We're two weeks into spring practice - with a break in between - and the team is about to ramp up with full pads. At this point, I'd like to share some big-picture observations about what I'm seeing on Greentree:
- Let's start with the obvious: we won't know what we have until #11 is lining up behind the center. Last year, we had a much better idea because Cam Ward was healthy. This year is a less complete picture.
One thing is clear, though: you can see the layering of blue-chip talent over multiple classes. Body types are better, particularly on the lines. There aren't 5'10 and 6'0 guys running around anymore. It has been a steady progression since 2022 and the results are evident to any regular practice-goer.
- The defensive backfield looks different. In my view, four stand out as NFL-types:
Xavier Lucas,
OJ Frederique,
Ethan O'Conner and
Zechariah Poyser. If we had these guys last year, it would have been a different team. They each have playoff-level length, athleticism and ball skills.
Charles Brantley's size is a liability in certain matchups (see Syracuse last year) but he's an experienced playmaker.
Emmanuel Karnley matches up very well with bigger receivers but needs to be more consistent. Even with those caveats, both of them would have helped us last year.
- Nobody has separated at the quarterback position. Each has clear strengths and weaknesses.
Emory Williams can run the offense when clean but loses effectiveness off platform.
Judd Anderson has the best tools and looks more comfortable in the offense than last year, but he needs to be more consistent.
Luke Nickel is a decisive passer that is still adjusting to the college level. I want to see how he looks with more second and first-team reps.
- The young receivers are progressing.
JoJo Trader shows flashes of WR1 ability as he's added weight.
Ny Carr has made plays.
RayRay Joseph is playing some of his best football and looks quicker.
I continue to be impressed with all three freshmen:
Josh Moore,
Malachi Toney and
Daylyn Upshaw. Each player has a professional approach and distinct skillset. Moore is a massive target, Toney is the high IQ slot, and Upshaw is a smooth all-around player. For comparison, the sophomores and freshmen are further along than the
Jacolby George,
Xavier Restrepo,
Breshard Smith,
Isaiah Horton and
Romello Brinson cohort in 2022. With the return of
CJ Daniels and the addition of at least one proven pass-catcher, I expect this to be a productive group.
- I still think we need to add a tackling machine in the back 7, preferably at linebacker. We have talent there, but nobody who consistently shows up around the ball like
Shaq Quarterman and
Jaquan Johnson did under Manny Diaz.
- The running back group should be one of the better units in the country. I know people are taken aback by my
Elija Lofton praise, but it's a pretty consistent refrain when you talk to coaches and practice-goers. At least one person in the building believes he's the best running back on the team, on top of everything he does as a TE.
- In addition to the names already mentioned, some freshmen that are consistently earning meaningful reps are DE
Hayden Lowe, CB/nickel
CJ Ewald and DT
Donta Simpson.
