A nice follow-up at Bucky's 5th Quarter with some decent info in it. Nice work, Adam. [edit] Here's another nice piece where Adam asks the question many of us want: what's up with Sorenson? (and some other stuff)
Here's Potrykus's write-up of the same, and Badger Beat's, complete with a little sunny optimism.
Showing posts with label pressers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pressers. Show all posts
Media Days: Coach Speak
(1) I'm jealous of Adam Hoge, Badger blogger at Bucky's 5th Quarter. He's attending Big Ten Media Days, and is providing updates. Good on him. In addition to the convenience of living in Chicago and working at BTN, something tells me Adam is single and without kids. (As a 2008 grad, he's also young enough to have a handle on Twitter.) But maybe he's just better at multitasking than me. Anyway, I'm jealous.
(2) The live chat UW set up with Coach Bielema today was what one would expect: thin on substance. Nonetheless, I think he gave two comments we can learn from: (a) expect a lot of Lance Kendricks and Garrett Graham together (Q: "I thought Garrett Graham was kind of a breakout player last year. Can you give us one or two that you think might 'breakout' this season?" A: "I believe one offensive guy is Lance Kendricks. We really felt good about him last year going into the MSU game, but unfortunately broke his leg."); and (b) JJ Watt will play some tackle depending on the game situation (I predict passing downs) (Q: "If the opener were tomorrow, who would you anticipate being the starting front four defensivlely" You mentioned JJ Watt & I've read you like his cersatility, but will he start inside?" A: "I can name our top six: Schofield [DE], Watt, Moore [DT, some DE], Stehle [DT], Kelly [DE], and Butrym [DT]. It would probably be some combination of those four. J.J. is one of our d-lineman who can play inside or outside [Moore is the other] depending on game plan and the type of offense we are going against.")
Ok, so neither of these is earth shattering. I think everyone expects a lot of 2-tight end sets (I've only written about it somewhere in the neighborhood of 1000 times). But I was wondering about Watt. Originally I thought of him as an undersized tackle, but he's listed on the two-deep as a starting end. I think this clarifies that. He is probably the starting end (opposite Schofield), but may move inside from time to time. I'm guessing passing downs because guys like Kelly, Nzegwu, and Mains are pass-rush specialists (they have to be given their size). So you throw them in to rush the quarterback, but keep Watt in on the play as a solid penetrating tackle.
Pretty much the same story out of the opening address to the media today (video embedded below): three solid tight ends (with Turner playing some fullback, too); Kendricks looking to fill Beckum's H-back role, and effectively the same rundown on the defensive line. Combining the statement he made in the chat and the statement he made to the media, it's looking like: Watt, Moore (he pegged him as inside), Stehle, and Schofield.
Last thing: Bielema thinks the Badgers' success at home has hindered high profile home-and-home scheduling. Wouldn't surprise me. Generally scheduling is a tough thing to do, and our home record doesn't look too appealing to opposing teams with resumes similar to ours.
Don't have the interviews with Graham, McFadden, or Schofield up on the BTN yet, so I'm in the dark on those.
(2) The live chat UW set up with Coach Bielema today was what one would expect: thin on substance. Nonetheless, I think he gave two comments we can learn from: (a) expect a lot of Lance Kendricks and Garrett Graham together (Q: "I thought Garrett Graham was kind of a breakout player last year. Can you give us one or two that you think might 'breakout' this season?" A: "I believe one offensive guy is Lance Kendricks. We really felt good about him last year going into the MSU game, but unfortunately broke his leg."); and (b) JJ Watt will play some tackle depending on the game situation (I predict passing downs) (Q: "If the opener were tomorrow, who would you anticipate being the starting front four defensivlely" You mentioned JJ Watt & I've read you like his cersatility, but will he start inside?" A: "I can name our top six: Schofield [DE], Watt, Moore [DT, some DE], Stehle [DT], Kelly [DE], and Butrym [DT]. It would probably be some combination of those four. J.J. is one of our d-lineman who can play inside or outside [Moore is the other] depending on game plan and the type of offense we are going against.")
Ok, so neither of these is earth shattering. I think everyone expects a lot of 2-tight end sets (I've only written about it somewhere in the neighborhood of 1000 times). But I was wondering about Watt. Originally I thought of him as an undersized tackle, but he's listed on the two-deep as a starting end. I think this clarifies that. He is probably the starting end (opposite Schofield), but may move inside from time to time. I'm guessing passing downs because guys like Kelly, Nzegwu, and Mains are pass-rush specialists (they have to be given their size). So you throw them in to rush the quarterback, but keep Watt in on the play as a solid penetrating tackle.
Pretty much the same story out of the opening address to the media today (video embedded below): three solid tight ends (with Turner playing some fullback, too); Kendricks looking to fill Beckum's H-back role, and effectively the same rundown on the defensive line. Combining the statement he made in the chat and the statement he made to the media, it's looking like: Watt, Moore (he pegged him as inside), Stehle, and Schofield.
Last thing: Bielema thinks the Badgers' success at home has hindered high profile home-and-home scheduling. Wouldn't surprise me. Generally scheduling is a tough thing to do, and our home record doesn't look too appealing to opposing teams with resumes similar to ours.
Don't have the interviews with Graham, McFadden, or Schofield up on the BTN yet, so I'm in the dark on those.
Rolling Along Through Spring Practice
First, tracking Potrykus's comments, I'm sticking with my obscenely early snap decision that Sherer will be the starter. And I'm ok with that.
The Sentinel's (unattributed, but got to believe it's Potrykus's) latest practice report has some good info in it. From the sound of things, expect Toon as a starting wide receiver. It's good to hear that Jefferson is doing something to reduce his exposure to further concussions, but with the solid reports Toon is getting, I'm assuming he'll be the first on the field (with Anderson). As I said the other day, I think 3 WRs will be a pretty common set for the Badgers, with a TE rather than a fullback. That's where Gilreath will come in, I think. On the other hand, with Mickey Turner flashing some skills in practice, Chryst may have a tough decision whether to go that way, or two tight ends, which might give him as many weapons receiving, and better versatility running. Either way, don't expect to see our new fullbacks (Jones, Ewing, and Spitz) on the field as often as you saw Pressley and Rentmeester last season.
Two more notes from the report: it sounds like the DBs are playing pretty well (also here), and Pat Hughes, a walk-on, will be the back-up kicker with Fischer off to Cornell (Potrykus asks Bielema about it on video; also an interesting discussion of the DBs, including focus on Otis Merrill who remains buried in the depth chart).
Speaking of the secondary, another note from the JS gives a little background on the Shane Carter "incident" that kept him out of the bowl (not academics, as I previously misstated). Also, Potrykus reiterates what Coach Cooks said last week, that the safeties will play one side and the other, but not a traditional strong and free safety. In the back of my head that worries me a little re Valai, who's height might be a liability in a free safety-type role -- on the other hand, it's probably a liability no matter what. Despite that, he got consistently better last year, and I expect will do the same this year.
JJ Watt sounds like the real deal at DT. I remain not terribly concerned about the d-line.
Badgerbeat reiterates what Coach Settle had to say about John Clay: lose weight, understand the playbook. Clay has been up around 250, but needs to get to 240, preferably a little lower than that. I've got to believe Clay will stay at #1 on the depth chart, but if he doesn't get a better handle on the playbook, we'll see more of Zach Brown. Not a bad thing. Zach can play.
The Sentinel's (unattributed, but got to believe it's Potrykus's) latest practice report has some good info in it. From the sound of things, expect Toon as a starting wide receiver. It's good to hear that Jefferson is doing something to reduce his exposure to further concussions, but with the solid reports Toon is getting, I'm assuming he'll be the first on the field (with Anderson). As I said the other day, I think 3 WRs will be a pretty common set for the Badgers, with a TE rather than a fullback. That's where Gilreath will come in, I think. On the other hand, with Mickey Turner flashing some skills in practice, Chryst may have a tough decision whether to go that way, or two tight ends, which might give him as many weapons receiving, and better versatility running. Either way, don't expect to see our new fullbacks (Jones, Ewing, and Spitz) on the field as often as you saw Pressley and Rentmeester last season.
Two more notes from the report: it sounds like the DBs are playing pretty well (also here), and Pat Hughes, a walk-on, will be the back-up kicker with Fischer off to Cornell (Potrykus asks Bielema about it on video; also an interesting discussion of the DBs, including focus on Otis Merrill who remains buried in the depth chart).
Speaking of the secondary, another note from the JS gives a little background on the Shane Carter "incident" that kept him out of the bowl (not academics, as I previously misstated). Also, Potrykus reiterates what Coach Cooks said last week, that the safeties will play one side and the other, but not a traditional strong and free safety. In the back of my head that worries me a little re Valai, who's height might be a liability in a free safety-type role -- on the other hand, it's probably a liability no matter what. Despite that, he got consistently better last year, and I expect will do the same this year.
JJ Watt sounds like the real deal at DT. I remain not terribly concerned about the d-line.
Badgerbeat reiterates what Coach Settle had to say about John Clay: lose weight, understand the playbook. Clay has been up around 250, but needs to get to 240, preferably a little lower than that. I've got to believe Clay will stay at #1 on the depth chart, but if he doesn't get a better handle on the playbook, we'll see more of Zach Brown. Not a bad thing. Zach can play.
Spring Bloom: Notes from BB's Presser
Some quick hitters out of the opening press conference for the Spring:
Of note on the depth chart: Bsherer moved to left guard to help shore up the lack of depth there. We could have a very athletic line, but a very green second string. On the defensive line Garner and Grimes, both likely not in the two-deep, but good for depth . . . not anymore. They are out of the program.
Backup kicker Fisher is gone to Cornell. Frankly it's hard to see how that's a bad move for him.
Likely the 1st and 2nd string fullbacks (Jones and Ewing) are out for the spring with injuries. Mo Moore and Jay Valai will miss some practice due to recent surgeries. Tyler Westphal is also going to miss the Spring, which isn't good news for a developing young talent at defensive end.
Mario Goins is still in academic trouble with Bret and won't practice this Spring. Similarly Shane Carter is on thin ice. Pretty clear that Henry and Brinkley will be the starters at corner unless something surprising happens. If Goins and Carter don't make the grade, as it were, it's going to hurt the previously expected depth in the backfield quite a bit.
Clay needs to slim down. But not too much; he's always going to be a load to carry.
Toon and Jefferson are sprinting with the track team and Bielema likes what it's doing for their attitudes.
Finally, based on Potrykus's thoughts on the quarterbacks yesterday, and looking at a ridiculously quick snap decision (subject to change daily), I'm throwing my hat in the Sherer corner. Consistent is what we need, much more than "athletic," and I'm just not willing to call for a true freshman who hasn't played competitively in over a year.
Of note on the depth chart: Bsherer moved to left guard to help shore up the lack of depth there. We could have a very athletic line, but a very green second string. On the defensive line Garner and Grimes, both likely not in the two-deep, but good for depth . . . not anymore. They are out of the program.
Backup kicker Fisher is gone to Cornell. Frankly it's hard to see how that's a bad move for him.
Likely the 1st and 2nd string fullbacks (Jones and Ewing) are out for the spring with injuries. Mo Moore and Jay Valai will miss some practice due to recent surgeries. Tyler Westphal is also going to miss the Spring, which isn't good news for a developing young talent at defensive end.
Mario Goins is still in academic trouble with Bret and won't practice this Spring. Similarly Shane Carter is on thin ice. Pretty clear that Henry and Brinkley will be the starters at corner unless something surprising happens. If Goins and Carter don't make the grade, as it were, it's going to hurt the previously expected depth in the backfield quite a bit.
Clay needs to slim down. But not too much; he's always going to be a load to carry.
Toon and Jefferson are sprinting with the track team and Bielema likes what it's doing for their attitudes.
Finally, based on Potrykus's thoughts on the quarterbacks yesterday, and looking at a ridiculously quick snap decision (subject to change daily), I'm throwing my hat in the Sherer corner. Consistent is what we need, much more than "athletic," and I'm just not willing to call for a true freshman who hasn't played competitively in over a year.
Notes: Champs Sports Bowl Press Conference
Yesterday Bobby and Bret got together to talk about their up-coming third-tier bowl. The sound quality is awful. Here are some quick notes:
Bret started out by mentioning that they're back . . . again . . . in Florida.
Bobby is old and his comments about the first time FSU played a bowl in Orlando remind everyone that the Noles were a nothing before he got there.
Bret: good athletes at FSU. Story will be big strong Wisconsin vs. speedy Florida State, but we have Florida athletes, too. It's hard for our scout teams to mimic FSU because of the talent disparity. Players looking forward to game: great character in comebacks, despite disappointment at MSU towards the end.
Jimbo Fischer runs the FSU offense, and he will be the next FSU head man. Period.
Bowden put a good spin on the opportunity to play someone new, versus playing Miami or Florida twice.
Bret takes accidental swipe at Bobby's age. Talks about how much fun it is to watch the sport when you don't care who wins. He doesn't have the reference point that Bowden does; "the first question was about a bowl 33 years ago and I'm only 38, so . . ."
Bowden, Paterno, these are names of legends that Bret is a little starstruck by. Bobby appears amused.
Bielema isn't concerned about the Big Ten's rep. His first year they proved it against Arkansas, last season we beat Michigan who in turn beat Florida. The Big Ten is doing just fine.
Bret started out by mentioning that they're back . . . again . . . in Florida.
Bobby is old and his comments about the first time FSU played a bowl in Orlando remind everyone that the Noles were a nothing before he got there.
Bret: good athletes at FSU. Story will be big strong Wisconsin vs. speedy Florida State, but we have Florida athletes, too. It's hard for our scout teams to mimic FSU because of the talent disparity. Players looking forward to game: great character in comebacks, despite disappointment at MSU towards the end.
Jimbo Fischer runs the FSU offense, and he will be the next FSU head man. Period.
Bowden put a good spin on the opportunity to play someone new, versus playing Miami or Florida twice.
Bret takes accidental swipe at Bobby's age. Talks about how much fun it is to watch the sport when you don't care who wins. He doesn't have the reference point that Bowden does; "the first question was about a bowl 33 years ago and I'm only 38, so . . ."
Bowden, Paterno, these are names of legends that Bret is a little starstruck by. Bobby appears amused.
Bielema isn't concerned about the Big Ten's rep. His first year they proved it against Arkansas, last season we beat Michigan who in turn beat Florida. The Big Ten is doing just fine.
Akron Prep: Depth Chart
Coach Bielema released the depth chart for the Akron openor here. At the "skill" positions, Evridge is the starting quarterback, with Sherer holding onto the #2 spot (no real surprise, Tolzein hasnt unseated Sherer for #2, yet). PJ Hill is the starting running back and Zach Brown is still his number 2. Based on Bielema's press conference yesterday (here), Clay will get some carries (I look forward to the goal line package with this group), but for you recruitniks, he's still behind that 3-star, Brown, he came in with.
Gilreath is starting at one WR spot and one surprise is Maurice Moore and Kyle Jefferson listed as co-starters (with an "or") at the other spot. Nick Toon, Al's son, is #2 behind Gilreath, meaning he's made up some ground lost to injury last year.
No suprise on the defensive side of things, except the minor one that Jonathan Casillas is listed as starting for Akron. Don't know if that means his knee is coming along quickly, or if Bielema is just being optimistic. Of the positions up for grabs, as indicated earlier, Jaevery McFadden is the middle linebacker, with Culmer St. Jean listed behind him. Hodge relegated to special teams. On the corners, Mario Goins has grabbed one spot, and Allan Langford and Niles Brinkley are sharing the other (with the "or" designation). Hopefully that means Brinkley's really pushed Langford (sounds like Langford's ACL recovered well). Finally, Jay Valai is the starting strong safety, cementing his move ahead of Aubrey Pleasant.
Bielema is still holding off on naming a kicker. Fischer is currently leading in the kickoff and short field goal duties, Welch is the leader for longer field goals.
Gilreath is starting at one WR spot and one surprise is Maurice Moore and Kyle Jefferson listed as co-starters (with an "or") at the other spot. Nick Toon, Al's son, is #2 behind Gilreath, meaning he's made up some ground lost to injury last year.
No suprise on the defensive side of things, except the minor one that Jonathan Casillas is listed as starting for Akron. Don't know if that means his knee is coming along quickly, or if Bielema is just being optimistic. Of the positions up for grabs, as indicated earlier, Jaevery McFadden is the middle linebacker, with Culmer St. Jean listed behind him. Hodge relegated to special teams. On the corners, Mario Goins has grabbed one spot, and Allan Langford and Niles Brinkley are sharing the other (with the "or" designation). Hopefully that means Brinkley's really pushed Langford (sounds like Langford's ACL recovered well). Finally, Jay Valai is the starting strong safety, cementing his move ahead of Aubrey Pleasant.
Bielema is still holding off on naming a kicker. Fischer is currently leading in the kickoff and short field goal duties, Welch is the leader for longer field goals.
They Grow 'Em Big in Hudson
The latest installment of "Coach Speak" is out, with Bielema interviewing the senior offensive lineman, Kemp, Urbik, and Vanden Heuvel. Urbik and Vaden Heuval went to school together, also with Joe Thomas's wife. The two of them average around 330lbs, and once put a hole in a wall at their highschool while messing around.
From the sound of this interview and other things heard and said around the Camp, new OL coach Bostad works these guys really, really hard. With the senior leadership, size, and work ethic these guys have, this could be one of the truly special lines in Badger history.
From the sound of this interview and other things heard and said around the Camp, new OL coach Bostad works these guys really, really hard. With the senior leadership, size, and work ethic these guys have, this could be one of the truly special lines in Badger history.
Weekend Update: Camp, Week 1
First things first: we matter. Badger fans. Us. We matter. Bielema commented about what a great shot of energy it is for our team in a close game when the House of Pain cranks up and the whole stadium is rocking to start the 4th quarter. So let's keep it coming, Bucky!
Saturday was the Badgers' first two-a-day, though Bielema called it a little short because he was pleased with what he saw. In the scrimmage Saturday morning, Allan Evridge led the #1 offense on a nice 80-yard scoring drive, including three 3rd down conversions. Based on Bielema's comments and his play so far this fall, Evridge has locked up the starting position. More interesting, perhaps, is Scott Tolzein looking like he may be passing Dustin Scherer for the #2 spot. When it comes to preparing for the future, that move makes a lot of sense, as it could lead to Tolzein having two years as a starter, followed by heralded true-freshman Curt Phillips taking over with two years of his own. But let's not get too ahead of ourselves on "super-recruits" just yet; more on that later.
Quarterback isn't the only position battle going on right now (and it sounds like it's not really a battle at this point). At the right corner spot, Bielema said that Langford is the guy right now, over Goins. Moreover, there's a lot of talk about sophomore Niles Brinkley making noise and pushing for playing time at corner. Don't know where that puts Goins, but I'm sure he's not done just yet. At the other backfield position that's up for grabs, no new news on the strong safety position. The smart money's still on Valai.
At middle linebacker, not only is Jaevery McFadden looking like the starter, but Elijah Hodge may not even be the next man in. Bielema said Culmer St. Jean could be #2.
The other position that's up for grabs is wide receiver. Gilreath and Jefferson (who's changed from #14 to #7) are still the probably day-1 starters, but it sounds like they are being pushed by Isaac Anderson, Maurice Moore, and Daven Jones. Nick Toon sounds like he might be a bit further back, but still showing some positive signs. Now, if you read uwbadgers.com for your news, and just watched Bielema's comments, you'd think our passing game is looking great. The good folks from the BigTen Network weren't so sure. In their wrap-up (below), they questioned whether the Badgers can play from behind, or handle second-and-longs against the quality defenses, "based on what we saw out there today." That's not so rosy. ESPN's Adam Rittenberg feels much the same way, focusing more on our receivers' hands (here, and here).
The BigTen Network was in Madison to catch-up on the Badgers' preseason.
Coach gave a pretty decent interview to the network (available on Comcast on August 15), complete with a reference to Purdue's basketball-on-grass:
There is no battle at tight end, where Travis Beckum is obviously still the man (though he's missed a couple of practices a little dinged up -- he's back for today's practices). As Badger fans know, his backup, or co-tight end when Chryst lines up with two, is Garrett Graham, who has been showing off his great hands this week. Unfortunately Mickey Turner, Graham's backup, came down badly on a shoulder and is expected to miss 1-2 weeks.
Last thing on the position front, recruitniks will be interested to hear that Jake Bscherer looks like he's still edging out 5-star wonder Josh Oglesby for the offensive line's "jumbo package." (Because, you know, they aren't big enough already, averaging 319 pounds up front.) It's interesting to see how much people expect Oglesby and Clay to contribute (and to a lesser extent Phillips at QB) because of their recruit rankings. College ball is a lot different than high school ball. More than just size and inherent ability, there is a lot more thinking and studying of the game going on. A wide receiver who can make a spectacular grab may still sit if he can't make a downfield block. A running back who hits the hole hard and fast will sit if he can't read and pick-up the linebacker blitz. That's not to say those three guys won't be great players, but just because they were freaks of nature in high school doesn't mean they will supplant proven contributers at Camp Randall.
As a wrap-up, here is the video of some of our players answering questions on Saturday. I found Casillas (last in the que) the most interesting as he says candidly about the defense, "last year we needed to play safe a lot," because "we weren't that good."
Here are coach Bielema's comments to the media from Friday and Saturday. Finally, here are the "plays of the week" from last week, according to the athletic department. Hmm. Not all that spectacular, really; mostly practice footage. Chris Pressley is a beast (towards the end).
One last thing from the weekend: big thanks to the good people over at the Journal Sentinel who not only do a great job covering the Badgers (I think that's Potrykus's bald head in the Friday video of Bielema after practice), but also saw fit to link this blog among their Badger fan cites. Many thanks!!
Saturday was the Badgers' first two-a-day, though Bielema called it a little short because he was pleased with what he saw. In the scrimmage Saturday morning, Allan Evridge led the #1 offense on a nice 80-yard scoring drive, including three 3rd down conversions. Based on Bielema's comments and his play so far this fall, Evridge has locked up the starting position. More interesting, perhaps, is Scott Tolzein looking like he may be passing Dustin Scherer for the #2 spot. When it comes to preparing for the future, that move makes a lot of sense, as it could lead to Tolzein having two years as a starter, followed by heralded true-freshman Curt Phillips taking over with two years of his own. But let's not get too ahead of ourselves on "super-recruits" just yet; more on that later.
Quarterback isn't the only position battle going on right now (and it sounds like it's not really a battle at this point). At the right corner spot, Bielema said that Langford is the guy right now, over Goins. Moreover, there's a lot of talk about sophomore Niles Brinkley making noise and pushing for playing time at corner. Don't know where that puts Goins, but I'm sure he's not done just yet. At the other backfield position that's up for grabs, no new news on the strong safety position. The smart money's still on Valai.
At middle linebacker, not only is Jaevery McFadden looking like the starter, but Elijah Hodge may not even be the next man in. Bielema said Culmer St. Jean could be #2.
The other position that's up for grabs is wide receiver. Gilreath and Jefferson (who's changed from #14 to #7) are still the probably day-1 starters, but it sounds like they are being pushed by Isaac Anderson, Maurice Moore, and Daven Jones. Nick Toon sounds like he might be a bit further back, but still showing some positive signs. Now, if you read uwbadgers.com for your news, and just watched Bielema's comments, you'd think our passing game is looking great. The good folks from the BigTen Network weren't so sure. In their wrap-up (below), they questioned whether the Badgers can play from behind, or handle second-and-longs against the quality defenses, "based on what we saw out there today." That's not so rosy. ESPN's Adam Rittenberg feels much the same way, focusing more on our receivers' hands (here, and here).
The BigTen Network was in Madison to catch-up on the Badgers' preseason.
Here is their wrap. The first three minutes is a "behind the scenes" video with PJ Hill, but the substance comes later. They see the Badgers using Brown and Clay much more to lessen the impact on Hill's body as the season wears on, though Hill is still the #1 guy. No surprise there. I think everyone expects that. They mused about whether Clay is "the best player." More on super recruits?
BTN's key to the running game (against the likes of Michigan, Ohio State, and Penn State)? The passing game: at least having to defend the pass on 1st down. That sounds about right. Oh, and a fantastic front 5. As above, the BTN doesn't seem to think much of Evridge. Hmm.
Coach gave a pretty decent interview to the network (available on Comcast on August 15), complete with a reference to Purdue's basketball-on-grass:
There is no battle at tight end, where Travis Beckum is obviously still the man (though he's missed a couple of practices a little dinged up -- he's back for today's practices). As Badger fans know, his backup, or co-tight end when Chryst lines up with two, is Garrett Graham, who has been showing off his great hands this week. Unfortunately Mickey Turner, Graham's backup, came down badly on a shoulder and is expected to miss 1-2 weeks.
Last thing on the position front, recruitniks will be interested to hear that Jake Bscherer looks like he's still edging out 5-star wonder Josh Oglesby for the offensive line's "jumbo package." (Because, you know, they aren't big enough already, averaging 319 pounds up front.) It's interesting to see how much people expect Oglesby and Clay to contribute (and to a lesser extent Phillips at QB) because of their recruit rankings. College ball is a lot different than high school ball. More than just size and inherent ability, there is a lot more thinking and studying of the game going on. A wide receiver who can make a spectacular grab may still sit if he can't make a downfield block. A running back who hits the hole hard and fast will sit if he can't read and pick-up the linebacker blitz. That's not to say those three guys won't be great players, but just because they were freaks of nature in high school doesn't mean they will supplant proven contributers at Camp Randall.
As a wrap-up, here is the video of some of our players answering questions on Saturday. I found Casillas (last in the que) the most interesting as he says candidly about the defense, "last year we needed to play safe a lot," because "we weren't that good."
Here are coach Bielema's comments to the media from Friday and Saturday. Finally, here are the "plays of the week" from last week, according to the athletic department. Hmm. Not all that spectacular, really; mostly practice footage. Chris Pressley is a beast (towards the end).
One last thing from the weekend: big thanks to the good people over at the Journal Sentinel who not only do a great job covering the Badgers (I think that's Potrykus's bald head in the Friday video of Bielema after practice), but also saw fit to link this blog among their Badger fan cites. Many thanks!!
Camp, day 4: Injury Updates
Yesterday was day four of camp, and included the first real scrimmaging. Not surprising given the questions surrounding the team's injuries going into camp (see, e.g., here, here, here, and here), a lot of talk through the first week of practice focuses on medical updates. Here is video of starting DT's Mike Newkirk and Jason Chapman answering reporters' questions about their return from injury. It seems that everyone who was injured now feels good. Of course (what else are they going to say?). To provide a little more detail, Bielema praised Newkirk's performance in the 1-on-1 pass-rush drills, where he did things Bielema says he hasn't seen him do before. Chapman, on the other hand, admitted he still worries about how his knee will react to particular moves, but says it's mental, not physical.
On that note, Bielema is holding Chapman (ACL), Henry (ACL), and Shaughnessy (broken fibula) back from going full bore right now. Particularly, it sounds like Chapman and Henry aren't all the way back from their knee injuries, but they are close. He also held Beckum out of practice yesterday because he was hurting in the "lower body." Given that he's gained 17 pounds since last season (to build his draft prospects from a blocking TE standpoint) and sat out part of the Spring with an injury, it seems like the better part of valor to let one of the nation's top tight ends take a day off to recuperate.
On the injury bad news front, junior defensive lineman Brandon Hoey "hung up his jersey" yesterday after not progressing like he wanted from back surgery in the Spring. UW is doing the right thing and getting him a medical scholarship so that he doesn't lose the benefit of his education.
Some other bits from the day's wrap-up:
Bielema said the three positions most up for grabs during camp are middle (mike) linebacker, strong safety, and "one of the corners." Breaking that down, after Hodge didn't impress as much as was hoped at MLB last season, Jaevery McFadden is apparently looking like a candidate to replace him. Although sized more like an outside linebacker, Bielema pointed out that when defending the spread, speed is more important than size. Seeing as how roughly 8 teams in the BigTen run some kind of a spread, McFadden is in position to supplant Hodge.
At strong safety, Jay Valai replaced Aubrey Pleasant as the starting SS in the Spring, but the competion is still open. Valai needs to be more consistent, and waiting in the wings is transfer Chris Maragos, who while "still learning the position" continues to impress.
The "one" corner position is right corner and it's post-ACL Langford vs. Mario Goins, who put on a good show in the Spring while Langford was recovering from surgery. Bottom line is this one is up in the air with Langford back.
Finally, everyone says PJ Hill looks as good as he ever has. For the first time he was a full participant in winter and summer conditioning, as well as Spring ball. He's slimmer, faster, and stronger than he's been. Or so they say. That can't be anything but good.
Bielema's comments to reporters yesterday are on video, here. Wednesday's are here. What can we say? The guy likes his windbreakers.
On that note, Bielema is holding Chapman (ACL), Henry (ACL), and Shaughnessy (broken fibula) back from going full bore right now. Particularly, it sounds like Chapman and Henry aren't all the way back from their knee injuries, but they are close. He also held Beckum out of practice yesterday because he was hurting in the "lower body." Given that he's gained 17 pounds since last season (to build his draft prospects from a blocking TE standpoint) and sat out part of the Spring with an injury, it seems like the better part of valor to let one of the nation's top tight ends take a day off to recuperate.
On the injury bad news front, junior defensive lineman Brandon Hoey "hung up his jersey" yesterday after not progressing like he wanted from back surgery in the Spring. UW is doing the right thing and getting him a medical scholarship so that he doesn't lose the benefit of his education.
Some other bits from the day's wrap-up:
Bielema said the three positions most up for grabs during camp are middle (mike) linebacker, strong safety, and "one of the corners." Breaking that down, after Hodge didn't impress as much as was hoped at MLB last season, Jaevery McFadden is apparently looking like a candidate to replace him. Although sized more like an outside linebacker, Bielema pointed out that when defending the spread, speed is more important than size. Seeing as how roughly 8 teams in the BigTen run some kind of a spread, McFadden is in position to supplant Hodge.
At strong safety, Jay Valai replaced Aubrey Pleasant as the starting SS in the Spring, but the competion is still open. Valai needs to be more consistent, and waiting in the wings is transfer Chris Maragos, who while "still learning the position" continues to impress.
The "one" corner position is right corner and it's post-ACL Langford vs. Mario Goins, who put on a good show in the Spring while Langford was recovering from surgery. Bottom line is this one is up in the air with Langford back.
Finally, everyone says PJ Hill looks as good as he ever has. For the first time he was a full participant in winter and summer conditioning, as well as Spring ball. He's slimmer, faster, and stronger than he's been. Or so they say. That can't be anything but good.
Bielema's comments to reporters yesterday are on video, here. Wednesday's are here. What can we say? The guy likes his windbreakers.
Clowning at Camp: Day 3
Today was the Badgers' first day in pads. Nothing yet on how practice went, but UW did offer up a couple of interviews.
PJ Hill, Allan Evridge, and Travis Beckum were made available to reporters, here. In summary, they have been well coached . . . not to answer questions about Lance Smith. He was a good player, now he's gone, next question? Evridge and Beckum refused to create any quarterback controversy where there really isn't one (true, Bielema has withheld naming a starter, but he's all but said it's Evridge, barring a big surprise). Everyone had a good summer of working out, conditioning, and spending time singing kumbaya, or something like that. As has been reported, Evridge is pretty mobile -- Beckum compared him to Tyler Donovan in that way.
Also, Jai Valai's imbedded reporting, styled "Man to Man" debuted with a clowning session with Beckum, here. Nothing of substance, but they are having a good time. On that note, Beckum seems like a great kid. I have nothing to base this on other than interviews and his play on the field, but on what little I have he seems like a real asset to Badger football and not just on the field.
PJ Hill, Allan Evridge, and Travis Beckum were made available to reporters, here. In summary, they have been well coached . . . not to answer questions about Lance Smith. He was a good player, now he's gone, next question? Evridge and Beckum refused to create any quarterback controversy where there really isn't one (true, Bielema has withheld naming a starter, but he's all but said it's Evridge, barring a big surprise). Everyone had a good summer of working out, conditioning, and spending time singing kumbaya, or something like that. As has been reported, Evridge is pretty mobile -- Beckum compared him to Tyler Donovan in that way.
Also, Jai Valai's imbedded reporting, styled "Man to Man" debuted with a clowning session with Beckum, here. Nothing of substance, but they are having a good time. On that note, Beckum seems like a great kid. I have nothing to base this on other than interviews and his play on the field, but on what little I have he seems like a real asset to Badger football and not just on the field.
Fall Camp: Day 1 Wrap
Coach Bielema gave reporters about 15 minutes today after practice. He addressed the personnel changes:
- Lance Smith is eligible and Bielema is working to help him transfer to a 1-AA so that he can see the field immediately. It was Bielema's decision to end his career at UW because he needs "a fresh start."
- One of our offensive lineman recruits, Chris Gardner, isn't coming. It sounds like he was borderline eligible to begin with and has decided not to enroll. Vague, but that's it.
- Josh Nettles (CB) isn't currently academically eligible and will miss camp. If he becomes eligible, he will be back with the team.
On injuries, Bielema stressed how good everyone looked. Today's practice was helmets only, no pads, so the staff can't really evaluate how guys react to contact, but Bielema is hopeful.
Regarding the quarterbacks, he gave the strongest coachspeak yet (that's what he's calling his recorded interviews with players segments, too) that Evridge is the guy, but needs to improve his consistency. The bigger question for me is who's number two? He said this is Scherer's opportunity to try to get on the field, but then gave very high praise to Tolzein who, "does it all right."
On spreading the ball around to the three solid running backs, Bielema seems to be happy with his predicament and plans to run the ball, "until they stop it." "The easiest way to advance the football is to run it." Indeed. I wonder if he isn't overselling this before the Badgers get to the competitive part of the schedule (beginning with Fresno State).
Finally, Coach, it's August 4th. Why a windbreaker?
More from Media Day
Coach Bielema sat down with the Wisconsin beat reporters yesterday afternoon. He was a little more open that the QB position is Evridge's to lose (like Tyler Donovan last year, someone has to beat him out).
He was more thorough updating injury status. It sounds like the d-line, Chaffee, Newkirk, DeKremer, and Shaughnessy are all a little limited headed into the fall, but that he's hopeful that they will practice together. During tw0-a-days, they are likely to only go half the time.
He's pleased with the progress of Mario Goins (CB), Chris Maragos (CB/FS), Jeff Stehle (DT) and O'Brien Schofield (DE). We should expect to see them on the two-deep and all getting significant playing time this fall.
At strong safety, Jai Valai (soph.) seems to have the upper hand, but Bielema said Aubrey Pleasant (jr.) looked as good as he ever has in the Spring, so it's not clear he's been passed over yet.
At running back, the competition is wide open. "Whoever plays best will be that [1st team] guy." Left Guard Andy Kemp told the same reporters that PJ Hill has slimmed down a little and looks as good as he ever has. This means (a) he might be a little faster; and (b) he's feeling the heat from Brown and Clay. The staff writers at the Journal Sentinel seem very high on Clay right now, going so far as to suggest that Smith or Brown should redshirt this year. Of course, that was before Bielema dismissed Smith, so probably not an issue any longer. Moreover, while Clay flashes great talent, the Wisconsin football guru I know told me that was more hype than substance. I'd be surprised if Clay took many snaps from Hill this season. As between Brown and Clay? Brown's experience last season and his ability to read and pick-up blitzes likely gives him the edge in playing time over Clay.
Whoever the feature back is, Kemp was adamant that the Badgers will "get back" to running the ball hard. The way he said it made it sound like he views that in contrast to the last couple of years.
Bielema gave out a little more detail on scheduling. He said ESPN really drove the night games, but that the financial benefit to merchants throughout Madison was an added bonus. Along those lines, he conceded that body bag games are money makers for the school and the city and that they are getting more expensive (mid-major teams are looking for a bigger payout).
Finally, Bielema is in favor of the new emphasis BigTen officials will put on flagging helmet-to-helmet hits. He's sick of seeing Michigan State jack up Kyle Jefferson, including ESPN recently featuring it on the Espy's. (here, with commentary):
He acknowledged football fans like big hits, but where player safety is concerned, he wants to see the media do the right thing. He pointed out that Penn State did when they pulled from their highlight reels the hit quarterback Michael Robinson put on Minnesota safety Brandon Owens after learning Owens suffered serious, lasting injury (no use of his arm).
The Journal Sentinel has audio to all the interviews, including Travis Beckum, DeAndre Levy, and Andy Kemp on it's Badgers page, here
He was more thorough updating injury status. It sounds like the d-line, Chaffee, Newkirk, DeKremer, and Shaughnessy are all a little limited headed into the fall, but that he's hopeful that they will practice together. During tw0-a-days, they are likely to only go half the time.
He's pleased with the progress of Mario Goins (CB), Chris Maragos (CB/FS), Jeff Stehle (DT) and O'Brien Schofield (DE). We should expect to see them on the two-deep and all getting significant playing time this fall.
At strong safety, Jai Valai (soph.) seems to have the upper hand, but Bielema said Aubrey Pleasant (jr.) looked as good as he ever has in the Spring, so it's not clear he's been passed over yet.
At running back, the competition is wide open. "Whoever plays best will be that [1st team] guy." Left Guard Andy Kemp told the same reporters that PJ Hill has slimmed down a little and looks as good as he ever has. This means (a) he might be a little faster; and (b) he's feeling the heat from Brown and Clay. The staff writers at the Journal Sentinel seem very high on Clay right now, going so far as to suggest that Smith or Brown should redshirt this year. Of course, that was before Bielema dismissed Smith, so probably not an issue any longer. Moreover, while Clay flashes great talent, the Wisconsin football guru I know told me that was more hype than substance. I'd be surprised if Clay took many snaps from Hill this season. As between Brown and Clay? Brown's experience last season and his ability to read and pick-up blitzes likely gives him the edge in playing time over Clay.
Whoever the feature back is, Kemp was adamant that the Badgers will "get back" to running the ball hard. The way he said it made it sound like he views that in contrast to the last couple of years.
Bielema gave out a little more detail on scheduling. He said ESPN really drove the night games, but that the financial benefit to merchants throughout Madison was an added bonus. Along those lines, he conceded that body bag games are money makers for the school and the city and that they are getting more expensive (mid-major teams are looking for a bigger payout).
Finally, Bielema is in favor of the new emphasis BigTen officials will put on flagging helmet-to-helmet hits. He's sick of seeing Michigan State jack up Kyle Jefferson, including ESPN recently featuring it on the Espy's. (here, with commentary):
He acknowledged football fans like big hits, but where player safety is concerned, he wants to see the media do the right thing. He pointed out that Penn State did when they pulled from their highlight reels the hit quarterback Michael Robinson put on Minnesota safety Brandon Owens after learning Owens suffered serious, lasting injury (no use of his arm).
The Journal Sentinel has audio to all the interviews, including Travis Beckum, DeAndre Levy, and Andy Kemp on it's Badgers page, here
Media Day: Bielema's Bits
Here's what Coach had to say . . .
A summary is what you're after? Here's what I took away from Coach's comments (my additional editorial in italics):
17: he's excited about all of his returning starters and looking forward to seeing this team on the field.
On defensive injuries: Langford and Henry are ready to go, but Shaughnessy will be limited early in the season. (I'm concerned about what Shaughnessy's limitations will mean for our thin defensive line.)
More on the defense: they will spend twice the time they did last year practicing to defend the spread. (thank goodness; it didn't take a rocket scientist to see that the Citadel (!!) was killing us with it.) Bielema also pointed out that Michigan's Rich Rodriguez was a coach with Paul Chryst a while back, so the Badger staff has some familiarity with what Rodriguez may bring to Big Blue's offense.
On the offense Bielema suggested we will run the ball hard with a traditional downhill mentality: Pressley leading our backs into the line. (I wonder if he isn't overselling this; Chryst's three years on offense have shown he likes misdirection and short yardage passing). He's seeing solid improvement among our now-sophomore wide receivers, which is encouraging. However . . .
At QB, Evridge is the starter. Bielema won't say it, but it's fairly plain (he did say his decision will be official no fewer than ten days before the opener against Akron). Evridge needs to work on his accuracy (e.g., he's not happy with Evridge's accuracy, which is hurting his effectiveness in Chryst's controlled passing attack). On the other hand, Coach referred to the other guys learning how to run the huddle and read adjustments, things Evridge has proven he can do. Bielema recruited Evridge to KSU (and will stick with him). He also referenced Youtube videos of how Kansas introduced Alan to NCAA football, something the other guys haven't had:
Bielema is going to take the green shirts off of the quarterbacks in Fall camp to let them get a taste of the real thing. Still, is it really going to look like this?
(More Evridge, courtesy of Youtube)
On who else to watch in the BigTen, although he mentioned Indiana and Northwestern, MSU and D'Antonio were first out of his mouth, and I suspect first on his mind. He mentioned all the trouble they gave us in Madison last year. He clearly thinks the Spartans are on the rise.
On Michigan expected to struggle? That's a "misprint." He doesn't buy it, based on Rodriguez's coaching skill and Carr's recruiting.
On all the other questions about Michigan? Tongue firmly planted in cheek, he thanked the reporters for inviting him to a Michigan press conference.
On scheduling, he isn't ashamed of Akron. He pointed out that when the Marshall deal was done, Marshall was pretty good (see Leftwich and Moss for examples), pointing out they upset then #4 Kansas State (when Bielema was coaching in Manhatten). As for Cal Poly, they were the only team available that week (within reason, I'm sure), and with a BigTen season starting with Michigan, Ohio State, then Penn State, he didn't want Virginia Tech the week before. While Cal Poly is a drag (notwithstanding that my brother went there), I can understand his (and Alvarez's) thinking there.
Speaking of scheduling, he's excited to have a little extra home field advantage with two night games against Ohio State and Penn State. He's looking forward to Badger fans "relaxing" in the stadium parking lot for a couple of extra hours and providing a "festive" environment at game time. I was there for Iowa last year. I don't remember "relaxing," but I do remember "festive." Good on ya, Coach.
On clock rule changes. He likes the 40-second clock between plays to even out what he sees as inconsistencies between refereeing crews (he went out of his way to say they are all excellent, of course). He's not happy about the clock restart rule change after the ball goes out of bounds and thinks it will hurt teams trying to rally from a deficit in the 4th quarter. He also made light of his kicking game shenanigans against Penn State two years ago, taking advantage of the silly clock changes in 2005.
Finally (this wasn't the last thing he talked about, but it's at the bottom of the list of things I cared about), he's sick of hearing about the BigTen not being very good because of OSU's struggles in the national title game. He points to the last three Capital One bowls as the antidote to that line of thinking.
A summary is what you're after? Here's what I took away from Coach's comments (my additional editorial in italics):
17: he's excited about all of his returning starters and looking forward to seeing this team on the field.
On defensive injuries: Langford and Henry are ready to go, but Shaughnessy will be limited early in the season. (I'm concerned about what Shaughnessy's limitations will mean for our thin defensive line.)
More on the defense: they will spend twice the time they did last year practicing to defend the spread. (thank goodness; it didn't take a rocket scientist to see that the Citadel (!!) was killing us with it.) Bielema also pointed out that Michigan's Rich Rodriguez was a coach with Paul Chryst a while back, so the Badger staff has some familiarity with what Rodriguez may bring to Big Blue's offense.
On the offense Bielema suggested we will run the ball hard with a traditional downhill mentality: Pressley leading our backs into the line. (I wonder if he isn't overselling this; Chryst's three years on offense have shown he likes misdirection and short yardage passing). He's seeing solid improvement among our now-sophomore wide receivers, which is encouraging. However . . .
At QB, Evridge is the starter. Bielema won't say it, but it's fairly plain (he did say his decision will be official no fewer than ten days before the opener against Akron). Evridge needs to work on his accuracy (e.g., he's not happy with Evridge's accuracy, which is hurting his effectiveness in Chryst's controlled passing attack). On the other hand, Coach referred to the other guys learning how to run the huddle and read adjustments, things Evridge has proven he can do. Bielema recruited Evridge to KSU (and will stick with him). He also referenced Youtube videos of how Kansas introduced Alan to NCAA football, something the other guys haven't had:
Bielema is going to take the green shirts off of the quarterbacks in Fall camp to let them get a taste of the real thing. Still, is it really going to look like this?
(More Evridge, courtesy of Youtube)
On who else to watch in the BigTen, although he mentioned Indiana and Northwestern, MSU and D'Antonio were first out of his mouth, and I suspect first on his mind. He mentioned all the trouble they gave us in Madison last year. He clearly thinks the Spartans are on the rise.
On Michigan expected to struggle? That's a "misprint." He doesn't buy it, based on Rodriguez's coaching skill and Carr's recruiting.
On all the other questions about Michigan? Tongue firmly planted in cheek, he thanked the reporters for inviting him to a Michigan press conference.
On scheduling, he isn't ashamed of Akron. He pointed out that when the Marshall deal was done, Marshall was pretty good (see Leftwich and Moss for examples), pointing out they upset then #4 Kansas State (when Bielema was coaching in Manhatten). As for Cal Poly, they were the only team available that week (within reason, I'm sure), and with a BigTen season starting with Michigan, Ohio State, then Penn State, he didn't want Virginia Tech the week before. While Cal Poly is a drag (notwithstanding that my brother went there), I can understand his (and Alvarez's) thinking there.
Speaking of scheduling, he's excited to have a little extra home field advantage with two night games against Ohio State and Penn State. He's looking forward to Badger fans "relaxing" in the stadium parking lot for a couple of extra hours and providing a "festive" environment at game time. I was there for Iowa last year. I don't remember "relaxing," but I do remember "festive." Good on ya, Coach.
On clock rule changes. He likes the 40-second clock between plays to even out what he sees as inconsistencies between refereeing crews (he went out of his way to say they are all excellent, of course). He's not happy about the clock restart rule change after the ball goes out of bounds and thinks it will hurt teams trying to rally from a deficit in the 4th quarter. He also made light of his kicking game shenanigans against Penn State two years ago, taking advantage of the silly clock changes in 2005.
Finally (this wasn't the last thing he talked about, but it's at the bottom of the list of things I cared about), he's sick of hearing about the BigTen not being very good because of OSU's struggles in the national title game. He points to the last three Capital One bowls as the antidote to that line of thinking.
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