I think the drop off was to be expect with so many veterans players leaving, the void that was created was not only with the young players coming in, but the leadership that was trying to take shape was left with a depleted supporting cast.

I expect better preformance from the team in both Fall and Spring ball - the players have a much better handle of what is expected of them now and how hard they have to work.

I know from the OOC games last year, the young players were a little suprised at what they were up against. They were expecting to be run over and smashed by huge players. One of the RBs from last year said he was expecting a team full of Paul Bunyons on the University of Minnesota team. They weren't smashed or run over. The players said the execution was more precise, better routs, better blocking. The owls weren't out muscled, they were out performed. And I am quoting some of the FAU players interviewed after these games. This is what they had to say and they were a bit suprised.

If they remember that and learned from it, we should see a better team. Playing those Big 10 and Big 12 teams showed the Owls what they have to do to be a top team.

illinoisowl said

 They weren't smashed or run over. The players said the execution was more precise, better routs, better blocking. The owls weren't out muscled, they were out performed. And I am quoting some of the FAU players interviewed after these games. This is what they had to say and they were a bit suprised.

Minnesota was also more physical, but you are correct that the players have a much better idea of what they must do to compete at that level of play and reinforces what the coaches are telling the youngs guys. Also when you play team like Minnesota execution become so much more important and when you have one or two players niss thier assigments on the field you are left with broken plays and are left scrambling - execution and preperation are so important. And sometimes the competition is that much better that is just doesn't matter what you do but learn from it.

More younth is on the team this year, but surrounded with a little more experience players, could make the difference this year with those losses being W's this year - I see us having a couple of more wins anyway.

O.G. said

There's talk about another back walking the halls who is looking forward to spring ball. Got his grades up this past season and want to play this year. He's 6'1 220.

O.G. any word on this guy, who ever he is?

Don't have the grades. He's ineligible. There may be a few more suprises about grades this fall. >:(

thats disappointing. I am not looking forward to anymore disappointments (surprises).!!!

ga southern just lost two to grades