True Freshman

[freescooter]

On what basis is Cochran #2? Not trying to be confrontational or negative, just curious since that's not the feeling I've gotten from reading this board over the past two years. Also, I'm not sure where you got that anyone but Whitmer should be the starter. On McCummings, and this is admittedly from my remote vantage point here in TX the past few seasons, and with all due respect to Scott, he doesn't throw the ball like Dante Culpepper. I didn't mention that in my previous posts because I don't like going negative, especially on the players. However, I think you'd find widespread agreement here on that fact, and from McCummings himself, who has admitted more than once he has to really improve on that aspect of his game. If we're going to execute an aggressive, balanced attack this year, we'll need a QB who can throw the ball well all over the field. If Whitmer has trouble or gets injured then, who gets the ball?

I think he is #2 for several reasons. First he was #2 in spring ball, so going into the fall he probably starts there. Second, I think there will be a hesitancy to use a true freshman unless and until it it is absolutely necessary. Most college coaches accept that a 5th year senior will be superior to a true freshman, and they want to get their guys to that point. Pasqualoni is nothing if not conventional in his thinking. 3rd, in part as a result of having already spent a year in the program, Cochran has at least some understanding of the system that just puts him ahead of all 3 freshmen. Fourth, Barring some long term injury, I doubt Pasqualoni will burn a redshirt for a half or a game or even 2 games. While this largely depends on where we are in the schedule and what our record is and how the Frosh look in practice and so forth, I think the tendency will be to save the redshirts. If Whitmer goes down in game 11, and we're 4-7 they won't bother, if we're 7-4 they won't bother. Fifth, and this is a very personal view which many people here will disagree with, I think P will try and get Cochran some reps this year because he has effectively recruited over him with Boyle and Lagow. He will feel he owes Jack and will want to give Casey some extra work for his future career.

 

[Husky25]

I doubt that has been decided yet, that will hopefully be determined in August. McCummings cannot be ruled out, its possible that the new offense would do very well with a running threat at the QB position, nobody knows yet. Hopefully it will be an open competition for # 2, and I think Lagow probably does have a shot, but I would not call him the favorite. That would be very impressive if he is that good and is #2

If we are up 30 vs Towson does P burn Lagow's redshirt to get him experience? Would you want him to?

I think Lagow or Boyle would have had a better chance if they were in Storrs in time for the spring scrimmage, but I don't believe any of the new QB recruits were here yet or enrolled early.

 

[FAIRTIDES]

I think he is #2 for several reasons. First he was #2 in spring ball, so going into the fall he probably starts there. Second, I think there will be a hesitancy to use a true freshman unless and until it it is absolutely necessary. Most college coaches accept that a 5th year senior will be superior to a true freshman, and they want to get their guys to that point. Pasqualoni is nothing if not conventional in his thinking. 3rd, in part as a result of having already spent a year in the program, Cochran has at least some understanding of the system that just puts him ahead of all 3 freshmen. Fourth, Barring some long term injury, I doubt Pasqualoni will burn a redshirt for a half or a game or even 2 games. While this largely depends on where we are in the schedule and what our record is and how the Frosh look in practice and so forth, I think the tendency will be to save the redshirts. If Whitmer goes down in game 11, and we're 4-7 they won't bother, if we're 7-4 they won't bother. Fifth, and this is a very personal view which many people here will disagree with, I think P will try and get Cochran some reps this year because he has effectively recruited over him with Boyle and Lagow. He will feel he owes Jack and will want to give Casey some extra work for his future career.

PP is, according to at least one national publication (cited on the BY), on the coaching "hot seat." His thinking is going to be short-term. Human nature. His loyalty will involve, "which one of these guys will keep my job."

 

[freescooter]

PP is, according to at least one national publication (cited on the BY), on the coaching "hot seat."

if something were to happen to take Whitmer out for a long stretch early in the season, or mid-season, that changes the equation. If he's out for 3-4 games, and Lagow or Boyle have shown a lot in practice over Cochran, then you might do it. But Lagow isn't going in up 35-7 in the 4th quarter against Towson, and if he hasn't played, he isn't going in in the 4th quarter against Rutgers or Memphis if Whitmer goes out with a minor injury. That would be foolish. And a good deal depends on where we are in the season and what our record is, too. Hopefully though all this is an academic discussion and Whitmer remains healthy and sets all kinds of passing records leading UConn to an unbeaten season, a BCS bowl victory and a national championship.

 

[gioff23]

If a true frosh qb earns time on the field, play em. There is NOTHING that can replicate in-game experience. I'm not saying starting, I am saying playing. In other words, if one beats out C-squared for PT, he plays. We have 3 qb's in the class, so breaking up the eligibility logjam is not the worst thing.

 

[Doggie Style]

I had a conversation not long ago with a certain CT sports writer who was wearing a BC shirt at the time. Wasn't sure where to share the specifics about the conversation but this seems like the best place based on the subject at hand. First thing that was mentioned when I asked about the coaching staff, was that he said they are FULLY aware that they must win and win now! Because of that, bets are off this season when it comes to red shirts and playing time. Whoever gives Uconn the best chance to win, will play regardless of their individual situation. Another thing he mentioned was the staff is REALLY high on Lagow and the feeling in Storrs is that he is the REAL deal!! I was pretty excited to hear that, no doubt because I think we all have high hopes for this kid. He also said that in no way would he be surprised if Lagow were playing at some point this season. I think this comment was based on the win at all costs environment in Storrs right now, coupled with Lagows big time potential. No earth shattering news here, but I thought I would just pass that along seeing that The Boneyard is the source of information starved fans.

 

[FfldCntyFan]

In a perfect world, all QB playing time would be CW with Cochrane gettting some mop-up duty in blowout wins (I did say 'a perfect world').

twenty one years ago Tha U (before they were Tha U) redshirted Bernie Kosar while Vinny Testaverde was on the active roster (and played when Kelly went down) and one year later Vinny Redshirted while Bernie played as a RS frosh. I have a gut feeling that one of Lagow or Boyle will not end up redshirting this upcoming season but will in 2014.

 

[NEforceUConn]

thanks doggie

 

[Doggie Style]

In a perfect world, all QB playing time would be CW with Cochrane gettting some mop-up duty in blowout wins (I did say 'a perfect world').

twenty one years ago Tha U (before they were Tha U) redshirted Bernie Kosar while Vinny Testaverde was on the active roster (and played when Kelly went down) and one year later Vinny Redshirted while Bernie played as a RS frosh. I have a gut feeling that one of Lagow or
Boyle will not end up redshirting this upcoming season but will in

I think it all depends on whitmer, if he starts off strong we may see some red shirts, barring any injuries.

 

[whaler11]

Let's just all hope Whitmer doesn't get hurt. Plenty of potential on the roster but 45 days out we have no evidence anyone else is ready to start at this level.

 

[ShakyTheMohel]

In a perfect world, all QB playing time would be CW with Cochrane gettting some mop-up duty in blowout wins (I did say 'a perfect world').

twenty one years ago Tha U (before they were Tha U) redshirted Bernie Kosar while Vinny Testaverde was on the active roster (and played when Kelly went down) and one year later Vinny Redshirted while Bernie played as a RS frosh. I have a gut feeling that one of Lagow or Boyle will not end up redshirting this upcoming season but will in 2014.

I agree with this. If Taylor is staying at QB, then it wouldn't be a disaster if one of the freshman played this year, then took a redshirt next year.

 

[Doggie Style]

Let's just all hope Whitmer doesn't get hurt. Plenty of potential on the roster but 45 days out we have no evidence anyone else is ready to start at this level.

I agree

 

[Doggie Style]

I agree with this. If Taylor is staying at QB, then it wouldn't be a disaster if one of the freshman played this year, then took a redshirt next year.

Who's Taylor?

 

[huskymedic]

Who's Taylor?

Kivon Taylor?

From UConn bio:

High School: Team captain as a senior and quarterback at Grady High School in Atlanta...selected to play in the 2012 Georgia All-Star Game...honored as a USA Academic All-America Team...named to the 2013 FBU International All-Star Game...led team to a 2012 GHSA AAAA Playoff appearance and a 9-4 record.

http://www.hudl.com/athlete/633116/kivon-taylor

 

[kcc1442]

Who's Taylor?

Kivon Taylor...........I have already penciled him into the wideout group but he is listed online as a QB.....I don't get it though.....It almost makes me feel like they are trying to keep the wildcat around and Kivon is the new McCummings for the future. However keeping 6 QB's next year (Whitmer, Cochran, Boyle, Lagow, Taylor and Marchi) is too much in my opinion. One of those schollys could be better used elsewhere. So, if that's going to be the case for next year, why not change his position this year.

 

[jdb50]

Tom Meyers and the O lineman from Florida, Schafenacker if I remember correctly, sounds like he could be a good get.

 

[whaler11]

Kivon Taylor...........I have already penciled him into the wideout group but he is listed online as a QB.....I don't get it though.....It almost makes me feel like they are trying to keep the wildcat around and Kivon is the new McCummings for the future. However keeping 6 QB's next year (Whitmer, Cochran, Boyle, Lagow, Taylor and Marchi) is too much in my opinion. One of those schollys could be better used elsewhere. So, if that's going to be the case for next year, why not change his position this year.

Because he thinks he's a quarterback. They like him enough to give him the shot to prove it and if he isn't he slides to another spot.

 

[Exit 4]

For this year - to play as true Freshman; Noel Thomas as either WR or Corner. I kinda like Thomas's defense more than his offense, great break to the ball on D. We need a TE out of the gate, so perhaps Mr General Athlete - Tommy Myers makes has an impact. I'm also interested to see both Boyle and Lagow. Hopefully one of these two really bring something special to the field.

Long term Lemelle and Hadley will be interesting.

 

[uconnbill]

One of the wide receivers either Thomas or Lemelle and then a Tommy Meyers at tight end. After that I think everyone else redshirts.

 

[ShakyTheMohel]

Because he thinks he's a quarterback. They like him enough to give him the shot to prove it and if he isn't he slides to another spot.

Yes..I was referring to Kivon Taylor. I think Whaler is right...redshirt freshman year is a perfect time to figure out if QB is his future.

 

[freescooter]

I think the question of whether one of the freshman quarterbacks plays is really a function of how Whitmer plays. If he is steady and solid, and stays healthy, the liklihood of Lagow or Boyle or Taylor ever seeing the field is pretty low. Cochran remains the backup and maybe sees a little action in mop up duty. As an old time coach told me, every guy you play against in college was the best player on his high school team. That alone is reason to redshirt if possible. if the offense is a disaster, or there is an early season injury, that changes the equation some, but neither of those are likely, and I'd be pretty surprised to see any of the frosh play short of that.

 

[ktuck911]

I think the question of whether one of the freshman quarterbacks plays is really a function of how Whitmer plays. If he is steady and solid, and stays healthy, the liklihood of Lagow or Boyle or Taylor ever seeing the field is pretty low. Cochran remains the backup and maybe sees a little action in mop up duty. As an old time coach told me, every guy you play against in college was the best player on his high school team. That alone is reason to redshirt if possible. if the offense is a disaster, or there is an early season injury, that changes the equation some, but neither of those are likely, and I'd be pretty surprised to see any of the frosh play short of that.

I hope none of the current back ups see the field this season. IMO, it would be a good sign that Whitmer's getting the job done. Let them study and learn the system, improve their understanding of this offense. The only guys with potential of getting any burn would be CC and McCummings in mop up duty (in case we blow somebody out)..

 

[businesslawyer]

It wasn't the question originally asked, but if you look at the roster position by position and ask where a true freshman has a chance to make the two deep (because as we saw last year with Joe Williams, we have no basis for guessing who may be asked to play just to help out on special teams):

1. I would be very surprised to see a true frosh play at LB or OL. We have depth at both of those positions and we don't have any recruits there that won't benefit from a redshirt year. Having said that, I still can't understand how in the world they burned Samra's redshirt last year to play a few meaningless mop up downs at OG, so I guess I can't rule out that they ask Schafenacker to do that as well.

2. At the skill positions, there is plenty of room for Mariner, at TB, Walsh, at FB, or any of the frosh WRs to make the two deep. Less so at TB than the others, but if Mariner is better than what we have now he will play. At TE, the opportunity will be there for at least one of Myers or Thompson to play if they are ready. Having said that, the walk-on Spencer Parker played on specials last year, and may have a chance to be McQuillan's back-uup. And, at QB, while I would be shocked if any of the true frosh were ready to push Whitmer, with three QBs in the class if any of them is more ready that Cochrane to be the backup, you play them this year. You can always redshirt them next year.

3. On defense, the battle to replace Trevardo is wide open. Could Norris be the guy? Could Frank be the guy? In either case, if Holines (or someone else but just based on measurables he seems the most likely) can play that position, we have a history of playing true frosh WSDEs. Finally, at DB, we have enough players that we don't have to burn a redshirt, but especially CB doesn't require a redshirt year if you're ready. But I doubt any of our guys our.

The bottom line is that, based on our roster and the staff's need to win this year, I would not be surprised if you see more true frosh get a chance to help the team than we've seen yet in the P era. The bigger question is will they be ready to help the team win this season.

 

[Exit 4]

I agree with your assessment BL (and as others have said)...this is the year this coaching staff is more likely than ever to put true freshman on the field if its going to save their careers.

Walsh could definitely have an immediate impact. Frank was completely wasted playing two season out of position at FB. Hopefully he can be far more productive on the defensive side of the ball.

Holines could also see the field as a frosh the DL. Maybe I am wrong, but his physical development seems further along than the typical Uconn recruit.

Getting pumped....and feeling much better now that we have two RBs in the current recruiting class...now just need some OL and a couple Corners.

 

[gioff23]

i dont understand the sacredness of the RS some espouse. Kids get on the field of play for 2 reasons - they earn it and/or the staff feels they need experience IN CASE a 1 goes down. We can argue all day long about whether Samra benefitted more from playing versus sitting on the sidelines in sweat pants, but I truly believe you don't sit a kid who has shown he can play and earned the right to be out there. In no other sport, do folks hope the new kid sits so he can play 5 years from now. A lot can happen in that timeframe. Play the best kids in 2013, and stop fixating over 2017. The irony is that many seem perplexed that certain kids dont commit here arguing they could see the field of play earlier than at other schools recruiting them.