ADVERTISEMENT

QB Battle

The thing that Tulsa had was a qb that could throw the ball around. I was impressed with his passing ability. I will say this though, that game was something like 24-3 before half and looking like a route over Tulsa was well underway. OU had some bad turnovers and let them back in the game.
But the year before the QB at Tulsa was mediocre, and they made him into a "QB that could throw the ball around"
 
The following is merely a personal observation. It may mean absolutely nothing as I have not witnessed any full practices and only have camp highlight videos and random reports as sources (as well as the "full" spring game).

However, using those sources I believe this to be true about the passing skills of Tyrone and Shane: Buechele hits guys in stride much more than Swoopes.

Take the last practice video as one example....


1:03 (Swoopes) – receiver had to stop/jump to make the catch... no YAC
1:18 (Boo) – pass was a bit behind, but still caught on the run
1:34 (Swoopes) – late throw caused the receiver's momentum to take himself OOB
2:14 (Boo) – on the money on the run and into the EZ

It appears that in every video I've seen (not just this one), receivers are having to stop, jump, dive, and wait for passes from Tyrone much more than they do from Shane. This corroborates the reports that Swoopes is still hesitant and holding the ball too long. That's a YAC-killing trait.

I've said before that Shane should start the nd game. Let me also add that until he proves he can't move the chains on 3rd down or score in the red zone, let him continue to roll with the rock. There's a definite rhythm QBs want and need to be successful, especially super-competitive ones like Boo.

While Shane doesn't have a Swoopes-like Howitzer arm, his advantages are timing and placement. Will he throw picks in his true-frosh year? Undoubtedly. But, he's a learner who will progress rather rapidly, IMHO.

All this being said, even if Tyrone starts, we're still gonna beat the domers! ;)
 
I just read through the thread, a lot went on since yesterday, my favorite being "I like pancakes," which made me laugh pretty hard.

Is there any updates on the OL injuries? I would guess they downplay them for now?
I just wanted to know how it felt to post like 12375cat does..........
 
  • Like
Reactions: oldhorn2
OK, so when I say your wife must be the most miserable woman in the world having to live with such a complete dumbass, I'm complimenting her? Got it. :rolleyes: I feel very sorry for both yours and oldschool's wives then.
Your poor dog too....I bet he hides during football games. :D
 
He is the guy and it will be his show when the timing is right, It's funny how caught up folks are getting over who they actual starter is (first snaps). The 2 deep gets released on Monday and it's going to read Swoopes or Buchele.
Are any of you fans concerned about Buechele's size and him getting knocked around or hurt? He'll gain weight but he's only a freshman.
 
Are any of you fans concerned about Buechele's size and him getting knocked around or hurt? He'll gain weight but he's only a freshman.
Are you concerned about Twinkle Toes Mayfield getting his bell rung again? Of course you aren't. Just like your coach.
 
Since we are discussing OLine/RBs etc. I read ND is going 7-8 deep on their OLine with up 10 guys competing. And probably 3-4 deep at RB. All three played against Texas last year (Folston, Adams, Williams).

Here is what I have seen on the ND offense from reports:

With Folston the worry was his repaired knee. They said his 40 time was identical to before & he added 10 lbs. He is cutting hard with no problems.

Adams had been resting a sore hamstring all camp, but at the end of the week the coaches said he looked 100% now.

Williams was having a great camp before the debacle last weekend. Kelly says unless the school suspends him he will play now that he was cleared of charges.

According to the scuttlebutt the TEs all look really good on the LOS. They aren't the receivers Jones was, but much better balanced on the line.

McShay has both McGlinchey & Nelson as 1st rounders at T & G. The coaches feel Bars might end up being the best of the bunch by next year. The other two spots had camp battles going on, with Mustipher winning at Center (expected) & McGovern at G (huge upset over Biven & Hoge). Kraemer as a true freshman (2nd overall out of HS) is pushing for playing time at G also.

Many think the reason Kelly is going to play both Kizer & Zaire is he wants to run a lot more read option, therefore neither QB takes all the hits, they split them.

The WRs are a huge mystery? Everyone has an opinion. A couple guys have come out of nowhere to surprise the coaches. The talk is how amazing St. Brown is. He forced himself into the lineup as a true freshman last year even with a ND team stacked with WRs. Then got hurt. Hunter is a legit athlete. ND has a group of WRs they can line up in the read option formation that average over 6'3 215. They also have three speedsters/playmakers, so everyone is clueless on how Kelly will line the WRs up?

So we don't know which QB "starts," which RB starts, and which WR gets the third starter position. (Is it speedster or big guy?)
 
Texas is going with 5 RB's

D’Onta Foreman – D’Onta has size and speed. He’s a physical runner, unafraid of contact, but it’s his ‘long speed’ that catches your eye when breaking through to the 2nd-level. One hopes D’Onta’s in tip-top shape, as this offense will create creases for him and allow him to showcase his speed, outrunning defenders. A reason D’Onta may have been held out in season’s past was his pass protection. That will have to improve, especially considering the prospect of Shane Buechele starting.

Chris Warren – Much like D’Onta, Chris is big and powerful. Except, Chris is about 20 pounds heavier with just about as much speed as D’Onta (may be even). That is a scary mass of angry young man, one that even Malik Jefferson says he hates tackling! I can’t even imagine being asked to tackle Chris. They’d have to move the hospital closer to the field! It’s going to be fun picking apart film and catching linebackers and defensive backs trying to avoid tackling him. It will happen, more often than you think. Mark my words. The same pass protection issue holds true for Chris as well and for all the backs. So, I won’t mention it again.

Kirk Johnson – Kirk is an electric athlete. When I see him run, the impression I get is that his consciousness hasn’t caught up with his speed. Does that even make sense? Unfortunately for Kirk, he was injured last season, shortly after he exploded down the sideline, racing past his blocking, incredible. Kirk stands to make a huge difference this season in the new offense, as Gilbert will likely want a back that can reach the perimeter with ease or explode through interior creases and past safeties. If his hands are good, he and the other backs will also benefit from space conceded by defenses in the flat. The race will be on for Kirk. I just hope his body holds up and he’s responding well to the coaching.

Kyle Porter – This is a young man I’m very excited about. He was amazing in high school, though he did play for a powerhouse program. Nevertheless, he has some of the most impressive feet I’ve seen and runs with power. He’ll likely be behind Foreman and Warren, but according to reports, he’s definitely pushing Johnson for 3rd on the depth chart. It’ll be interesting to see how he adjusts to the college game. That’s all I’ll say about maybe the most talented back on the roster.

Tristan Houston – Houston has flown under the radar due to his red-shirt as well as the talented backs ahead of him on the depth chart. He’s also a talented runner himself and given the number of plays Gilbert likes to run, fans will likely see Houston more in 2016. Houston’s issue is likely related to maturity and size, if he’s packed on some good weight, there’s a good chance he’ll be ready to contribute. (Gabe)
 
I'm really not as concerned with the OL as I let on, as long as Williams and Perkins stay healthy. Mattox has a true 2 deep line, just a bit inexperienced. Time to pop the cherry!
 
I have no clue about the D?
For example, Nyles Morgan made the Butkus Watch List at MLB, but has never started.

That is how the back 7 is all around. Lot of 4/5 stars with not much experience starting. Luke is a stud at CB, & Watkins is solid at CB. But the safety position is questionable. The OLB positions are also questionable.

I think the Dline is stacked.

Special teams are very solid.
 
Texas is going with 5 RB's

D’Onta Foreman – D’Onta has size and speed. He’s a physical runner, unafraid of contact, but it’s his ‘long speed’ that catches your eye when breaking through to the 2nd-level. One hopes D’Onta’s in tip-top shape, as this offense will create creases for him and allow him to showcase his speed, outrunning defenders. A reason D’Onta may have been held out in season’s past was his pass protection. That will have to improve, especially considering the prospect of Shane Buechele starting.

Chris Warren – Much like D’Onta, Chris is big and powerful. Except, Chris is about 20 pounds heavier with just about as much speed as D’Onta (may be even). That is a scary mass of angry young man, one that even Malik Jefferson says he hates tackling! I can’t even imagine being asked to tackle Chris. They’d have to move the hospital closer to the field! It’s going to be fun picking apart film and catching linebackers and defensive backs trying to avoid tackling him. It will happen, more often than you think. Mark my words. The same pass protection issue holds true for Chris as well and for all the backs. So, I won’t mention it again.

Kirk Johnson – Kirk is an electric athlete. When I see him run, the impression I get is that his consciousness hasn’t caught up with his speed. Does that even make sense? Unfortunately for Kirk, he was injured last season, shortly after he exploded down the sideline, racing past his blocking, incredible. Kirk stands to make a huge difference this season in the new offense, as Gilbert will likely want a back that can reach the perimeter with ease or explode through interior creases and past safeties. If his hands are good, he and the other backs will also benefit from space conceded by defenses in the flat. The race will be on for Kirk. I just hope his body holds up and he’s responding well to the coaching.

Kyle Porter – This is a young man I’m very excited about. He was amazing in high school, though he did play for a powerhouse program. Nevertheless, he has some of the most impressive feet I’ve seen and runs with power. He’ll likely be behind Foreman and Warren, but according to reports, he’s definitely pushing Johnson for 3rd on the depth chart. It’ll be interesting to see how he adjusts to the college game. That’s all I’ll say about maybe the most talented back on the roster.

Tristan Houston – Houston has flown under the radar due to his red-shirt as well as the talented backs ahead of him on the depth chart. He’s also a talented runner himself and given the number of plays Gilbert likes to run, fans will likely see Houston more in 2016. Houston’s issue is likely related to maturity and size, if he’s packed on some good weight, there’s a good chance he’ll be ready to contribute. (Gabe)

I don't think Texas plays all five?
Maybe three?
 
By: IT Staff

Expect the official depth chart to come out on Monday, and expect that to be as misleading as ethically possible. In fact, I've been told to expect veterans atop the depth chart who will soon give way to the more talented freshmen, especially as they make mistakes, or don't make plays. They'll be "starters" in that they'll likely start the game, but I don't think they'll play the majority.

Let's tackle it, but stay high, by position.

Quarterback

2-deep prediction: Swoopes OR Buechele. Don't look for Shane's name to be first.

Snap allocation prediction: If it's Swoopes, as our sources seem to think, he'll be on a very short leash. Snaps will depend on how Swoopes is doing. Expect him to come out first, though.

Is the decision to likely going with Swoopes simply rooted in allowing Buechele to settle down and adjust to the speed of the game?

Yes, if UTEP was the first game, Shane would be the starter, but the thinking is to let him calm down and work his way into the game and not throw him to the wolves.

Which quarterback has handled blitzing the best?

Shane, because he makes quicker decisions and simply knows how to run the offense. The better you run the offense the better you handle the blitz.

So, Swoopes was never way ahead of Buechele?

No, that's not even close to being the case, but it's likely been known he would start for a while because of Buechele's inexperience. Swoopes has done well to earn back the trust he noticeably lost after some poor performances. If Swoopes was way ahead he wouldn't be on a short leash.

Running Back

4-deep prediction: Chris Warren OR D'Onta Foreman, Kirk Johnson OR Kyle Porter.

All four will likely play versus ND. Johnson is back and healthy (at least for now, coming back from knee injuries are tricky). All four are healthy.

Wide Receiver

First four prediction: Johnson, Burt, Warrick, Oliver or Foreman

Best four: Johnson, Burt, Duvernay, Heard

Warrick's hands are the same as when he arrived on campus; suspect. Foreman has all the talent but...we'll leave it there. Oliver will likely get a few early snaps.

How has Davion Curtis looked in camp, I've been hearing some good things?

Everyone has been focused on the Heard move and Duvernay, we like that nobody is talking about Curtis. They'll be wondering who the hell that guy is. He does a great job helping teach the offense.

Bottom line here is Texas will rotate a ton of bodies. Expect Curtis and LJH to get in on the action, but the best four is easily what I wrote. Heard's the best slot on the team already. "He made" a million dollar decision when he switched positions and he because he'll feature in high percentage throws, expect him to make a lot of plays early in the season.

Tight End

2-deep: Bluiett, Beck

Usage?

Lots of in-line blocking versus Notre Dame but expect this position to move around and become a bigger part of the game plan as the offense builds up tendencies.

Offensive Line

First five prediction: Williams-Hodges-McMillon-Perkins-Okafor

Shackelford's status for the game is still uncertain. McMillon is improving, particularly with his snapping. Does that mean when the lights come on he won't snap one into the stands? Of course not, but at least he's not screwing that basic, yet harder than you think, function up frequently. His blocking has improved as well, but obviously having to play him isn't ideal. I've heard he's doing better from a couple sources. Patience here, maybe he turns into Joey Hunt.

Nickelson's ankle is still pretty swollen.

The severity of Vahe's ankle isn't known. We've just been told all three are questionable. All three could play, or none.

The staff doesn't know if they'll play so there's no way we could know. Sit tight and we'll know more next week.

Defensive Line

First four prediction: Hughes-Poona-Nelson OR Boyette-Omenihu

Second four prediction: Hager-Boyette-Wilbon-Cottrell

Which freshman will play and how much?

Wilbon knows what he's doing so he'll play. He's the only one guaranteed to play. Elliott and Christmas will play if they're needed. Right now they make too many mental mistakes, they're more gifted than Wilbon, but also more mistake prone.

Linebacker

First three in base: Jefferson-Wheeler-Freeman

Prediction on how much base we see?

Depends on if Notre Dame starts passing the ball freely. They'll be in base as long as it works.

Will Demarco Boyd and Jeffrey McCulloch play? Will Fowler suit up?

All three should see ST's time. Cole and Townsend will play behind the first three.

Defensive Backs

First five including nickel: Davis-Davis-Haines-Hall-Hill

Second five including nickel: Boyd-Locke-Jones-Elliott-Evans

Will Elliott and Jones play a lot?

Elliott more so than Jones, but both should play. Texas has to stop the run and Elliott is great in run support. Jones is very willing but his head will be swimming.

What are the thoughts on Locke right now?

He's fine, Strong's just doing what he's doing at other position, playing the older guy. PJ will play a lot.

MANAGING THE TEAM

Quite simply you're going to see Strong play veterans because he wants to keep them engaged as they get passed by the younger players, which will happen. Last year the team was rather split between the olds and the youngs and this is Strong's attempt to keep that from happening again.

Every player on the team is on a short leash because of the vast competition.

Is it a bit of a gamble to play lesser talented players? Perhaps. Is it a gamble to start Swoopes? Hell yes it is, but that's why he makes 5 million a year and is the one ultimately accountable to that decision.

It's fascinating to see Strong's confidence. We'll see if it works.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Godz40Acrez
This aggravates me quite a bit. I don't like conceding the first quarter, or even the first drive. If Heard is that much better, why on earth wouldn't Heard be on the field on the first snap? The idea of playing the less talented player to keep him happy is a program killer.
 
Eat a Snicker's Bar, you're being a diva. lol
The writer of the article sees the problem too:
Is it a bit of a gamble to play lesser talented players? Perhaps. Is it a gamble to start Swoopes? Hell yes it is, but that's why he makes 5 million a year and is the one ultimately accountable to that decision.
 
I don't believe for a minute CS will protect people.
I could see it if he thinks he has no chance & he wants to concentrate on the Big12.
But national TV (only game), at home, after getting embarrassed last year, he is coming out to win.
He will bring his best 11 to win from the start.
 
The writer of the article sees the problem too:
Is it a bit of a gamble to play lesser talented players? Perhaps. Is it a gamble to start Swoopes? Hell yes it is, but that's why he makes 5 million a year and is the one ultimately accountable to that decision.
We all see IT... The calm before the storm.
 
ADVERTISEMENT

Latest posts

ADVERTISEMENT