Carolina (11/6), Central Michigan (11/13), Arkansas State (11/20), Army (12/11)
2009 Offensive Statistics
Scoring: 28.0 points per game (57th in Nation)
Rushing Yards/Game: 280 (4th in Nation)
Passing Yards/Game: 75 (119th in Nation)
Total Yards/Game: 356 (77th in Nation)
2009 Defensive Statistics
Scoring: 19.4 points per game (18th in Nation)
Rushing Yards/Game: 122 (30th in Nation)
Passing Yards/Game: 213 (50th in Nation)
Total Yards/Game: 335 (34th in Nation)
2009 Misc Stats
Turnover Margin: +0.64 per game (15th in Nation)
Penalties: 29 yards per game (1st in Nation)
Returning Starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 5
Kicker/Punter: 2
Top Returning Statistical Leaders
Passing: QB Ricky Dobbs, Sr (56 of 105 for 1031 yds, 6 TD, 3 INT)
Rushing: QB Ricky Dobbs, Sr (315 carries for 1192 yds, 27 TD, 3.7 ypc, 91 ypg)
Rushing: RB Vince Murray, Sr (182 carries for 971 yds, 6 TD, 5.3 ypc, 69 ypg)
Receiving: WR Greg Jones, Sr (5 rec, 142 yds, 1 TD)
Tackles: S Wyatt Middleton, Sr (68); LB Tyler Simmons, Sr (68)
Sacks: DE Jabaree Tuani, Jr (3.5)
Interceptions: S Wyatt Middleton, Sr (4)
2010 Pre-Season Rankings
Athlon Sports: #33
Mark Schlabach: #25
Phil Steele: #48
Sporting News: #37
2010 Pre-Season Bowl Predictions:
Athlon Sports: Poinsettia Bowl (vs. Utah)
Phil Steele: Poinsettia Bowl (vs. BYU)
Navy returns 8 starters from an offense that was #4 in the Nation in rushing last year. They also return QB Ricky Dobbs who rushed for 27 TDs and passed for 6 more. Navy has a much easier schedule this year as they don't play Ohio State or Pittsburgh like they did last year. Last year they lost to Ohio State, Pitt, Temple and Hawaii by a combined 27 points. Every game on Navy's schedule looks winnable to me. Of course looking winnable and actually winning are two separate entities. We caught up with Adam Nettina, a member of the Football Writers Association of America and a writer for Scout.com's Navy affiliate GoMids.com.
What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?
Experience and athleticism at key positions. Not only does Navy return Ricky Dobbs at quarterback (who set the NCAA record for rushing TDs by a QB in 2009 with 27 scores), but the Mids return a fairly experienced offensive line as well as their top two fullbacks in Vince Murray and Alex Teich. On defense, Navy has a veteran group up front, and should have one of its best secondaries in years with the safety combination of Wyatt Middleton and Emmett Merchant. Keep in mind that experience isn’t just a meaningless statistic: this was a resourceful team in 2009, and one which didn’t back down to anyone. They took Ohio State to the wire and beat Notre Dame on the road, while also blowing out Missouri in the bowl game. If there is one team in the country that embodies the intangible of ‘focus,’ it’s Navy.
That being said, the linebacker corps will need an overhaul. Only one starter returns in Navy’s 3-4 scheme from last year, and the Mids will likely miss the absence of key leaders like Ram Vela and Craig Schafer. There is still some question as to how much depth there is on the defensive line and in the secondary, and the team will be searching for a playmaker at slotback after last year’s breakout star, Marcus Curry, was dismissed from the team.
Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?
Right out the gate the team will be tested against the Maryland Terrapins. While the Terps were a paltry 2-10 in 2009, they have no shortage of talent. Navy fell to the Terps in a game they should have won in 2005, and also struggled mightily on offense against UMass in 2006. Why does that matter? Well, Maryland defensive coordinator Don Brown was the head coach of that UMass team, and is considered by many to be among the best coaches in the country at scheming against the flexbone option. If Navy can find offensive success against Brown’s defense and pull out the win, it’ll likely be an omen for a strong offensive showing through the rest of the season.
What team on the schedule do you fear the most?
The answer for Navy is always “the next team.” This is a team and a program which takes each week at a time, and isn’t likely to overlook anybody on the schedule. That was the philosophy of Paul Johnson, and it’s the philosophy of Ken Niumatalolo. Even without that philosophy, however, I think it’s Maryland. The Terps may not look too good on paper, but they have the potential to give Navy a rude awakening if the Mids don’t show up with their helmets strapped.
Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?
QB Ricky Dobbs and S Wyatt Middleton get most of the attention -- and with good reason – but on offense I think you look at a guy like center Eric Douglass and on defense you take a look at cornerback Kevin Edwards. Edwards had a huge game against Notre Dame last year, and was really instrumental in containing Golden Tate. He may not look like a lock-down corner, but he’s gone up against numerous high-round NFL draft picks in his long Navy career, and brings a fiery attitude and physicality to the position. Douglass only started four games at center last year, but I think he gives the team a big boost at the position. More and more teams are lining up in odd man fronts against Navy, and that philosophy makes having a powerful center very important. Douglass – a former nose guard – has the strength to compete against bigger run-stoppers inside.
Who is the best offensive player on the team?
Without a doubt, quarterback Ricky Dobbs. You don’t rush for 27 touchdowns in a season without having some talent. Dobbs has incredible strength and an amazing leg drive as a runner, but he’s also heady and displays a strong, accurate arm as a passer. A master of the reads in the triple option system, many consider him to be the greatest Navy quarterback since Roger Staubach.
Who is the most impactful defensive player on the team?
Jabaree Tuani. He’s undersized as a defensive end, but he plays with the quickness of an outside linebacker and displays great leverage and use of his hands when coming off the ball. He’s a guy who’ll fight off multiple blocks to stretch out run plays, and he’ll outwork any offensive tackle in the game.
What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach its full capability?
Michael Stukel. A former quarterback with 4.5 speed and good size, he has the athletic ability to step in for the departed Curry at slotback right away. The question will be whether or not he can become consistent enough in the blocking game to earn his way onto the field on a regular basis. If he does, he has big-play ability written all over him.
Who is the top offensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?
Josh Cabral. The interior of the offensive line could be a question mark, but this former Southern California prep star (who was one of the most highly touted recruits to sign at Navy in the past decade) should fill in nicely. Because of Navy’s system the guard position is a little more important than on some teams, so it’ll be essential for the team’s success that Cabral doesn’t miss a beat.
Who is the top defensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?
OLB Jerry Hauburger. He’s a senior who has just never reached his full potential because of injuries and the players on the depth chart ahead of him, but he’s in position to have a groundbreaking 2010 if he can stay healthy. He has safety-like athleticism and plays with a lot of aggressiveness, and the Mids will benefit from his versatility against spread offenses.
Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?
I think the team finishes 9-3 during the regular season. As always, a bowl berth (with a win) and victories over rivals Air Force and Army make any Navy season a success.
Thanks to Adam Nettina from GoMids.com for answering our questions. He also serves as the Sports Editor of the Utah Statesman.
Next Up: Texas Longhorns
2010 Previews
ACC- Boston College Eagles, Duke Blue Devils, Florida State Seminoles, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Maryland Terrapins, Virginia Tech Hokies
Big 12- Kansas State Wildcats, Missouri Tigers, Texas Tech Red Raiders
Big East- Cincinnati Bearcats, Pittsburgh Panthers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights, USF Bulls, West Virginia Mountaineers
Big Ten- Illinois Fighting Illini, Michigan Wolverines, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Northwestern Wildcats, Purdue Boilermakers
C-USA- Houston Cougars, SMU Mustangs, Southern Miss Golden Eagles, Tulane Green Wave, UTEP Miners
MAC- Ball State Cardinals, Bowling Green Falcons, Buffalo Bulls, Central Michigan Chippewas, Temple Owls, Toledo Rockets
MWC- Colorado State Rams, UNLV Rebels, Utah Utes
Pac-10- Arizona State Sun Devils, Oregon Ducks, USC Trojans, Washington Huskies
SEC- Auburn Tigers, Kentucky Wildcats, Mississippi Rebels, South Carolina Gamecocks, Vanderbilt Commodores
Sun Belt- Troy Trojans
WAC- New Mexico State Aggies
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Friday, July 2, 2010
A Look At Ole Miss
2009 in Review
The 2009-2010 Ole Miss team was sort of an enigma. Under normal circumstances a 9-4 season with a Cotton Bowl win over Oklahoma State would be considered a good year in Oxford. However, these were not normal circumstances. Ranked as high as #4 in the country in some preseason publications and a great home schedule it appeared as if last season was the year for Ole Miss to finally make it to the SEC championship game and compete for more than a New Year’s Day bowl. After laying a goose egg in Columbia, South Carolina on a Thursday night those dreams began to unravel and the team could never get into any kind of rhythm. The season played out by winning a game, then losing to Alabama at home, winning a couple games then losing to Auburn on the road, winning a couple of games then being manhandled by a revenge seeking MS State on the road. The team went as Jevan Snead went and he never found his form that he displayed his sophomore year, throwing as many interceptions as he did touchdowns. The offense was highlighted primarily by Dexter McCluster and without him the season could have been an epic meltdown. The Tyrone Nix rebel defense was a bright spot and kept Ole Miss in every game, minus the MS State match-up.
2010 Overview
On to the 2010-2011 Rebels and the low expectations for this Ole Miss team appears to put them in an underdog position that they feel more comfortable in. The offense will undergo a major overhaul in regards to who will become the playmakers now that McCluster is playing for the Chiefs and Snead elected to enter the NFL draft, which he subsequently went undrafted and signed a free agent contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It wouldn’t surprise me if Snead became a serviceable NFL quarterback, call it Ole Miss luck but I digress. Offensive Coordinator Kent Austin has been replaced by Dave Rader and may work out for the best for the Rebels. Kent Austin was thought of as a great offensive mind and won a Canadian Football League title as a head coach, but things never seemed to coalesce with Houston Nutt. It is well known that Nutt has always been heavily involved on the offensive side of the ball and certain types of coordinators don’t do well working with him. Call it professional differences or whatever, but Dave Rader has a working history with Nutt and I think that it will work out well for the Rebels. Key replacements need to be found for the QB position and a wide receiver has to be developed to aid in the running game that everyone knows Nutt will always have with his teams. With Tyrone Nix electing to stay in Oxford, as opposed to accepting the Florida Gator’s offer for the same position, the defense has a chance to be downright nasty and hard to deal with. The defensive line may be the best in the SEC if not the country and the linebacker corps are heavily experienced with a talented sophomore DJ Shackleford sprinkled in the mix. The DB’s are somewhat untested but have the talent to develop as the season progresses.
2010 Schedule
The first half of the schedule sets up great for the Rebels. The first five games provide little competition (besides the traditionally pesky Vandy team that always plays Ole Miss to the wire). They should all be wins and they should be 5-0 heading into the Alabama game in Tuscaloosa. Barring some sort of miracle and the Rebel’s history in Bryant-Denny Stadium that will be a loss heading into a second half of the season that has games at Arkansas, at TN, and at LSU with home games with Auburn, LA-Lafayette, and MS State. The schedule is not bad at all for the Rebels and with a little luck at the QB position they could end up with another 8 or 9 win season.
Position Overview
QB: Number one question for the rebels is who will become the offensive leader? Sophomore Nathan Stanley appears to have a jump heading into the season with redshirt freshman Raymond Cotton only slightly behind Stanley in development. Nutt will take a wait and see approach and I wouldn’t be surprised to see both QB’s play a lot in the first five games. A wildcard is JUCO QB recruit Randall Mackey. Ole Miss has been cursed with all everything JUCO recruits and I won’t believe this one to be any different until I see hit. He is a little undersized at 6 foot but he’s an athlete and appears to be a winner turning East MS Community College into a force on the field. Look for Mackey to make his impact in the wild rebel offensive package.
RB: Ole Miss has plenty of RB’s with the size and talent to be excellent SEC running backs. One of them has to step up however and take the role of the go to guy. Brandon Bolden is a bull and dependable and will carry the ball a lot for the rebels this year. I struggle to think of a time when Bolden has been stopped for a loss. He has great lean and can get at least 2 or 3 yards on a running play where the blocks haven’t developed. A surprise could be Enrique Davis if he comes around. After being a 5 star recruit he hasn’t really done much in Oxford thus far but appears to be improving based on evaluations this spring. Korvic Neat is going to try and replace McCluster as the shifty back in the rebel offense.
OL: This group has some talent with two huge tackles in Bradley Sowell and Bobbie Massie. Sowell was thrown into the fire quickly last year at the left tackle spot and took his lumps but improved as the year went on. Rishaw Johnson and Alex Washington also provide some bulk and talent to the line. Where the Rebels fall short is depth. One or two injuries could decimate this line and things could unravel quickly. It also looks like they will be starting a true freshman center which could lead to problems.
WR: Ole Miss didn’t have a deep threat last year and it has been a struggle to find someone to replace Mike Wallace from two years ago. Lionel Breaux and Markeith Summers are seniors and decent possession receivers but not the deep threat answer that the Rebels need. Ja-Mes Logan has turned heads this spring and will need to continue in the fall if the Rebels want a passing game this year. Perhaps the most talented WR is Patrick Patterson but the kid can’t seem to stay out of the coaches doghouse and consistently violates “team rules”.
TE: What’s that? Ole Miss hasn’t utilized one of these in years.
DL: Something to get excited about here. These guys are big, athletic, and just plain mean. Ted Laurent, Jerrell Powe, Lawon Scott, Kentrell Lockett, Gerald Rivers, and newcomer Wayne Dorsey could be special. I could go on and on about these guys.
LB: No real superstars here, yet, but with seniors Jonathan Cornell and Allen Walker having been starters in what seems like forever, there will be plenty of experience. Sophomore DJ Shackleford is going to be a star at some point in his career. Maybe this year, who knows.
DB: Somewhat of an unknown. The corners are going to need some time with no returning starters and aside from Jeremy McGee not much experience. Redshirt freshman Charles Sawyer is supposed to be good according to spring reports, but we will see how he adjusts to SEC play. The safeties have experience with Johnny Brown and a few others and will be relied upon to help the young cornerbacks out.
K: No one in particular has any experience here. The Rebels have to find a kicker that can consistently get them 3 points if they are inside the 30 if they want to have a chance this year.
Overall, the rebels should have a decent to surprisingly good this year, depending on the QB play. It will be interesting to see how the young players step into the primary role which adds some excitement to an otherwise boring home schedule. I like the Rebels and Houston Nutt as an underdog though. Nutt thrives in this situation and there may not be a better motivator in the country for a team that doesn’t have a lot of expectations.
Pre-Season Preview: Duke Blue Devils
2009 Record: 5-7 (3-5 in ACC)
2009 Bowl: None
Final 2009 AP Ranking: Not Ranked
Head Coach: David Cutcliffe (9-15 at Duke, 53-44 All-Time)
Non-Conference Schedule: Elon (9/4), Alabama (9/18), Army (9/25), at Navy (10/30)
2009 Offensive Statistics
Scoring: 25.2 points per game (8th in ACC)
Rushing Yards/Game: 63 (last in ACC, last in Nation)
Passing Yards/Game: 305 (1st in ACC, 9th in Nation)
Total Yards/Game: 368 (7th in ACC)
2009 Defensive Statistics
Scoring: 28.3 points per game (9th in ACC)
Rushing Yards/Game: 152 (9th in ACC)
Passing Yards/Game: 215 (7th in ACC)
Total Yards/Game: 368 (9th in ACC)
2009 Misc Stats
Turnover Margin: +0.17 per game (4th in ACC)
Penalties: 44 yards per game (3rd in ACC)
Returning Starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 6
Kicker/Punter: 2
Top Returning Statistical Leaders
Passing: QB Sean Renfree, Soph (34 of 50 for 330 yds, 4 TD, 2 INT)
Rushing: RB Desmond Scott, Soph (70 carries for 262 yds, 1 TD, 3.7 ypc, 29 ypg)
Receiving: WR Donovan Varner, Jr (65 rec, 1047 yds, 8 TD, 16 yds/rec, 5.4 rec/game)
Tackles: SS Matt Daniels, Jr (83)
Sacks: DE Wesley Oglesby, Sr (1.5)
Interceptions: CB Lee Butler, Jr (1)
2010 Pre-Season Rankings
Athlon Sports: #70
Sporting News: #70
2010 Pre-Season ACC Coastal Prediction:
Athlon Sports: #5
Phil Steele: #5
I like David Cutcliffe as Duke's coach. He has a lot of returning starters this year to work with but will be without the QB that led the team to be one of the most prolific passing teams in the NCAA last year. This is Cutcliffe's third year at the helm and more of the guys that he recruited are working their way into the program and onto the field. That being said, Duke also plays in the ACC Coastal Division and will have tough games this year against Miami, Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech and UNC. They also face Boston College from the Atlantic Division and they catch out of conference foes Alabama and Navy. I would like to see Cutcliffe post a winning record at Duke, I just don't see it happening this year. Jason Palmatary of the The Chronicle, which is an independent daily newspaper at Duke University, answered our questions and gives us his perspective of Duke football.
What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?
With this team, it is always going to start with talk about the wide receivers. The top three ballcatchers from last year’s squad are all back. With the departure of Georgia Tech’s Demaryius Thomas to the NFL, junior wideout Donovan Varner, who topped the 1000-yard mark last year, is the conference’s leading returning receiver. The Blue Devils also welcome back sophomore Conner Vernon, one of the conference’s top-10 wideouts last year. Rounding out the corps is senior Austin Kelly, whose four touchdowns last year gave the trio 15 for the season. The playmaking ability of this group will definitely be relied upon heavily as the offense tries to replicate what was a very impressive aerial attack last year.
Ironically, this team’s biggest weakness was its inability to ever establish a consistent ground game. Running the ball effectively always starts with the offensive line, so a good deal of the blame starts with that unit and their inability to control the line of scrimmage. Last season, dismal rushing outputs were a constant, but with four of five starters on the offensive line returning, there is hope that the group will be able to open up some creases for the stable of running backs the coaching staff plans to employ.
Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?
A quick look at the Duke schedule and the one game that really jumps out at you is the September 18th tilt with Alabama. Realistically, there is no conceivable way that the Blue Devils could possibly hang with the defending national champions. However, if head coach David Cutcliffe can get his players to turn in a respectful showing with the ABC regional broadcast crew in town, it would go a long way in setting the tone and building momentum as the team prepares for its ACC slate.
What team on the schedule do you fear the most?
Rather than identify one matchup that Duke fans cringe at the thought of, I will give you two: Georgia Tech and North Carolina. These two games, the final two on the 2010 schedule, represent a significant challenge for several reasons. First, Duke has had very little success with these two opponents since Cutcliffe took over as the head man two seasons ago. In their four games against these two, the Blue Devils have been outscored by a combined 123-36. And, secondly, with their eye on their first bowl game appearance since 1994, these two games could be pivotal in gaining bowl eligibility.
Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?
Senior linebacker Damian Thornton is a guy on the defensive side of the ball that doesn’t get a lot of publicity that will be counted on to do a lot this year. After moving into the starting lineup midway through last season as an outside linebacker and recording 60 stops, including six for losses, Thornton will be counted on for much more this season. He has been moved inside for his senior campaign and for a player who the coaching staff describes as “tremendously athletic and very physical,” he will be expected to be a big contributor on what is a rebuilding defense.
Who is the best offensive player on the team?
At this point, the best offensive player on this team has to be Donovan Varner. He is a very versatile receiver and has shown terrific playmaking ability from both the slot and the outside. Varner is undersized and thus typically does most of his damage after the catch. He had a number of receptions of over 30 yards last year and routinely demonstrates a natural penchant for finding the soft spot between the linebackers and safeties. However, don’t sleep on the talented Sean Renfree—we could easily be calling him the most talented offensive player a few games into the season.
What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach its full capability?
Sophomore running back Desmond Scott is a guy that really needs to step up and show up why the Blue Devil faithful was so happy when the Durham product and highly touted recruit decided to stay close to home. Scott showed flashes last year both on offense and in the return game but was not consistent. Some of his struggles are a byproduct of the offensive line’s inabilities to create holes, but it is up to Scott to at least turn the running game into a solid change of pace.
Who is the top offensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?
An interesting newcomer to keep an eye on is freshman quarterback Brandon Cornette. Fans can rest assured that Cornette will not be the starter. But, the young man was very impressive in the spring after graduating from high school early. He impressed the coaching staff with is mobility in the pocket and ability to take off and make a play with his feet when a play would break down. So, look for Cornette to possibly get action in option situations or possibly see short stints in other roles in the offense.
Who is the top defensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?
On the defensive side, redshirt freshman Kevin Rojas is a guy that could contribute this year both on special teams and defense. Rojas, who was actually a receiver in high school, has tremendous speed for a linebacker. After being named most improved defensive player during the spring season, expect Rojas to contribute in some capacity this fall.
Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?
5-7. It really is pretty hard to predict how this team will perform this season. There are so many question marks on what is a rebuilding defense. There are definitely some talented playmakers on offense, but a great deal of their success will hinge on how well quarterback Sean Renfree performs coming back from reconstructive knee surgery. But, I would have to say, in year three of the Cutcliffe Era, anything less than a bowl berth would be considered disappointing as the team looks to build on the prior year’s success.
Check out The Chronicle's Sports Blog and the newspaper's Main Website. You can also follow the Chronicle's Sports section on Twitter @chroniclesports.
Previous ACC Previews
Boston College Eagles
Florida State Seminoles
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Maryland Terrapins
Virginia Tech Hokies
Next Up: Navy Midshipmen
2010 Previews
Big 12- Kansas State Wildcats, Missouri Tigers, Texas Tech Red Raiders
Big East- Cincinnati Bearcats, Pittsburgh Panthers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights, USF Bulls, West Virginia Mountaineers
Big Ten- Illinois Fighting Illini, Michigan Wolverines, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Northwestern Wildcats, Purdue Boilermakers
C-USA- Houston Cougars, SMU Mustangs, Southern Miss Golden Eagles, Tulane Green Wave, UTEP Miners
MAC- Ball State Cardinals, Bowling Green Falcons, Buffalo Bulls, Central Michigan Chippewas, Temple Owls, Toledo Rockets
MWC- Colorado State Rams, UNLV Rebels, Utah Utes
Pac-10- Arizona State Sun Devils, Oregon Ducks, USC Trojans, Washington Huskies
SEC- Auburn Tigers, Kentucky Wildcats, Mississippi Rebels, South Carolina Gamecocks, Vanderbilt Commodores
Sun Belt- Troy Trojans
WAC- New Mexico State Aggies
2009 Bowl: None
Final 2009 AP Ranking: Not Ranked
Head Coach: David Cutcliffe (9-15 at Duke, 53-44 All-Time)
Non-Conference Schedule: Elon (9/4), Alabama (9/18), Army (9/25), at Navy (10/30)
2009 Offensive Statistics
Scoring: 25.2 points per game (8th in ACC)
Rushing Yards/Game: 63 (last in ACC, last in Nation)
Passing Yards/Game: 305 (1st in ACC, 9th in Nation)
Total Yards/Game: 368 (7th in ACC)
2009 Defensive Statistics
Scoring: 28.3 points per game (9th in ACC)
Rushing Yards/Game: 152 (9th in ACC)
Passing Yards/Game: 215 (7th in ACC)
Total Yards/Game: 368 (9th in ACC)
2009 Misc Stats
Turnover Margin: +0.17 per game (4th in ACC)
Penalties: 44 yards per game (3rd in ACC)
Returning Starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 6
Kicker/Punter: 2
Top Returning Statistical Leaders
Passing: QB Sean Renfree, Soph (34 of 50 for 330 yds, 4 TD, 2 INT)
Rushing: RB Desmond Scott, Soph (70 carries for 262 yds, 1 TD, 3.7 ypc, 29 ypg)
Receiving: WR Donovan Varner, Jr (65 rec, 1047 yds, 8 TD, 16 yds/rec, 5.4 rec/game)
Tackles: SS Matt Daniels, Jr (83)
Sacks: DE Wesley Oglesby, Sr (1.5)
Interceptions: CB Lee Butler, Jr (1)
2010 Pre-Season Rankings
Athlon Sports: #70
Sporting News: #70
2010 Pre-Season ACC Coastal Prediction:
Athlon Sports: #5
Phil Steele: #5
I like David Cutcliffe as Duke's coach. He has a lot of returning starters this year to work with but will be without the QB that led the team to be one of the most prolific passing teams in the NCAA last year. This is Cutcliffe's third year at the helm and more of the guys that he recruited are working their way into the program and onto the field. That being said, Duke also plays in the ACC Coastal Division and will have tough games this year against Miami, Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech and UNC. They also face Boston College from the Atlantic Division and they catch out of conference foes Alabama and Navy. I would like to see Cutcliffe post a winning record at Duke, I just don't see it happening this year. Jason Palmatary of the The Chronicle, which is an independent daily newspaper at Duke University, answered our questions and gives us his perspective of Duke football.
What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?
With this team, it is always going to start with talk about the wide receivers. The top three ballcatchers from last year’s squad are all back. With the departure of Georgia Tech’s Demaryius Thomas to the NFL, junior wideout Donovan Varner, who topped the 1000-yard mark last year, is the conference’s leading returning receiver. The Blue Devils also welcome back sophomore Conner Vernon, one of the conference’s top-10 wideouts last year. Rounding out the corps is senior Austin Kelly, whose four touchdowns last year gave the trio 15 for the season. The playmaking ability of this group will definitely be relied upon heavily as the offense tries to replicate what was a very impressive aerial attack last year.
Ironically, this team’s biggest weakness was its inability to ever establish a consistent ground game. Running the ball effectively always starts with the offensive line, so a good deal of the blame starts with that unit and their inability to control the line of scrimmage. Last season, dismal rushing outputs were a constant, but with four of five starters on the offensive line returning, there is hope that the group will be able to open up some creases for the stable of running backs the coaching staff plans to employ.
Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?
A quick look at the Duke schedule and the one game that really jumps out at you is the September 18th tilt with Alabama. Realistically, there is no conceivable way that the Blue Devils could possibly hang with the defending national champions. However, if head coach David Cutcliffe can get his players to turn in a respectful showing with the ABC regional broadcast crew in town, it would go a long way in setting the tone and building momentum as the team prepares for its ACC slate.
What team on the schedule do you fear the most?
Rather than identify one matchup that Duke fans cringe at the thought of, I will give you two: Georgia Tech and North Carolina. These two games, the final two on the 2010 schedule, represent a significant challenge for several reasons. First, Duke has had very little success with these two opponents since Cutcliffe took over as the head man two seasons ago. In their four games against these two, the Blue Devils have been outscored by a combined 123-36. And, secondly, with their eye on their first bowl game appearance since 1994, these two games could be pivotal in gaining bowl eligibility.
Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?
Senior linebacker Damian Thornton is a guy on the defensive side of the ball that doesn’t get a lot of publicity that will be counted on to do a lot this year. After moving into the starting lineup midway through last season as an outside linebacker and recording 60 stops, including six for losses, Thornton will be counted on for much more this season. He has been moved inside for his senior campaign and for a player who the coaching staff describes as “tremendously athletic and very physical,” he will be expected to be a big contributor on what is a rebuilding defense.
Who is the best offensive player on the team?
At this point, the best offensive player on this team has to be Donovan Varner. He is a very versatile receiver and has shown terrific playmaking ability from both the slot and the outside. Varner is undersized and thus typically does most of his damage after the catch. He had a number of receptions of over 30 yards last year and routinely demonstrates a natural penchant for finding the soft spot between the linebackers and safeties. However, don’t sleep on the talented Sean Renfree—we could easily be calling him the most talented offensive player a few games into the season.
What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach its full capability?
Sophomore running back Desmond Scott is a guy that really needs to step up and show up why the Blue Devil faithful was so happy when the Durham product and highly touted recruit decided to stay close to home. Scott showed flashes last year both on offense and in the return game but was not consistent. Some of his struggles are a byproduct of the offensive line’s inabilities to create holes, but it is up to Scott to at least turn the running game into a solid change of pace.
Who is the top offensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?
An interesting newcomer to keep an eye on is freshman quarterback Brandon Cornette. Fans can rest assured that Cornette will not be the starter. But, the young man was very impressive in the spring after graduating from high school early. He impressed the coaching staff with is mobility in the pocket and ability to take off and make a play with his feet when a play would break down. So, look for Cornette to possibly get action in option situations or possibly see short stints in other roles in the offense.
Who is the top defensive newcomer that can make an impact this year?
On the defensive side, redshirt freshman Kevin Rojas is a guy that could contribute this year both on special teams and defense. Rojas, who was actually a receiver in high school, has tremendous speed for a linebacker. After being named most improved defensive player during the spring season, expect Rojas to contribute in some capacity this fall.
Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?
5-7. It really is pretty hard to predict how this team will perform this season. There are so many question marks on what is a rebuilding defense. There are definitely some talented playmakers on offense, but a great deal of their success will hinge on how well quarterback Sean Renfree performs coming back from reconstructive knee surgery. But, I would have to say, in year three of the Cutcliffe Era, anything less than a bowl berth would be considered disappointing as the team looks to build on the prior year’s success.
Check out The Chronicle's Sports Blog and the newspaper's Main Website. You can also follow the Chronicle's Sports section on Twitter @chroniclesports.
Previous ACC Previews
Boston College Eagles
Florida State Seminoles
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Maryland Terrapins
Virginia Tech Hokies
Next Up: Navy Midshipmen
2010 Previews
Big 12- Kansas State Wildcats, Missouri Tigers, Texas Tech Red Raiders
Big East- Cincinnati Bearcats, Pittsburgh Panthers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights, USF Bulls, West Virginia Mountaineers
Big Ten- Illinois Fighting Illini, Michigan Wolverines, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Northwestern Wildcats, Purdue Boilermakers
C-USA- Houston Cougars, SMU Mustangs, Southern Miss Golden Eagles, Tulane Green Wave, UTEP Miners
MAC- Ball State Cardinals, Bowling Green Falcons, Buffalo Bulls, Central Michigan Chippewas, Temple Owls, Toledo Rockets
MWC- Colorado State Rams, UNLV Rebels, Utah Utes
Pac-10- Arizona State Sun Devils, Oregon Ducks, USC Trojans, Washington Huskies
SEC- Auburn Tigers, Kentucky Wildcats, Mississippi Rebels, South Carolina Gamecocks, Vanderbilt Commodores
Sun Belt- Troy Trojans
WAC- New Mexico State Aggies
Friday Morning Links
- Jeremy Fowler of the Orlando Sentinel is doing a College Football Countdown on his blog. When he got to #64 he listed the Georgia Bulldogs! What? There are only 3 possible reasons for this ranking. The first is that Jeremy is just a blithering moron (I put this at around 15%), the second is that Jeremy is trying to get back on Urban Meyer's good side (I put this at around 25%), and the last is that Jeremy is trying to get hits on his blog and more people to read his stuff by being "controversial" (I put this at around 60%). In the article, Jeremy says "Most of the same players return from a secondary that allowed a league-high 23 touchdown passes". What? Maybe Jeremy is a blithering moron. Georgia losses 3 out of 4 starters from last years secondary (Rashad Jones, Prince Miller and Bryan Evans). Sure, Bryan Evans shouldn't have been starting but he was. Georgia will have 2 new starting safeties this year (Baccarri Rambo and probably Jakar "Hitman" Hamilton). The lone returning starter in the secondary for Georgia is a guy who is on the Lott Trophy Watch List. Jeremy also says "After returning 16 starters on offense and defense, the Bulldogs should be able to compensate for a new quarterback with the right pieces around him." Huh? I thought you just ranked them #64? I could go on but let's get to some links that have actual substance.
- If you want to read a College Football Countdown from a guy who actually does research and understands college football then head over to Pre-Snap Read and read some of Paul Myerberg's previews.
- Former Oregon Jeremiah Masoli is looking for a new team and has visited Louisiana Tech.
- Former Oregon Duck and New York Giant RB Reuben Droughns is coaching football in Serbia.
- Dawg Sports has a really good piece up on UGA verbal commitment Watts Dantzler.
- Tommy Tuberville has some interesting comments on the new Big 12.
- Mark Ingram was named SEC Male Athlete of the Year.
- ESPN has some intriguing content on their blogs this week. One is what they are calling "Three Headed Monsters". Basically they are looking at the top combination of QB, RB, WR and who has the best combination of 3 players from those positions. Check them out here: ACC, Big 12, Big East, and Big Ten.
- If you want to read a College Football Countdown from a guy who actually does research and understands college football then head over to Pre-Snap Read and read some of Paul Myerberg's previews.
- Former Oregon Jeremiah Masoli is looking for a new team and has visited Louisiana Tech.
- Former Oregon Duck and New York Giant RB Reuben Droughns is coaching football in Serbia.
- Dawg Sports has a really good piece up on UGA verbal commitment Watts Dantzler.
- Tommy Tuberville has some interesting comments on the new Big 12.
- Mark Ingram was named SEC Male Athlete of the Year.
- ESPN has some intriguing content on their blogs this week. One is what they are calling "Three Headed Monsters". Basically they are looking at the top combination of QB, RB, WR and who has the best combination of 3 players from those positions. Check them out here: ACC, Big 12, Big East, and Big Ten.
June CFBZ Re-Cap
As I previously stated I signed up for Google Analytics late on June 10th.What I will probably do is give a monthly re-cap on different stats from the site. Here is the June Re-Cap (it's really just info from June 11th-June 30th)
Most Popular Content:
1. Central Michigan Chippewas Pre-Season Preview
2. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Pre-Season Preview
3. Oregon Ducks Pre-Season Preview
4. Texas Tech Red Raiders Pre-Season Preview
5. Auburn Tigers Pre-Season Preview
6. Troy Trojans Pre-Season Preview
7. South Carolina Gamecocks Pre-Season Preview
8. Boston College Eagles Pre-Season Preview
9. Illinois Fighting Illini Pre-Season Preview
10. Stanford Cardinal Pre-Season Preview
Most Popular "Non-Preview" Content:
1. USC LB Jarvis Jones will transfer to UGA or FSU
2. UGA Super Sophomores
3. Rob Harley Interview
4. Alabama's X-Factor BJ Scott
5. USC transfer Jarvis Jones will be a Dawg
6. Watts Dantzler following fathers footsteps to UGA
7. I Really Want The Gators to Beat Them The Most This Season
8. Friday Morning Links 6-25
9. Gators snatch another Lakeland Dreadnaught WR in McRoy
10. Muskegon, Michigan Athlete Impresses Gators This Summer
Top Referring Sites
1. Scout.com
2. Addicted to Quack (Oregon SB Nation Blog)
3. From The Rumble Seat (Georgia Tech SB Nation Blog)
4. Go Troy Trojans (Independent Troy Web Site and Message Board)
5. Double T Nation (Texas Tech SB Nation Blog)
6. Twitter
7. Leather Helmet Blog (Independent UGA/SEC Blog)
8. BC Interruption (Boston College SB Nation Blog)
9. Google.com
10. Block U (Utah SB Nation Blog)
Most Visits by State:
1. Georgia
2. Texas
3. California
4. Michigan
5. Ohio
6. Florida
7. Alabama
8. Oregon
9. Illinois
10. South Carolina
Other Notes:
- We have had visitors from 27 different countries.
- We have had visitors from 48 different states (including the District of Columbia).
- Our visitors most popular browser is Internet Explorer (43%) followed by Firefox (31%)
- The iPhone is the #1 mobile device of our visitors followed by Android and then the IPad.
- We received visitors from 86 different sources/links.
- Comcast is the most popular service provider for our visitors.
Most Popular Content:
1. Central Michigan Chippewas Pre-Season Preview
2. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Pre-Season Preview
3. Oregon Ducks Pre-Season Preview
4. Texas Tech Red Raiders Pre-Season Preview
5. Auburn Tigers Pre-Season Preview
6. Troy Trojans Pre-Season Preview
7. South Carolina Gamecocks Pre-Season Preview
8. Boston College Eagles Pre-Season Preview
9. Illinois Fighting Illini Pre-Season Preview
10. Stanford Cardinal Pre-Season Preview
Most Popular "Non-Preview" Content:
1. USC LB Jarvis Jones will transfer to UGA or FSU
2. UGA Super Sophomores
3. Rob Harley Interview
4. Alabama's X-Factor BJ Scott
5. USC transfer Jarvis Jones will be a Dawg
6. Watts Dantzler following fathers footsteps to UGA
7. I Really Want The Gators to Beat Them The Most This Season
8. Friday Morning Links 6-25
9. Gators snatch another Lakeland Dreadnaught WR in McRoy
10. Muskegon, Michigan Athlete Impresses Gators This Summer
Top Referring Sites
1. Scout.com
2. Addicted to Quack (Oregon SB Nation Blog)
3. From The Rumble Seat (Georgia Tech SB Nation Blog)
4. Go Troy Trojans (Independent Troy Web Site and Message Board)
5. Double T Nation (Texas Tech SB Nation Blog)
6. Twitter
7. Leather Helmet Blog (Independent UGA/SEC Blog)
8. BC Interruption (Boston College SB Nation Blog)
9. Google.com
10. Block U (Utah SB Nation Blog)
Most Visits by State:
1. Georgia
2. Texas
3. California
4. Michigan
5. Ohio
6. Florida
7. Alabama
8. Oregon
9. Illinois
10. South Carolina
Other Notes:
- We have had visitors from 27 different countries.
- We have had visitors from 48 different states (including the District of Columbia).
- Our visitors most popular browser is Internet Explorer (43%) followed by Firefox (31%)
- The iPhone is the #1 mobile device of our visitors followed by Android and then the IPad.
- We received visitors from 86 different sources/links.
- Comcast is the most popular service provider for our visitors.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Alabama Bric-A-Brac: July 1st, 2010
Trying to kick off July right. With 60-some-odd days left until the start of the season, I'm hopefully going to be able to generate more content here. Unless my computer craps out again: always a possibility. Anyway, to that end, here's an assortment of notes...
***The big news of the day for Tide fans is that the long-rumored move of the Georgia State game is officially a reality. The game will now be played two days earlier than originally scheduled, on Thursday night, November 18th. While the relocation of a "gimme" game might not seem like a big deal outside the state of Alabama, it has huge ramifications in terms of the Iron Bowl on Friday, November 26th. With the previous scheduling, Alabama would have been playing Georgia State on Saturday the 20th while the Awbarn Family sat at home on a bye week, giving the Fam 12 days to prepare for the game but Alabama only 5 days. Of course, nobody practices on Thanksgiving, so it was really more like 11 days vs. 4 days. I wasn't a math major in college but I think that means Auburn would've had nearly a 3-to-1 edge in preparation/recovery time.
A similar scenario played out last season, with Bama playing Chatanooga while Auburn was on a bye prior to a Friday Iron Bowl, resulting in a much tougher game for the Tide than anyone had anticipated and a strong Moral Victory for Cheeze Nuts and the Family. (It's quite odd to rip out someone's heart and serve it them for a belated Thanksgiving dinner, only to find that they like the taste.)
So this is a boon for Alabama's hopes of a repeat championship. I think this will turn out to be good for Georgia State, as well. They have no chance of keeping it within 50, whether they play on Thursday or Saturday. But now its much more likely that this game will end up on TV somewhere on the SEC Network than it would have been on a Saturday, or at least more likely that someone besides Alabama fans will pay attention to it for more than 5 seconds. And besides the big check, that's why a school like Georgia State plays these sorts of games: exposure. "Hey, look, high school kids, you can still play the big teams if you come play for our little program." So it works out for them.
Now let's just work on getting the Iron Bowl moved back to Saturday. NOBODY likes it on Friday. I hate it. All fans hate it. The players hate it. Saban hates it. Chizik probably loves it, but your win-loss record has to break .500 before you get a say on anything.
Moving on...
***In future scheduling news, there's a lot of smoke swirling around a potential Bama/UCLA game at Jerryland in 2012. The Tide is off the market for neutral site games in '10 and '11 due to a home-and-home with Penn State, but Alabama is very interested in getting back into those games. Saban has become a big fan of playing neutral site openers following the success of playing in the Chik-Fil-A Kickoff game the past two seasons. Even beyond winning the games and the way those early tests groomed his young teams for later challenges, they turned out to be surprisingly useful recruiting tools, especially in Georgia. So I imagine a game in that fertile Texas recruiting territory looks awfully appealing to Saban as Bama recruiting continues to spread nationwide.
As a prospective opponent, I'm nonplussed with UCLA, although I can see a lot of Bama fans getting psyched up to avenge the 2000 Debacle in Pasadena that signaled the beginning of the DuBose nosedive. Maybe Neuheisel will have the Bruins up to speed by then. Of course, nothing is even close to being a lock. Bama has already been linked with Texas Tech, Miami, and Notre Dame, among others. This may just be the next in a line of iterations. The only thing that seems certain is that Alabama will be playing in Dallas to open 2012.
***I'm told not to expect too much big news on the recruiting front any time soon. (Now that I've said that, there will probably be a big commitment tomorrow.) Most of the prospects left on Bama's recruiting board are elite guys who, at least as of now, aren't expected to make (public) decisions until the All-Star circuit in January at the earliest.
***By my count, Bama is still one or two guys over the 85 scholarship limit, so expect July to be a big month for attrition and rumors of attrition. (Oversigning.com can bite me, by the way.) I'm told it's hurtful to speculate on which players could be leaving, so I guess I won't name names. But I have my ideas.
***Former Bama safety Justin Woodall is giving up his NFL aspirations to try his hand at baseball. Allegedly he threw in the mid-90's before giving up baseball to focus on football prior to 2008 season. In retrospect, that seems like a really odd choice for such a marginal football talent, but I guess he got some rings out of it. Woodall looked really good in a jersey, but he was by far the worst starter on last year's defense. There's been a great deal of hand-wringing among fans over who will replace him this coming season, but if Robert Lester or Rod Woodson can just be "serviceable," there won't be a dropoff at that position.
THAT IS ALL.
***The big news of the day for Tide fans is that the long-rumored move of the Georgia State game is officially a reality. The game will now be played two days earlier than originally scheduled, on Thursday night, November 18th. While the relocation of a "gimme" game might not seem like a big deal outside the state of Alabama, it has huge ramifications in terms of the Iron Bowl on Friday, November 26th. With the previous scheduling, Alabama would have been playing Georgia State on Saturday the 20th while the Awbarn Family sat at home on a bye week, giving the Fam 12 days to prepare for the game but Alabama only 5 days. Of course, nobody practices on Thanksgiving, so it was really more like 11 days vs. 4 days. I wasn't a math major in college but I think that means Auburn would've had nearly a 3-to-1 edge in preparation/recovery time.
A similar scenario played out last season, with Bama playing Chatanooga while Auburn was on a bye prior to a Friday Iron Bowl, resulting in a much tougher game for the Tide than anyone had anticipated and a strong Moral Victory for Cheeze Nuts and the Family. (It's quite odd to rip out someone's heart and serve it them for a belated Thanksgiving dinner, only to find that they like the taste.)
So this is a boon for Alabama's hopes of a repeat championship. I think this will turn out to be good for Georgia State, as well. They have no chance of keeping it within 50, whether they play on Thursday or Saturday. But now its much more likely that this game will end up on TV somewhere on the SEC Network than it would have been on a Saturday, or at least more likely that someone besides Alabama fans will pay attention to it for more than 5 seconds. And besides the big check, that's why a school like Georgia State plays these sorts of games: exposure. "Hey, look, high school kids, you can still play the big teams if you come play for our little program." So it works out for them.
Now let's just work on getting the Iron Bowl moved back to Saturday. NOBODY likes it on Friday. I hate it. All fans hate it. The players hate it. Saban hates it. Chizik probably loves it, but your win-loss record has to break .500 before you get a say on anything.
Moving on...
***In future scheduling news, there's a lot of smoke swirling around a potential Bama/UCLA game at Jerryland in 2012. The Tide is off the market for neutral site games in '10 and '11 due to a home-and-home with Penn State, but Alabama is very interested in getting back into those games. Saban has become a big fan of playing neutral site openers following the success of playing in the Chik-Fil-A Kickoff game the past two seasons. Even beyond winning the games and the way those early tests groomed his young teams for later challenges, they turned out to be surprisingly useful recruiting tools, especially in Georgia. So I imagine a game in that fertile Texas recruiting territory looks awfully appealing to Saban as Bama recruiting continues to spread nationwide.
As a prospective opponent, I'm nonplussed with UCLA, although I can see a lot of Bama fans getting psyched up to avenge the 2000 Debacle in Pasadena that signaled the beginning of the DuBose nosedive. Maybe Neuheisel will have the Bruins up to speed by then. Of course, nothing is even close to being a lock. Bama has already been linked with Texas Tech, Miami, and Notre Dame, among others. This may just be the next in a line of iterations. The only thing that seems certain is that Alabama will be playing in Dallas to open 2012.
***I'm told not to expect too much big news on the recruiting front any time soon. (Now that I've said that, there will probably be a big commitment tomorrow.) Most of the prospects left on Bama's recruiting board are elite guys who, at least as of now, aren't expected to make (public) decisions until the All-Star circuit in January at the earliest.
***By my count, Bama is still one or two guys over the 85 scholarship limit, so expect July to be a big month for attrition and rumors of attrition. (Oversigning.com can bite me, by the way.) I'm told it's hurtful to speculate on which players could be leaving, so I guess I won't name names. But I have my ideas.
***Former Bama safety Justin Woodall is giving up his NFL aspirations to try his hand at baseball. Allegedly he threw in the mid-90's before giving up baseball to focus on football prior to 2008 season. In retrospect, that seems like a really odd choice for such a marginal football talent, but I guess he got some rings out of it. Woodall looked really good in a jersey, but he was by far the worst starter on last year's defense. There's been a great deal of hand-wringing among fans over who will replace him this coming season, but if Robert Lester or Rod Woodson can just be "serviceable," there won't be a dropoff at that position.
THAT IS ALL.
Pre-Season Preview: Virginia Tech Hokies
2009 Record: 10-3 (6-2 in ACC)
2009 Bowl: Chik-Fil-A Bowl (beat Tennessee 37-14)
Final 2009 AP Ranking: #10
Head Coach: Frank Beamer (187-92-2 at Virginia Tech, 229-115-4 All-Time)
Non-Conference Schedule: Boise State (9/6), James Madison (9/11), East Carolina (9/18), Central Michigan (10/9)
2009 Offensive Statistics
Scoring: 31.8 points per game (2nd in ACC)
Rushing Yards/Game: 208 (2nd in ACC, 14th in Nation)
Passing Yards/Game: 183 (9th in ACC)
Total Yards/Game: 392 (6th in ACC)
2009 Defensive Statistics
Scoring: 15.6 points per game (1st in ACC, 9th in Nation)
Rushing Yards/Game: 128 (4th in ACC)
Passing Yards/Game: 167 (2nd in ACC, 11th in Nation)
Total Yards/Game: 295 (2nd in ACC, 12th in Nation)
2009 Misc Stats
Turnover Margin: +0.69 per game (1st in ACC, 13th in Nation)
Penalties: 48 yards per game (7th in ACC)
Returning Starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 5
Kicker/Punter: 0
Top Returning Statistical Leaders
Passing: QB Tyrod Taylor, Sr (136 of 243 for 2311 yds, 13 TD, 5 INT, 177 ypg, 370 yds rushing, 5 rushing TD)
Rushing: RB Ryan Williams, Soph (293 carries for 1655 yds, 21 TD, 5.6 ypc, 127 ypg)
Receiving: WR Jarrett Boykin, Jr (39 rec, 822 yds, 5 TD, 21 yds/rec, 3.0 rec/game)
Tackles: LB Barquell Rivers, Jr (96)
Sacks: DE Steven Friday, Sr (3.5)
Interceptions: CB Rashad Carmichael, Sr (6)
2010 Pre-Season Rankings
Athlon Sports: #10
Lindy's: #8
Mark Schlabach: #6
Phil Steele: #13
Rivals: #11
Scout: #7
Sporting News: #12
Sports Illustrated: #9
2010 Pre-Season ACC Coastal Prediction:
Athlon Sports: #1
Phil Steele: #2
2010 Bowl Prediction
Athlon Sports: Orange Bowl (vs. Nebraska)
Phil Steele: Champs Sports Bowl (vs.Notre Dame)
Last year Virginia Tech opened the season with a tough loss to eventual Nation Champion Alabama. This year they open with a really tough Boise State team in a game that should vault the winner into early National Championship talk. Virginia Tech lost to North Carolina (by 3) and Georgia Tech (by 5) last year. Those are the two biggest games for the Hokies after they play Boise State as VT goes through a really tough Nov stretch of Georgia Tech, at UNC and at Miami. Virginia Tech has 6 straight 10 win seasons and has been to 17 straight bowl games. Both of those streaks look like they should stay in tact this year. We went where any self-respecting college football fan would...to Gobbler Country to pick the brain of the SB Nation Blog.
What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?
Our strengths will be offensive and defensive backfield while our weaknesses will probably be the offensive and defensive lines.
On offense, we return Tyrod Taylor at quarterback for his senior year and Ryan Williams who is coming off a record-breaking freshman season. Most of the freshman records he broke in 2009 were set by Darren Evans in 2008. Evans is back after missing last year due to a torn ACL.
The defensive backs are versatile and led by senior cornerback Rashad Carmichael. Carmichael was one of the most improved players on the team last year and had six interceptions. He will play boundary corner for the Hokies in 2010 which will require him to often be left on an island in coverage and help with run stopping.
The offensive line needs to be more consistent and do a better job of keeping Taylor upright this season. The Hokies have had one of the highest sack rates in the ACC each of the last two years despite having a mobile quarterback. The defensive line replaces three of four starters from last season, but returns its anchor in tackle John Graves. Finding capable pass rushes will be Bud Foster's top priority before the opener.
Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?
The first major test comes in the first game against Boise State on Labor Day. The Broncos were undefeated last year and have a legitimate shot at the national championship if they can beat us in Washington.
What team on the schedule do you fear the most?
That would again be Boise State because of when we play them. We're replacing a lot of key components on defense and on the offensive line. Meanwhile, the Broncos return 21 of 22 starters on a team that didn't lose a game.
Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?
This would be wide receiver Jarrett Boykin. Everyone outside of Virginia Tech talks about the backfield and what we have coming back there, but Boykin really progressed as a receiver in 2009. He's become our best deep threat, averaging over 20 yards per catch last year with five touchdowns. He also had a big momentum-changing play at the end of the first half against Tennessee in the Peach Bowl (yes, I know what it's called).
Who is the best offensive player on the team?
Taylor. Evans is the workhorse and Williams gets the headlines, but Tyrod makes the whole thing go.
Who is the most impactful defensive player on the team?
Carmichael. I think he's going to have a breakout year this season.
What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach it's full capability?
I don't care who it is, but someone at defensive end needs to step up and have a great year to compensate for the loss of Jason Worilds and Nekos Brown.
Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?
I think at the end of the year we'll be 10-2 with a conference loss on the road and a non-conference loss. I think the season is a success is we win the ACC.
Make sure to check out Gobbler Country this college football season. It should be one of the go-to places this fall before and after the Boise State game. You can also follow them on twitter @gobblercountry.
Previous ACC Previews
Boston College Eagles
Florida State Seminoles
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Maryland Terrapins
Next Up: Duke Blue Devils
2010 Previews
Big 12- Kansas State Wildcats, Missouri Tigers, Texas Tech Red Raiders
Big East- Cincinnati Bearcats, Pittsburgh Panthers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights, USF Bulls, West Virginia Mountaineers
Big Ten- Illinois Fighting Illini, Michigan Wolverines, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Northwestern Wildcats, Purdue Boilermakers
C-USA- Houston Cougars, SMU Mustangs, Southern Miss Golden Eagles, Tulane Green Wave, UTEP Miners
MAC- Ball State Cardinals, Bowling Green Falcons, Buffalo Bulls, Central Michigan Chippewas, Temple Owls, Toledo Rockets
MWC- Colorado State Rams, UNLV Rebels, Utah Utes
Pac-10- Arizona State Sun Devils, Oregon Ducks, USC Trojans, Washington Huskies
SEC- Auburn Tigers, Kentucky Wildcats, Mississippi Rebels, South Carolina Gamecocks, Vanderbilt Commodores
Sun Belt- Troy Trojans
WAC- New Mexico State Aggies
2009 Bowl: Chik-Fil-A Bowl (beat Tennessee 37-14)
Final 2009 AP Ranking: #10
Head Coach: Frank Beamer (187-92-2 at Virginia Tech, 229-115-4 All-Time)
Non-Conference Schedule: Boise State (9/6), James Madison (9/11), East Carolina (9/18), Central Michigan (10/9)
2009 Offensive Statistics
Scoring: 31.8 points per game (2nd in ACC)
Rushing Yards/Game: 208 (2nd in ACC, 14th in Nation)
Passing Yards/Game: 183 (9th in ACC)
Total Yards/Game: 392 (6th in ACC)
2009 Defensive Statistics
Scoring: 15.6 points per game (1st in ACC, 9th in Nation)
Rushing Yards/Game: 128 (4th in ACC)
Passing Yards/Game: 167 (2nd in ACC, 11th in Nation)
Total Yards/Game: 295 (2nd in ACC, 12th in Nation)
2009 Misc Stats
Turnover Margin: +0.69 per game (1st in ACC, 13th in Nation)
Penalties: 48 yards per game (7th in ACC)
Returning Starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 5
Kicker/Punter: 0
Top Returning Statistical Leaders
Passing: QB Tyrod Taylor, Sr (136 of 243 for 2311 yds, 13 TD, 5 INT, 177 ypg, 370 yds rushing, 5 rushing TD)
Rushing: RB Ryan Williams, Soph (293 carries for 1655 yds, 21 TD, 5.6 ypc, 127 ypg)
Receiving: WR Jarrett Boykin, Jr (39 rec, 822 yds, 5 TD, 21 yds/rec, 3.0 rec/game)
Tackles: LB Barquell Rivers, Jr (96)
Sacks: DE Steven Friday, Sr (3.5)
Interceptions: CB Rashad Carmichael, Sr (6)
2010 Pre-Season Rankings
Athlon Sports: #10
Lindy's: #8
Mark Schlabach: #6
Phil Steele: #13
Rivals: #11
Scout: #7
Sporting News: #12
Sports Illustrated: #9
2010 Pre-Season ACC Coastal Prediction:
Athlon Sports: #1
Phil Steele: #2
2010 Bowl Prediction
Athlon Sports: Orange Bowl (vs. Nebraska)
Phil Steele: Champs Sports Bowl (vs.Notre Dame)
Last year Virginia Tech opened the season with a tough loss to eventual Nation Champion Alabama. This year they open with a really tough Boise State team in a game that should vault the winner into early National Championship talk. Virginia Tech lost to North Carolina (by 3) and Georgia Tech (by 5) last year. Those are the two biggest games for the Hokies after they play Boise State as VT goes through a really tough Nov stretch of Georgia Tech, at UNC and at Miami. Virginia Tech has 6 straight 10 win seasons and has been to 17 straight bowl games. Both of those streaks look like they should stay in tact this year. We went where any self-respecting college football fan would...to Gobbler Country to pick the brain of the SB Nation Blog.
What are the major strengths and biggest weaknesses of the team?
Our strengths will be offensive and defensive backfield while our weaknesses will probably be the offensive and defensive lines.
On offense, we return Tyrod Taylor at quarterback for his senior year and Ryan Williams who is coming off a record-breaking freshman season. Most of the freshman records he broke in 2009 were set by Darren Evans in 2008. Evans is back after missing last year due to a torn ACL.
The defensive backs are versatile and led by senior cornerback Rashad Carmichael. Carmichael was one of the most improved players on the team last year and had six interceptions. He will play boundary corner for the Hokies in 2010 which will require him to often be left on an island in coverage and help with run stopping.
The offensive line needs to be more consistent and do a better job of keeping Taylor upright this season. The Hokies have had one of the highest sack rates in the ACC each of the last two years despite having a mobile quarterback. The defensive line replaces three of four starters from last season, but returns its anchor in tackle John Graves. Finding capable pass rushes will be Bud Foster's top priority before the opener.
Looking at the schedule who will be the first major test and why?
The first major test comes in the first game against Boise State on Labor Day. The Broncos were undefeated last year and have a legitimate shot at the national championship if they can beat us in Washington.
What team on the schedule do you fear the most?
That would again be Boise State because of when we play them. We're replacing a lot of key components on defense and on the offensive line. Meanwhile, the Broncos return 21 of 22 starters on a team that didn't lose a game.
Who is the best player on your team that nobody talks about?
This would be wide receiver Jarrett Boykin. Everyone outside of Virginia Tech talks about the backfield and what we have coming back there, but Boykin really progressed as a receiver in 2009. He's become our best deep threat, averaging over 20 yards per catch last year with five touchdowns. He also had a big momentum-changing play at the end of the first half against Tennessee in the Peach Bowl (yes, I know what it's called).
Who is the best offensive player on the team?
Taylor. Evans is the workhorse and Williams gets the headlines, but Tyrod makes the whole thing go.
Who is the most impactful defensive player on the team?
Carmichael. I think he's going to have a breakout year this season.
What player(s) needs to step up this year in order for the team to reach it's full capability?
I don't care who it is, but someone at defensive end needs to step up and have a great year to compensate for the loss of Jason Worilds and Nekos Brown.
Gut feeling on the teams final record at the end of the regular season and what makes this a successful season in your eyes?
I think at the end of the year we'll be 10-2 with a conference loss on the road and a non-conference loss. I think the season is a success is we win the ACC.
Make sure to check out Gobbler Country this college football season. It should be one of the go-to places this fall before and after the Boise State game. You can also follow them on twitter @gobblercountry.
Previous ACC Previews
Boston College Eagles
Florida State Seminoles
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Maryland Terrapins
Next Up: Duke Blue Devils
2010 Previews
Big 12- Kansas State Wildcats, Missouri Tigers, Texas Tech Red Raiders
Big East- Cincinnati Bearcats, Pittsburgh Panthers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights, USF Bulls, West Virginia Mountaineers
Big Ten- Illinois Fighting Illini, Michigan Wolverines, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Northwestern Wildcats, Purdue Boilermakers
C-USA- Houston Cougars, SMU Mustangs, Southern Miss Golden Eagles, Tulane Green Wave, UTEP Miners
MAC- Ball State Cardinals, Bowling Green Falcons, Buffalo Bulls, Central Michigan Chippewas, Temple Owls, Toledo Rockets
MWC- Colorado State Rams, UNLV Rebels, Utah Utes
Pac-10- Arizona State Sun Devils, Oregon Ducks, USC Trojans, Washington Huskies
SEC- Auburn Tigers, Kentucky Wildcats, Mississippi Rebels, South Carolina Gamecocks, Vanderbilt Commodores
Sun Belt- Troy Trojans
WAC- New Mexico State Aggies
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