Center Matt Lee assesses Texas A&M matchup

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Peter Ariz

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Center Matt Lee, who looks like the backbone of his team's offensive line, took some time to talk about the high points, the areas for improvement, and what fans can expect when his Canes take on #23 ranked Texas A&M.

A Well-Executed Debut​

Reflecting on his team's previous game against Miami (OH), Lee was confident about his unit's performance. "I think from a high point perspective, we ran the offense efficiently," he said. "I think we were physically pushing them around, imposed our will, and imposed our style of play on them for all 60 minutes."
While Lee saw the game as a well-executed debut, he also pointed out the need to continually improve. "We've got to keep pushing to stay in shape and get better every game, every week, every practice," he added.

Run Game Takes Center Stage​

The offensive line was not the only unit that performed admirably. The team's running game also caught Lee's eye. "It was great, really gratifying," he noted. "From a run game standpoint, I thought the five of us and the other tight ends involved did a great job."
Lee knows that the upcoming game against Texas A&M is not going to be a walk in the park. "Texas A&M has a great defensive line, great front seven. We've got to run the ball effectively and execute to win," he said.

Young Talent on Display​

The center also spoke highly of Francis Mauigoa, a true freshman who made his collegiate debut."I thought it was great, really. I mean, he's 18 years old, he's a true freshman, that was his first collegiate football game of his career. Went out, played 61 snaps, played a good game, graded out well. Obviously, you're gonna have bumps here and there, especially his first game, he just got to college, his first game, you know. But immediately after the game and in the meeting room, you know, honestly, he's beating himself up, but he's very much holding himself accountable for every little error that he'll make, which is a great quality that he has. Very self-aware and doesn't think of himself as super high or something, like super humble, which is going to help him develop throughout the season in his career. But I was impressed, I mean, I'm always impressed with Francis, the guy mentally, physically, he's a beast and he's gonna keep getting better all year."

Practice Makes Perfect​

When asked how practicing against his teammates will help in the game against Texas A&M, Lee explained, "Texas A&M does have multiple aspects to their defense. They will get in a four-man front. Three-man odd front, and do some exotic stuff...being able to go against our defense, which runs multiple as well, helps us prepare."

Attention to Detail​

Lee appreciates the importance of preparation, especially when facing a team as formidable as Texas A&M. "They're all impressive, big strong powerful guys. There are no slouches on the Texas A&M defense," he said.

Lee himself is a film junkie, emphasizing the need for preparation. "I like to get in as much as I can," he said. "I like to be as prepared as I can, just because it's going to help everybody else come game time."
 
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I hope he grooms his successor at the position while he’s here, or we’ll have a lapse in continuity. A mindset like his takes time to achieve.
I pray it's Tripp. kid was the ambassador of the class and he just seems to be such a team player. Please let it be him.
 
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