Like it or not Carolina fans, the Gamecocks were dominated in the in-state recruiting battles for the Class of 2008. With the exception of Chester cornerback/ receiver Charles Whitlock, the Gamecocks were shut out among the State's top 10 ranked players by most recruiting services. TheBigSpur.com did have OL T.J. Johnson ranked among the top 10 prospects in South Carolina.
Consensus top 10 prospects like A.J. Green, Daquan Bowers, Robert Quinn, and Dalton Freeman did not even make official visits to South Carolina.
Clemson is on the brink of having their best recruiting class in school history, and one that will further cement the talent base in the upstate. Clemson had a built in advantage with some prospects in SC this year, like Bowers, who had a relative play at Clemson and grew up a lifelong Clemson fan. Loris linebacker Jonathan Willard also had a family member play for the Tigers in the Danny Ford era. Dalton Freeman's dad, and his high school coach and Clemson OL coach Brad Scott are longtime friends, and that had a major impact on his recruiting.
Right or wrong, the Gamecocks chose not to pursue Berkeley runningback Andre Ellington and backed off A.C. Flora offensive lineman Kenneth Page. How bad can Page be? Certainly he has to be better than Justin Sorensen, Web Brown, and Gurminder Thind. Only time will tell.
When it seems like the weakness of the offense is the offensive line, the Gamecocks would look to sign more than two offensive linemen. Yet the Gamecocks passed on Wilmington, NC mammoth offensive tackle Nick Becton (VT), Page, offensive guards David Spurlock, and Rhonne Sanderson, the brother of former USC lineman Watts Sanderson, both of whom committed to FSU. Three of Spurrier's four recruiting classes will have two offensive line recruits or less.
What went so wrong for the Gamecocks only one year after reeling in the nations No. 4 recruiting class, acording to ESPN.com? Was it more a case of the stars lining up for the Gamecocks last year? I would say that Carolina caught lightning in a bottle last year as it was a perfect storm, so to speak. In 2007 both UNC and NC State were not only suffering through poor seasons, but both changed head coaches, which allowed the Gamecocks to load up on the top talent in that state.
In the sunshine state, Miami and FSU both had about a dozen schlarships to give, and Miami also had a coaching change. There were also a trio of highly touted prospects in the Midlands that the Gamecocks scored early commitment from, when Gary Gray and Quintin Richardson both cast their lot with the Gamecocks in the spring of 2007. Even though Mark Barnes did not go public with a commitment, it was known that he was going to choose South Carolina, and had tried to commit several times to former recruiter Rick Stockstill since the summer of 2005. Even though Gray ended up at Notre Dame, he was a national recruit and openly campaigned for other top prospects to join him at South Carolina. That got the momentum started early. Gray, Richardson and Barnes all attended the Gainesville, Fla. Nike camp to try and recruit prospects like quarterback Stephen Garcia, who eventually chose South Carolina.
It was the perfect storm for the Gamecocks, who also finished the season on a three game winning streak, and were very competitive in losses to Tennessee, Arkansas, and eventual national champion Florida. That momentum and the talk of winning the SEC propelled Spurrier and the Gamecocks to a great class.
This season it appeared that momentum would carry over. Despite losing Sidney Rice early to the NFL, and Jasper Brinkley and Nathan Pepper to season ending injuries, the Gamecocks were 6-1 and ranked 6th in the BCS poll. Then the wheels fell off the Spurrier express.
After narrowly avoiding a collapse in the second half at Chapel Hill, the Gamecocks came back home and laid an egg in losing 17-6 to Vanderbilt. Vanderbilt. Freaking Vanderbilt. The Gamecocks would not reach the end zone, committing early turnovers and displaying themost horrific offensive line performance I have ever seen.
The next week, Carolina fell behind Tennessee 21-0 before rallying for an apparent win. Then, once again, the Gamecocks snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, and lost in overtime.
Carolina was not really competitve on defense in losses to Arkansas and Florida, but had a great chance to defeart Clemson, before allowing Clemson to escape 3rd and 18 and 4th and 4 on their way to driving the length of the field inthe final two minutes for a last second victory. An injury depleted secondary could not stop Aaron Kelley on the final drive, and thus Steve Spurrier had a five game losing streak, and the Gamecocks would be home for the holidays.
Not only did the season go south for the winter, but so did recruiting. Carolina lost a lot of appeal nationally with several prospects that had strong interest in South Carolina due to their lofty national ranking.
A coaching shake up delayed offers to several prospects and left the Gamecocks two recruiters short the final week of the December recruiting period.
As the Gamecocks crawl toward the finish line of this recruiting season, there are four names left on the Gamecock recruitng board. Receiver Tommy Streeter, defensive ends Devin Taylor and Chaz Sutton, and transfer athlete D.J. Donley. By monday afternoon, the fate of Streeter, Taylor and Sutton will be known. By all accounts the Donely transfer will be official in March, when the Folkston, GA native is expected to enroll at South Carolina.
The 2008 season will be critical to the future success of the Spurrier era at South Carolina. A return to eight or more wins and a bowl game and the ship should be righted. But another step back with a 6-6 season and no bowl game, and the talk of Spurrier winning an SEC title at South Carolina will be all but forgotten and the future success of the program in doubt.
Spring Practice should be interesting. Stay tuned.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Smelley steps into leadership role
Blake Mitchell is talented, there can be no questioning that. His performance at the end of last season and what he did in 2005 speaks for its self. However, one thing Blake Mitchell cannot be called is a leader. Mitchell's off the field antics and repeated troubles with law enforcement, the athletic department, and with coach Spurrier are all well documented. The purpose of this blog is not to rehash them, but simply to state that at most successful program, the quarterback is the leader of the team. Generally that means that his teammates hold that player in high regard.
The leader of a football team is not always a vocal leader, but is always a person and player that leads by example. Two cases in point are Steve Taneyhill and Phil Petty. Taneyhill was a boisterous leader, a rah-rah cheerleader guy that played the game with great emotion. How many will ever forget the home run swings and him signing the paw in Death Valley?
Sure, Taneyhill liked to have a good time, but his teammates loved him because of the passion he had for the game. You could see it every time he took the field. Steve developed his leadership skills as he matured and develop during his career. He was not a saint, but he didn't make it a habit of getting into trouble either. Taneyhill is one of my all time favorite Gamecocks.
There couldn't be anyone more un-like Steve Taneyhill than Phil Petty. Phil was a quiet kid that took his lumps at Carolina early on, but never complained. In 2000 and 2001, Phil Petty led the Gamecocks to the best back to back seasons in the history of Carolina football. Phil was not spectacular, but he knew when to throw the ball away to avoid a sack, and he never made a catastrophic play to cost the team a football game. Phil was quiet, but because of his work ethic and the way he approached the game, his teammates believed in him. In 2001 at Georgia, after the Dawgs took a late lead, Petty went into the huddle and said, "let's go win the football game."
Petty did just that, leading the Gamecocks on a touchdown drive that culminated on his touchdown pass to Brian Scott for a 14-9 victory that night in Athens. Phil capped his career with an MVP performance in the Outback Bowl. He went out a big winner.
Chris Smelley is neither Steve Taneyhill, Phil Petty or Blake Mitchell. For that matter, he is not Danny Wuerfell either. But Chris Smelley does have all the right stuff that leaders are made of. He has a quiet confidence about him. That was evident in post game interviews last weekend in Baton Rouge. Smelley appears ready for this weekend's game against Mississippi State. He carries himself like a winner. His post practice interview spoke volumes of his confidence and character. I was extremely impressed.
As a 14 year coaching veteran, sometimes it is easy for me to see some things other fans may not notice, or to have a feel for certain things going on in the program. My observation from the press box in Baton Rouge was that the offense had a quicker tempo when Smelley came into the game. The offensive line seemed to play with a greater sense of urgency and with a quicker tempo. They hustled up to the line of scrimmage, and the protection was better in the second half.
My feel for the situation is that the players respect Chris Smelley. He is a person that is worthy to lead this football team. Chris Smelley has never made headlines since his arrival at USC. That is because he's never been caught underage drinking in 5 points, or running from the law, slugging a bouncer, or keying a visiting professor's car for taking his parking spot. Those are the things that get you in the headlines at The State newspaper.
Chris Smelley is a fine christian young man. I have been told that he is a leader at all FCA events and that he prays for others. Chris Smelley walks the walk. Smelley is also an excellent student and his GPA bears that out. Smelley is also a student of the game. He studies film, he diagrams plays and goes over defenses. When he was in high school, Smelley played in a no huddle spread offense, and his coach had so much confidence in him that he allowed Smelley to call his own plays from his sophomore year on. (Smelley started as an 8th grader on the varsity at Tuscaloosa American Christian Academy)
I have to admit, I am anxiously awaiting Saturday's game and seeing what Smelley is capable of doing versus a good Mississippi State defense. I'm looking forward to how much Spurrier opens up the offense. I'm looking forward to seeing Chris Culliver, Mark Barnes, and Dion Lecorn making some plays on offense and special teams. I'm looking forward to seeing how Tyrone Nix and the USC defense responds to losing Brinkley, and to see Marvin Sapp and Melvin Ingram at the Mike linebacker spot.
It is a great time to be a Gamecock. See you on Saturday at The Brice!
The leader of a football team is not always a vocal leader, but is always a person and player that leads by example. Two cases in point are Steve Taneyhill and Phil Petty. Taneyhill was a boisterous leader, a rah-rah cheerleader guy that played the game with great emotion. How many will ever forget the home run swings and him signing the paw in Death Valley?
Sure, Taneyhill liked to have a good time, but his teammates loved him because of the passion he had for the game. You could see it every time he took the field. Steve developed his leadership skills as he matured and develop during his career. He was not a saint, but he didn't make it a habit of getting into trouble either. Taneyhill is one of my all time favorite Gamecocks.
There couldn't be anyone more un-like Steve Taneyhill than Phil Petty. Phil was a quiet kid that took his lumps at Carolina early on, but never complained. In 2000 and 2001, Phil Petty led the Gamecocks to the best back to back seasons in the history of Carolina football. Phil was not spectacular, but he knew when to throw the ball away to avoid a sack, and he never made a catastrophic play to cost the team a football game. Phil was quiet, but because of his work ethic and the way he approached the game, his teammates believed in him. In 2001 at Georgia, after the Dawgs took a late lead, Petty went into the huddle and said, "let's go win the football game."
Petty did just that, leading the Gamecocks on a touchdown drive that culminated on his touchdown pass to Brian Scott for a 14-9 victory that night in Athens. Phil capped his career with an MVP performance in the Outback Bowl. He went out a big winner.
Chris Smelley is neither Steve Taneyhill, Phil Petty or Blake Mitchell. For that matter, he is not Danny Wuerfell either. But Chris Smelley does have all the right stuff that leaders are made of. He has a quiet confidence about him. That was evident in post game interviews last weekend in Baton Rouge. Smelley appears ready for this weekend's game against Mississippi State. He carries himself like a winner. His post practice interview spoke volumes of his confidence and character. I was extremely impressed.
As a 14 year coaching veteran, sometimes it is easy for me to see some things other fans may not notice, or to have a feel for certain things going on in the program. My observation from the press box in Baton Rouge was that the offense had a quicker tempo when Smelley came into the game. The offensive line seemed to play with a greater sense of urgency and with a quicker tempo. They hustled up to the line of scrimmage, and the protection was better in the second half.
My feel for the situation is that the players respect Chris Smelley. He is a person that is worthy to lead this football team. Chris Smelley has never made headlines since his arrival at USC. That is because he's never been caught underage drinking in 5 points, or running from the law, slugging a bouncer, or keying a visiting professor's car for taking his parking spot. Those are the things that get you in the headlines at The State newspaper.
Chris Smelley is a fine christian young man. I have been told that he is a leader at all FCA events and that he prays for others. Chris Smelley walks the walk. Smelley is also an excellent student and his GPA bears that out. Smelley is also a student of the game. He studies film, he diagrams plays and goes over defenses. When he was in high school, Smelley played in a no huddle spread offense, and his coach had so much confidence in him that he allowed Smelley to call his own plays from his sophomore year on. (Smelley started as an 8th grader on the varsity at Tuscaloosa American Christian Academy)
I have to admit, I am anxiously awaiting Saturday's game and seeing what Smelley is capable of doing versus a good Mississippi State defense. I'm looking forward to how much Spurrier opens up the offense. I'm looking forward to seeing Chris Culliver, Mark Barnes, and Dion Lecorn making some plays on offense and special teams. I'm looking forward to seeing how Tyrone Nix and the USC defense responds to losing Brinkley, and to see Marvin Sapp and Melvin Ingram at the Mike linebacker spot.
It is a great time to be a Gamecock. See you on Saturday at The Brice!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Brinkley's injury deflates fan base
Monday was not a great day to be a Gamecock. Instead, after hearing the news that All-SEC and All-America Candidate Jasper Brinkley had been lost for the season to a severe knee injury, most of the talk was how the season was lost and the renewed talk of the "Chicken Curse." This is the second season in a row the Gamecocks have lost key defensive starters.
Last season defensive tackle Marque Hall was lost in the Georgia game. Carolina's top safety, Brandon Isaac was lost to a shoulder injury early in fall camp. Linebacker Dustin Lindsey was academically ineligible. This season, the Gamecocks lost starting defensive lineman Nathan Pepper, Isaac has re-injured his shoulder, Projected starting defensive end Jordin Lindsey was declared academically ineligible, and today the news came down on Brinkley, who is arguably the most valuable defensive player in the Southeastern Conference.
Brinkley's injury is significant. Carolina will not replace Jasper Brinkley from a talent or leadership perspective this season. Instead, defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix must pool the talent at his disposal and have some players step up at key positions. It will take a group effort to compensate for the loss of Brinkley.
Carolina's front four will have to be more productive. Melvin Ingram and Marvin Sapp will have to fill the void at the middle linebacker position. Sapp has more experience, but is undersized. Ingram has all the physical tools of Brinkley and has tremendous upside, but is extremely inexperienced. Safety Emanuel Cook will probably see the number of tackles he makes increase with Brinkley out.
Losing Brinkley now is much better than losing him later in the season for several reasons. Firstof all, it gives the Gamecock coaching staff the opportunity to tweak the defense and bring Ingram and Sapp along, while also adjusting what they do up front. The Gamecocks should still be favored in each of the next four games. If the Gamecocks play up to their capabilites, they should be able to defeat MSU, Kentucky, UNC, and Vanderbilt. That would put Carolina's record at 7-1.
Second, by the injury taking place when it did, Brinkley is eligible for a medical redshirt. That would mean that Brinkley could return for the 2008 season on what should be a loaded Gamecock defense. However, it does make the task of facing the powerful running games of Arkansas, Florida, and Clemson more difficult.
Losing Brinkley may very well cost the Gamecocks a chance at the SEC Eastern Division title. However, don't sell short this coaching staff. Tyrone Nix and his defensive staff have gotten more out of less the past two seasons than anyone can imagine. The Gamecocks have more talent on defense than at any other time under Spurrier. The Gamecocks are playing a lot of young players, and as the season progresses that young talent will improve as each player gets more game experience. The next four games are critical for that development. How much can Melvin Ingram improve in four weeks remains to be seen, but clearly Ingram has all the tools to be a bigtime playmaker.
I am still not crazy about Casper Brinkley staying at defensive end. The Gamecocks need to beef up their linebacker corps. Carolina desparately needs Dustin Lindsey to make a healthy return, and the sooner the better. A linebacker corp of Casper Brinkley, Ingram and Lindsey would definitely hold up well against the strong ground atttacks of Arkansas, Florida, and Clemson.
So, here's to wishing Jasper a full and speedy recovery. Jap, we will miss you this season, but look forward to having you back in the lineup in 2008.
Last season defensive tackle Marque Hall was lost in the Georgia game. Carolina's top safety, Brandon Isaac was lost to a shoulder injury early in fall camp. Linebacker Dustin Lindsey was academically ineligible. This season, the Gamecocks lost starting defensive lineman Nathan Pepper, Isaac has re-injured his shoulder, Projected starting defensive end Jordin Lindsey was declared academically ineligible, and today the news came down on Brinkley, who is arguably the most valuable defensive player in the Southeastern Conference.
Brinkley's injury is significant. Carolina will not replace Jasper Brinkley from a talent or leadership perspective this season. Instead, defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix must pool the talent at his disposal and have some players step up at key positions. It will take a group effort to compensate for the loss of Brinkley.
Carolina's front four will have to be more productive. Melvin Ingram and Marvin Sapp will have to fill the void at the middle linebacker position. Sapp has more experience, but is undersized. Ingram has all the physical tools of Brinkley and has tremendous upside, but is extremely inexperienced. Safety Emanuel Cook will probably see the number of tackles he makes increase with Brinkley out.
Losing Brinkley now is much better than losing him later in the season for several reasons. Firstof all, it gives the Gamecock coaching staff the opportunity to tweak the defense and bring Ingram and Sapp along, while also adjusting what they do up front. The Gamecocks should still be favored in each of the next four games. If the Gamecocks play up to their capabilites, they should be able to defeat MSU, Kentucky, UNC, and Vanderbilt. That would put Carolina's record at 7-1.
Second, by the injury taking place when it did, Brinkley is eligible for a medical redshirt. That would mean that Brinkley could return for the 2008 season on what should be a loaded Gamecock defense. However, it does make the task of facing the powerful running games of Arkansas, Florida, and Clemson more difficult.
Losing Brinkley may very well cost the Gamecocks a chance at the SEC Eastern Division title. However, don't sell short this coaching staff. Tyrone Nix and his defensive staff have gotten more out of less the past two seasons than anyone can imagine. The Gamecocks have more talent on defense than at any other time under Spurrier. The Gamecocks are playing a lot of young players, and as the season progresses that young talent will improve as each player gets more game experience. The next four games are critical for that development. How much can Melvin Ingram improve in four weeks remains to be seen, but clearly Ingram has all the tools to be a bigtime playmaker.
I am still not crazy about Casper Brinkley staying at defensive end. The Gamecocks need to beef up their linebacker corps. Carolina desparately needs Dustin Lindsey to make a healthy return, and the sooner the better. A linebacker corp of Casper Brinkley, Ingram and Lindsey would definitely hold up well against the strong ground atttacks of Arkansas, Florida, and Clemson.
So, here's to wishing Jasper a full and speedy recovery. Jap, we will miss you this season, but look forward to having you back in the lineup in 2008.
Monday, September 24, 2007
The Return of The Cockfather
I have been gone too long. Much like Michael Corleone's exile to Italia to escape recrimination from the authorities, The Cockfather has been away from the Gamecock nation for too long. However, after making some bold new moves over the past several months and cutting ties with another organization, The Cockfather is back to where he belongs....back with the Gamecock nation.
I have been asked by Keith Allsep and JC Shurburtt, the founders of the best and coolest Gamecock site on the web, TheBigSpur.com, to bring back Cockfather Illustrated. So, guess what...I'm back and badder than ever.
Feel free to post your comments on the blog. Remember, this is just an extenison of TheBigSpur.com, and my thoughts are not those of the ownership of TBS.
SO, here we go, my first blog in over a year.
Random Thoughts on LSU:
First of all, I don't think their quarterback play is good enough to win a National title. Defensively, while they have superior talent, I have never been a fan of Bo Pelini. I think he takes too many chances and leaves their defense vunerable to the big play. Pete Carroll and Southern Cal would pick them apart. LSU is good enough to win the SEC, but I don't think they woudl beat USC-W.
Carolina had their chances. Carlos failing to scoop up that ball and run it in for 6, E-Cook's drop of a pick-6, The fake FG, missing 2 critical 4th downs, and the dropped TD pass by Moe Brown.
I have actually come to expect Moe Brown to drop the football. When he did make a catch on Saturday, I was shocked. Anybody else shocked that he ACTAULLY caught a ball? Wow.
Now, on to more important things, Like Mississippi State.
The Gamecocks will be favored and should win this game. I like th move of going to Smelley. I honestly think he gives us the best chance to win. I think the entire offense responds better to him, probably because they have more respect for him due to the way he lives his life and the leadership skills he possesses. Let's face it, your qurterback ahs to be a leader, and Blake simply is NOT a leader. JC stated that he was itnerested to see what kind of quarterback Mitchell would be without Sidney Rice as his security blanket. Well, after three games, we know....not very effective.
I am not blaming it all on Blake, because let's face it, has there ever been worse receiver play on a Steve Spurrier coached team? I feel like we are back to 2005 with Chris Clark, and a bunch of true freshmen out there...which is basically what we have...minus The Great Sidney Rice. Had Sidney returned for his junior season as he should have, This Gamecocks team would be a legitimate BCS candidate.
The next four games are critical, must-win games. Carolina will be favored in each of these contests, and should face a ranked Kentucky program that is playing with great confidence. A win over another top 25 team will boost USCs ranking.
A 7-1 record heading into the Orange Crush portion of the schedule will give Carolina a chance at winning the SEC East. At Tennessee is always challenging, A road game at Arkansas is tough, but is looking better than it was a couple of weeks ago. Arkansas's defense is getting shredded like Swiss Cheese right now and they can't throw the football. The Gamecocks must correct their run defense to have a chance to beat the hogs.
Then it's down to the final two games of the season. Florida coudl potentially be ranked in the top 3 when they visit Williams-Brice Stadium on Nov. 10. Tim Teebow is a legitimate Heisman candidate right now and is puting up astounding numbers. The Florida defense is young and inexeperienced, but very, very talented. This will be a big-time battle.
Clemson...well, we all know what the Cockfather thinks about the tiggers, but let's face it, the A-she-she is the weakest conference in the nation this year. Clemson will have 9-10 wins when they arrive at Williams-Brice Stadium for the regualr season finale for both teams NOvember 24th.
It is the opinion of Cockfather Illustrated that in order for the Gamecocks to challenge for the SEC East down the stretch, Spurrier must play the freshmen receivers. Live and die with Culliver and the Barnes boys. Sprinkle in a little Dion Lecorn and use Jared Cook and Saunders together in there. Hell, split Cory Boyd out wide and throw the ball to him and play Boyd and Daivs in there together more often.
Carolina must also settle on an offensive line. The guard play has been shoddy up to this point. Those positions are like a revolving door. Does that sound familiar? It looks like it will again be the 6th or 7th game before Carolina settles on a consistent starting 5 up front.
Defensively, I don't like the move of Casper to DE. Carolina needs him at LB. Cody Wells cannot stand up in there to SEC ground attacks and Cliff Matthews is limited because of the club he wears on his hand. Put Jonathan Williams out there. He is a big guy and has played defensive end his enitre career. Kenrick Ellis played well enough in there to earn more time.
Travian Robertson has not been healthy, and needs to get back to 100 percent. He has been playing with a dinged up knee. The Gamecocks also need Dustin Lindsey to get back into the lineup. He re-injured the same ACL he had surgically repaired in the spring. Brandon Isaac is another key member of the defense that needs to be 0n the field. Isaac has NFL ability.
The Gamecock defense cannot be an upper echelon defense if Cody Wells, Joel Reaves, Ryan Brown, and Chris Hampton are all out there playing at the same time or seeing significant reps. Nothing against those young men, but honestly from an athletic standpoint, they could not play for very many of the teams on our schedule.
Well, there you have it, the first public thouhts from the Cockfather in over a year. I hope many will find this blog and post your thoughts as they pertain to Gamecock athletics.
Have a great day and stay tuned in to Cockfather Illustrated for my latest thoughts, and as always....To Hell With Clemson!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have been asked by Keith Allsep and JC Shurburtt, the founders of the best and coolest Gamecock site on the web, TheBigSpur.com, to bring back Cockfather Illustrated. So, guess what...I'm back and badder than ever.
Feel free to post your comments on the blog. Remember, this is just an extenison of TheBigSpur.com, and my thoughts are not those of the ownership of TBS.
SO, here we go, my first blog in over a year.
Random Thoughts on LSU:
First of all, I don't think their quarterback play is good enough to win a National title. Defensively, while they have superior talent, I have never been a fan of Bo Pelini. I think he takes too many chances and leaves their defense vunerable to the big play. Pete Carroll and Southern Cal would pick them apart. LSU is good enough to win the SEC, but I don't think they woudl beat USC-W.
Carolina had their chances. Carlos failing to scoop up that ball and run it in for 6, E-Cook's drop of a pick-6, The fake FG, missing 2 critical 4th downs, and the dropped TD pass by Moe Brown.
I have actually come to expect Moe Brown to drop the football. When he did make a catch on Saturday, I was shocked. Anybody else shocked that he ACTAULLY caught a ball? Wow.
Now, on to more important things, Like Mississippi State.
The Gamecocks will be favored and should win this game. I like th move of going to Smelley. I honestly think he gives us the best chance to win. I think the entire offense responds better to him, probably because they have more respect for him due to the way he lives his life and the leadership skills he possesses. Let's face it, your qurterback ahs to be a leader, and Blake simply is NOT a leader. JC stated that he was itnerested to see what kind of quarterback Mitchell would be without Sidney Rice as his security blanket. Well, after three games, we know....not very effective.
I am not blaming it all on Blake, because let's face it, has there ever been worse receiver play on a Steve Spurrier coached team? I feel like we are back to 2005 with Chris Clark, and a bunch of true freshmen out there...which is basically what we have...minus The Great Sidney Rice. Had Sidney returned for his junior season as he should have, This Gamecocks team would be a legitimate BCS candidate.
The next four games are critical, must-win games. Carolina will be favored in each of these contests, and should face a ranked Kentucky program that is playing with great confidence. A win over another top 25 team will boost USCs ranking.
A 7-1 record heading into the Orange Crush portion of the schedule will give Carolina a chance at winning the SEC East. At Tennessee is always challenging, A road game at Arkansas is tough, but is looking better than it was a couple of weeks ago. Arkansas's defense is getting shredded like Swiss Cheese right now and they can't throw the football. The Gamecocks must correct their run defense to have a chance to beat the hogs.
Then it's down to the final two games of the season. Florida coudl potentially be ranked in the top 3 when they visit Williams-Brice Stadium on Nov. 10. Tim Teebow is a legitimate Heisman candidate right now and is puting up astounding numbers. The Florida defense is young and inexeperienced, but very, very talented. This will be a big-time battle.
Clemson...well, we all know what the Cockfather thinks about the tiggers, but let's face it, the A-she-she is the weakest conference in the nation this year. Clemson will have 9-10 wins when they arrive at Williams-Brice Stadium for the regualr season finale for both teams NOvember 24th.
It is the opinion of Cockfather Illustrated that in order for the Gamecocks to challenge for the SEC East down the stretch, Spurrier must play the freshmen receivers. Live and die with Culliver and the Barnes boys. Sprinkle in a little Dion Lecorn and use Jared Cook and Saunders together in there. Hell, split Cory Boyd out wide and throw the ball to him and play Boyd and Daivs in there together more often.
Carolina must also settle on an offensive line. The guard play has been shoddy up to this point. Those positions are like a revolving door. Does that sound familiar? It looks like it will again be the 6th or 7th game before Carolina settles on a consistent starting 5 up front.
Defensively, I don't like the move of Casper to DE. Carolina needs him at LB. Cody Wells cannot stand up in there to SEC ground attacks and Cliff Matthews is limited because of the club he wears on his hand. Put Jonathan Williams out there. He is a big guy and has played defensive end his enitre career. Kenrick Ellis played well enough in there to earn more time.
Travian Robertson has not been healthy, and needs to get back to 100 percent. He has been playing with a dinged up knee. The Gamecocks also need Dustin Lindsey to get back into the lineup. He re-injured the same ACL he had surgically repaired in the spring. Brandon Isaac is another key member of the defense that needs to be 0n the field. Isaac has NFL ability.
The Gamecock defense cannot be an upper echelon defense if Cody Wells, Joel Reaves, Ryan Brown, and Chris Hampton are all out there playing at the same time or seeing significant reps. Nothing against those young men, but honestly from an athletic standpoint, they could not play for very many of the teams on our schedule.
Well, there you have it, the first public thouhts from the Cockfather in over a year. I hope many will find this blog and post your thoughts as they pertain to Gamecock athletics.
Have a great day and stay tuned in to Cockfather Illustrated for my latest thoughts, and as always....To Hell With Clemson!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated
One week from today. It's hard to beleive. 7 days until Steve Spurrier leads the Gamecocks into action against Mississippi State. I'll be there, will you?
Of course, at 3 pm today, Conway WR Junior Hemingway will make his college decision. Cockfather Illustrated believes the decision will come down to Michigan and USC.
Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will take a look at the runningback position.
Post your commnets and questions in this thread.
To Hell With Clemson!
Of course, at 3 pm today, Conway WR Junior Hemingway will make his college decision. Cockfather Illustrated believes the decision will come down to Michigan and USC.
Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will take a look at the runningback position.
Post your commnets and questions in this thread.
To Hell With Clemson!
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Mitchell much more confident in 2006
In any offense, the quarterback position is arguably the most critical position on the field. The quarterback is the leader of the offense, the player that touches the ball on every play. But most importantly, the quarterback is the key decision maker for the offense, an extension of the play-caller. The quarterback must make the correct read at the line of scrimmage, make the correct read on the defenses coverage and deliver the ball to the open receiver or check into the correct play.
From 2002-2004 South Carolina was a team without a quarterback capable of doing those things. It cost the Gamecocks dearly, as they had the talent needed to win games and go to bowl games, but they were limited because the quarterback was either not allowed to do the things needed to win, or wasn't capable of doing the things needed to win. The lack of a competent quarterback would be a major part of the undoing of the Lou Holtz era.
With the arrival of Steve Spurrier, south Carolina fans rejoiced that the forward pass would finally replace the quarterback draw as a major part of the offense.
Seldom used red-shirt Sophomore Blake Mitchell, who had only attempted 22 career passes would be called on to lead Steve Spurrier's "Cock and Fire" offense. The 6'3 212 pound signal caller responded by completing 59 percent of his passes(186-315) for 2370 yards, 17 TD's and 12 interceptions. Half of Mitchell's interceptions came in USC's final two games versus Clemson and Missouri.
As the former Elite 11 QB enters the 2006 season, Mitchell appears much more comfortable with the offense, and his role as the trigger man in Steve Spurrier's offense. At times, the Lagrange, GA native was criticized for not audibling more at the line of scrimmage by the OBC. However, in the spring, Mitchell's comfort level allowed him to make more decisions at the line of scrimmage.
Cockfather Illustrated believes this is Blake Mitchell's football team. With more weapons in the arsenal, there is no reason why Mitchell could not throw for 3000 yards and 20+ touchdowns in 2006 provided he stays healthy, and the offensive line gives him time to deliver the ball to his targets.
If there has been one player that has caught the attention of the fans and the coaches in fall camp, it has been the play of Chris Smelley. The 6'3 206 pound true freshman from Tuscaloosa, AL. The rivals 4 star prospect has been spectacular in USC's three pre-season scrimmages completing a combined 34 of 53 passes for 509 yards, 6 TD's and no interceptions. The true freshman signal caller has out-shined incumbent Blake Mitchell to the point that many Gamecock fans are already wondering how long will it be before Smelley replaces Mitchell as the Gamecocks starting quarterback.
To that, I would borrow a phrase from ESPN's Lee Corso, "not so fast my friend." Sure Smelley has been impressive. He has a unique ability to see past the pass rush and focus on throwing the ball down field. He doesn't panic under pressure. He appears to have that 6th sense to be able to feel the rush coming and deliver the ball or move the pocket and make a play. However, the back-up quarterback is always the fan favorite.
It should really not come as a surprise that Smelley's numbers have been impressive when you consider what he did during his high school career. The Gatorade Circle of Champions Player of the Year in Alabama threw for a record 4120 yards and 59 touchdowns, with only 9 interceptions. For his career, the rivals.com 8th rated drop back passer shattered Brodie Croyle's record if 105 TD passes, with an astounding 134 TD passes.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Smelley has passed red-shirt freshman Cade Thompson as the second team quarterback, and should Mitchell struggle at times like he did last year, I don't think the OBC will hesitate to go with Smelley and give him an opportunity to lead the team.
Cade Thompson 6'2 183 Freshman(R) - Thompson was impressive in USC's spring game, completing 10-13 passes for 136 yards and 2 TD passes. Heading into the summer months, it appeared that the Maryville, TN native could provide stiff competition for Blake Mitchell heading into fall practice. That has not been the case, however, as Thompson has regressed in fall camp. In US's third and final pre-season scrimmage, Thompson completed only 4 of 15 passes. The only consistent thing he has done in those scrimmages is perform poorly and turn the ball over.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Thompson is at a cross roads in his career. If he gets a chance to perform this fall, he must shake off a sub-par fall camp and show the same promise he exhibited during a stellar high school career, when he won 35 straight games and posted an overall record of 43-1 at Maryville High School, leading his team to 2 State Championships.
The other player that figures into the quarterback mix at USC is multi-purpose athlete Syvelle Newton. The 6'0 210 pound senior is coming off a torn Achilles tendon injury, but has remarkably looked like the same spectacular play-maker he has always been. The former Marlboro County star has lined up at quarterback, runningback, and wide receiver over the course of his career. last season against Vanderbilt, Newton did all three, rushing for 80 yards on 15 carries, completed 3-4 passes for 46 yards and 2 TD's and caught 1 pass for 8 yards. for his accomplishments, Newton was named SEC player of the week. That would be the last time newton would play in 2005 as he suffered the Achilles injury on a touchdown run in the 4th quarter.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Newton will play a similar role as he did in the 2005 Vanderbilt
contest. Newton will primarily play WR this season, but will likely be inserted in the game as a shotgun quarterback, with a package designed to take advantage of his talents, and to give defensive coordinators more to prepare for each week.
Red-shirt freshman Tommy Beecher 6'1 212 pounds from Concord, NC and Senior Brett Nichols, a walk-on from Simpsonville who was recently rewarded with a scholarship, round out the quarterback prospects at USC. Both could see some action in mop up duty this season.
From 2002-2004 South Carolina was a team without a quarterback capable of doing those things. It cost the Gamecocks dearly, as they had the talent needed to win games and go to bowl games, but they were limited because the quarterback was either not allowed to do the things needed to win, or wasn't capable of doing the things needed to win. The lack of a competent quarterback would be a major part of the undoing of the Lou Holtz era.
With the arrival of Steve Spurrier, south Carolina fans rejoiced that the forward pass would finally replace the quarterback draw as a major part of the offense.
Seldom used red-shirt Sophomore Blake Mitchell, who had only attempted 22 career passes would be called on to lead Steve Spurrier's "Cock and Fire" offense. The 6'3 212 pound signal caller responded by completing 59 percent of his passes(186-315) for 2370 yards, 17 TD's and 12 interceptions. Half of Mitchell's interceptions came in USC's final two games versus Clemson and Missouri.
As the former Elite 11 QB enters the 2006 season, Mitchell appears much more comfortable with the offense, and his role as the trigger man in Steve Spurrier's offense. At times, the Lagrange, GA native was criticized for not audibling more at the line of scrimmage by the OBC. However, in the spring, Mitchell's comfort level allowed him to make more decisions at the line of scrimmage.
Cockfather Illustrated believes this is Blake Mitchell's football team. With more weapons in the arsenal, there is no reason why Mitchell could not throw for 3000 yards and 20+ touchdowns in 2006 provided he stays healthy, and the offensive line gives him time to deliver the ball to his targets.
If there has been one player that has caught the attention of the fans and the coaches in fall camp, it has been the play of Chris Smelley. The 6'3 206 pound true freshman from Tuscaloosa, AL. The rivals 4 star prospect has been spectacular in USC's three pre-season scrimmages completing a combined 34 of 53 passes for 509 yards, 6 TD's and no interceptions. The true freshman signal caller has out-shined incumbent Blake Mitchell to the point that many Gamecock fans are already wondering how long will it be before Smelley replaces Mitchell as the Gamecocks starting quarterback.
To that, I would borrow a phrase from ESPN's Lee Corso, "not so fast my friend." Sure Smelley has been impressive. He has a unique ability to see past the pass rush and focus on throwing the ball down field. He doesn't panic under pressure. He appears to have that 6th sense to be able to feel the rush coming and deliver the ball or move the pocket and make a play. However, the back-up quarterback is always the fan favorite.
It should really not come as a surprise that Smelley's numbers have been impressive when you consider what he did during his high school career. The Gatorade Circle of Champions Player of the Year in Alabama threw for a record 4120 yards and 59 touchdowns, with only 9 interceptions. For his career, the rivals.com 8th rated drop back passer shattered Brodie Croyle's record if 105 TD passes, with an astounding 134 TD passes.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Smelley has passed red-shirt freshman Cade Thompson as the second team quarterback, and should Mitchell struggle at times like he did last year, I don't think the OBC will hesitate to go with Smelley and give him an opportunity to lead the team.
Cade Thompson 6'2 183 Freshman(R) - Thompson was impressive in USC's spring game, completing 10-13 passes for 136 yards and 2 TD passes. Heading into the summer months, it appeared that the Maryville, TN native could provide stiff competition for Blake Mitchell heading into fall practice. That has not been the case, however, as Thompson has regressed in fall camp. In US's third and final pre-season scrimmage, Thompson completed only 4 of 15 passes. The only consistent thing he has done in those scrimmages is perform poorly and turn the ball over.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Thompson is at a cross roads in his career. If he gets a chance to perform this fall, he must shake off a sub-par fall camp and show the same promise he exhibited during a stellar high school career, when he won 35 straight games and posted an overall record of 43-1 at Maryville High School, leading his team to 2 State Championships.
The other player that figures into the quarterback mix at USC is multi-purpose athlete Syvelle Newton. The 6'0 210 pound senior is coming off a torn Achilles tendon injury, but has remarkably looked like the same spectacular play-maker he has always been. The former Marlboro County star has lined up at quarterback, runningback, and wide receiver over the course of his career. last season against Vanderbilt, Newton did all three, rushing for 80 yards on 15 carries, completed 3-4 passes for 46 yards and 2 TD's and caught 1 pass for 8 yards. for his accomplishments, Newton was named SEC player of the week. That would be the last time newton would play in 2005 as he suffered the Achilles injury on a touchdown run in the 4th quarter.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Newton will play a similar role as he did in the 2005 Vanderbilt
contest. Newton will primarily play WR this season, but will likely be inserted in the game as a shotgun quarterback, with a package designed to take advantage of his talents, and to give defensive coordinators more to prepare for each week.
Red-shirt freshman Tommy Beecher 6'1 212 pounds from Concord, NC and Senior Brett Nichols, a walk-on from Simpsonville who was recently rewarded with a scholarship, round out the quarterback prospects at USC. Both could see some action in mop up duty this season.
A couple of questions to consider
As I walk out the door this morning, I have a couple of random thoughts...
First, where in the hell is Dakoda Walker? I'm sorry but the John Abraham/Kalimba Edwards comparisons need to stop. Walker was tied for the team lead in sacks as a true frehsman and now he's not even on the depth chart? What gives?
This guy has to be one of the most disappointing stories of the pre-season. I say red-shirt him and get him either big enough to play down or tough enough to play LB. Walker appears to be one of the most athletic players on the team, and has the ideal size and speed to be a playmaker...somewhere.
Second, the more I think about it, the more scared I get thinking about a defense full of first time players. Marvin Sapp beaten out by Rodney Paulk, Emmanuel Cook beats outs Walker and Wells. The Brinkleys, Nathan Pepper, Stoney Woodson, and Carlos Thomas will all be first time starters.
FS Brandon Isaac needs to get back after that 3 game suspension. Hopefully his hamstring and shoulder will have healed. USC need some more veteran players with experience on the field.
Wow...kinda scary if you ask me. One common denominator with all these newcomers is speed. All these players have excellent to superrior speed for their positions. Could we see the return of the Joe Lee Dunn defenses of the 80's? Will this defense be called "The Fire Ants" version 2.0?
First, where in the hell is Dakoda Walker? I'm sorry but the John Abraham/Kalimba Edwards comparisons need to stop. Walker was tied for the team lead in sacks as a true frehsman and now he's not even on the depth chart? What gives?
This guy has to be one of the most disappointing stories of the pre-season. I say red-shirt him and get him either big enough to play down or tough enough to play LB. Walker appears to be one of the most athletic players on the team, and has the ideal size and speed to be a playmaker...somewhere.
Second, the more I think about it, the more scared I get thinking about a defense full of first time players. Marvin Sapp beaten out by Rodney Paulk, Emmanuel Cook beats outs Walker and Wells. The Brinkleys, Nathan Pepper, Stoney Woodson, and Carlos Thomas will all be first time starters.
FS Brandon Isaac needs to get back after that 3 game suspension. Hopefully his hamstring and shoulder will have healed. USC need some more veteran players with experience on the field.
Wow...kinda scary if you ask me. One common denominator with all these newcomers is speed. All these players have excellent to superrior speed for their positions. Could we see the return of the Joe Lee Dunn defenses of the 80's? Will this defense be called "The Fire Ants" version 2.0?
Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated
*Eight days and counting until the Gamecocks open the college football season versus Mississippi State. Will the Gamecocks take care of business? One week from today, Cockfather Illustrated will give you the game forecast, and breakdown the match-up between the offenses and defenses, and a final score you will all be happy about.
*Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will begin the offensive positional breakdowns with an in-depth look at the Quarterback position.
*Last night was the 3rd and final scrimmage for Steve Spurrier's squad, and the defense just keeps getting younger and younger. It appears that USC will start at least four first year players on defense, and a linebacker corps that is completely new to division one football. The four newcomers are DE Capser Brinkley, MLB Jasper Brinkley, SLB Rodney Paulk, and WLB Emmanuel Cook.
The defensive depth chart is loaded with Freshmen and Sophomores. The only upper classmen on the defensive depth chart are DT Marque Hall, DE's Ryan Brown and Jordin Lindsey, MLB Curtis Rice, WLB Cody Wells, and SS Chris Hampton. Below is a look at USC's depth chart coming out of last night's scrimmage. Players in bold are newcomers.
DE-Ryan Brown/Joridn Lindsey
DT-Nathan Pepper/Joel Reaves or Stanley Doughty
DT-Marque Hall/Lemuel Jeanpierre
DE-Capser Brinkley/Eric Norwood
SLB-Rodney Paulk/Marvin Sapp
MLB-Jasper Brinkley/Curtis Rice
WLB-Emmanuel Cook/Cody Wells
CB-Fred Bennett/Captain Munnerlyn
FS-Stoney Woodson/Jeremy Ware
ROV-Chris Hampton/Darian Stewart
CB-Carlos Thomas/Captain Munnerlyn
WLB-Emmanuel Cook/Cody Wells
Post your comments and questions in this thread.
To Hell With Clemson!
*Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will begin the offensive positional breakdowns with an in-depth look at the Quarterback position.
*Last night was the 3rd and final scrimmage for Steve Spurrier's squad, and the defense just keeps getting younger and younger. It appears that USC will start at least four first year players on defense, and a linebacker corps that is completely new to division one football. The four newcomers are DE Capser Brinkley, MLB Jasper Brinkley, SLB Rodney Paulk, and WLB Emmanuel Cook.
The defensive depth chart is loaded with Freshmen and Sophomores. The only upper classmen on the defensive depth chart are DT Marque Hall, DE's Ryan Brown and Jordin Lindsey, MLB Curtis Rice, WLB Cody Wells, and SS Chris Hampton. Below is a look at USC's depth chart coming out of last night's scrimmage. Players in bold are newcomers.
DE-Ryan Brown/Joridn Lindsey
DT-Nathan Pepper/Joel Reaves or Stanley Doughty
DT-Marque Hall/Lemuel Jeanpierre
DE-Capser Brinkley/Eric Norwood
SLB-Rodney Paulk/Marvin Sapp
MLB-Jasper Brinkley/Curtis Rice
WLB-Emmanuel Cook/Cody Wells
CB-Fred Bennett/Captain Munnerlyn
FS-Stoney Woodson/Jeremy Ware
ROV-Chris Hampton/Darian Stewart
CB-Carlos Thomas/Captain Munnerlyn
WLB-Emmanuel Cook/Cody Wells
Post your comments and questions in this thread.
To Hell With Clemson!
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Wildcard Emerges at Weakside Linebacker
Perhaps the most intriguing position battle in USC's fall camp has been the weak-side or "Wolf" linebacker position coached by assistant coach Dave Wommack. The Wolf linebacker is responsible for covering the open side of the field, usually opposite the tight end, and must be able to place in space. This is primarily a speed position.
Today, Cockfather Illustrated takes an in-depth look at the players competing for the starting position, including a new "wild card" that has been thrown into the mix less that 10 days before the season opener versus Mississippi State. Each of the players battling for the starting position brings something different to the table, and are of all sizes and shapes.
Dakoda Walker 6'4 235 Sophomore - Walker played defensive end as a true freshman in 2005, and tied for the team lead in sacks with 3.5, despite missing USC's first three games with an injury. For the season, the former rivals 3 star prospect was credited with 13 tackles, and was involved in several key plays in USC's five game SEC win streak. Defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix made the decision to move Walker back to linebacker after spring practice, to take advantage of the Mays Landing, NJ native's speed, athleticism, and ability to play in space. Walker has alternated with the Cody Wells with the first team throughout most of fall camp, and the winner of this position battle may not be known until kick-off.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Walker will be a valuable player at weak-side linebacker. He should be a factor pressuring the passer coming off the edge in passing situations. If he becomes more physical, Walker should have a big season.
Cody Wells 5'11 212 Junior(R) - The red-shirt junior has been primarily a reserve and special teams performer during his career. That has changed the year as it appears the Bellview, FL native will log significant snaps from the "Wolf" linebacker spot. Wells made two starts in 2005 and logged 31 tackles with 3.5 tackles for loss and a pair of sacks for the season. He brings a toughness and true football mentality to the position. Wells is considered one of the hardest hitters on the team, and has a knack for being around the ball. As a converted safety, Wells also has experience playing in space.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Wells will begin the year as the starter, but be overtaken by Walker after he becomes more comfortable at WLB. Wells will also be involved when USC goes to their "Gator" package, which is similar to USC's old 3-3-5 defense.
Gerrod Sinclair 6'0 219 Freshman(R) - Sinclair was one of the top prospects signed in Steve Spurrier's first signing class. The Jacksonville, FL native gained almost 20 pounds during his red-shirt season and had an impressive spring. The Super Prep All-American came out of spring practice listed as the starting "Wolf" linebacker. Sinclair was named to the Jacksonville Times Union Super 11, and was a first team 6A all-state selection as a senior after making 107 tackles, 8 sacks and 7 interceptions.
An injury early in fall camp caused Sinclair to miss some valuable practice time, and may have taken him out of the race as a starter.
Cockfather Illustrated believes that once Sinclair's knee is 100percent, he will be tough to keep off the field. He is a converted safety with excellent speed and ball skills, who has a bright future ahead of him in a Gamecock uniform.
The "wild card" that has recently entered the mix is safety Emmanuel Cook. The 5'10 209 pound freshman has been working at both safety and weak-side linebacker this week. According to a source close to the program, Cook was working with the first team in yesterday's practice. This would be an intriguing move, and will be interesting to follow leading up to the Mississippi State game. Moving Cook to linebacker would upgrade the speed at that position, as the West Palm Beach native runs a sub 4.5 40 yard dash.
Today, Cockfather Illustrated takes an in-depth look at the players competing for the starting position, including a new "wild card" that has been thrown into the mix less that 10 days before the season opener versus Mississippi State. Each of the players battling for the starting position brings something different to the table, and are of all sizes and shapes.
Dakoda Walker 6'4 235 Sophomore - Walker played defensive end as a true freshman in 2005, and tied for the team lead in sacks with 3.5, despite missing USC's first three games with an injury. For the season, the former rivals 3 star prospect was credited with 13 tackles, and was involved in several key plays in USC's five game SEC win streak. Defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix made the decision to move Walker back to linebacker after spring practice, to take advantage of the Mays Landing, NJ native's speed, athleticism, and ability to play in space. Walker has alternated with the Cody Wells with the first team throughout most of fall camp, and the winner of this position battle may not be known until kick-off.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Walker will be a valuable player at weak-side linebacker. He should be a factor pressuring the passer coming off the edge in passing situations. If he becomes more physical, Walker should have a big season.
Cody Wells 5'11 212 Junior(R) - The red-shirt junior has been primarily a reserve and special teams performer during his career. That has changed the year as it appears the Bellview, FL native will log significant snaps from the "Wolf" linebacker spot. Wells made two starts in 2005 and logged 31 tackles with 3.5 tackles for loss and a pair of sacks for the season. He brings a toughness and true football mentality to the position. Wells is considered one of the hardest hitters on the team, and has a knack for being around the ball. As a converted safety, Wells also has experience playing in space.
Cockfather Illustrated believes Wells will begin the year as the starter, but be overtaken by Walker after he becomes more comfortable at WLB. Wells will also be involved when USC goes to their "Gator" package, which is similar to USC's old 3-3-5 defense.
Gerrod Sinclair 6'0 219 Freshman(R) - Sinclair was one of the top prospects signed in Steve Spurrier's first signing class. The Jacksonville, FL native gained almost 20 pounds during his red-shirt season and had an impressive spring. The Super Prep All-American came out of spring practice listed as the starting "Wolf" linebacker. Sinclair was named to the Jacksonville Times Union Super 11, and was a first team 6A all-state selection as a senior after making 107 tackles, 8 sacks and 7 interceptions.
An injury early in fall camp caused Sinclair to miss some valuable practice time, and may have taken him out of the race as a starter.
Cockfather Illustrated believes that once Sinclair's knee is 100percent, he will be tough to keep off the field. He is a converted safety with excellent speed and ball skills, who has a bright future ahead of him in a Gamecock uniform.
The "wild card" that has recently entered the mix is safety Emmanuel Cook. The 5'10 209 pound freshman has been working at both safety and weak-side linebacker this week. According to a source close to the program, Cook was working with the first team in yesterday's practice. This would be an intriguing move, and will be interesting to follow leading up to the Mississippi State game. Moving Cook to linebacker would upgrade the speed at that position, as the West Palm Beach native runs a sub 4.5 40 yard dash.
Today Inside Cockfather Illustrated
Nine days and counting until the season opener versus Mississippi State. Steve Spurrier revealed last night that USC will "probably" wear black jerseys in the season opener, which will mark the first time USC has worn that color jersey since the Arkansas game in November of 2004.
Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will take an in-depth look at the Gamecocks outside linebackers, coached by Dave Wommack.
Post your comments and questions in this thread.
To Hell With Clemson!
Later today, Cockfather Illustrated will take an in-depth look at the Gamecocks outside linebackers, coached by Dave Wommack.
Post your comments and questions in this thread.
To Hell With Clemson!
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