Pour yourself a nice hot cup of…..
Posted on September 29, 2008
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OK, so the Sooners took the coaches to the woodshed last weekend, is that any reason to get down?
Well, hell yeah! But pour yourself a nice hot cup of TCU java and lets get ready for San Diego State.
Inspiration (from Smoaky.com)
Special teams performances 9-19-2008
Dustin Gray, Maud, recovered two onside-kicks, after an incredibly emotional week. Gray, lived with his grandmother and it was Dustin and his grandmother and nobody else. She’d been battling cancer for 2-years and never got a chance to watch him play. She died earlier in the week, and the Dustin and his teammates attended her funeral on Friday. He also caught his first ever touchdown, 32-yards. After the game, Maud head coach Josh Finney asked what had gotten into Dustin on Friday night, and he replied, “Grandma is finally getting and chance to watch me play.”
Recruiting update 9-4
Posted on September 4, 2008
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Both high schools and colleges are heading into week 2 of football (in Texas we call it week 1, the one after zero week) and recruiting generally on the backburner, but this is an unusual year for TCU recruiting and what better way to handle a slow period than to get another of the top linebackers as a commit. Now 14 recruits out of 22 expected in the class of 2009 are committed and several on the verge so what is really left?
First the new kid:
Justin Isadore 6-0/205/4.6 Beaumont, TX (Ozen) Offers Aub & Ken, 1st team all-district, 112 tackles 4 picks in 2007
Scout Inc. Evaluation
Isadore lacks great size, but he’s an extremely explosive athlete and could develop into a disruptive perimeter player if he lands in a heavy pressure defense. He may lack great height but is rangy, athletically-built and has the room on his long frame for continued physical development. Fills hard with great speed and burst. A fast-twitched athlete who is very explosive in space. Generates great speed and power quickly in the short-area allowing him to play much bigger than his measurables. Redirects and mirrors well pursuing laterally and does a good job sifting between the tackles. Takes sharp pursuit angles and can hit the run seam inside-out with his first-step quickness and great burst. Anticipates the snap well and closes fast a blitzer. Relentless motor; plays fast and physical on every snap. Good pop as a tackler and his high impact hits can force turnovers. Opens, turns and runs fluidly in coverage. Has good instincts, ball skills and a knack for making the big play. However, size is a concern when projecting for the next level, and he lacks great speed. Can open up his whole body to the cutoff block and gets engulfed at the point of attack at times. Tends to get knocked off his pursuit lane and struggles keeping blockers off his body when scraping. Tackles high and flashes difficulty running through ball carriers due to his lack of size. Shorter strides hinders sideline-to-sideline range; speed and burst is more effective in short-area. Appears quicker than fast. Bottom line, size will come once Isadore attacks a fulltime weight-training program, and his explosive burst in space simply can’t be coached. Definite sleeper on the recruiting trail if he lands in a system that covers him up and lets him attack the football.
Travis Stewart DCTF on Isadore:
… he’s one of my top five favorite players in the state, regardless of classification. If he and Brock both hold true, it’s Jason Phillips and Hawthorne all over again in Fort Worth.
His blog comment:
Justin Isadore LB, Beaumont Ozen
Surprise! We had actually poked and prodded Ozen on info for massive WR Willie Jefferson, a 6-6 pass-catcher with great hands and awesome leaping ability (see how I worked another name in here?) But he sent us a laundry list of names in addition to the giant Panther, one of which included Isadore, a 6-0, 205-lb. linebacker who had my attention about 10 seconds into his tape. He’s fast — very fast, especially if he somehow gets the ball in his hands — and he hits like a meteorite from space. I’d love for him to make his reads a split-second faster, but his pursuit skills can make up for that for the time being, and with his 2007 stats in mind (4 INTs, 4 FFs, 4 FRs and 2 def. TDs), Isadore could soon be on everyone’s — and I mean everyone’s — radar.
So what is next?
With 8 slots left the most urgent needs are at wide receiver and defensive backs/safeties and with no wide-outs on the board the coaches will make that position a priority. Some targets are a couple of Houston commits in former TCU commit A.J. Dugat and speedster Jared Pickett. A tough challenge there, but others include East Texas speedster Chance Casey and Evangel’s Quinn Giles. Also don’t rule out some very big teammates of a couple of commits in Brownwood’s Parker Taylor (6-4/190) and Ozen’s Willie Jefferson (6-7/205). Another prospect is Houston Northbrook’s Derrick Rainey.
No real new names with the defensive backs as Desmond Gardiner, Trey Wilson, and Kerry Lewis appear to be the top choices along with Demontre Hurst.
The WRs and DBs should take up 5 of the 8 slots available and leave the last 3 for the “best of” type selections. If a certain QB from Witchita Falls wants to come to TCU he will take a slot. Another close to commit is DE Spencer Nealy but he needs to act before that slot is taken.
Coaches will probably hold at least one slot until they get further evaluation on Jacob Lattimer. Lattimer is a 6-4/240/4.66 bruising linebacker originally from Fort Scott, Kansas. Currently at Hutchinson, CC will have 3 to play 3. Injuries are the biggest concern with him, but if he looks to be fully recovered he will be a beast.
A lot of talent still out there and the coaches may pull in one or two more huge surprises, but even if things go as projected this will be one of the best classes ever at TCU.
The complete list:
http://www.killerfrogs.com/blog/recruiting-pages/2009-recruit-list/
The ever evolving class of 2008
Posted on August 5, 2008
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Usually once the coaches get their Letter of Intents faxed in and signing day is complete, they are ready to put that class to bed and go on to the next year. Of course they end up dealing with qualification issues, but usually they use those opened scholarship slots in the following recruiting class.
But for TCU coaches this year, the class of 2008 is still a work-in-process.
Since the 2008 was such a small class to begin with and coaches had decided not to over-sign for the class of 2008, and since there were some important gaps to fill in playing positions, as it became apparent certain players would not qualify it was necessary to fill those spots immediately rather than carry them over to 2009. What hurt even worse was that 2 of the non-qualifiers (Justin Moreaux and Marques Parker) both were counted on to fill a huge void in the wide receiver spot and Edward (Bud) Patterson was looked at for either the WR spot or thinning CB spot.
This put the staff in a big bind and the coaches were very fortunate to find three extremely high quality replacements after signing date, which is almost unbelievable.
First came the signing of a pair of freshmen JUCO players from Tyler Junior College: Alonzo Adams and Jason Teague. Both will have three years to play which is also unusual and Adams will have 4 years to play 3 since he was fully qualified out of high school which is even more unusual. Teague was highly recruited out of high school and originally signed with LSU. Adams, despite huge numbers and lots of recognition and awards did not get much attention and decided not to take a late offer from Tulane, though TCU gave him a good long look. The Houston area athlete excelled in his first season at Tyler and the coaches grabbed him once the slot opened. Teague took his red shirt season at Tyler to get his academics straightened out and played one season.
Finally under some of the oddist of circumstances that could have occured and never happened before or will again, High School All-American Antoine Hicks from Mansfield Timberview, a UT signee, was released by the school before enrolling over admissions issues, became qualified and signed with TCU.
How is that for finding replacements?
Unfortunately the saga of the class of 2008 is not yet complete as coaches wait on the final word about Jason Teague from the NCAA Clearinghouse. This should come soon and maybe then, almost six months after signing date the coaches can put the class of 2008 to bed.
Player profiles:
Alonzo Adams 6-1/175/4.5 Tyler Junior College originally from Houston Westside. Offered by Tulane.
2007: Totaled 27 receptions for 607 yards (22.5 average) and five touchdowns in his lone season at Tyler Junior College … added five carries for 45 yards … earned All-SWJCA honors … a Houston Chronicle All-Greater Houston selection as a senior at Westside High School … was the second-leading receiver in the Houston area with 71 catches for 1,286 yards and 10 touchdowns … a finalist for the Houston Touchdown Club’s Offensive Player of Year … played in the Texas High School Coaches Association All-Star Game and the East-West All-American Game.
Jason Teague 6-2/190/4.48 Tyler Junior College, Originally from Carthage, TX-1st team all-state and east Texas MVP player out of Carthage, TX. Signed with LSU in 2006 over offers from OU, TAMU, TCU and others. Redshirted his freshman year at Tyler and was named All-SWJC his RSFR season. Will have 3 years to play 3 left. Rated #2 JUCO CB and #53 overall JUCO player by Rivals for the class of 2008. Fills a huge depth need at CB for the Horned Frogs
2007: Ranked by Rivals.com as the 53rd-best JC player in the nation… named the Texas 3-A Defensive Most Valuable Player as a senior in 2005… Rivals.com tabbed him as the 30th-best cornerback in the nation and the 65th-best player in the state of Texas during his senior campaign… was utilized at running back, receiver, safety and on special teams… totaled eight interceptions and blocked five punts in being named All-State as a senior… also totaled 15 touchdowns as a running back and wide receiver… all-district selection as a junior, when he totaled three interceptions and two fumble recoveries… also rushed for 432 yards and six touchdowns on a 6.6 per carry average.
Antoine Hicks 6-2/193/4.6 Mansfield, TX (Timberview) Originally signed with Texas over TAMU
High School: Prep All-American and all-district performer … versatile four-sport letterman who saw action at RB, WR, QB, CB, S, P/PK and on special teams … participated in the 2008 Under Armour All-America High School Football Game … a member of ESPN’s top 150 national prospects and ranked as the seventh-best athlete on the list … compiled 4,044 yards of total offense (1,688 rushing/1,922 passing/434 receiving) and accounted for 37 TDs during his prep career … rushed for 1,688 yards and 18 TDs on 285 carries (5.9 ypc), threw for 1,922 yards and 15 TDs and caught 27 passes for 434 yards (16.1 ypc) and four TDs over his final three seasons … tabbed district 4-5A Utility MVP as a senior … led the Wolves to a 9-4 record (6-1 district) and the third round of the state playoffs … notched 712 yards and 10 TDs on 99 carries (7.2 ypc) … threw for 516 yards and five TDs and caught 17 passes for 248 yards (14.6 ypc) and two TDs … also served as the team’s punter, punting 22 times for an average of 35.0 yards … named all-district 4-5A as a junior … helped Timberview reach the state playoffs in its first season of 5A football … rushed for 617 yards and five TDs on 125 carries (4.9 ypc) and threw for 1,116 yards and seven TDs … also caught five passes for 65 yards … added 359 yards and three TDs on 61 carries (5.9 ypc) as a sophomore … also threw for 290 yards and three TDs and caught five passes for 121 yards (24.2 ypc) and two TDs … played for coach Terry Cron … a three-year letterman in track and field … competed in 4×200 and 4×400-meter relays … holds personal bests of 21.8 in the 200 meters and 49.5 in the 400 meters … also ran hurdles with personal bests of 15.1 in the 110-meter hurdles and 40.8 in the 300-meter hurdles … is the school record holder in both the long jump (23 feet, 8 inches) and triple jump (46 feet, 3.5 inches) … also a three-year letterman in baseball and basketball.
Personal: Born in Fort Worth, Texas … also lived in Duncanville, Wichita Falls and Irving
The rest of the class of 2008
- QB Chase “Yogi” Gallegos 6-1/185/4.55 Irving, TX Grace Prep transfer in 2006. In 2007 he was 227 of 382 with 15 picks, 2369 total yards and 15 TDs as Irving adjusted their offense to more passing. Had a very good showing at the Nike camp in Fort Worth that opened a lot of eyes. Good arm strength, good footwork and quick release. #4 QB & #57 ranked player in DFW per Dallas Morning News, Top 100 in Texas per Star-Telegram.
- http://64.237.99.126/oldclips/2008BA106.wmv
- RB Edward Wesley 5-9/187/4.4 Irving, TX (MacArthur) 1st team all-district, HM all-state, 201 carries in 2007 for 1,309 yards and 15 TDs.
- http://64.237.99.126/oldclips/2008BA379.wmv
- http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=23427362
- WR Sam Shutt 6-2/185/4.35 Savannah, TN (Hardin County) Also plays CB and return specialist. Has worked with Andre Lott a former Vol on his skills and has also grown several inches in a short time to make him an o/s prospect
- http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2915491245903760451&q=Sam+Shutt
- TE Walker Dille 6-4/230/4.6 Sugarland, TX (Clements) Caught 23 passes for 537 yards and 6 TDs in 2007 to become the schools all-time leading receiver. Good speed, can get downfield to stretch the defense and a solid route runner. TSWA 1st Team All-State, Houston Chronicle Area 110, Scout #31 rated TE (Offers include Boise State)
- OT Trevius Jones Tyler Lee, 6-5/300/5.21 Great size & footwork, injury set him back his JR year but fully recovered, TSWA All-State Pre-season SuperPrep, TXprep 100 Seniors to Watch, Jim Stefani’s #13 ranked OL in Texas, Star-Telegram Texas Top 100(offers include: LSU, Nebraska, Texas Tech, OK St., Colorado, Baylor)
- http://64.237.99.126/oldclips/2008BA007.wmv
- OT (JUCO) Zach Roth 6-5/290/4.94 Garden City, KS Originally from Holcomb, KS, 1st team all-Jayhawk Conference tackle, All-State as a DL in HS.
- OL James Fry 6-4/265 Smithson Valley, TX TSWA 3rd team All-State
- C Blaize Foltz 6-4/295/5.02 Rose Hill, KS Al State DT and OL. Has made tremendous strides in development the past year. At the Nike combine in March 2007 he was 6-2.5/255 and timed a 5.75 40, in December he came in for the scouts at 6-4/292 and ran a 5.02 in the 40. Hard working kid and is a starter on the basketball team.
- DE/DT Jeremy Coleman 6-3/245/4.61 33″ vert Missouri City, TX (Marshall) 80 tackles and 6 sacks earned him 1st team all-district. Rated as one of the top DE’s for 2008 Rivals Texas 100, Scout #52 DE and Houston Chronicle Area 110. (offers include: Texas Tech, Mizzou, Ok St., Indiana, Baylor, Tulsa, Houston)
- LB/WR Greg Burks 6-2/200/4.5 Houston, TX (Spring Woods) tremendous athlete and can move to safety or WR, missed most of ‘06 with injury but still made 2007 AP/Texas Football Super Team at LBer. In 2007 had 13 rec for 325 yards and 3 TDs to go with 58 yards rushing on 8 carries and 2 TDs on offense despite injuries the first half of the year. Finished strong for the Tigers and included in Houston Chronicles’s Area Top 110.
- WR/ATH Corey Fuller 6-5/212/4.55 La Vernia, TX Big receiver who has also played DE and safety at LaVernia, earning all-district in 2006 as a safety. 1st Team TSWA All-State, District 110 hurdles champ with a 15.15 and Houston Chronicle Texas Top 100.
- S Chris Scott 6-0/190/4.6 Baton Rouge, LA (Southern Lab) Hard-hitting safety who brings images of another recent Frog safety from LA to mind when you see him play.
- K Ross Evans 5-9/150 Burnett, TX (currently #2 all-time in state and # nationally with 36 FGs in 38 games) Evans made the first team for his position on both the Associated Press’ 4A All-State and the Statesman’s All-Central Texas teams, 1st Team TSWA All-State .
The special teams
Posted on May 31, 2008
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Wrapping up the positions for 2008 are the special teams and there is probably not a position the coaches are more unsure how they will perform on the field than this one. Replacing punter Derek Wash will be a redshirt freshman Anson Kelton and replacing kicker Chris Manfredini will be a true freshman Ross Evans. Also lost will be one of the better punt returners in the nation last year in Brian Bonner and there is uncertainty about the return of the teams leading kick returner Donald Massey. Lots of new faces on special teams.
Depth chart:
Kicker
Ross Evans-may turn out to be the single most important signee in the class of 2008. Highly regarded kicker from Burnet ranks number 2 in Texas career field goals with 37.
Drew Combs-All Mark May team in 2007 and will handle most of the kick-off duties.
Kevin Sharpless-walk-on from Conroe.
Punter
Anson Kelton-RSFR from Aledo where he was all-state. Bigger than many of the lineman at 6-4/260 and also played at DE in HS. Impressive during spring drills.
Landry Lawson-walk-on from Pantego Christian.
Punt Returns
Jeremy Kerley-explosive and exciting runner. TCU has not had a punt returned for a TD in 73 games, Kerley may end that streak.
Nick Sanders-A playmaker in HS will get some opportunities again this fall.
Bud Patterson-key returns last season helped Bastrop to the finals.
Kick Returns
Aaron Brown-speed to turn it up and take it all the way.
Ryan Christian-had three returns in 2007 and averaged over 23 yards per return.
Jason Teague-JUCO transfer may take over the top spot by mid-season.
Deep Snapper
Clint Gresham-Transfer from Arkansas and key contributor in 2007.
Sean Haight-walk-on from San Diego
Needs for the class of 2009
Coaches for the first time have both a freshman scholarship player at punter and kicker and unless something drastic happens do not look for another signee at these positions for the next three years.
The offensive line
Posted on May 29, 2008
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With ten seniors and juniors on the offensive line depth chart for 2008 this group could be one of the more experienced lines in almost a decade. Combine that with good size across the board and being led by Rimington candidate Blake Schlueter and Junior Marshall Newhouse, expect this group to be a solid anchor for the offense.
LT
70 Marshall Newhouse 6-3 317 Jr.-starter since his freshman season, they don’t come much better than Newhouse.
63 Heath Raetz 6-5 315 Sr.-Injuries have been a problem, but a very good player when healthy. Could move to starting RT.
6-5 315 66 Robert Clark 6-6 255 Sr.-tough competitor and shows well for his size. was backup to Newhouse all last season.
LG
60 Preston Phillips 6-6 293 Sr.-became starter when Matty Lindner was injured last season.
78 Josh Vernon 6-2 295 So.-former center saw some PT in 2007 and is expected to compete for a lot more time in 2008.
77 Spencer Thompson 6-4 270 RFr.-another converted center and has developed quickly. Needs to add some bulk but had a good spring.
C
75 Blake Schlueter 6-3 272 Sr.-Potential All-American and second to Newhouse in knockdowns and overall grading in 2007.
50 Tyler Marrou 6-5 268 Jr.-Former TE from Calallen and tough competitor.
76 Jake Kirkpatrick 6-3 273 So.-only 3rd season playing football last year and continues to develop. Great overall athlete and should take over the spot once Schlueter leaves.
RG
65 Giles Montgomery 6-5 295 Sr.-Fiery competitor and drives well. Has developed into a solid OL.
73 Josh Karlin 6-4 280 Jr.-Walk-on from kansas and saw PT behind Montgomery last season.
72 Kyle Dooley 6-3, 310, Fr., RS-another walk-on from Nebraska and expected to push hard for PT.
RT
79 Nic Richmond 6-8 298 Jr.-Very good athlete and great size. Saw limited action last season and is in a battle with Cannon for PT.
61 Marcus Cannon 6-5 319 So-Had a good spring and will push Richmond hard.
Zach Roth 6-5 298 Jr.-JUCO transfer and is expected to compete right away.
Others:
62 Jeff Olson OT 6-4 253 RFr-Former TE and needs to add bulk, but a great compeitor and may move quickly into the depth chart in 2008.
53 Ryan Wyatt OG 6-3 286 Jr.-walk-on from Smithson Valley
71 Austin Sulak OL 6-1 290 Fr.-walk on from Cameron.
Incoming Class:
Needs for the class of 2009:
Losing 5 & 5 juniors off the depth chart the next 2 saesons and have 4 incoming freshman and one additional signee developing so the demands are there for a decent size class in 2009 and getting early commits from Ty Horn and John Woolridge have definitely been a good start. At least one JUCO would help a lot with experienced depth.
Commits:
- OT Ty Horn 6-5/265 Waco, TX (Midway) First team all district player drawing heavy interest from TAMU & UH also. named as the top CenTex recruit for 2009 by the Waco Tribune.
- OL John Wooldridge 6-5/285 Bellaire, TX (Episcopal)
Offers:
- OG Anthony Mackey 6-3/275 Copperas Cove, TX All-State 4A, had 75 pancake blocks and 54 decleats, and no sacks allowed, recently won Five Hills power lifting invitational and beat Logan Brock by a foot to win all-district discus championship.
- OG Nick Ash 6-5/270/5.3 Keller, TX Scout Inc. evaluation:Ash is an offensive tackle that will need to work on the technical part of the game. He looks the part at 6′5″ and 270 pounds and carries his weight well. Displays quickness off the ball and has good initial leg drive; needs to keep churning the legs and stay after the defender till the whistle blows. Comes off the ball too high most of the time; legs come together and is often face mask to face mask with the defensive man instead of mask in the frame of the body. Must become a better knee bender and sink his hips. Could be more powerful with the hands. Often times absorbs the defender instead of delivering a punch with the hands; needs to lock on to the defensive lineman. Should do the same on pass protection; accepts the pass rusher instead of violently giving a solid first blow delivery. Fits into double team quickly but is too tall and shoulders aren’t always square but does get good movement due to size and leg drive. Cutoff blocking is decent; but should get his head across the defensive man. Demonstrates ability to get to level two but needs to lock on to and sustain downfield blocks. Sometimes takes a false step or oversteps when blocking; loses position on reach block and defender often gets into body. Ash is a big, good looking athlete that needs to play with more consistency. He must use his hands more and play with better leverage. He has decent mobility but needs to continue to work on foot agility.
- OG Carneal Ainsworth 6-4/300/5.1 Baton Rouge, LA (Parkview Baptist) ESPN150 Watch List, DandyDon #6 player in LA and former teammate of Clay Spencer & Jordan Free who TCU offered from the class of 2008. Attended LSU Junior Day and was expected to commit but didn’t get the offer. High Interest in LSU and Alabama, From Scout Inc: Ainsworth is a physical lineman that is a productive offensive guard. Even though he’s big enough in terms of weight, his height limits him to the guard position. Really is a good technician. Good short step rarely gets him out of position on the drive block. Comes out low with good leverage and power angles. Only weakness in base blocking is tendency to not strike more with the hands. Likes to block with the chest; this will not work at the next level. Nice leg drive once contact is made and really stays after the defender. Pulls and traps with authority and does a good job of driving legs on contact; good finisher. Shows effort getting downfield even though mobility isn’t the greatest; makes up for lack of foot speed by hustling and going till whistle blows. Gets a little angular on the double team; needs to fit into block and get hip to hip with teammate to make the block more effective in driving the defensive lineman off the football. Pass setting is solid, gets back quick in good relationship to pass rusher. Needs to really work on hands and keep chest away from defender. Must sit back and show some patience in order to not get over-extended. Ainsworth is a very solid offensive guard that has the attitude and work ethic to be a valuable collegiate offensive lineman.
- JUCO OT Anthony Morgan 6-4/325/5.3 Corsicana, TX (Navarro) Originally out of Lancaster and was Honorable Mention All-SWJCFC his freshman year at Navarro.
Others:
- OG Riley Spencer 6-6/263 Hesston, KS Offers include Miami. From Scout, Inc: Spencer is a raw talent at the offensive tackle position that will probably play guard at he next level. He has great height but is a little light in the pants at this point. Shouldn’t have any trouble putting on some pounds by his freshmen year of college. Comes off the ball low and hard but needs to improve the technical part of drive blocking. Puts too much weight on his toes while in stance. This causes two major problems. First of all, he can’t get his legs and hips underneath on the fire out losing both power and balance. Secondly, it becomes difficult to block a defensive man that moves. Not afraid of contact but sometimes delivers with shoulders instead of hands resulting in a loss of leverage and body control. Needs to concentrate on the snap count; is sometimes a half a count slow off the football. Runs pretty well and is a good puller. Turns upfield to find defender but again loses balance at times. Gets movement in short yardage situations because he can “root hog” the defensive linemen off the line of scrimmage. Pass protection is an issue until he sits back more in his stance in order to pass set with quickness and at proper angle. Cannot lunge at pass rusher and needs to use hands as a weapon, not absorb the defender. Spencer has some athletic talent and has a great attitude. Gives effort and always hustles. Should get stronger in the lower body while continuing to work on the technical part of the game.
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUHTg_kFanI
- Ben Hughes C 6-5/260/4.9 Fort Bend, TX (Austin) Son of former Baylor All-American Michael Hughes and has added 20 lbs since end of 2007. Heady player and coaches tripped to his spring game to get a much closer look at him and will possibly bring him in for an offer soon.
- Patrick Leonard 6-7/270 Midland, TX (Midland)
- Daniel Moore, Lexington, 6-6, 302 (1st team all-state 2A)
- Tobyn Large 6-2/275/5.10 Montgomery, TX
- Ryan Lee OT 6-6/240 Hamilton, TX
- Stavion Lowe 6-5/294/5.2 Brownwood, TX
- Jermaine Roberts C 6-4/305 Garland, TX (South) hard working and highly rated. DFW area Top 50, can play either side of the line. Another great South Garland athlete. Scout, Inc 150 Watch list. their notes on him:Roberts is a prospect to keep an eye on as his possesses some nice upside. He is a big defensive tackle who can clog up run lanes and cause some problems. On paper he is big and on film he looks even bigger than his listed measurable. He reminds us some of a baby Steve Entman who was a excellent defensive tackle for the Washington Huskies at one time. While Entman terrorized offenses it looks like Roberts may be better suited for a position change in college and move to gaurd. On defense you love his motor and he is a tough dude to try and move off the ball. He does a good job versus double teams of not only holding his ground, but of also being able to get low and split them. He has a solid get-off and when he comes off the ball low and gets into a blocker he has little trouble of pushing his opponent into the back-field. He is good with his hands and does a solid job of being able to shed. He can get some penetration if he can get on shoulder of a blocker and push his way up-field, but is not a kid that will blow by blockers. You are impressed by how well he runs for a big guy when you see him huff it to the perimeter in puruit. He can bull rush in passing situations, but if he does not get his man moving backwards he struggles to get free and pressure the quarterback. Roberts has some merit as a big two-gapping defensive tackle, but his best chance to get the most out of his ability will likely be on offense in college. He is physical enough to get into blockers and if he can keep his pads down consistently just blow defenders off the ball in run game. You could see him pulling and trapping and even doing a good job of climbing up to the second level. As a pass blocer he will likely need some more time to adjust, but should be able to lock onto and mirror a rusher in the short area. Roberts is a good prospect with some versatility. He may get some looks on defense, but we would not be surprised to see him enter college as a guard.
- Trent Schuchart OC 6-2/265/5.5 Pleasanton, TX
- Jacob Smith Crowley, TX
- LaAdrian Waddle 6-5/315 Colombus, TX Scout, Inc Top 150 watch list, their notes on him:Waddle is a mountain of a man at offensive tackle. Over three hundred fifteen pounds with good height he looks massive in pads. Must be careful not to gain anymore weight until his foot agility improves. Is usually fairly quick off the ball but often takes a false step or understeps. Completely smothers smaller defensive linemen once in to them. Extremely powerful due to size and follows the initial contact with good leg drive. Sometimes gets beat underneath due to improper first step. Wipes out his side of the line of scrimmage on the down block. Comes off to second level with some authority and gets into linebacker but often can’t sustain block due to being too high. Tends to lose some body control when his legs straighten out. Mauls opponent on the double team block with power and leg drive. Decent at pulling but needs to move quicker and lower. Usually gets turned upfield but often misses block due to loss of body control. Effective on the trap block even though plays too high. Pass protection can only be accomplished from a “two” point stance where setting is quicker. Defenders have trouble getting around such a huge specimen and the long arms are effective in keeping pass rusher away from body. Must be careful to not be beaten underneath. Waddle has real potential because he moves well for such a big player. If he works on trimming down and improve foot quickness and technique he will be a highly sought after lineman.
- Jerrell Watkins 6-3/250 Channelview, TX
- Brock Wempa 6-3/275 Royce City, TX (all-state as Soph) DFW area Top 50
- Joseph Williams 6-2/270/4.96 Houston, TX Strake Jesuit
As mentioned Horn & Woolridge are a solid start to the class. Of the offers all will be tough to land and the rest of the class seems to be uncertain. Ben hughes get little attention but may be the next in line along with Spencer. Stavion Lowe is a teammate of Casey Pachall at Brownwood and highly rated, but unsure if he gets an offer.
The defensive line
Posted on May 28, 2008
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Lets just hope the defensive line of 2008 fairs better than the defensive line of 2007. In 2007 coaches lost James Vess to reasons only he and they will disclose and then they saw a potential top 10 draft pick dwindle his career to not even being able to sign a free agent contract. Problems on the defensive line have continued into 2008 as Allen Christopher who played in 24 games in the last 2 seasons decided he would rather be back in East Texas.
Well at least Vess is back for one more season and we have Cody Moore along with Kelly Griffin anchoring the middle, but the corners will have a lot of ground to make up. Jerry Hughes and Matt Panfil have shown great progress, but the future really lies with Braylon Broughton and Jeremy Coleman.
Depth chart:
WDE:
Jerry Hughes-JR shows good speed on the corner and decent cover skills.
Clarence Leatch-Soph with limited experience but huge upside.
Jeremy Coleman-tremendous athlete and will get PT on the corner and in the middle. His ability to drive and elevate sets him apart.
SDE
Matt Panfil-had tough shoes to fill and did an adequate job in 2007. Will see lots of pressure for PT from 2s and 3s.,
Wayne Daniels-Took a year off to develop and fans should start getting excited about this young man. Can play inside or out.
Braylon Broughton-Another highly anticipated talent and this RSFR made end up being one of the best.
NT
James Vess-suspensed for critical mistake in 2007 and is back with a vengance. Had a tremendous spring.
Kelly Griffin-Started every game in 2007 and will be basically another starter in 2008
Cory Grant-has really come on strong and may pucsh hard for more PT at either interio line position.
DT
Cody Moore-Has been solid for years and look for him to be the strength of the DL.
John Fonua-Will apply pressure from the middle, needs to learn how to play the run better.
Henry Nuitei-Cousin of Fonua and has really started to show his potential. The interio line looks to be a solid 3 deep.
Others:
DE Allen Christopher-doubtfull that he will contribute in 2008.
Needs for the class of 2009:
Vess, Moore. Panfil & Fonua will need to be replaced. Solid currently on the interior so no JUCO expected there however the corner may be some concern. Possibly one JUCO DE but really need some youth for the future. Getting the Maud 3 was huge for this staff as they fill a huge void with very good talent and the potential of Nate Bonsu may really complete this class.
Commits:
I had heard quite a bit of talk about Dunbar over the past few days/weeks, and about how great his skill set was when you consider how few 1A players go on to the DI level. Well, after watching his tape, I can say I agree. He’s big, and he still looks like he could use a little more work to chisel that frame down, but he’s got uncanny athleticism and body control for someone of his size and, like former TCU DE Tommy Blake, he even totes the ball once in a while. He didn’t blow my socks off, but he’s certainly a great player and unquestionably lives up to his reputation. http://texasfootball.com/mediamgr/player.php?sid=4764&s=1204738206-978434477
Offers:
Others:
I fully expect that Nate will commit if he hasn’t already and that would fill the most immediate needs of the class. With some of the extra spots available coaches may add a JUCO such as Johnson, he is a tremendous athlete and could cover the youth currently at DE. The class appears to be virtually complete for the DL, but there are still some athletes such as Quinn Anthony from Rusk still out there.
The tight ends
Posted on May 27, 2008
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At least one receiver position appears to be solid for the next few years and that is the tight ends. Shea Reagan leads this bunch and the senior may one of the best in the country if he stays healthy. Sophmore Evan Frosh and RSFR Logan Brock will add experience to the group and incoming freshmen Corey Fuller and Walker Dille may not get much playing time but show a lot of promise for the future.
Depth chart
Shea Reagan-averaging 19.7 yards per reception and his 1st 17 catches in his career went for 1st downs. Injuries have limited his playing time over the years else you would be hearing a lot more pub for him. Originally recruited as a QB.
Evan Frosch-had 5 receptions in 2007
Logan Brock-played QB in high school until injuries forced a position change his SR year in which he was all-state at TE.
Others:
Ryan Benge-JUCO transfer from Navarro
Robert Deck-walkon from Nolan HS.
Incoming freshmen:
Walker Dille-All State and all Houston area TE. Great hands and speed but needs to add some weight to his 6-3 frame.
Corey Fuller-1st Team All State and District MVP. At 6-5 and 219 needs to develop a little in the weight room but has great athleticism for his size. 110M hurdler in HS.
Needs for the class of 2009:
Lots of potential behind the SR but not the size coaches would like especially for the blocking TE. Not an area of huge need but they may go after a big JUCO TE. Made an early offer to Trey Graham who picked UT, there are currently no other offers out for TEs.
Others:
- Ryan Fitch Grand Prairie, TX (South) Scout Inc evaluation:Fitch is a rangy tight end prospect. Looks taller than his listed size and will need to get into a college weight program and add bulk. He looks on film to have a good wingspan and should be able to pack on additional needed size. He is a productive blocker. Makes adequate initial contact. Will flash the ability to get placement with his hands, generate some power from his hips, and take short choppy steps. When he does that he can create push off the ball in the run game. He needs to be more consistent in his technique. He can get overextended at times and needs to watch his pad level. He does a very adequate job of blocking down and needs to get better positioning. Does a solid job of being able to cut-off on the backside. Overall, he needs to be more consistent, but displays the ability to consistently get himself between the defender and the ball. Not a damaging blocker, but productive. He is a solid receiver. Displays a good initial take-off and has long strides. Not a burner but can get vertical some. Has good hands and can catch the ball away from his frame. Displays solid concentration and can make the tough grab. Fitch is a tight end with some upside. Needs to keep filling out his frame, but could develop into a solid well-rounded college tight end.
- Coby Goodwin 6-6/210 Cypress, TX (Cy-Fair) Scout, Inc evaluation:Goodwin is a tall lean tight end prospect. He has the ideal height, but will need to get into a college weight program and add significant bulk to his frame. He is a productive blocker that can make solid initial contact. When he gets locked on he can be tough to beat. Can get on his toes some and overextend. He is leverage disadvantaged and needs to generate more power from his lower body on contact. Does a solid job of being able to stay with his blocks. Does an adequate job of being able to step and seal a defender. Flashes the ability to quickly work up to the second level and get a piece of moving targets. He needs to add size and keep developing as a blocker, but that will be the strength of his game at the college level. He displays good hands and the ability to catch the ball away from his body with some consistency. Runs adequate routes and will do a solid job of selling a block before releasing into his route. He will be best in the short passing game as an outlet receiver. Lacks the speed to stretch the field. He will fight for yards, but will not make many defenders miss at the college level with the ball in his hands. Goodwin is a solid prospect. Needs to keep filling out, but can develop into a solid blocking tight end.
- Zack Parker Arlington, TX
JUCO:
TE Brett Acre 6-5/250 Coalinga, CA (West Hills)
TE Prizell Brown 6-4/258/4.65 Brenham, TX (Blinn)
Brown is a former all-region basketball player from Pflugerville Connally and turned down several offers to pursue his dream of playing TE. A very good athlete and has the size the coaches need and uses his body well.
