This was an early (8 a.m.) practice, especially for us sports writers. It was also an open practice. I would estimate 50 people were there. Among them, the fathers of Jimmy Bennett and Michael Box, who figured heavily in the world of UConn considering the suspension of Cody Endres. There was also a scout from the Philadelphia Eagles. NFL scouts are nothing new at college camps.
Big east officials have been with the team the past two days, part of program instituted last season. This gives the team an understanding of rules -- new and old -- and the refs a chance to get some work in before the first week of the season. The crew on hand was the same that worked the UConn-Notre Dame game last season.
Here's a rundown:
8:20 team stretching
8:31 QBs working on their drills. Leon Kinnard, who has worked in multiple positions, is a QB today.
8:36 LBs working on run defense
8:38 Offensive Coordinator Joe Moorhead oversees QBs, who are working on drop steps
and side-to-side shuffles before making a throw.
8:40 WRs run routes with staff presenting obstacles and serving as defenders with use of pads.
8:46 Oklahoma drill. This time its WRs vs. CBs. Joshua Alexander blew up Dwyane Difton, who was warned "you're going to get hurt" using the form he did.
8:57 QBs working with WRs
9:08 WRs vs. CBs. Mike Lang, who moved from WR to S, made a strong play when he came from behind the receiver and deflected the pass. Later on, Michael Smith hauls in a spectacular pass from I don't know with an equally impressive over-the-shoulder grab down the left sideline.
The non-football highlight came when a local "news" reporter from Fox decided that camp should stop so Randy Edsall can answer questions about the suspensions of Endres and o-lineman Erik Kuraczea. He said he didn't read SID Mike Enright's three-sentence release, which ended with the mention of no further comment. The reporter insisted he be shown respect because he's a "news reporter" and asked repeatedly if Enright "saw his report." The joy here is the guy left before Edsall would speak. So if you get a hostile twist on UConn from Fox today, you know why.
The best part was his cameraman wore a Boston College hat. Can anyone say Renee Gork?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/08/17/renee-gork-fired-florida-_n_684332.html
Add to it that there were fans in the area, and this was not a cool move, Mr. Fox "news reporter".
9:20 11-on-11
9:40 7-on-7
9:48 D-Line vs. O-Line
9:59 11-on-11 and the offense starts at its 1-yard line. Dwayne Difton made a nifty catch on a 40-plus-yard pass. Ted Jennings, now a second-string defensive end, busted through the line for a monster pass deflection. Think Dikembe Mutombo.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Endres and Kuraczea suspended
Redshirt junior quarterback Cody Endres and redshirt sophomore offensive guard Erik Kuraczea have been suspended indefinitely by the team due to a violation of UConn and Division of Athletics policies, the university announced Wednesday.
There was no other comment, but I am sure we'll have more in the morning following the team's practice.
There was no other comment, but I am sure we'll have more in the morning following the team's practice.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Hairy situation
In years past, Edsall had forbidden his players from growing beards, much to the chagrin of several Huskies. But when the team met to start training camp, there was a change of tune from Edsall. Suddenly, the Huskies could grow a little more facial hair.
“I just want them to be clean-cut,” Edsall said. “Some guys who shave a lot get the bumps on their face and then they don’t want to. So I just say, ‘Hey, if you want a beard, that’s fine. Just keep it neat.” It’s all about them presenting an image out there. As long as they’re presentable, it’s not a Santa Claus beard or anything like that.”
Right guard Zach Hurd is excited about the change.
“Now we can have an actual physical-looking offensive line,” Hurd said. “Usually if I shave, I look like a 12-year-old boy.”
“I just want them to be clean-cut,” Edsall said. “Some guys who shave a lot get the bumps on their face and then they don’t want to. So I just say, ‘Hey, if you want a beard, that’s fine. Just keep it neat.” It’s all about them presenting an image out there. As long as they’re presentable, it’s not a Santa Claus beard or anything like that.”
Right guard Zach Hurd is excited about the change.
“Now we can have an actual physical-looking offensive line,” Hurd said. “Usually if I shave, I look like a 12-year-old boy.”
Faith and football collide
During holy month of Ramadan, Muslims are expected to fast from sunrise to sunset. This fasting, which includes absence of water, can make those hours particularly challenging.
That includes center Moe Petrus. But as Petrus explained, the Qur’an makes exceptions for physically demanding situations.
“I’m not fasting now, but if you can’t -- if you have obligations -- you can make it up later,” he said.
It isn’t as simple as forgoing the fast. In its place, Petrus will have to either fast at another time or provide charitable services beyond what he already does through the football program.
Petrus has fasted through a few in-season practices, but never through a game or on game day. This year, he said, is the first time Ramadan has fallen during training camp.
He recalled former Carolina Panther wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad used to fast during the preseason. Still, fasting during the hot summer days, especially with the team enduring two-a-days, would make for a hazardous environment.
“At this level, it would be really strenuous, really hard to not drink water, to not eat while practicing,” Petrus said. “We’re losing four, five pounds at practice as it is.”
That includes center Moe Petrus. But as Petrus explained, the Qur’an makes exceptions for physically demanding situations.
“I’m not fasting now, but if you can’t -- if you have obligations -- you can make it up later,” he said.
It isn’t as simple as forgoing the fast. In its place, Petrus will have to either fast at another time or provide charitable services beyond what he already does through the football program.
Petrus has fasted through a few in-season practices, but never through a game or on game day. This year, he said, is the first time Ramadan has fallen during training camp.
He recalled former Carolina Panther wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad used to fast during the preseason. Still, fasting during the hot summer days, especially with the team enduring two-a-days, would make for a hazardous environment.
“At this level, it would be really strenuous, really hard to not drink water, to not eat while practicing,” Petrus said. “We’re losing four, five pounds at practice as it is.”
Stepping up
Sitting on a table in the training room on Monday, Marcus Campbell tore an anterior cruciate ligament during a non-contact drill on Saturday, ending his season before it began, the defensive end pulled aside team captain Scott Lutrus and apologized for letting the team down two straight years.
Campbell, who missed last season due to academic concerns, took his latest misfortune hard. But his teammates weren’t going to let him get down.
“It’s not his fault,” Lutrus said. “He was going out there playing hard. It’s what Coach tells us, go out there and play every play like it’s your last, and I believe he did that.”
Campbell will undergo surgery on Friday.
Now with Campbell shelved, the Huskies are elevating Trevardo Williams to play opposite Jesse Joseph, giving UConn a pair of true sophomores at defensive end. It also means that red shirt sophomores Ted Jennings and A.J. Portee will man the second unit, giving the Huskies a lot of youth and not much experience at the position.
“There’s no margin of error,“ said defensive tackle Kendall Reyes. “The twos and threes are expected to know everything the starters are supposed to know. If anything, the twos and threes should know it even better because when you get thrown in, the coaches don’t expect a drop off at all. You’re getting more mental reps, so you should know everything that you’re doing, exactly where you’re supposed to go.”
Campbell marks the second loss to the unit as Greg Lloyd Jr., will be red shirted and moved back to his original position of linebacker for next season. Lloyd is recovering from a knee injury. He is able to practice, but will not play.
Campbell, who missed last season due to academic concerns, took his latest misfortune hard. But his teammates weren’t going to let him get down.
“It’s not his fault,” Lutrus said. “He was going out there playing hard. It’s what Coach tells us, go out there and play every play like it’s your last, and I believe he did that.”
Campbell will undergo surgery on Friday.
Now with Campbell shelved, the Huskies are elevating Trevardo Williams to play opposite Jesse Joseph, giving UConn a pair of true sophomores at defensive end. It also means that red shirt sophomores Ted Jennings and A.J. Portee will man the second unit, giving the Huskies a lot of youth and not much experience at the position.
“There’s no margin of error,“ said defensive tackle Kendall Reyes. “The twos and threes are expected to know everything the starters are supposed to know. If anything, the twos and threes should know it even better because when you get thrown in, the coaches don’t expect a drop off at all. You’re getting more mental reps, so you should know everything that you’re doing, exactly where you’re supposed to go.”
Campbell marks the second loss to the unit as Greg Lloyd Jr., will be red shirted and moved back to his original position of linebacker for next season. Lloyd is recovering from a knee injury. He is able to practice, but will not play.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Campbell done for the season
Defensive end Marcus Campbell, who sat out last season due to academic issues, will miss the entire 2010 season after tearing an anterior cruciate ligament in practice on Saturday.
Campbell, a junior, was expected to start for UConn. He has 24 career tackles and two sacks for the Huskies. The Huskies will now likely turn to Trevardo Williams to play opposite Jesse Joseph.
He will undergo surgery later this week.
Campbell, a junior, was expected to start for UConn. He has 24 career tackles and two sacks for the Huskies. The Huskies will now likely turn to Trevardo Williams to play opposite Jesse Joseph.
He will undergo surgery later this week.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Opening Day thoughts
Monday's first day of practice was different than the previous four years, at least, in that there were zero scuffles between players. I don't put a lot of weight into some people's notion that tempers have to flare.
What I also liked was that the Huskies went right to business. The thing is, they know for a change that this could be their year. UConn has played well in recent years but this team can win the Big East outright.
There are two important areas of concern. First, without Marcus Easley, who steps up at wide receiver. The other is the development of reliable defensive backs. For the first time in a while, Randy Edsall doesn't have a few guys that he truly trusts.
How those play out over the next month will determine what the Huskies do.
What I also liked was that the Huskies went right to business. The thing is, they know for a change that this could be their year. UConn has played well in recent years but this team can win the Big East outright.
There are two important areas of concern. First, without Marcus Easley, who steps up at wide receiver. The other is the development of reliable defensive backs. For the first time in a while, Randy Edsall doesn't have a few guys that he truly trusts.
How those play out over the next month will determine what the Huskies do.
Monday, August 09, 2010
Back from camp
I've just walked in from Day One of UConn football camp. Sorry there weren't live updates, but that's a new mandate of coach Randy Edsall, who seems worried about the flow of information getting out there about his team. After all, the Huskies have been known to use creativity in playcalling (see run up the middle, run to the left, run to the right).
Anyhow, here are some timestamped updates from my trusty notebook.
4:30 p.m. Offense working on running plays/blocking schemes
4:36 p.m. QBs practice drop steps/DBs work on side-to-side footwork
4:40 p.m. DBs work on their back peddle and opening up to play the ball
4:45 p.m. Defensive line hitting the sled
4:50 p.m. Corners are in 1-on-1 workouts with each other
*A side note -- I love DBs who run routes. Nothing helps them think like a WR better than playing WR.
4:52 p.m. RBs and WRs run routes and catch passes. Leon Kinnard makes a beautiful catch on an out route pass from Zach Frazer. I didn't see who was covering Kinnard, but he beat two men to the spot and pulled away.
5:10 p.m. 11-on-11 drills
6:03 p.m. Red zone drills
Highlights:
Dwayne Difton, who looks bigger, makes a diving catch in the end zone off of a Cody Endres.
New Husky D.J. Shoemate tiptoes down the line abouyt seven yards for the score
Isiah Moore grabs a tough pass in traffic in the back of the end zone
Shoemate plows up the middle for a score
Tebucky Jones catches Michael Box's high pass in the corner of the end zone thanks to Jones outjumping the defense. It was a spectacular catch.
I'll come back later with more thoughts on today's practice.
Anyhow, here are some timestamped updates from my trusty notebook.
4:30 p.m. Offense working on running plays/blocking schemes
4:36 p.m. QBs practice drop steps/DBs work on side-to-side footwork
4:40 p.m. DBs work on their back peddle and opening up to play the ball
4:45 p.m. Defensive line hitting the sled
4:50 p.m. Corners are in 1-on-1 workouts with each other
*A side note -- I love DBs who run routes. Nothing helps them think like a WR better than playing WR.
4:52 p.m. RBs and WRs run routes and catch passes. Leon Kinnard makes a beautiful catch on an out route pass from Zach Frazer. I didn't see who was covering Kinnard, but he beat two men to the spot and pulled away.
5:10 p.m. 11-on-11 drills
6:03 p.m. Red zone drills
Highlights:
Dwayne Difton, who looks bigger, makes a diving catch in the end zone off of a Cody Endres.
New Husky D.J. Shoemate tiptoes down the line abouyt seven yards for the score
Isiah Moore grabs a tough pass in traffic in the back of the end zone
Shoemate plows up the middle for a score
Tebucky Jones catches Michael Box's high pass in the corner of the end zone thanks to Jones outjumping the defense. It was a spectacular catch.
I'll come back later with more thoughts on today's practice.
Day 1
The Huskies open practice this afternoon, starting what should be an exciting season. There's a lot of hype surrounding UConn, with some polls having them in the Top 25 and others just on the outside.
UConn has a favorable schedule, especially early on. A win in the opener at Michigan would put the Huskies on track for a big season.
However, you will have to wait a while to get updates on today's practice -- or any practice, for that matter. UConn has banned live blogging, Facebook and Twitter updates.
I will have updates afterward.
UConn has a favorable schedule, especially early on. A win in the opener at Michigan would put the Huskies on track for a big season.
However, you will have to wait a while to get updates on today's practice -- or any practice, for that matter. UConn has banned live blogging, Facebook and Twitter updates.
I will have updates afterward.
Wilson added to another watch list
Senior linebacker Lawrence Wilson was added to the Bednarik award, given to the nation's best defensive player.
Wilson, a native of Tuscaloosa, Ala., led the Huskies with 140 tackles last season en route to an All-Big East first team selection. He also had five sacks and 11 tackles for a loss.
Wilson, a native of Tuscaloosa, Ala., led the Huskies with 140 tackles last season en route to an All-Big East first team selection. He also had five sacks and 11 tackles for a loss.
Saturday, August 07, 2010
What the SNY deal really means
If you heard me this morning on Sports Talk with Bill and Mike on 104.7 FM, you know why the TV deal between UConn and SNY is so important.
If you didn't, here it is:
When all Hades was breaking loose this summer with schools talking relocating to different conferences and such, one of the sticking point to what made Rutgers so appealing to the Big Ten was its place in the New York City market.
Guess what?
That's gone. It now belongs to the Huskies.
Here are the details from the press release:
►Comprehensive UConn Huskies Football Season Preview Show
►Randy Edsall's Weekly Press Conference
►In-Depth Post-Game Shows [Following all SNY-televised UConn football games]
►UConn Huskies Season-in-Review/Bowl Preview Special
►UConn's "Football Signing Day" Press Conference
►Re-airs of every UConn Huskies Football Game [subject to availability]
►Huskies Power Hour: A 60-minute cut-down version of that week's game.
► SNY Spotlight with Head Coach Randy Edsall. SNY Spotlight is an exclusive signature series - created by SNY's Original Entertainment Division - that features in-depth interviews with New York's most influential leaders in sports and entertainment
It's not just football. It's men's basketball and a little bit of women's, which is a shame.
►Comprehensive UConn Huskies Men's basketball Season Preview Show
►In-Depth Pre-Game Shows Prior to Select SNY-Televised UConn Basketball Games
►UConn Huskies Season-in-Review Special
►Re-airs of Every UConn Huskies basketball Game Shown on SNY
► SNY Spotlight with Men's Head Basketball Coach Jim Calhoun and Women's Head Basketball Coach Geno Auriemma
This has two effects.
The first is, as mentioned earlier, the Big East has a school not named Rutgers, embedded in NYCs TV market. If schools start looking to move again, and they will, the Big East suddenly looks more appealing. Now, don't be too shocked to see Rutgers pop up on YES, but if you are a school looking to make the jump up to the Big East or from another large conference to the Big East, the exposure on SNY is a nice perk.
The second is that should the Big East fail at securing its future, UConn is now positioned itself to jump ship if the right opportunity strikes. So if the Big Ten or even the ACC came calling, UConn has a major bargaining chip.
On a side note to the SNY deal, the rest of Connecticut should be receiving the network on Comcast before the season opener at Michigan.
If you didn't, here it is:
When all Hades was breaking loose this summer with schools talking relocating to different conferences and such, one of the sticking point to what made Rutgers so appealing to the Big Ten was its place in the New York City market.
Guess what?
That's gone. It now belongs to the Huskies.
Here are the details from the press release:
►Comprehensive UConn Huskies Football Season Preview Show
►Randy Edsall's Weekly Press Conference
►In-Depth Post-Game Shows [Following all SNY-televised UConn football games]
►UConn Huskies Season-in-Review/Bowl Preview Special
►UConn's "Football Signing Day" Press Conference
►Re-airs of every UConn Huskies Football Game [subject to availability]
►Huskies Power Hour: A 60-minute cut-down version of that week's game.
► SNY Spotlight with Head Coach Randy Edsall. SNY Spotlight is an exclusive signature series - created by SNY's Original Entertainment Division - that features in-depth interviews with New York's most influential leaders in sports and entertainment
It's not just football. It's men's basketball and a little bit of women's, which is a shame.
►Comprehensive UConn Huskies Men's basketball Season Preview Show
►In-Depth Pre-Game Shows Prior to Select SNY-Televised UConn Basketball Games
►UConn Huskies Season-in-Review Special
►Re-airs of Every UConn Huskies basketball Game Shown on SNY
► SNY Spotlight with Men's Head Basketball Coach Jim Calhoun and Women's Head Basketball Coach Geno Auriemma
This has two effects.
The first is, as mentioned earlier, the Big East has a school not named Rutgers, embedded in NYCs TV market. If schools start looking to move again, and they will, the Big East suddenly looks more appealing. Now, don't be too shocked to see Rutgers pop up on YES, but if you are a school looking to make the jump up to the Big East or from another large conference to the Big East, the exposure on SNY is a nice perk.
The second is that should the Big East fail at securing its future, UConn is now positioned itself to jump ship if the right opportunity strikes. So if the Big Ten or even the ACC came calling, UConn has a major bargaining chip.
On a side note to the SNY deal, the rest of Connecticut should be receiving the network on Comcast before the season opener at Michigan.
Wednesday, August 04, 2010
More from Big East Media Day
The big topic in the conference and really, in the nation, this summer has been the talk of conferences expanding. These so-called super conferences would have put the likes of the Big East in jeopardy.
The temporary dust settled and the big piece in all the talk -- Notre Dame -- chose to remain an independent for the time being. Had the Irish moved it would have led to a chain reaction that very likely would have doomed the Big East.
Because these rumors will pick up again and at some point in time become inevitable, the Big East has spent time and money to study what is in its best interests.
The eight football coaches were instructed to not discuss the conference shuffle matter while in Bridgeport, but listening to commissioner John Marinatto talking you get the feel there will be big changes.
The Big East brought in former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue as a consultant. It will also announce a new TV partnership -- different than what's in place -- with SNY next week at Rentschler Field.
But the one thing unsaid that I got the impression will happen is expansion.
This is the course many of the conference's fans want to see as do many of the coaches because it gives a balanced schedule.
Let's look at the possibilities, at least in my opinion, and in no particular order.
1. Notre Dame
This makes the most sense and secures both the conference's future, increased revenue, greater national exposure and higher bowl quality.
But...
This is NEVER going to happen. The Irish would prefer to remain an independent, and if it were to join a conference, the Big Ten (12) makes the most sense.
2. Central Florida
UCF is the most likely because it gives South Florida an in-state rival and improves the Big East's visibility in a football hotbed.
3. East Carolina
This is a strong, southern program that fits the bill for the teams that entered the last time the Big East shuffled its deck.
4. Temple
Are they still mad?
It is an up-and-coming program as long as Al Golden remains there. It's in a major city, which gives the Big East schools in the New York and Philadelphia markets.
5. Memphis
Not a great football program, but the basketball program would have the conference in the news for all the wrong reasons.
6. Any school left hanging by a future purge.
It's called westward expansion.
The temporary dust settled and the big piece in all the talk -- Notre Dame -- chose to remain an independent for the time being. Had the Irish moved it would have led to a chain reaction that very likely would have doomed the Big East.
Because these rumors will pick up again and at some point in time become inevitable, the Big East has spent time and money to study what is in its best interests.
The eight football coaches were instructed to not discuss the conference shuffle matter while in Bridgeport, but listening to commissioner John Marinatto talking you get the feel there will be big changes.
The Big East brought in former NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue as a consultant. It will also announce a new TV partnership -- different than what's in place -- with SNY next week at Rentschler Field.
But the one thing unsaid that I got the impression will happen is expansion.
This is the course many of the conference's fans want to see as do many of the coaches because it gives a balanced schedule.
Let's look at the possibilities, at least in my opinion, and in no particular order.
1. Notre Dame
This makes the most sense and secures both the conference's future, increased revenue, greater national exposure and higher bowl quality.
But...
This is NEVER going to happen. The Irish would prefer to remain an independent, and if it were to join a conference, the Big Ten (12) makes the most sense.
2. Central Florida
UCF is the most likely because it gives South Florida an in-state rival and improves the Big East's visibility in a football hotbed.
3. East Carolina
This is a strong, southern program that fits the bill for the teams that entered the last time the Big East shuffled its deck.
4. Temple
Are they still mad?
It is an up-and-coming program as long as Al Golden remains there. It's in a major city, which gives the Big East schools in the New York and Philadelphia markets.
5. Memphis
Not a great football program, but the basketball program would have the conference in the news for all the wrong reasons.
6. Any school left hanging by a future purge.
It's called westward expansion.
Happenings from Big East Media Day
Greetings from Newport!
An odd thing happened today -- the Huskies were respected. In the past, UConn was generally dismissed by the voting media, but this year was different. UConn finished fourth in the poll, its highest finish ever.
Here are the results with first-place votes in parenthesis:
1. Pittsburgh (22) 190
2. Cincinnati 142
West Virginia (1) 142
4. UConn (1) 131
5. Rutgers 99
6. South Florida 79
7. Syracuse 41
8. Louisville 40
Usually the Huskies say things such as they are insulted and have a chip on their shoulder. But this year it was more about living up to the expectations and exceeding them.
An odd thing happened today -- the Huskies were respected. In the past, UConn was generally dismissed by the voting media, but this year was different. UConn finished fourth in the poll, its highest finish ever.
Here are the results with first-place votes in parenthesis:
1. Pittsburgh (22) 190
2. Cincinnati 142
West Virginia (1) 142
4. UConn (1) 131
5. Rutgers 99
6. South Florida 79
7. Syracuse 41
8. Louisville 40
Usually the Huskies say things such as they are insulted and have a chip on their shoulder. But this year it was more about living up to the expectations and exceeding them.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Edsall on ESPN
Ian Bethune over at Sox and Dawgs generously provided links to UConn coach Randy Edsall's day on ESPN's various brands.
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/video/uconn-football-randy-edsall-on-first-take.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/articles/audio-uconn-football-coach-randy-edsall-on-the-herd.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/articles/randy-edsall-sportsnation-chat.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/video/uconn-football-coach-randy-edsall-on-espnews.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/articles/audio-uconn-football-coach-randy-edsall-on-espn-1250-pittsburgh.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/video/uconn-football-coach-randy-edsall-on-the-scott-van-pelt-show.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/video/uconn-football-randy-edsall-on-first-take.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/articles/audio-uconn-football-coach-randy-edsall-on-the-herd.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/articles/randy-edsall-sportsnation-chat.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/video/uconn-football-coach-randy-edsall-on-espnews.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/articles/audio-uconn-football-coach-randy-edsall-on-espn-1250-pittsburgh.html
http://soxanddawgs.com/huskies/video/uconn-football-coach-randy-edsall-on-the-scott-van-pelt-show.html
Monday, July 26, 2010
Randy Edsall Day
The coach will be all over ESPN's properties Thursday. Here's the schedule:
10:50 a.m. – Appear on First Take with Jay Crawford, Dana Jacobson, Jay Crawford and Reischea Canidate
11:05a.m. – Interview with SportsCenter.com
11:20 a.m. – Interview With ESPN Rise
11:40 a.m. – Appear on The Herd with Colin Cowherd on ESPN Radio, ESPNU and ESPN.com
1:00 p.m. – ESPN.com chat
1:20 p.m. – Interview with ESPNW
1:40 p.m. – Appear on ESPNU
2:10 p.m. – Appear on ESPNews
2:40 p.m. – Radio interview on 1250 ESPN Radio in Pittsburgh
3:10 p.m. – Appear on the The Scott Van Pelt Show on ESPN Radio, ESPN2 and ESPN.com
3:30 p.m. – Appear on College Football Live with multiple airings on ESPN and ESPNU
10:50 a.m. – Appear on First Take with Jay Crawford, Dana Jacobson, Jay Crawford and Reischea Canidate
11:05a.m. – Interview with SportsCenter.com
11:20 a.m. – Interview With ESPN Rise
11:40 a.m. – Appear on The Herd with Colin Cowherd on ESPN Radio, ESPNU and ESPN.com
1:00 p.m. – ESPN.com chat
1:20 p.m. – Interview with ESPNW
1:40 p.m. – Appear on ESPNU
2:10 p.m. – Appear on ESPNews
2:40 p.m. – Radio interview on 1250 ESPN Radio in Pittsburgh
3:10 p.m. – Appear on the The Scott Van Pelt Show on ESPN Radio, ESPN2 and ESPN.com
3:30 p.m. – Appear on College Football Live with multiple airings on ESPN and ESPNU
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Interesting story...
from my colleague Desmond Conner of the Hartford Courant. Apparently, a Boston College assistant coach, in an attempt to lure a Virginia high school QB who had committed to UConn, told the kid via e-mail that Huskies coach Randy Edsall and his staff will be gone by January.
Talk about playing dirty.
Read more here:
http://articles.courant.com/2010-07-22/sports/hc-uconn-football-recruit-0722-20100721_1_uconn-coaching-staff-coach-edsall-bc-coach
Talk about playing dirty.
Read more here:
http://articles.courant.com/2010-07-22/sports/hc-uconn-football-recruit-0722-20100721_1_uconn-coaching-staff-coach-edsall-bc-coach
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Summer, Summer, Summer time
Coach Randy Edsall and staff just wrapped up camps and are heading on vacation, but not before providing updates on the goings on around Huskyville.
Jimmy Bennett will be "full-go" for camp;Jesse Joseph (shoulder), Blidi Wreh-Wilson will also be ready for the start of camp. Greg Lloyd's availability will be based on "how hard" he wants to work. Sounds as if the son of the former Pittsburgh Steeler is not working hard.
"I'm very pleased with what we got there," Edsall said of the depth at defensive end. "I think guys are working hard and showed some things in the spring. If Greg's there, he's there. If he's not, he's not there."
Nick Williams (hip) will be good, Alex Polito "should be cleared toward the end of camp, and Emmanuel Omokaro (late September).
Freshman Geremy Davis may miss time due to an injured knee sustained during a workout. Right now, there is no word until results come back from an MRI.
All of the incoming freshmen reported Sunday for summer school and are getting acclimated and "doing well," said Edsall.
Three open practices for fans: Fri Aug. 13, Thurs. Aug. 19 and Aug. 24.
Marcus Aiken dismissed by UConn due to violation of school policy. Edsall denied to specify whether this was academic or conduct related. His departure does not open up any positional changes at safety. What Edsall did say is that "nothing legal" was in the papers, so we can "figure it out."
Malik Generett is not eligible to play due to school policies. He "did not meet NCAA" requirements.
On the environment at UConn: "We tried to eliminated all excuses for failure."
Big East Media Day is a month away and the season is two months away. How quickly time flies.
Jimmy Bennett will be "full-go" for camp;Jesse Joseph (shoulder), Blidi Wreh-Wilson will also be ready for the start of camp. Greg Lloyd's availability will be based on "how hard" he wants to work. Sounds as if the son of the former Pittsburgh Steeler is not working hard.
"I'm very pleased with what we got there," Edsall said of the depth at defensive end. "I think guys are working hard and showed some things in the spring. If Greg's there, he's there. If he's not, he's not there."
Nick Williams (hip) will be good, Alex Polito "should be cleared toward the end of camp, and Emmanuel Omokaro (late September).
Freshman Geremy Davis may miss time due to an injured knee sustained during a workout. Right now, there is no word until results come back from an MRI.
All of the incoming freshmen reported Sunday for summer school and are getting acclimated and "doing well," said Edsall.
Three open practices for fans: Fri Aug. 13, Thurs. Aug. 19 and Aug. 24.
Marcus Aiken dismissed by UConn due to violation of school policy. Edsall denied to specify whether this was academic or conduct related. His departure does not open up any positional changes at safety. What Edsall did say is that "nothing legal" was in the papers, so we can "figure it out."
Malik Generett is not eligible to play due to school policies. He "did not meet NCAA" requirements.
On the environment at UConn: "We tried to eliminated all excuses for failure."
Big East Media Day is a month away and the season is two months away. How quickly time flies.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
More honors for Hurd and Wilson
UConn LB Lawrence Wilson and OG Zach Hurd were both named to the preseason All-America third team by the Sporting News.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Wilson, too
Hurd’s UConn teammate, senior Lawrence Wilson was named to watch list for the 2010 Bronko Nagurski Trophy by the FWAA and the Charlotte (N.C.) Touchdown Club. It is awarded to the nation’s best defensive player.
Wilson led the Huskies with 140 tackles — 11 for a loss — to go along with five sacks. The Tuscaloosa, Ala., native averaged 10.8 tackles per game, first in the conference and 10th nationally. His efforts earned him first team All-Big East honors.
Wilson led the Huskies with 140 tackles — 11 for a loss — to go along with five sacks. The Tuscaloosa, Ala., native averaged 10.8 tackles per game, first in the conference and 10th nationally. His efforts earned him first team All-Big East honors.
Waterford's Hurd named to watch list
UConn senior offensive guard Zach Hurd was named to the 2010 Outland Trophy watch List on Monday by the Football Writers Association of America. The award is given annually to the nation’s top interior lineman.
Hurd, a former standout at Waterford High School, was a first-team All-Big East selection last season after starting 13 games and has made 26 consecutive starts for the Huskies. He is also one of the team’s four captains for the 2010 season.
Hurd, a former standout at Waterford High School, was a first-team All-Big East selection last season after starting 13 games and has made 26 consecutive starts for the Huskies. He is also one of the team’s four captains for the 2010 season.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Two more times announced
UConn's games on Sept. 11 against Texas Southern and Sept. 18 at Temple will kickoff at noon.
Kickoff times have been finalized for three of UConn's six home games. In addition to the season opener versus Texas Southern, the West Virginia game on Friday, Oct. 29 is at 8:00 p.m. on ESPN2 and the Pittsburgh game on Thursday, Nov. 11 is at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN.
Wednesday, June 09, 2010
What Nebraska moving to the Big 10 means to UConn and the Big East
There has been so much talk over the past few months about this school moving here or there and the creation of super conferences. The first piece has appeared to have fallen into place Wednesday.
Word that Nebraska will leave the Big 12 and head to the Big 10 should be a sign of relief for the Big East, at least initially.
If nothing else, Nebraska might be a big enough of a deterrent to Notre Dame, which doesn't want to be in a conference bigger than 12 teams, to remain an independent. This saves the Big East. Even if Rutgers, Pitt or Syracuse defect, there won't be an issue replacing them with Central Florida or Memphis.
As for the Big 12, they look to replace Nebraska with Texas Christian. But if the conference can't hold itself together, all bets are off and the Big 10 may try to take several Big 12 and Big East teams.
The fallout could produce a Big East raid of Conference USA or should the SEC expand, the Big East and ACC could produce a super conference of their own.
Right now, the Big East looks safe.
Word that Nebraska will leave the Big 12 and head to the Big 10 should be a sign of relief for the Big East, at least initially.
If nothing else, Nebraska might be a big enough of a deterrent to Notre Dame, which doesn't want to be in a conference bigger than 12 teams, to remain an independent. This saves the Big East. Even if Rutgers, Pitt or Syracuse defect, there won't be an issue replacing them with Central Florida or Memphis.
As for the Big 12, they look to replace Nebraska with Texas Christian. But if the conference can't hold itself together, all bets are off and the Big 10 may try to take several Big 12 and Big East teams.
The fallout could produce a Big East raid of Conference USA or should the SEC expand, the Big East and ACC could produce a super conference of their own.
Right now, the Big East looks safe.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Depth chart
2010 University of Connecticut Post-Spring Practice Depth Chart
Offense
LT
Adam Masters (RSo., 6-4, 270)
Jimmy Bennett (RSo., 6-8, 301)
Greg McKee (Fr., 6-5, 299)
LG
Mathieu Olivier (RSr., 6-6, 276)
Erik Kuraczea (RSo., 6-2, 315)
Steve Greene (RFr., 6-4, 324)
C
Moe Petrus (RJr., 6-2, 292)
Gary Bardzak (RJr., 6-3, 297)
Ben Chapman (RSo., 6-2, 276)
RG
Zach Hurd (RSr., 6-7, 323)
Tyler Bullock (RFr., 6-4, 291)
RT
Mike Ryan (RJr., 6-5, 332)
Kevin Friend (RFr., 6-5, 287)
Stephen Brown (RFr., 6-4, 289)
TE
Ryan Griffin (RSo., 6-6, 240)
John Delahunt (RSo., 6-3, 243)
Corey Manning (RSo., 5-4, 255)
Alex Kaiser (Sr., 6-5, 238)
TB
Jordan Todman (Jr., 5-9, 190)
Robbie Frey (RFr., 6-0, 199) OR
Kelmetrius Wylie (RJr., 5-10, 223)
Jonathan Jean-Louis (Sr., 6-0, 200)
Martin Hyppolite (RFr., 6-0, 210)
FB
Anthony Sherman (Sr., 5-11, 242)
Bret Manning (Sr., 5-11, 255)
QB
Zach Frazer (RSr., 6-4, 236)
Cody Endres (RJr., 6-4, 223)
Michael Box (RFr., 6-3, 194) OR
Leon Kinnard (Fr., 5-9, 179) OR
Johnny McEntee (RSo., 6-3, 216)
WR
Michael Smith (Jr., 6-0, 200)
Malik Generett (RFr., 6-4, 210)
Joshua Massey (Sr., 5-8, 186)
WR
Kashif Moore (RJr., 5-9, 177)
Nick Williams (So., 5-9, 182)
Dwayne Difton (So., 5-11, 171)
Eric Sawicki (RFr., 6-0, 189)
WR
Isiah Moore (RJr., 6-1, 183)
Gerrard Sheppard (RSo., 6-2, 205) OR
Marcus Aiken (RFr., 5-11, 191)
Defense
DE
Jesse Joseph (So., 6-3, 231)
Trevardo Williams (So., 6-1, 224) OR
A.J. Portee (RSo., 6-4, 236)
Jonathan Louis (Fr., 6-5, 241)
DT
Kendall Reyes (RJr., 6-4, 287)
Alex Polito (RSr., 6-6, 284) OR
Shamar Stephen (RFr., 6-5, 291)
DT
Ryan Wirth (RSo., 6-2, 275) OR
Twyon Martin (RJr., 6-2, 270)
Tim Willman (RFr., 6-3, 271)
DE
Marcus Campbell (Jr., 6-2, 227)
Greg Lloyd (Sr., 6-2, 234) OR
Ted Jennings (RS., 6-5, 238)
“Husky” LB
Jory Johnson (RSo., 6-1, 219)
Andrew Opoku (Fr., 6-4, 217)
Matt Edwards (RSo., 6-0, 189)
Emmanuel Omokaro (RJr., 5-10, 207)
MLB
Scott Lutrus (RSr., 6-3, 240)
Jerome Williams (RSo., 6-11, 248)
Michael Osiecki (Fr., 6-2, 225)
WLB
Lawrence Wilson (RSr., 6-1, 217)
Sio Moore (RSo., 6-1, 231)
Mark Hinkley (RSo., 5-11, 228)
CB
Blidi Wreh-Wilson (RSo., 6-0, 184)
Tevrin Brandon (RFr., 5-10, 172)
S
Jerome Junior (RSo., 6-1, 208)
David Kenney (RFr., 6-0, 186)
Harris Agbor (RJr., 5-10, 192)
John Yurek (RJr., 6-0, 200)
S
Kijuan Dabney (Sr., 6-0, 214)
Mike Lang (So., 5-11, 186) OR
Chris Lopes (RFr., 5-10, 183)
CB
Dwayne Gratz (RSo., 6-0, 190)
Gary Wilburn (RJr., 5-11, 196) OR
Gilbert St. Louis (Fr., 5-11, 176)
Special Teams
P
Chad Christen (RFr., 6-1, 200) OR
Cole Wagner (RFr., 6-2, 197)
K
Dave Teggart (RJr., 6-0, 209)
Chad Christen (RFr., 6-1, 200)
LS
Derek Chard (Sr., 6-3, 234)
Stephen Brown (RFr., 6-4, 279) OR
Mark Hinkley (RSo., 5-11, 228)
H
Chad Christen (RFr., 6-1, 200)
Zach Frazer (RSr., 6-4, 236)
PR
Gary Wilburn (RJr., 5-11, 196) OR
Nick Williams (So., 5-9, 182) OR
Leon Kinnard (Fr., 5-9, 179)
KR
Robbie Frey (RFr., 6-0, 199)
Jordan Todman (Jr., 5-9, 190)
Sunday, April 25, 2010
UConn update
Robert McClain, a cornerback, was taken by Carolina in the seventh round, S Robert Vaughn heading to Green Bay and RB Andre Dixon signed with Pittsburgh.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
First Husky
Buffalo selects Marcus Easley in the fourth round, 107th overall.
Easley is a great story; wasn't recruited, walked on at UConn and went from scout team his junior year to starter and best WR the school has seen in a long time.
Easley is a great story; wasn't recruited, walked on at UConn and went from scout team his junior year to starter and best WR the school has seen in a long time.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
2010 schedule
The Big East released its 2010 schedule, and of note for UConn are the three weeknight games -- which coach Randy Edsall is not a fan of. Those three games, as well as the regular season finale will aired nationally.
9/4 at Michigan
9/11 Texas Southern (originally Northeastern)
9/18 at Temple
9/25 Buffalo
10/2 Vanderbilt
10/8 at Rutgers (Friday night, 7:30 p.m., on ESPN)
10/23 at Louisville
10/29 West Virginia (Friday night, 8 p.m., on ESPN2)
11/11 Pittsburgh (Thursday night, 7:30 p.m., on ESPN)
11/20 at Syracuse
11/27 Cincinnati
12/4 at South Florida (TBA, ESPN/ESPN2/ABC)
9/4 at Michigan
9/11 Texas Southern (originally Northeastern)
9/18 at Temple
9/25 Buffalo
10/2 Vanderbilt
10/8 at Rutgers (Friday night, 7:30 p.m., on ESPN)
10/23 at Louisville
10/29 West Virginia (Friday night, 8 p.m., on ESPN2)
11/11 Pittsburgh (Thursday night, 7:30 p.m., on ESPN)
11/20 at Syracuse
11/27 Cincinnati
12/4 at South Florida (TBA, ESPN/ESPN2/ABC)
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
UConn's recruit list
Name Pos. Hgt. Wgt. Hometown/High School
Alexander, Joshua LB 6-3 215 Waldorf, Md./Westlake
Brown, Ty-Meer DB 6-1 180 McKeesport, Pa../McKeesport
Cruz, Gus OG 6-4 256 Manchester, N.H./Kimball Union Academy
Davis, Geremy WR 6-2 205 Lawrenceville, Ga./Norcross
Frank, Reuben FB 6-2 229 Poughkeepsie, N.Y./Poughkeepsie
Hansson, Mark OT 6-5 256 Clearwater, Fla./Palm Harbour University
Jones, Byron DB 6-0.5 175 New Britain, Conn./St. Paul (Bristol)
Jones, Tebucky WR 6-0 180 Farmington, Conn./New Britain
Louis, Jonathan DE 6-5 240 Brockton, Mass./Wyoming Seminary (Pa.)
Mack, Taylor DB 5-10 170 Powder Springs, Ga./The Lovett School
McBryde, B.J. DE 6-5 250 Beaver Falls, Pa./Beaver Falls
McCombs, Lyle RB 5-8 175 Staten Island, N.Y./St. Joseph By The Sea
McCummings, Scott QB 6-2 210 Natick, Mass./Natick
McKee, Greg OT 6-5 295 Chicago, Ill./Martin Luther King College Prep
Opoku, Andrew DB 6-4 226 North Brunswick, N.J./Fork Union Military Academy (Va.)
Paull, Bryan C 6-4 290 Parkland, Fla./M. Stoneman Douglas
Pruitt, Angelo DL 6-2.5 270 Cincinnati, Ohio/North College Hill
Smallwood, Yawin LB 6-3 215 Worcester, Mass./Doherty
St. Louis, Gilbert CB 5-11 175 Davie, Fla./Plantation
Steg, Brandon LB 6-3 220 Coral Springs, Fla./J.P. Taravella
The following student-athletes each signed a Letter of Intent with UConn in 2009 and enrolled for the Spring 2010 semester
Name Pos. Hgt. Wgt. Hometown/High School
Kinnard, Leon QB 5-9 180 Reistertown, Md./Loyola Blakefield
Osiecki, Michael LB 6-2 225 Seymour, Conn./ Seymour
Former Husky arrested
Fullback Deon Anderson, who plays for the Dallas Cowboys, was arrested:
http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/nfl/news/story?id=4881623
http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/nfl/news/story?id=4881623
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
UConn's Big East All-Academic Team members
Name Year Pos. Hometown Major
Harris Agbor So. S Mesquite, Texas Political Science
John Apostolakos Sr. TE Pittsford, N.Y. Sports & Leisure/Finance
Jimmy Bennett RFr. OT Alexandria, Va. Undeclared
Derek Chard Jr. TE Burlington, Conn. Finance
Marcus Easley Sr. WR Stratford, Conn. Sport Management
Robbie Frey Jr. RB Lehighton, Pa. History
Alex Kaiser Jr. TE Newington, Conn. Economics
Brad Kanuch Sr. WR Johnstown, Pa. Sports & Leisure
Alex LaMagdelaine Sr. OG Rumson, N.J. English/Economics
Corey Manning RFr. TE Tyrone, Ga. Undeclared
Alex Molina Sr. WR Waterford, Conn. Psychology
Emmanuel Omokaro So. S Danbury, Conn. Sports & Leisure
Moe Petrus So. C St. Laurent, Que. Psychology
Alex Polito Jr. DT Reading, Pa. Communication Sciences
Dave Teggart So. K Northborough , Mass. Sports & Leisure
John Yurek So. S Greencastle, Pa. Biological Sciences
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Jazz, Huskies honored
I'll start with word of the team being nominated for the 2009 FedEx Orange Bowl Courage Award for the strength and determination it has showed in light of Jasper Howard's murder.
Each week, the Football Writers Association of America nominate a team or player who best exemplifies courage. The winner will be announced at the end of the college football season.
Also, this from the university regarding Saturday's game:
The University of Connecticut and its Division of Athletics will honor the memory of Jasper Howard as the team returns to Rentschler Field on Saturday for the first time since Howard passed away on October 18. UConn will take on Rutgers at noon in a BIG EAST Conference game.
As fans enter Rentschler Field, they will have the opportunity to donate to both of the funds that have been set up in his memory.
"The Jasper T. Howard Endowed Scholarship" will be annually awarded to a UConn football student-athlete who plays at the cornerback position and who best displays the outstanding leadership qualities which Jasper embodied.
"The Jasper Howard Fund" will assist Jasper's family with expenses such as funeral costs, travel to attend the memorial service and support for Jasper's soon-to-be-born child, in a manner consistent with NCAA guidelines.
Each week, the Football Writers Association of America nominate a team or player who best exemplifies courage. The winner will be announced at the end of the college football season.
Also, this from the university regarding Saturday's game:
The University of Connecticut and its Division of Athletics will honor the memory of Jasper Howard as the team returns to Rentschler Field on Saturday for the first time since Howard passed away on October 18. UConn will take on Rutgers at noon in a BIG EAST Conference game.
All fans who attend Saturday’s game will receive a “6” card in honor of Jasper Howard’s jersey number. In addition, the first 15,000 fans who enter the gates will receive “Jazz Live 365” wristbands.
UConn students who attend the game will receive the same “eye-black” that the Husky team is wearing – one with a “6” and the other with a “JH”. All UConn students will also receive a “6” button.
Prior to the contest, the UConn Marching Band will come onto the field all wearing No. 6 jerseys and will display the formation of a “6” in the word “UCONN” during its pregame program.
Following the entrance of both teams on to the field for the game, there will be a “Moment of Respect” in honor of Howard with both teams lining up on their respective sidelines.
“We encourage all Husky fans to arrive at their seats in Rentschler Field by 11:30 a.m. on Saturday in order to see the pregame band show and to be present for the Moment of Respect,” says UConn Head Football Coach Randy Edsall. “There are a number of pregame activities and we would like to see every seat occupied as a sign of respect for Jazz.”
The Connecticut team will once again wear a “JH” sticker on its helmet while Rutgers will wear a “6”.
"The Jasper T. Howard Endowed Scholarship" will be annually awarded to a UConn football student-athlete who plays at the cornerback position and who best displays the outstanding leadership qualities which Jasper embodied.
"The Jasper Howard Fund" will assist Jasper's family with expenses such as funeral costs, travel to attend the memorial service and support for Jasper's soon-to-be-born child, in a manner consistent with NCAA guidelines.
Fans are also reminded that they will be permitted to bring signs honoring Howard into Rentschler Field. This will be a one-time exception to the regular Rentschler policy prohibiting signs.
Signs cannot be on sticks or poles --- and signs cannot impair the enjoyment of the game for other fans.
"This is one more way that our fans can make a personal tribute to Jasper Howard," says UConn Director of Athletics Jeffrey Hathaway. "We thank our friends at Rentschler Field for relaxing the 'no signs' policy for this one game only and providing fans another opportunity to honor Jasper."
Prior to the game at approximately 9:40 a.m., the UConn football team will take part in their usual pregame “Husky Walk”. Fans can greet the Huskies from Gates D to C at Rentschler Field to welcome the team to the game.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Jasper Howard's Funeral
If you want to watch...go to nnbcmiami.org and click NNBC on Demand. Click on the scrolling marquee that says Jasper Howard Funeral. A pop-up box will appear prompting you to sign up. You must do this in order to view.
Once you do this, you'll be set.
Once you do this, you'll be set.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Jasper Howard vigil
From UConn:
Beginning at 6:00 on the lawn outside the student union.
Pres. Hogan, Coach Edsall, student gov. pres. Thomas Haggerty and MAYBE a representative from the West Indian group will speak. Candles will be provided.
There will be some kind of acapella song from a group on campus.
The crowd will then be led in a procession to mirror lake (in front of Monteith and Arjona) for some final words.
Candles will be left by the lake.
Beginning at 6:00 on the lawn outside the student union.
Pres. Hogan, Coach Edsall, student gov. pres. Thomas Haggerty and MAYBE a representative from the West Indian group will speak. Candles will be provided.
There will be some kind of acapella song from a group on campus.
The crowd will then be led in a procession to mirror lake (in front of Monteith and Arjona) for some final words.
Candles will be left by the lake.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
The latest on Howard
Randy Edsall said that the team will keep Howard's locker in place until the time he would have graduated (2011). His number will not be retired, but will not be worn until after Howard would have graduated and given only to a player who shares the same character as Howard.
The funeral is expected to take place Monday in Miami and the team will travel.
UConn's game at West Virginia on Saturday will go on, but the Mountaineers will wear a No. 6 on their helmets and hold a moment of silence before kickoff.
The funeral is expected to take place Monday in Miami and the team will travel.
UConn's game at West Virginia on Saturday will go on, but the Mountaineers will wear a No. 6 on their helmets and hold a moment of silence before kickoff.
Tuesday presser
The normal meeting place, perhaps appropriate today -- the defensive meeting room -- is standing room only as everyone and their cousin is in here to hear what Randy Edsall has to say regarding Jasper Howard's death.
There are 11 TV cameras, numerous photogs and countless scribes.
While we wait, read what former Husky Dan Davis shared:
http://www.norwichbulletin.com/news/x1801873133/Dan-Davis-I-cant-believe-my-teammate-was-killed
There are 11 TV cameras, numerous photogs and countless scribes.
While we wait, read what former Husky Dan Davis shared:
http://www.norwichbulletin.com/news/x1801873133/Dan-Davis-I-cant-believe-my-teammate-was-killed
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Press conference on Howard's death
Randy Edsall said he arrived at St. Francis Hospital around 1:30 a.m., where several players and other students were present. He spoke with Howard's mother and later, was called in to identify the body around 4:30 a.m.
He addressed the students who were on present, calling the situation "not pleasant" for him and others.
Edsall, with his voice quivering, called Howard a "great young man."
"We had lost a brother, a teammate, a great person, a mentor and just somebody you love to be around," Edsall told the team at a 6 a.m. meeting.
UConn will do something to remember Howard this season with a helmet or jersey logo and will make tribute in the football complex.
The most tragic news is that Edsall spoke with Howard's girlfriend in Miami and learned that Howard was going to become a father.
He addressed the students who were on present, calling the situation "not pleasant" for him and others.
Edsall, with his voice quivering, called Howard a "great young man."
"We had lost a brother, a teammate, a great person, a mentor and just somebody you love to be around," Edsall told the team at a 6 a.m. meeting.
UConn will do something to remember Howard this season with a helmet or jersey logo and will make tribute in the football complex.
The most tragic news is that Edsall spoke with Howard's girlfriend in Miami and learned that Howard was going to become a father.
Howard dies
Jasper Howard, the UConn CB, was killed in an on-campus stabbing early Sunday morning, team spokesman Mike Enright confirmed.
More details later.
More details later.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Big play
Kashif Moore caught a 67-yard reception, one that should have been for maybe 15 but the blocking of Ryan Griffin and Dwayne Difton sprung him deep into Louisville territory.
The drive ended with Andre Dixon's second TD.
The drive ended with Andre Dixon's second TD.
Untouchable
Andre Dixon's touchdown run was impressive for a few reasons, most most notably the juke he used to get past a defender. He ran untouched into the end zone. Dixon is having a bounce-back season that has the Huskies excited and confident in handing the senior the ball.
Homecoming
While cold, the weather is holding up at Rentschler Field -- for now. Good crowd and a winable game. The question is can UConn not choke as it did in its two losses.
First possession is a three-and-out.
But Blidi Wreh-Wilson picked off the Cardinals' Adam Froman thanks to a Greg Lloyd tip.
First possession is a three-and-out.
But Blidi Wreh-Wilson picked off the Cardinals' Adam Froman thanks to a Greg Lloyd tip.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Sell out
Saturday's game against Louisville officially sold out today. With a forecast of rain, it will be interesteing to see how many people show up at Rentschler Field.
Changes
Randy Edsall announced that redshirt sophomore Mike Ryan will replace NFA grad Dan Ryan, and redshirt freshman Erik Kuraczea will replace Mathieu Olivier.
As we evaluated the position, we think Mike Ryan is the better football player,” Edsall said. “Mike Ryan is going to be the starter and will continue to be the starter. Dan Ryan has to be ready to back up both sides and be ready to play in case of an injury. It’s the same situation at left guard. We feel Erik Kuraczea gives us the best opportunity now and in the future for what we need at that position.
Also, Cody Endres is the starting quarterback over Zack Frazer. The numbers say it all:
Frazer is 22-of-43 for 221 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions. Endres is 55-of-83 for 663 yards, three TDs and no picks.
As we evaluated the position, we think Mike Ryan is the better football player,” Edsall said. “Mike Ryan is going to be the starter and will continue to be the starter. Dan Ryan has to be ready to back up both sides and be ready to play in case of an injury. It’s the same situation at left guard. We feel Erik Kuraczea gives us the best opportunity now and in the future for what we need at that position.
Also, Cody Endres is the starting quarterback over Zack Frazer. The numbers say it all:
Frazer is 22-of-43 for 221 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions. Endres is 55-of-83 for 663 yards, three TDs and no picks.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Two. Two straight fumbles.
UConn went from dominance over Rhode Island to fumbles on consecutive possessions. If UConn coughs up this game, I propose it gives up the rest of the schedule.
Two drives, two scores
UConn needed to come out and establish the pass for two reasons. The first being to keep Rhode Island's defense honest. The second is to get that element of the offense on track before the bye week.
The Huskies may or may not get Zach Frazer back in two weeks at Pittsburgh, but either way the offense has to BELIEVE it can throw the ball. If it doesn't have the confidence going into Big East play, it never will.Running backs Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon have been used as receivers already, but the Huskies will have to expand upon the options. Brad Kanuch, who made a great block for Todman, also made a nice diving catch for a 10-yard gain.
If UConn can get five guys with 30 or more yards receiving, it will be a step in the right direction.
The Huskies may or may not get Zach Frazer back in two weeks at Pittsburgh, but either way the offense has to BELIEVE it can throw the ball. If it doesn't have the confidence going into Big East play, it never will.Running backs Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon have been used as receivers already, but the Huskies will have to expand upon the options. Brad Kanuch, who made a great block for Todman, also made a nice diving catch for a 10-yard gain.
If UConn can get five guys with 30 or more yards receiving, it will be a step in the right direction.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Griffin hurt
Tight end Ryan Griffin hurt his back with &;22 left in the first half. The play was a run by Jordan Todman, away from Griffin. Griffin was on his stomach and grabbed his lower back. He got up, tried jogging to the sideline but fell down and eventually walked off with help.
I'm not a doctor, but my guess is he herniated a disc.
I'm not a doctor, but my guess is he herniated a disc.
Some tidbits...
Former Husky D.J. Hernandez is in attendance. He looks good and smiling more than he did while in school. He's coaching high school football, something he seems fit for.
Rentschler has some changes, such as blue tarp wrapped around the lower level border. It looks good. Now, if UConn would add a blue end zone and some fans -- the stadium is about 30 percent full.
Rentschler has some changes, such as blue tarp wrapped around the lower level border. It looks good. Now, if UConn would add a blue end zone and some fans -- the stadium is about 30 percent full.
Injuries, etc
Scott Lutrus will not play, Kijaun Dabney is starting in his place.
Also, a couple of Tar Heels are out due to swine flu.
Stay here for live updates.
Also, a couple of Tar Heels are out due to swine flu.
Stay here for live updates.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Some things to look forward to
From UConn:
The UConn men’s ice hockey team celebrates its 50th anniversary as a varsity program this weekend and former players and coaches will be honored during a ceremony….The newest class of the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame will be introduced at halftime...A new gameday program will debut on Saturday….”UConn Playbook” is a 48-page, playbill-style magazine that will be distributed to fans for free…”UConn Playbook” is a joint production of UConn and IMG College....FanFest takes place from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. outside the stadium between Gates C and D and features entertainment and family activities...the “Husky Walk” will makes its season debut as fans get a chance to welcome the UConn team as they get off the team buses and head to the stadium. That takes place at approximately 9:45 a.m. between Gates A and B.
The UConn men’s ice hockey team celebrates its 50th anniversary as a varsity program this weekend and former players and coaches will be honored during a ceremony….The newest class of the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame will be introduced at halftime...A new gameday program will debut on Saturday….”UConn Playbook” is a 48-page, playbill-style magazine that will be distributed to fans for free…”UConn Playbook” is a joint production of UConn and IMG College....FanFest takes place from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. outside the stadium between Gates C and D and features entertainment and family activities...the “Husky Walk” will makes its season debut as fans get a chance to welcome the UConn team as they get off the team buses and head to the stadium. That takes place at approximately 9:45 a.m. between Gates A and B.
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Q & A
Time to answer some questions from the mailbag. Mike asks:
Q: What are your expectations for the team this season?
I'll save the offensive portion for question No. 2...
Mike, I've grown to like UConn's defense. It's rarely flashy, but it usually finds a way to get the job done as long as it isn't West Virginia on the other sideline. I try not to sound too much like a Kool-Aid drinker, but if Randy Edsall is throwing a true freshmen at defensive end, the guy must be good. I'm talking about Jesse Joseph. He's probably a little on the small side (6-3, 238), but he is strong and quick. The d-line will miss Cody Brown, so there will be some drop off there.
The starting linebackers are excellent and, for as good as Scott Lutrus is, I am always impressed with Lawrence Wilson's knack for being in the right place at the right time. My concern is depth. If someone gets hurt, UConn will likely have some inexperienced players stepping into big roles. Sure, they need to get experience some time, but its always better when you get to play behind the vet.
I believe the secondary will be fantastic. I'm a big Robert Vaughn fan. He has a nose for the ball, and because Jasper Howard and Robert McClain force quarterbacks into making bad passes, Vaughn -- and maybe Jerome Junior -- will be waiting.
The Huskies' special teams is solid. I wouldn't begin to play with spectacular or other grandiose descriptions. Desi Cullen is primed for a good year, as is David Teggart. There's three more years -- including this one -- of Teggart, so he needs to be strong. Coverage has lacked at times last year, and probably will agains with younger guys on the field. The good news is there are guys, like Robbie Frey who make big plays. However, the main concern is punt protection. It cost the Huskies the North Carolina game a year ago.
Q: What do you expect out of the offense tempo wise? Will the team be better offensively?
All the talk is of the no-huddle, and it should be. UConn is going to try to move the chains at a furious pace. Can they? I like its ability to run with Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon. If Dixon plays the way he did two years ago, there's no worries on the ground. Where the no-huddle can flop is if QB Zach Frazer can't complete a pass. Each dead ball nullifies the no-huddle, so drops and incompletions or penalties defeat the purpose.
Don't expect UConn to always use the no-huddle. Every seems to be in love with it, but the draw back to a fast-moving offense is extended field time for the defense.
If the Huskies can grab a sizable lead, expect them to slow the pace.
Will they be better? That's really hard to say. Will Todman and Dixon be better than Donald Brown? Not likely.
Frazer still has to prove he can run the team, and that it's a different offense than he's had the last two years, it has to take some adjusting. Anyone who thinks he will significantly better than last year from the start needs to rethink the position.
I like the o-line because there are so many familiar faces, which the Huskies enjoy. Injuries have chipped away at some depth, but many guys can play at several spots, so UConn should be good there. They will still miss Will Beatty ( A LOT!!!) and Keith Gray. Gray might not have been the best center, but he got the most out of what he had, which started upstairs.
The receivers are the tricky -- and most pivotal -- aspect of the offense in terms of the team's chances to win besides quarterback. The returning wideouts are mad that they've essentially been discounted for the new guys. Fine. It's deserved, but fine. If a healthy Brad Kanuch can stretch the defenses in the manner Randy Edsall imagined years ago, it will be a start. There's so much talk about freshman Dwayne Difton, and physically he's got the goods. He's a mini Darius Butler. He's also got the pedigree -- comes out of South Florida, played for the state title four years in a row and was trained by NFL legend Cris Carter. All this means the kid knows a thing or two. The two guys to watch are Michael Smith, who the team has been raving about of late, and Kashif Moore. Moore was a surprise starter last year and was hot and cold, but mostly cold.
If four wideouts get close to 500 yards each, it's a good year. Or, if one approaches 1,000 and another is in the 500-700 area, things are good.
Q: Thoughts about the Ohio game?
This is a tricky game. Ohio wasn't a good team a year ago but gave Ohio State fits. Most of the team is back, which bodes well for the Bobcats. Their leading rusher had fewer yards last year (529) than Todman and Tyler Lorenzen combined (580), which didn't happen on many carries. All three of their leading rushers had over 300 yards, so they'll mix and match for the matchups or hot hand.
Ohio is much more of a passing team, but I don't like their quarterbacks at all. I have not seen them, but coach Frank Solich described them as guys who can throw on the run. Sure, that's handy but you don't want to talk about how your QBs can throw while running. It means you have a bad o-line.
The other thing is Ohio, while scoring a few fewer points per game than UConn (0.8), it allowed 70 yards more per game against MAC foes.
The line in Vegas says Huskies by 3 or 4. I say 14.
Q: What are your expectations for the team this season?
I'll save the offensive portion for question No. 2...
Mike, I've grown to like UConn's defense. It's rarely flashy, but it usually finds a way to get the job done as long as it isn't West Virginia on the other sideline. I try not to sound too much like a Kool-Aid drinker, but if Randy Edsall is throwing a true freshmen at defensive end, the guy must be good. I'm talking about Jesse Joseph. He's probably a little on the small side (6-3, 238), but he is strong and quick. The d-line will miss Cody Brown, so there will be some drop off there.
The starting linebackers are excellent and, for as good as Scott Lutrus is, I am always impressed with Lawrence Wilson's knack for being in the right place at the right time. My concern is depth. If someone gets hurt, UConn will likely have some inexperienced players stepping into big roles. Sure, they need to get experience some time, but its always better when you get to play behind the vet.
I believe the secondary will be fantastic. I'm a big Robert Vaughn fan. He has a nose for the ball, and because Jasper Howard and Robert McClain force quarterbacks into making bad passes, Vaughn -- and maybe Jerome Junior -- will be waiting.
The Huskies' special teams is solid. I wouldn't begin to play with spectacular or other grandiose descriptions. Desi Cullen is primed for a good year, as is David Teggart. There's three more years -- including this one -- of Teggart, so he needs to be strong. Coverage has lacked at times last year, and probably will agains with younger guys on the field. The good news is there are guys, like Robbie Frey who make big plays. However, the main concern is punt protection. It cost the Huskies the North Carolina game a year ago.
Q: What do you expect out of the offense tempo wise? Will the team be better offensively?
All the talk is of the no-huddle, and it should be. UConn is going to try to move the chains at a furious pace. Can they? I like its ability to run with Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon. If Dixon plays the way he did two years ago, there's no worries on the ground. Where the no-huddle can flop is if QB Zach Frazer can't complete a pass. Each dead ball nullifies the no-huddle, so drops and incompletions or penalties defeat the purpose.
Don't expect UConn to always use the no-huddle. Every seems to be in love with it, but the draw back to a fast-moving offense is extended field time for the defense.
If the Huskies can grab a sizable lead, expect them to slow the pace.
Will they be better? That's really hard to say. Will Todman and Dixon be better than Donald Brown? Not likely.
Frazer still has to prove he can run the team, and that it's a different offense than he's had the last two years, it has to take some adjusting. Anyone who thinks he will significantly better than last year from the start needs to rethink the position.
I like the o-line because there are so many familiar faces, which the Huskies enjoy. Injuries have chipped away at some depth, but many guys can play at several spots, so UConn should be good there. They will still miss Will Beatty ( A LOT!!!) and Keith Gray. Gray might not have been the best center, but he got the most out of what he had, which started upstairs.
The receivers are the tricky -- and most pivotal -- aspect of the offense in terms of the team's chances to win besides quarterback. The returning wideouts are mad that they've essentially been discounted for the new guys. Fine. It's deserved, but fine. If a healthy Brad Kanuch can stretch the defenses in the manner Randy Edsall imagined years ago, it will be a start. There's so much talk about freshman Dwayne Difton, and physically he's got the goods. He's a mini Darius Butler. He's also got the pedigree -- comes out of South Florida, played for the state title four years in a row and was trained by NFL legend Cris Carter. All this means the kid knows a thing or two. The two guys to watch are Michael Smith, who the team has been raving about of late, and Kashif Moore. Moore was a surprise starter last year and was hot and cold, but mostly cold.
If four wideouts get close to 500 yards each, it's a good year. Or, if one approaches 1,000 and another is in the 500-700 area, things are good.
Q: Thoughts about the Ohio game?
This is a tricky game. Ohio wasn't a good team a year ago but gave Ohio State fits. Most of the team is back, which bodes well for the Bobcats. Their leading rusher had fewer yards last year (529) than Todman and Tyler Lorenzen combined (580), which didn't happen on many carries. All three of their leading rushers had over 300 yards, so they'll mix and match for the matchups or hot hand.
Ohio is much more of a passing team, but I don't like their quarterbacks at all. I have not seen them, but coach Frank Solich described them as guys who can throw on the run. Sure, that's handy but you don't want to talk about how your QBs can throw while running. It means you have a bad o-line.
The other thing is Ohio, while scoring a few fewer points per game than UConn (0.8), it allowed 70 yards more per game against MAC foes.
The line in Vegas says Huskies by 3 or 4. I say 14.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Media Day: Week 1, Ohio
Don't call them Ohio U. or OSU. That's what the Ohio University game notes say. I kid you not.
Anyhow, sorry for the late post. Immediately after leaving Storrs, I had a newspaper to put out.
Coach Randy Edsall is glad to see game week arrive -- you know they are tired of hitting each other.
* He said that Zach Frazer is ready to be the starting QB. Edsall said Frazer throws well, is tough, a competitor, is smart and has a presence that commands respect from the other guys in the huddle. For his part, Frazer said he has been waiting for this opportunity (to be the unquestioned starter). It's been a long road considering he hasn't been the guy since high school.
Frazer said, in response to questions about his concussions last year, that he is wearing the best helmet possible to protect his noggin.
* Edsall has been pleased with Desi Cullen and Dave Teggart in camp and expects that to continue.
* Another person who has impressed is freshman Jesse Joseph. He'll be starting at defensive end, and the time he spent on campus and around the team and coaching staff going back to January, appears to be the deciding edge over another true freshman, Trevardo Williams. The Huskies really like these guys and could be bookends for the next three years once Lindsay Witten graduates.
"He's one of those players that has a knack for the game. He has very good savvy. he's a competitor, he's gotten stronger since January. ... He just has that innate ability to understand the game and play with good leverage," Edsall said of Joseph.
I'll tell you this, you don't hear coaches use savvy too often when describing players. That makes me think UConn believes it found another gem in Canada.
* With it being Week One,Edsall said that if players have trouble getting their focus right for this game, it will be tough to do so later on as the season progresses.
* Injuries/suspensions update: Harris Agbor is still out. John Yurek (safety) is having surgery on Sept. 18, and OL Jimmy Bennett;s surgery went well and "they are very pleased with where he's at already," Edsall said.
* The coach was asked about the allegations at Michigan, and understandably, Edsall was careful with his words as he is friends with Rich Rodriguez. He gave us a breakdown of how the Huskies spend their week.
Sunday (4 hours):
50 minutes of weight training
2 hours meetings
1 hour, 10 minutes practice
Monday (off).
Tuesday (4 hours)
1 hour, 10 minutes meetings
Wednesday (4 hours)
50 minutes of weight training
2 hours meetings
1 hour, 10 minutes practice
Thursday
meetings
Friday (2 hours, 10 minutes)
I imagine all practice time
Saturday (3 hours)
Game
Grand total 19 hours, 35 minutes. Edsall wasn't clear with all of the breakdowns time-wise. By deduction, Thursday is 2 hours, 25 minutes. I also believe the team practices Thursday's, but I don't have the split.
I'll try to post some more during the day Wednesday, with some quotes from the team.
Anyhow, sorry for the late post. Immediately after leaving Storrs, I had a newspaper to put out.
Coach Randy Edsall is glad to see game week arrive -- you know they are tired of hitting each other.
* He said that Zach Frazer is ready to be the starting QB. Edsall said Frazer throws well, is tough, a competitor, is smart and has a presence that commands respect from the other guys in the huddle. For his part, Frazer said he has been waiting for this opportunity (to be the unquestioned starter). It's been a long road considering he hasn't been the guy since high school.
Frazer said, in response to questions about his concussions last year, that he is wearing the best helmet possible to protect his noggin.
* Edsall has been pleased with Desi Cullen and Dave Teggart in camp and expects that to continue.
* Another person who has impressed is freshman Jesse Joseph. He'll be starting at defensive end, and the time he spent on campus and around the team and coaching staff going back to January, appears to be the deciding edge over another true freshman, Trevardo Williams. The Huskies really like these guys and could be bookends for the next three years once Lindsay Witten graduates.
"He's one of those players that has a knack for the game. He has very good savvy. he's a competitor, he's gotten stronger since January. ... He just has that innate ability to understand the game and play with good leverage," Edsall said of Joseph.
I'll tell you this, you don't hear coaches use savvy too often when describing players. That makes me think UConn believes it found another gem in Canada.
* With it being Week One,Edsall said that if players have trouble getting their focus right for this game, it will be tough to do so later on as the season progresses.
* Injuries/suspensions update: Harris Agbor is still out. John Yurek (safety) is having surgery on Sept. 18, and OL Jimmy Bennett;s surgery went well and "they are very pleased with where he's at already," Edsall said.
* The coach was asked about the allegations at Michigan, and understandably, Edsall was careful with his words as he is friends with Rich Rodriguez. He gave us a breakdown of how the Huskies spend their week.
Sunday (4 hours):
50 minutes of weight training
2 hours meetings
1 hour, 10 minutes practice
Monday (off).
Tuesday (4 hours)
1 hour, 10 minutes meetings
Wednesday (4 hours)
50 minutes of weight training
2 hours meetings
1 hour, 10 minutes practice
Thursday
meetings
Friday (2 hours, 10 minutes)
I imagine all practice time
Saturday (3 hours)
Game
Grand total 19 hours, 35 minutes. Edsall wasn't clear with all of the breakdowns time-wise. By deduction, Thursday is 2 hours, 25 minutes. I also believe the team practices Thursday's, but I don't have the split.
I'll try to post some more during the day Wednesday, with some quotes from the team.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Depth chart
OFFENSE
WR: 3 Brad Kanuch (Sr., 6-1, 192))
1 Dwayne Difton (Fr., 5-11, 170)
WR: 80 Michael Smith (So., 6-0, 192) OR
82 Kashif Moore (RSo., 5-9, 182)
83 Isiah Moore (RSo, 6-1, 185)
LT: 73 Dan Ryan (RSr., 6-8, 316)
63 Adam Masters (RFr., 6-4, 281)
LG: 66 Mathieu Olivier (RJr., 6-6, 286)
60 Erik Kuraczea (RFr., 6-2, 333)
C: 57 Moe Petrus (RSo., 6-2, 288)
70 Gary Bardzak (RSo., 6-3, 293)
RG: 78 Zach Hurd (RJr., 6-7, 315)
74 Alex LaMagdelaine (RSr., 6-3, 310)
RT: 79 Mike Hicks (RSr., 6-6, 323)
71 Mike Ryan (RSo., 6-5, 324)
TE: 94 Ryan Griffin (RFr., 6-5, 240)
89 John Delahunt (RFr., 6-3, 243)
QB: 10 Zach Frazer (RJr., 6-4, 225)
12 Cody Endres (RSo., 6-4, 223)
TB: 23 Jordan Todman (So., 5-9, 189)
2 Andre Dixon (RSr., 6-1, 202)
FB: 49 Anthony Sherman (Jr., 5-11, 230)
47 Anthony Davis (RJr, 5-10, 243)
DEFENSE
DE: 91 Jesse Joseph (Fr., 6-3, 238)
48 Trevardo Williams (Fr., 6-1, 221)
DT: 99 Kendall Reyes (RSo., 6-4, 286)
54 Alex Polito (RJr., 6-6, 287)
DT: 4 Twyon Martin (RSo., 6-2, 271)
52 Brandon Dillon (RSr., 6-3, 292)
DE: 9 Lindsey Witten (Sr., 6-5, 260)
56 Mike Cox (RJr., 6-3, 242)
SLB:* 32 Scott Lutrus (RJr., 6-3, 244)
28 Jory Johnson (RFr., 6-1, 211)
MLB: 95 Greg Lloyd (Jr., 6-2, 245)
10 Greg Robinson (RJr., 6-2, 240)
WLB: 8 Lawrence Wilson (RJr., 6-1, 220)
46 Sio Moore (RFr., 6-1, 219)
CB: 42 Robert McClain (Sr., 5-9, 198)
5 Blidi Wreh-Wilson (RFr., 6-0, 180)
S: 33 Robert Vaughn (Sr., 6-0, 200)
18 Marcus Aiken (Fr., 5-11, 188)
S: 15 Jerome Junior (RFr., 6-1, 212)
19 Kijuan Dabney (Jr., 6-0, 204)
CB: 6 Jasper Howard (Jr., 5-10, 180)
24 Dwyane Gratz (RFr., 6-0, 192)
* Commonly referred to as the “Husky” linebacker
Special Teams
FG: 38 David Teggart (RSo., 6-0, 214)
13 Desi Cullen (Sr., 6-0, 211)
KO: 13 Desi Cullen (Sr., 6-0, 211)
38 David Teggart (RSo., 6-0, 214)
P: 13 Desi Cullen (Sr., 6-0, 211)
13 Chad Christen (Fr., 6-1, 191)
H: 13 Desi Cullen (Sr., 6-0, 211)
10 Zach Frazer (RJr.., 6-4, 225)
SN: 93 Derek Chard (Jr., 6-3, 235)
54 Alex Polito (RJr., 6-6, 287)
KR: 23 Jordan Todman (So., 5-9, 189)
44 Robbie Frey (RSo., 6-0, 201)
PR: 6 Jasper Howard (Jr., 5-10, 180)
42 Robert McClain (Sr., 5-9, 198)
WR: 3 Brad Kanuch (Sr., 6-1, 192))
1 Dwayne Difton (Fr., 5-11, 170)
WR: 80 Michael Smith (So., 6-0, 192) OR
82 Kashif Moore (RSo., 5-9, 182)
83 Isiah Moore (RSo, 6-1, 185)
LT: 73 Dan Ryan (RSr., 6-8, 316)
63 Adam Masters (RFr., 6-4, 281)
LG: 66 Mathieu Olivier (RJr., 6-6, 286)
60 Erik Kuraczea (RFr., 6-2, 333)
C: 57 Moe Petrus (RSo., 6-2, 288)
70 Gary Bardzak (RSo., 6-3, 293)
RG: 78 Zach Hurd (RJr., 6-7, 315)
74 Alex LaMagdelaine (RSr., 6-3, 310)
RT: 79 Mike Hicks (RSr., 6-6, 323)
71 Mike Ryan (RSo., 6-5, 324)
TE: 94 Ryan Griffin (RFr., 6-5, 240)
89 John Delahunt (RFr., 6-3, 243)
QB: 10 Zach Frazer (RJr., 6-4, 225)
12 Cody Endres (RSo., 6-4, 223)
TB: 23 Jordan Todman (So., 5-9, 189)
2 Andre Dixon (RSr., 6-1, 202)
FB: 49 Anthony Sherman (Jr., 5-11, 230)
47 Anthony Davis (RJr, 5-10, 243)
DEFENSE
DE: 91 Jesse Joseph (Fr., 6-3, 238)
48 Trevardo Williams (Fr., 6-1, 221)
DT: 99 Kendall Reyes (RSo., 6-4, 286)
54 Alex Polito (RJr., 6-6, 287)
DT: 4 Twyon Martin (RSo., 6-2, 271)
52 Brandon Dillon (RSr., 6-3, 292)
DE: 9 Lindsey Witten (Sr., 6-5, 260)
56 Mike Cox (RJr., 6-3, 242)
SLB:* 32 Scott Lutrus (RJr., 6-3, 244)
28 Jory Johnson (RFr., 6-1, 211)
MLB: 95 Greg Lloyd (Jr., 6-2, 245)
10 Greg Robinson (RJr., 6-2, 240)
WLB: 8 Lawrence Wilson (RJr., 6-1, 220)
46 Sio Moore (RFr., 6-1, 219)
CB: 42 Robert McClain (Sr., 5-9, 198)
5 Blidi Wreh-Wilson (RFr., 6-0, 180)
S: 33 Robert Vaughn (Sr., 6-0, 200)
18 Marcus Aiken (Fr., 5-11, 188)
S: 15 Jerome Junior (RFr., 6-1, 212)
19 Kijuan Dabney (Jr., 6-0, 204)
CB: 6 Jasper Howard (Jr., 5-10, 180)
24 Dwyane Gratz (RFr., 6-0, 192)
* Commonly referred to as the “Husky” linebacker
Special Teams
FG: 38 David Teggart (RSo., 6-0, 214)
13 Desi Cullen (Sr., 6-0, 211)
KO: 13 Desi Cullen (Sr., 6-0, 211)
38 David Teggart (RSo., 6-0, 214)
P: 13 Desi Cullen (Sr., 6-0, 211)
13 Chad Christen (Fr., 6-1, 191)
H: 13 Desi Cullen (Sr., 6-0, 211)
10 Zach Frazer (RJr.., 6-4, 225)
SN: 93 Derek Chard (Jr., 6-3, 235)
54 Alex Polito (RJr., 6-6, 287)
KR: 23 Jordan Todman (So., 5-9, 189)
44 Robbie Frey (RSo., 6-0, 201)
PR: 6 Jasper Howard (Jr., 5-10, 180)
42 Robert McClain (Sr., 5-9, 198)
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Tidbits
Just want to thank the folks at WNER 1410AM in New York for having me on yesterday.
Also...The Huskies will announce their depth chart Sunday afternoon as they enter preparations for next week's opener at Ohio University. Will there be any surprises? Probably not, but knowing Coach Randy Edsall, the depth chart will feature a lot of "OR"s next to people's names.
Also...The Huskies will announce their depth chart Sunday afternoon as they enter preparations for next week's opener at Ohio University. Will there be any surprises? Probably not, but knowing Coach Randy Edsall, the depth chart will feature a lot of "OR"s next to people's names.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Q&A with Big East commissioner John Marinatto
Courtesy of BigEast.org:
Q: Talk about the BIG EAST’s bowl selection process as a whole. How long ago did it begin?
A: Every conference is in a similar position as the BIG EAST right now; every four-year cycle usually brings about shifting in relationships between conferences and bowls. We tried to be ahead of the game, so our process started over a year ago. As a result, we’re excited to be the first BCS automatic qualifying conference to announce a bowl agreement for the next cycle.
Q: Why did the BIG EAST decide to move away from its long standing relationship with the Gator Bowl?
A: The Gator Bowl has been a great partner with the BIG EAST for 16 years, but our coaches and athletic directors were excited about the opportunity to have a new experience for our student-athletes and fans. In the end, we felt as though the Champs Sports Bowl better fit the criteria we have established for our first bowl opportunity after the BCS (2nd overall).
Q: Why is it advantageous for the BIG EAST and its members to have a partnership with the Champs Sports Bowl for its first bowl opportunity after the BCS?
A: It is our goal to put together the best possible bowl line-up we can, and when we evaluate our bowl opportunities, we look at destination, geography and opponent. The Champs Sports Bowl provides our membership with a desirable place for fans and student-athletes to go, a bowl located in a place that our fans can drive to or get to easily and a game that would be played against a BCS automatic qualifying opponent. In addition, Orlando, which has been hosting bowl games for over 60 years, is a city rich in bowl tradition. Our rosters continue to be stocked with players from Florida, and its no secret that Orlando sits in the middle of a recruiting hot bed for college football.
Q: Is it true that the BIG EAST would not accept a “hybrid” model that currently exists between the BIG EAST, Gator and Sun Bowls?
A: Yes, it is true. We feel as though were are in a much better negotiating position now than we were four years ago based on our recent performance and the stability of the conference. The hybrid structure would allow for Notre Dame to be selected twice in a four-year period in our No. 2 bowl spot. In our new agreement with the Champs Sports Bowl, Notre Dame can be selected only once during the four-year period.
Q: Why does the BIG EAST Conference choose to partner with Notre Dame when establishing its bowl deals?
A: A BIG EAST member in 24 sports, Notre Dame has been and continues to be a great partner for us in football. The relationship between Notre Dame and the BIG EAST Conference in football works because it is mutually beneficial. It allows the conference to sign better bowl agreements while at the same time, provides Notre Dame guaranteed bowl tie-ins outside of the BCS that it would not have been able to garner on its own.
Q: Is it important for the BIG EAST to have a bowl game that’s played on New Year’s Day?
A: The college football bowl landscape has changed over the last several years. There are 34 bowl games played over a two-and-a-half week span, with the highest level (BCS) games being played a week after New Year’s Day. As a result, we feel as though the day of a game has become less important. Instead, we placed more of an emphasis on destination, geography and opponent.
Q: What can we expect from the BIG EAST in terms of signing subsequent bowl deals now that the Champs Sports Bowl agreement has been announced?
A: Most conferences tend to negotiate their partnerships from the top, down. As a result, we can now focus on the rest of our lineup, which entails discussions with both current partners and new ones. We will continue to evaluate our opportunities with the same criteria we have with the Champs Sports Bowl.
Q: Talk about the BIG EAST’s bowl selection process as a whole. How long ago did it begin?
A: Every conference is in a similar position as the BIG EAST right now; every four-year cycle usually brings about shifting in relationships between conferences and bowls. We tried to be ahead of the game, so our process started over a year ago. As a result, we’re excited to be the first BCS automatic qualifying conference to announce a bowl agreement for the next cycle.
Q: Why did the BIG EAST decide to move away from its long standing relationship with the Gator Bowl?
A: The Gator Bowl has been a great partner with the BIG EAST for 16 years, but our coaches and athletic directors were excited about the opportunity to have a new experience for our student-athletes and fans. In the end, we felt as though the Champs Sports Bowl better fit the criteria we have established for our first bowl opportunity after the BCS (2nd overall).
Q: Why is it advantageous for the BIG EAST and its members to have a partnership with the Champs Sports Bowl for its first bowl opportunity after the BCS?
A: It is our goal to put together the best possible bowl line-up we can, and when we evaluate our bowl opportunities, we look at destination, geography and opponent. The Champs Sports Bowl provides our membership with a desirable place for fans and student-athletes to go, a bowl located in a place that our fans can drive to or get to easily and a game that would be played against a BCS automatic qualifying opponent. In addition, Orlando, which has been hosting bowl games for over 60 years, is a city rich in bowl tradition. Our rosters continue to be stocked with players from Florida, and its no secret that Orlando sits in the middle of a recruiting hot bed for college football.
Q: Is it true that the BIG EAST would not accept a “hybrid” model that currently exists between the BIG EAST, Gator and Sun Bowls?
A: Yes, it is true. We feel as though were are in a much better negotiating position now than we were four years ago based on our recent performance and the stability of the conference. The hybrid structure would allow for Notre Dame to be selected twice in a four-year period in our No. 2 bowl spot. In our new agreement with the Champs Sports Bowl, Notre Dame can be selected only once during the four-year period.
Q: Why does the BIG EAST Conference choose to partner with Notre Dame when establishing its bowl deals?
A: A BIG EAST member in 24 sports, Notre Dame has been and continues to be a great partner for us in football. The relationship between Notre Dame and the BIG EAST Conference in football works because it is mutually beneficial. It allows the conference to sign better bowl agreements while at the same time, provides Notre Dame guaranteed bowl tie-ins outside of the BCS that it would not have been able to garner on its own.
Q: Is it important for the BIG EAST to have a bowl game that’s played on New Year’s Day?
A: The college football bowl landscape has changed over the last several years. There are 34 bowl games played over a two-and-a-half week span, with the highest level (BCS) games being played a week after New Year’s Day. As a result, we feel as though the day of a game has become less important. Instead, we placed more of an emphasis on destination, geography and opponent.
Q: What can we expect from the BIG EAST in terms of signing subsequent bowl deals now that the Champs Sports Bowl agreement has been announced?
A: Most conferences tend to negotiate their partnerships from the top, down. As a result, we can now focus on the rest of our lineup, which entails discussions with both current partners and new ones. We will continue to evaluate our opportunities with the same criteria we have with the Champs Sports Bowl.
Champs Sports Bowl
The Big East's No. 2 team will be heading to Orlando beginning this season to play in the Champs Sports Bowl.
"We're obviously elated to announce our new partnership with the Champ Sports Bowl," Big East commissioner John Marinatto said.
Notre Dame is still part of the mix, getting a spot in the bowl once every four years.
The conference is still ironing out its other bowl games
"We're obviously elated to announce our new partnership with the Champ Sports Bowl," Big East commissioner John Marinatto said.
Notre Dame is still part of the mix, getting a spot in the bowl once every four years.
The conference is still ironing out its other bowl games
Huskies to tangle with Wolverines
UConn announced Tuesday that it has finalized a two-game series with Michigan. The Huskies will travel to Ann Arbor, Mich., for a Sept. 4, 2010 game and the Wolverines will play at Rentschler Field on Sept. 21, 2013.
“We are very excited about having a football series with the University of Michigan,” UConn Director of Athletics Jeffrey Hathaway said in a statement. “This football series will provide two outstanding games for both programs and their respective fans. We are happy to bring this premier intersectional matchup to our dedicated football fans who fill Rentschler Field.”
This agreement, along with a previous deal with Tennessee, might end the hyped and controversial deal UConn sought with Notre Dame. The schools will face each other this season at Notre Dame, but with plans for six more games and the three UConn home games played at neutral sites, the school seemingly decided it was in its best interest to go in a different direction. There has been no official word on the status of that deal, but none of the schedule games with the Fighting Irish were mention in the release, which listed upcoming opponents.
Coach Randy Edsall said UConn doesn’t want to play more than three non-conference Bowl Championship Series eligible teams in one year.
“It is very exciting for our football program to have a series with Michigan,” Edsall said in the release. “We want to challenge our team by playing a strong non-conference schedule in addition to the Big East slate we face every year. Michigan is a nationally-prominent program and we are happy to have them on our future schedule.”
Next year’s game with Michigan forces the rescheduling of the Northeastern-UConn game to Oct. 9, 2010. It is also the rededication game of Michigan Stadium
“We are very excited about having a football series with the University of Michigan,” UConn Director of Athletics Jeffrey Hathaway said in a statement. “This football series will provide two outstanding games for both programs and their respective fans. We are happy to bring this premier intersectional matchup to our dedicated football fans who fill Rentschler Field.”
This agreement, along with a previous deal with Tennessee, might end the hyped and controversial deal UConn sought with Notre Dame. The schools will face each other this season at Notre Dame, but with plans for six more games and the three UConn home games played at neutral sites, the school seemingly decided it was in its best interest to go in a different direction. There has been no official word on the status of that deal, but none of the schedule games with the Fighting Irish were mention in the release, which listed upcoming opponents.
Coach Randy Edsall said UConn doesn’t want to play more than three non-conference Bowl Championship Series eligible teams in one year.
“It is very exciting for our football program to have a series with Michigan,” Edsall said in the release. “We want to challenge our team by playing a strong non-conference schedule in addition to the Big East slate we face every year. Michigan is a nationally-prominent program and we are happy to have them on our future schedule.”
Next year’s game with Michigan forces the rescheduling of the Northeastern-UConn game to Oct. 9, 2010. It is also the rededication game of Michigan Stadium
Notes from media day
Redshirt freshman Eric Kuraczea from Ansonia is “in better shape,” Edsall said, but needs to monitor his weight. The 6-foot-2, 333-pound guard has made strides in knowing his assignments as he continues the transition from high school to college ball.
***
Zach Frazer holds the top spot on the quarterback depth chart, but Edsall said that the pecking order behind the redshirt junior begins with Cody Endres then Michael Box, Johnny McEntee and Casey Turner.
***
Randy Edsall would like to see more linebacker depth. With Scott Lutrus, Greg Lloyd and Lawrence Wilson starting, the coach feels that backups Sio Moore, Greg Robinson and Kijuan Dabney cam get the job done if need be says that if injuries occur, there is some flexibility. Meaning, there are players who can play multiple positions.
***
Redshirt sophomore safety Harris Agbor will be out at least six weeks with a lateral collateral injury.
***
Following a 145-play scrimmage on Sunday, a few positions have sorted themselves out, most notably NFA grad Dan Ryan’s experience winning over redshirt freshman Jimmy Bennett’s potential at one offensive tackle position.
“That’s just one thing that you can’t teach right away,” Ryan said. “It is what it is; this is my fifth year here now. I have a lot of game experience, played behind a great player in (New York Giant) Will Beatty and learned a lot of things from him and (Miami Dolphin) Donald Thomas. Over the years, you pick up small things that the coaches can’t teach. You have to pick it up out there.”
***
Zach Frazer holds the top spot on the quarterback depth chart, but Edsall said that the pecking order behind the redshirt junior begins with Cody Endres then Michael Box, Johnny McEntee and Casey Turner.
***
Randy Edsall would like to see more linebacker depth. With Scott Lutrus, Greg Lloyd and Lawrence Wilson starting, the coach feels that backups Sio Moore, Greg Robinson and Kijuan Dabney cam get the job done if need be says that if injuries occur, there is some flexibility. Meaning, there are players who can play multiple positions.
***
Redshirt sophomore safety Harris Agbor will be out at least six weeks with a lateral collateral injury.
***
Following a 145-play scrimmage on Sunday, a few positions have sorted themselves out, most notably NFA grad Dan Ryan’s experience winning over redshirt freshman Jimmy Bennett’s potential at one offensive tackle position.
“That’s just one thing that you can’t teach right away,” Ryan said. “It is what it is; this is my fifth year here now. I have a lot of game experience, played behind a great player in (New York Giant) Will Beatty and learned a lot of things from him and (Miami Dolphin) Donald Thomas. Over the years, you pick up small things that the coaches can’t teach. You have to pick it up out there.”
Bowl announcement
The Big East has a bowl announcement this afternoon, likely making official the speculation that the Champs Sports Bowl in Orlando, Fla. will become the destination for the league's No. 2 team.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Difton to start
UConn football coach Randy Edsall isn’t ready to divulge his depth chart, but that’s not stopping highly touted freshman wide receiver Dwayne Difton from spilling some of the beans.
Difton, the highest-rated recruit to ever commit to play for the Huskies, said Monday that he will be the team’s starting Z receiver, or flanker.
“I’m going to work really hard, real hard,” he said at the team’s media day. “Right now they got me as Z on the first team right now. I’m going to work hard, stay humble, stay determined and take it from there.”
Edsall didn’t confirm Difton’s claim, but said the team saw the depth chart Monday. All Edsall would offer is that Difton could crack the starting lineup for the Sept. 5 season opener at Ohio University.
Difton, the highest-rated recruit to ever commit to play for the Huskies, said Monday that he will be the team’s starting Z receiver, or flanker.
“I’m going to work really hard, real hard,” he said at the team’s media day. “Right now they got me as Z on the first team right now. I’m going to work hard, stay humble, stay determined and take it from there.”
Edsall didn’t confirm Difton’s claim, but said the team saw the depth chart Monday. All Edsall would offer is that Difton could crack the starting lineup for the Sept. 5 season opener at Ohio University.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
Speedy tidings
If credentials, history, track record and pedigree mean anything, Dwayne Difton is going to leave his mark on the UConn football program in a short amount of time.
The 5-foot-11 wideout became the highest-rated recruit to commit to UConn, when the four-star Floridian gave his verbal Friday. He'll arrive as the 39th ranked player at his position and leaving a St. Thomas Aquinas High School squad that ESPN and USA Today considered the best in the nation.
Difton told me that his mind was made up after researching new UConn offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead's track record. But when I spoke with Difton's father, he said that running backs coach Terry Richardson came to him "man-to-man" and assured him that playing doesn't matter if the younger Difton doesn't take care of priority No. 1 — grades.
Difton never saw snow before his official visit on Jan. 16, but said he knows that the coaching staff has in place an environment that will help him as he deals with the changes that college, football and Connecticut present.
The kid seems genuinely nice and he knows that he's going to start next season, alongside Kashif Moore and Brad Kanuch. If there's one thing the Huskies will have at wide receiver is speed. Now, if they can get the ball to the WRs — and they can catch the ball — there's a lot of potential.
And let's not overlook that if UConn can improve its passing attack (it'll be hard not to), it takes pressure of Jordan Todman, who should start in the place left by Donald Brown.
The 5-foot-11 wideout became the highest-rated recruit to commit to UConn, when the four-star Floridian gave his verbal Friday. He'll arrive as the 39th ranked player at his position and leaving a St. Thomas Aquinas High School squad that ESPN and USA Today considered the best in the nation.
Difton told me that his mind was made up after researching new UConn offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead's track record. But when I spoke with Difton's father, he said that running backs coach Terry Richardson came to him "man-to-man" and assured him that playing doesn't matter if the younger Difton doesn't take care of priority No. 1 — grades.
Difton never saw snow before his official visit on Jan. 16, but said he knows that the coaching staff has in place an environment that will help him as he deals with the changes that college, football and Connecticut present.
The kid seems genuinely nice and he knows that he's going to start next season, alongside Kashif Moore and Brad Kanuch. If there's one thing the Huskies will have at wide receiver is speed. Now, if they can get the ball to the WRs — and they can catch the ball — there's a lot of potential.
And let's not overlook that if UConn can improve its passing attack (it'll be hard not to), it takes pressure of Jordan Todman, who should start in the place left by Donald Brown.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
New OC
The Huskies named former Akron offensive coordinator and QB coach Joe Moorhead to the same position. Clearly, this is a step up for Moorhead who leaves the MAC for the Big East.
What I like: Moorhead has a multi-set no-huddle offense that he will be implementing. He's a 50/50 kind of guy, so seasons such as the one Donald Brown just had should become a thing of the past once a reliable passing attack is in place. He should also make UConn more attractive to high school WRs looking for a place to play.
What I don't like: Rankings-wise, Akron was much better than UConn. Statistically, Akron wasn't much better. The Zips averaged 10 yards and three points more than the Huskies per game. If the Huskies had that tacked on to this season's games, they would have won one more game and maybe would have played in a different bowl, but not likely. Give me six points and we're getting somewhere. I'll admit, having what should be -- I emphasize should be -- better talent in Storrs than in tire country may more than make up for that gap and then some. However, two new o-linemen, a new tight end, a new QB and a new tailback not named Donald Brown means this could be a very bumpy first year for Moorhead.
What I like: Moorhead has a multi-set no-huddle offense that he will be implementing. He's a 50/50 kind of guy, so seasons such as the one Donald Brown just had should become a thing of the past once a reliable passing attack is in place. He should also make UConn more attractive to high school WRs looking for a place to play.
What I don't like: Rankings-wise, Akron was much better than UConn. Statistically, Akron wasn't much better. The Zips averaged 10 yards and three points more than the Huskies per game. If the Huskies had that tacked on to this season's games, they would have won one more game and maybe would have played in a different bowl, but not likely. Give me six points and we're getting somewhere. I'll admit, having what should be -- I emphasize should be -- better talent in Storrs than in tire country may more than make up for that gap and then some. However, two new o-linemen, a new tight end, a new QB and a new tailback not named Donald Brown means this could be a very bumpy first year for Moorhead.
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