Made it up for the scrimmage yesterday. Here are a few of my observations-
- It was the 1st scrimmage and it looked like the 1st scrimmage. A lot of mistakes and sloppy play at times.
- Defense was dominant, especially during the 1st half.
- Offensive line problems continue to be the biggest concern. They couldn't run block or hold a pass block long enough to let Rubes sit in the pocket and find a receiver. The LT, Piechowski, consistently gets beat by the speed rush on the edge.
- IMO Graham has separated himself a little from Holland in the early going, but I think we are looking at a 1A & 1B situation. Both will play a lot.
- Cartagena did not show the flash he showed in the Spring game, but that may have been hampered by the fact that he was playing with the 2s and 3s all day.
- Brock Berglund was walking around in a boot on his left foot again.
- Jonathan Newsom looked good at times and bad at times. A little indecisive but that may change as he gains more experience with the offense.
- Samad Hinds looked good with the 2s but went down with what looked like a concussion.
- Defensive line were exactly what we were hoping they would be. They will be dominant this year. Teams are going to have a hard time running and throwing with the explosiveness of these guys.
- Starting LBs at this point appear to be Sierra, JaQueal Walker, and Ryan Gackle. Gackle looks absolutely huge in the middle.
- DBs definitely look improved. That may be partly do to the pressure the front 7 are able to apply, but I thought they looked much improved. Singleton is going to be really good opposite of Hall.
- Defense is definitely playing with an attitude and are forming an identity. Amazing what strong leadership will do.
- Kicking game still sucks
Would love to hear any other observations. There was a decent crowd there for scrimmage #1
