OL Situation Next Year

[RF2044]

I am interpreting it as a lack of confidence in the development of our projects at tackle, and a possible wash-out by Ward (self-inflicted).

Ward is a redshirt freshman who hasn't played one snap of collegiate ball, or even had one minute of practice for his first season of eligibility. His weight issues are well chronicled, but it does seem premature to write him off / label him a wash out given the above.

 

[javadoc]

Ward is a redshirt freshman who hasn't played one snap of collegiate ball, or even had one minute of practice for his first season of eligibility. His weight issues are well chronicled, but it does seem premature to write him off / label him a wash out given the above.

IMO, I think they wanted him to be ready to go this year. Look at how hard some kids like Clark and Cullen are working this year before they're even on campus. Given Ward's potential, to have him not putting in the effort has to be very disappointing. If the staff feels they can't wait another year to see if he gets it together by 2016, they may very well go JUCO for that immediate help they originally counted on Ward providing.

Given where our program is right now, I don't have a lot of sympathy for kids who aren't doing their part. Maybe he should talk to Tiller.

 

[RF2044]

IMO, I think they wanted him to be ready to go this year. Look at how hard some kids like Clark and Cullen are working this year before they're even on campus. Given Ward's potential, to have him not putting in the effort has to be very disappointing. If the staff feels they can't wait another year to see if he gets it together by 2016, they may very well go JUCO for that immediate help they originally counted on Ward providing.

Given where our program is right now, I don't have a lot of sympathy for kids who aren't doing their part. Maybe he should talk to Tiller.

Ward has weight issues, which adversely impact his mobility. Not a good "problem" for an OT, and he'll have to show discipline a la Tiller / Wayne Williams to work off the excess weight if he wants to see the field. But again--some perspective is needed. This was a highly rated recruit. He hasn't played one minute of preseason camp yet. Writing him off at this stage--before his first season of game eligbility commences--doesn't make any sense.

The staff should always be looking to upgrade / recruit over the talent on hand, no matter what the circumstances, no matter what the work ethic or level of ability. That doesn't mean that the players on hand should be written off.