I know it is an NCAA quiet period, but has anyone heard anything about Cecchini's second recruiting class?
Rivals had these names:
Tommy Whitted
Winter Park, Florida
Winter Park
6'1" 225 N/A
2 stars
5.2
ATH
William James
Chicago, Illinois
Morgan Park
6'1" 206
WR
Jake Matkovich
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Marquette University
6'5" 175
LB
Denis Mucha
Paramus, New Jersey
Paramus Catholic
6'1" 235
WR
Shaun Rankin
Dublin, Ohio
Coffman
5'9" 155
The FB program had a bunch of recruits in for a visit this weekend. Hopefully they got to the MBB game -- that's a 'seller' with over 4K screaming Valpo fans (and a VU win!)
This past weekend produced 7 commits -- 3 from Florida. See https://twitter.com/valpoufootball
Here is who I have found to date...
http://247sports.com/Player/Josmar-Diaz-Martinez-35934 (http://247sports.com/Player/Josmar-Diaz-Martinez-35934)
http://247sports.com/Player/Danzel-King-52898 (http://247sports.com/Player/Danzel-King-52898)
Someone who searches better might be able to confirm the following who appear to have committed:
AJ Hunt RB FL flipped to West Fla
Alex Ng K FL
Chris Mercer WR MI
John Antkiewicz LB FL
Jay Brower TE MI
Andrew Lundberg OL/DL IL
Jesse Studyvin DL MO
Keegan Stidam DL IN
Brady Sullivan OL WS
Mike Wheeler DB/WR MD
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1351555/highlights/181940376 (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1351555/highlights/181940376)
Latest commit....Jake Pailga a QB from the region!
Nice! The Andrean QB! That's a great find.
Maybe a little undersized,in today's world, and perhaps why he was interested in Valpo. Nonetheless, he appears to be able to make all the throws as well as being a genuine running threat. Now, I'd like to get some of his receivers to come with him!
A few more:
Jake Ievy C IN
Davis Harbin LB FL
Matthew Messler LB NC
Griffin Norberg TE FL
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-andrea-paliga-commits-valpo-st-0131-20150130-story.html (http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-andrea-paliga-commits-valpo-st-0131-20150130-story.html)
Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on January 31, 2015, 08:47:43 AM
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-andrea-paliga-commits-valpo-st-0131-20150130-story.html (http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-andrea-paliga-commits-valpo-st-0131-20150130-story.html)
Sounds like Paliga could be a real game changer (pun intended) for the program. Congrats to the coaching staff!
At this point of the off season, how does the list of Coach C's recruits stack up against last year's group?
Coach Stovall tweeted they had 22 commits earlier today-Monday February 2. Coach Giacalone then tweeted they added another. So, it looks like they have 23 commits to date. Here are a couple recent commits:
Legend Choudhry RB/WR
Ryan Dugan WR
Mikey Roth QB MI
Quote from: valp094 on February 02, 2015, 03:27:37 PM
Coach Stovall tweeted they had 22 commits earlier today-Monday February 2. Coach Giacalone then tweeted they added another. So, it looks like they have 23 commits to date. Here are a couple recent commits:
Legend Choudhry RB/WR
Ryan Dugan WR
Mikey Roth QB MI
Looks like a serious contender at QB:
Mikey Roth '15 QB Early Season Highlights (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXAy7BApKsY#ws)
I did a little research on all three. Legend Choudhry (great name), is a 5'9" running back who will play wide receiver for us. He runs a 4.48 40 and is from Channelview, Texas. Ryan dugan is also 5'10" and comes from Weston, Florida. As for Mickey Roth, he may be great (ala David Macchi) but is only 5'11". Today's QBs are more likely 6'3" or taller
Just a thought:
The photo posted above by wh is a good example of the type of landscaping and brick work that could be done around Brown Field. Many improvements have been done, thanks to the efforts of ml and others, but the landscaping needs attention. I'm a big believer in what my interior-decorator wife would refer to as "the presentation." It makes a difference.
Paul
Love it!!! We can't get past much without dragging facilities into the fray. ;D 78, I have already pestered ML about the fencing from the outset and proposed almost exactly what you see in the background of the tape. He acknowledged that what is there now was just to get the facility quickly fenced in -- get it functioning and then come back and "pretty it up" later -- but there has to be a later.
Regarding the young man (Mikey Roth) in the tape: He looked tough -- took some hits at the release of the ball and still completed the passes, and he runs really well. For D-I, however, he may be converted to something else -- ala Julian Edelman coming out of Kent State to the Pats. Do like his scrambling ability though. Reminds me of Dave Lass (1963 ICC champs QB) in some ways and if he brings back memories of Macchi, that's not too shabby either. Russell Wilson is just a shade over 6'0" isn't he and so is Breeze? Then there is Flutie at 5'10. I love (if he's mine) and hate (if he's yours) QBs who can stretch the field and improvise. Have to hand it to Ben this past year for bringing mobility to the QB position -- it helped us be competitive all season.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 02, 2015, 05:00:41 PMRussell Wilson is just a shade over 6'0" isn't he and so is Breeze?
In an interview this past weekend, Wilson admitted to being 5'11" with his longer hair - that is why he is keeping it longer! Probably just over 5'10". Brees is probably just under 6'0".
Here are 23 names I could find
QB Jake Paliga IN
QB Mikey Roth MI
RB/WR Legend Choudhra TX
WR Keenan Franz IN
WR Chris Mercer MI
WR Ryan Dugan FL
WR Cole Moxie FL
TE Jay Browder MI
TE Griffin Norberg FL
OL Brady Sullivan WI
OL Jake Iery IN
OL/DL Andrew Lundberg IL
OL Shannon Taliaferro IL
DL Jesse Studyvin MO
DL Keegan Stidham IN
LB Matthew Messler NC
LB John Antkiewicz FL
LB Danzel King FL
LB Davis Harbin FL
DB Kyle Dye IL
DB Josmar Diaz FL
DB/WR Mike Wheeler MD
K Alex Ng FL
This looks like a real good group. If we can land some more size up front that would be great. Keegan Franz was considered the top WR in Indiana last season.
Quote from: IndyValpo on February 02, 2015, 09:20:02 PMWR Keegan Franz IN
That's actually Keenan Franz from Bloomington South.
Quote from: IndyValpo on February 02, 2015, 09:20:02 PMOL Brady Sullivan WS
Is Brady Sullivan from Wisconsin, which would be WI, or from the state of Washington, which would be WA?
Quote from: historyman on February 02, 2015, 11:51:31 PM
Quote from: IndyValpo on February 02, 2015, 09:20:02 PMWR Keegan Franz IN
That's actually Keenan Franz from Bloomington South.
Quote from: IndyValpo on February 02, 2015, 09:20:02 PMOL Brady Sullivan WS
Is Brady Sullivan from Wisconsin, which would be WI, or from the state of Washington, which would be WA?
Thanks, I updated the list which may have many similar errors. I typed these in last night while watching my favorite comedy TV show The Bachelor.
VU FB Twitter site hints at 27 signees (so far) and the names will be released tomorrow or Thursday. Last year they did a page by page Twitter reveal. It will be interesting to see how they do it this year.
Vincent Giacalone retweeted
Valpo Football @valpoufootball · 36m 36 minutes ago
Tomorrow beginning at Noon CST, and every 10 min thereafter, we will introduce a member of our #NSD2015 class to the public. #ATTITUDE
New member here! How many more recruits are needed to complete the 2015 class? Looks like 2 or 3 additional RBs would be a good idea?
;)
I thought I'd place this here: the 2015 football schedule has been released: http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/schedule/2015-16/#.VNDkjNLF-yU (http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/schedule/2015-16/#.VNDkjNLF-yU)
Welcome aboard, Oghbeicae9. Are you, per chance, related to OB1Canobie? ;)
Some history:
Under the previous regime (that went 3 and 41), the recruiting classes averaged around 30. Last year, Cecchini's staff, understandably, got a late start and signed around 20 and then lost a few between signing and the start of camp. This year their goals are a larger class and retain a greater percentage by preseason camp. The obvious turn around that occurred in 2014 should help the staff achieve those recruiting goals, not to mention make Valpo more attractive to more talented players than in the past.
Quote from: valpopal on February 03, 2015, 09:19:01 AM
I thought I'd place this here: the 2015 football schedule has been released: http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/schedule/2015-16/#.VNDkjNLF-yU (http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/schedule/2015-16/#.VNDkjNLF-yU)
We open a week later than in the past with 11 games and no bye weeks to lick wounds. We start with 2 FCS scholarship schools, then College of Faith (Arkansas). Their web site says that 2015 is their inaugural season and they play all but two games on the road. Their link: http://www.gofaithwarriors.com/football.html (http://www.gofaithwarriors.com/football.html)
After COF we go straight into the PFL schedule. We've dropped Mercer and Marist and picked up the two Florida schools.
not that this is really an issue with us. just putting this here as it is the best thing to come out of IU since Isiah Thomas:
[tweet]562607779089637376[/tweet]
The schedule is interesting. Sacred Heart won their conference and finished ranked in both polls (24th and 25th)
Regarding the 2015 schedule, it looks like there is a bye on 10/31, right before the Butler game. That works out nicely.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 03, 2015, 09:20:22 AM
Welcome aboard, Oghbeicae9. Are you, per chance, related to OB1Canobie? ;)
Some history:
Under the previous regime (that went 3 and 41), the recruiting classes averaged around 30. Last year, Cecchini's staff, understandably, got a late start and signed around 20 and then lost a few between signing and the start of camp. This year their goals are a larger class and retain a greater percentage by preseason camp. The obvious turn around that occurred in 2014 should help the staff achieve those recruiting goals, not to mention make Valpo more attractive to more talented players than in the past.
Just doing some research on the recruits listed, this is a high quality class. Lots of athletes. Lots of speed. Lots of kids who were flirting with D1-FCS offers.
Looks like we will be playing San Diego State during Homecoming
Quote from: crusader05 on February 03, 2015, 10:09:37 AM
Looks like we will be playing San Diego State during Homecoming
[/b]
I sure hope it's University of San Diego, NOT San Diego State!! :o
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 03, 2015, 09:20:22 AMWelcome aboard, Oghbeicae9. Are you, per chance, related to OB1Canobie? ;) Some history: Under the previous regime (that went 3 and 41), the recruiting classes averaged around 30. Last year, Cecchini's staff, understandably, got a late start and signed around 20 and then lost a few between signing and the start of camp. This year their goals are a larger class and retain a greater percentage by preseason camp. The obvious turn around that occurred in 2014 should help the staff achieve those recruiting goals, not to mention make Valpo more attractive to more talented players than in the past.
Thanks for the hearty welcome, VULB! I'm not related to OB1Canobie but I sure do like his user name!
Excuse my ignorance as a casual Crusaders fan, but could you please explain the PFL's "Non-Scholarship" policy? Does that mean all players are "Walk Ons" since no financial aid is provided? Are the players required to fund their own ride, either through family contributions or loans/grants? Isn't that policy a recruiting disadvantage since almost every other FBS/FCS conference offers scholarship money?
Quote from: Oghbeicae9 on February 03, 2015, 11:32:31 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 03, 2015, 09:20:22 AMWelcome aboard, Oghbeicae9. Are you, per chance, related to OB1Canobie? ;) Some history: Under the previous regime (that went 3 and 41), the recruiting classes averaged around 30. Last year, Cecchini's staff, understandably, got a late start and signed around 20 and then lost a few between signing and the start of camp. This year their goals are a larger class and retain a greater percentage by preseason camp. The obvious turn around that occurred in 2014 should help the staff achieve those recruiting goals, not to mention make Valpo more attractive to more talented players than in the past.
Thanks for the hearty welcome, VULB! I'm not related to OB1Canobie but I sure do like his user name!
Excuse my ignorance as a casual Crusaders fan, but could you please explain the PFL's "Non-Scholarship" policy? Does that mean all players are "Walk Ons" since no financial aid is provided? Are the players required to fund their own ride, either through family contributions or loans/grants? Isn't that policy a recruiting disadvantage since almost every other FBS/FCS conference offers scholarship money?
Let me give this a try. The PFL is non-ATHLETIC scholarship, in the same way the Ivy League is non-ATHLETIC scholarship. That doesn't mean the players are paying their own way--completely, but rather that they are in line with other students applying for scholarships, academic or need based. Remember that something like 93% of Valpo students receive grants.
Quote from: vu72 on February 03, 2015, 11:53:53 AMLet me give this a try. The PFL is non-ATHLETIC scholarship, in the same way the Ivy League is non-ATHLETIC scholarship. That doesn't mean the players are paying their own way--completely, but rather that they are in line with other students applying for scholarships, academic or need based. Remember that something like 93% of Valpo students receive grants.
And, to avoid getting into trouble like Jacksonville, the aid received must be "blind" to athletic ability. The aid given is based on: (a) financial need; and/or (b) academic prowess. Jacksonville had to forfeit their season and league championship this year because the aid provided football players was tied to their ability--at least that was the allegation that resulted in the institution forfeiting their games and the conference championship.
So, in the PFL, if your program follows the rules, you wind up with a football team chock full of kids who are hard working students that, in all likelihood, said no to scholarship opportunities at lesser academic institutions in favor of investing in an education at more academically prestigious universities. These are kids you want to root for.
Quote from: valp094 on February 03, 2015, 12:17:38 PM
Quote from: vu72 on February 03, 2015, 11:53:53 AMLet me give this a try. The PFL is non-ATHLETIC scholarship, in the same way the Ivy League is non-ATHLETIC scholarship. That doesn't mean the players are paying their own way--completely, but rather that they are in line with other students applying for scholarships, academic or need based. Remember that something like 93% of Valpo students receive grants.
And, to avoid getting into trouble like Jacksonville, the aid received must be "blind" to athletic ability. The aid given is based on: (a) financial need; and/or (b) academic prowess. Jacksonville had to forfeit their season and league championship this year because the aid provided football players was tied to their ability--at least that was the allegation that resulted in the institution forfeiting their games and the conference championship.
So, in the PFL, if your program follows the rules, you wind up with a football team chock full of kids who are hard working students that, in all likelihood, said no to scholarship opportunities at lesser academic institutions in favor of investing in an education at more academically prestigious universities. These are kids you want to root for.
These are some of the reasons that you'll see more engineers and tough majors listed on the roster than in most schools. It's a great combination that allows good students, who know that life after football requires a great education, to play a sport because they love the game, not because they have to because they are on a cancelable FB scholarship. There are a number of kids who could have gone to D-II and NAIA schools on FB scholarships who have instead enrolled at Valpo accepting need-based financial aid.
Coach Dave Cecchini came to us from Lehigh, a Patriot League member that formerly was a need-based league (and have recently transitioned to FB scholarship). He's experienced in recruiting the kind of kid who will thrive in a Valpo (i.e., PFL) setting.
Quote from: valp094 on February 03, 2015, 12:17:38 PMQuote from: vu72 on February 03, 2015, 11:53:53 AMLet me give this a try. The PFL is non-ATHLETIC scholarship, in the same way the Ivy League is non-ATHLETIC scholarship. That doesn't mean the players are paying their own way--completely, but rather that they are in line with other students applying for scholarships, academic or need based. Remember that something like 93% of Valpo students receive grants.
And, to avoid getting into trouble like Jacksonville, the aid received must be "blind" to athletic ability. The aid given is based on: (a) financial need; and/or (b) academic prowess. Jacksonville had to forfeit their season and league championship this year because the aid provided football players was tied to their ability--at least that was the allegation that resulted in the institution forfeiting their games and the conference championship. So, in the PFL, if your program follows the rules, you wind up with a football team chock full of kids who are hard working students that, in all likelihood, said no to scholarship opportunities at lesser academic institutions in favor of investing in an education at more academically prestigious universities. These are kids you want to root for.
Now I understand! Thank you, valp094 and vu72! Where can I buy season tickets? For the first time in a long time, Crusader fans have another sports team to be proud of. 2014 was just the beginning of an exciting, remarkable transformation. VU will rule the PFL!
"Now I understand! Thank you, valp094 and vu72! Where can I buy season tickets? For the first time in a long time, Crusader fans have another sports team to be proud of. 2014 was just the beginning of an exciting, remarkable transformation. VU will rule the PFL!"
Regarding your question about buying season tix, I've just purchased them at the stadium ticket office right before entering the game.
Quote from: Oghbeicae9 on February 03, 2015, 12:39:06 PM
Quote from: valp094 on February 03, 2015, 12:17:38 PMQuote from: vu72 on February 03, 2015, 11:53:53 AMLet me give this a try. The PFL is non-ATHLETIC scholarship, in the same way the Ivy League is non-ATHLETIC scholarship. That doesn't mean the players are paying their own way--completely, but rather that they are in line with other students applying for scholarships, academic or need based. Remember that something like 93% of Valpo students receive grants.
And, to avoid getting into trouble like Jacksonville, the aid received must be "blind" to athletic ability. The aid given is based on: (a) financial need; and/or (b) academic prowess. Jacksonville had to forfeit their season and league championship this year because the aid provided football players was tied to their ability--at least that was the allegation that resulted in the institution forfeiting their games and the conference championship. So, in the PFL, if your program follows the rules, you wind up with a football team chock full of kids who are hard working students that, in all likelihood, said no to scholarship opportunities at lesser academic institutions in favor of investing in an education at more academically prestigious universities. These are kids you want to root for.
Now I understand! Thank you, valp094 and vu72! Where can I buy season tickets? For the first time in a long time, Crusader fans have another sports team to be proud of. 2014 was just the beginning of an exciting, remarkable transformation. VU will rule the PFL!
I would argue that volleyball, both soccer teams, baseball and softball have all been reasons to be proud of Crusader athletics as they've all be at the top or near the top of the Horizon League in the past 5 years, but it nice to have an improving Football team.
Quote from: Kyle321n on February 03, 2015, 01:00:40 PM
Quote from: Oghbeicae9 on February 03, 2015, 12:39:06 PM
Quote from: valp094 on February 03, 2015, 12:17:38 PMQuote from: vu72 on February 03, 2015, 11:53:53 AMLet me give this a try. The PFL is non-ATHLETIC scholarship, in the same way the Ivy League is non-ATHLETIC scholarship. That doesn't mean the players are paying their own way--completely, but rather that they are in line with other students applying for scholarships, academic or need based. Remember that something like 93% of Valpo students receive grants.
And, to avoid getting into trouble like Jacksonville, the aid received must be "blind" to athletic ability. The aid given is based on: (a) financial need; and/or (b) academic prowess. Jacksonville had to forfeit their season and league championship this year because the aid provided football players was tied to their ability--at least that was the allegation that resulted in the institution forfeiting their games and the conference championship. So, in the PFL, if your program follows the rules, you wind up with a football team chock full of kids who are hard working students that, in all likelihood, said no to scholarship opportunities at lesser academic institutions in favor of investing in an education at more academically prestigious universities. These are kids you want to root for.
Now I understand! Thank you, valp094 and vu72! Where can I buy season tickets? For the first time in a long time, Crusader fans have another sports team to be proud of. 2014 was just the beginning of an exciting, remarkable transformation. VU will rule the PFL!
I would argue that volleyball, both soccer teams, baseball and softball have all been reasons to be proud of Crusader athletics as they've all be at the top or near the top of the Horizon League in the past 5 years, but it nice to have an improving Football team.
[/b]
In addition to men's golf (NCAA tourney 2012-2013), Bowling (NCAA tourney 2011-2012) and men's tennis currently playing with a top 50 doubles team nationally)
Quote from: Kyle321n on February 03, 2015, 01:00:40 PMQuote from: Oghbeicae9Now I understand! Thank you, valp094 and vu72! Where can I buy season tickets? For the first time in a long time, Crusader fans have another sports team to be proud of. 2014 was just the beginning of an exciting, remarkable transformation. VU will rule the PFL!
I would argue that volleyball, both soccer teams, baseball and softball have all been reasons to be proud of Crusader athletics as they've all be at the top or near the top of the Horizon League in the past 5 years, but it nice to have an improving Football team.
What I should have written is, "have yet another sports team to be proud of". Actually, I'm sure most of us were proud of the players during our less-than-stellar football years. Winning league championships, of course, always makes pride a bit more meaningful ... and contagious.
Trying to dig in a bit with the recruits listed as "committed" to see what we can learn about them. I'm at work, so don't have a ton of time. But, these QBs (the first two recruits on the list) look legit.
Couldn't find much on Paliga through the national recruiting services, probably because he was behind a stud QB until his senior year, but took his team to the state championship in 3A. Has playstation-like stats. Local kid who went under the recruiting radar vs. his true abilities due to depth at his position, I believe. A great pick up. Commitment article: http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-andrea-paliga-commits-valpo-st-0131-20150130-story.html (http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-andrea-paliga-commits-valpo-st-0131-20150130-story.html) Season highlights: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1351555/jake-paliga (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1351555/jake-paliga)
As for Roth, he was a three year starter for a MI powerhouse program (6 state championships since 2000 in the equivalent of 4A) and is athletic: senior highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/359437/highlights/185793375) Looks to have received a good bit of high-D1 interest -scout.com articles (http://www.scout.com/player/6646142n-mikey-roth) and caught the eye of one national recruiting analyst-Tom Lemming-who ranked him a 4 star.
From the past two years, it looks like the coaching staff likes to take two QBs with contrasting styles: a bigger pocket passer (Paliga, Clarke) and a mobile dual threat (Roth, Stokes).
College of Faith (Arkansas) Inaugural Football Season for the warriors
2015 GAME SCHEDULE
August 29, 2015 Open
September 5, 2015 McKendree University
September 12, 2015 @Louisiana College
September 19, 2015 @Valparaiso University
September 26, 2015 @Kentucky Wesleyan University
October 3, 2015 @Houston Baptist University
October 10, 2015 @Missouri S & T
October 17, 2015 @COF Charlotte
October 24, 2015 Open
October 31, 2015 @Texas Southern University
November 7, 2015 University of North Carolina- Pemproke
November 14, 2015 Open
November 21, 2015 @University of Faith (FL)
November 28, 2015 Open
ASCAA National Championship TBA
Crusaders, this is my maiden post on your board as I became a Valpo fan over the weekend with Davis Harbin's commitment.
I am a (overly) proud family member but you guys just got a first class young man. His is a wonderful story that bears sharing.
His dad played hoops at Stetson in the late 80's. His grandfather played (late 50's) and was an assistant hoops coach (early 60's) at Stetson so I assumed it was fait accompli that he would go to Stetson. His dad was a CPA and SVP of Public Systems for HTE Sungard and on the fast track to a bigtime CEO job here in central FL. Unfortunately, he contracted a rare form of legionnaires disease and went from perfectly healthy to dead in the space of 3 days at the age of 41 in fall of 2008. Davis was in many ways a "mini me" of his dad. They did everything together... Magic games, UF football, playing hoops and golf, you name it... tight as thieves.
Davis had every excuse to quit achieving academically, to withdraw, to lose his behavioral discipline but instead never waivered, dedicated himself and busted his tail in the classroom, turned into a weight room rat, and became a leader in his household and an exceptional young man who is a fan favorite at Orangewood. There is not any situation that college football or classwork can present him that will be any tougher than what he has already gone through. He is mature way beyond his years, just like his dad and granddad were, and solid in every way. He's tougher than boot leather on the field and a true gentleman off it... a winner in every conceivable way.
If you guys can recruit 24 other kids like him in this class you will be well on your way to establishing a winning program both on the field and off.
Congratulations to y'all for getting such a fine young man and to davis for the next step in his life!!!
Sounds like a solid young man and the Valpo family (football and everything else) will be a place that he will enjoy and in which he will find academic challenge. If you go back through board FB postings you'll see a generally positive and supportive network for our kids among posters. And our board is one of the more active ones you'll find. Davis is coming into an atmosphere that strives for excellence at many levels and athletics is one of them (but in the context of a well rounded education). Looking forward to tomorrow's announcement.
Quote from: Chief Humping Dog on February 03, 2015, 03:04:52 PM
Crusaders, this is my maiden post on your board as I became a Valpo fan over the weekend with Davis Harbin's commitment.
I am a (overly) proud family member but you guys just got a first class young man. His is a wonderful story that bears sharing.
His dad played hoops at Stetson in the late 80's. His grandfather played (late 50's) and was an assistant hoops coach (early 60's) at Stetson so I assumed it was fait accompli that he would go to Stetson. His dad was a CPA and SVP of Public Systems for HTE Sungard and on the fast track to a bigtime CEO job here in central FL. Unfortunately, he contracted a rare form of legionnaires disease and went from perfectly healthy to dead in the space of 3 days at the age of 41 in fall of 2008. Davis was in many ways a "mini me" of his dad. They did everything together... Magic games, UF football, playing hoops and golf, you name it... tight as thieves.
Davis had every excuse to quit achieving academically, to withdraw, to lose his behavioral discipline but instead never waivered, dedicated himself and busted his tail in the classroom, turned into a weight room rat, and became a leader in his household and an exceptional young man who is a fan favorite at Orangewood. There is not any situation that college football or classwork can present him that will be any tougher than what he has already gone through. He is mature way beyond his years, just like his dad and granddad were, and solid in every way. He's tougher than boot leather on the field and a true gentleman off it... a winner in every conceivable way.
If you guys can recruit 24 other kids like him in this class you will be well on your way to establishing a winning program both on the field and off.
Congratulations to y'all for getting such a fine young man and to davis for the next step in his life!!!
Thank you for posting and welcome! Can you tell us a bit about why he chose Valpo? The coach? The academics? Did he have injuries that may have kept him back from a higher level? Valpo has attracted great kids from all over the US. I'm sure Davis will be glad he made this decision.
Quote from: Chief Humping Dog on February 03, 2015, 03:04:52 PM
Crusaders, this is my maiden post on your board as I became a Valpo fan over the weekend with Davis Harbin's commitment.
I am a (overly) proud family member but you guys just got a first class young man. His is a wonderful story that bears sharing.
His dad played hoops at Stetson in the late 80's. His grandfather played (late 50's) and was an assistant hoops coach (early 60's) at Stetson so I assumed it was fait accompli that he would go to Stetson. His dad was a CPA and SVP of Public Systems for HTE Sungard and on the fast track to a bigtime CEO job here in central FL. Unfortunately, he contracted a rare form of legionnaires disease and went from perfectly healthy to dead in the space of 3 days at the age of 41 in fall of 2008. Davis was in many ways a "mini me" of his dad. They did everything together... Magic games, UF football, playing hoops and golf, you name it... tight as thieves.
Davis had every excuse to quit achieving academically, to withdraw, to lose his behavioral discipline but instead never waivered, dedicated himself and busted his tail in the classroom, turned into a weight room rat, and became a leader in his household and an exceptional young man who is a fan favorite at Orangewood. There is not any situation that college football or classwork can present him that will be any tougher than what he has already gone through. He is mature way beyond his years, just like his dad and granddad were, and solid in every way. He's tougher than boot leather on the field and a true gentleman off it... a winner in every conceivable way.
If you guys can recruit 24 other kids like him in this class you will be well on your way to establishing a winning program both on the field and off.
Congratulations to y'all for getting such a fine young man and to davis for the next step in his life!!!
Welcome to the board! We look forward to watching Davis in the near future!
BTW, we've had a bunch of FLA players come to Valpo over the past 5 years (despite the snow and the cold -- geez, what were they thinking?) and, even when we weren't winning, the kids and their parents cited what a great educational and social experience it was. I can't quote exact statistics, but they also graduated.
...
Quote from: Oghbeicae9 on February 03, 2015, 08:57:40 AM
New member here! How many more recruits are needed to complete the 2015 class? Looks like 2 or 3 additional RBs would be a good idea?
;)
Not sure how many total recruits there will be. As far as running backs there are three upperclassman coming back that had major roles in the offense last year.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 03, 2015, 09:20:22 AMWelcome aboard, Oghbeicae9. Are you, per chance, related to OB1Canobie?
If Oghbeicae9 said no, he was from St Joe, in division one.
I would say R2 -- D-II. ;D
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/39/R2-D2_Droid.png)
Interesting article on what big public colleges spend on football recruiting (and the cost per win).
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2015/02/03/college-football-recruiting-signing-day-sec-power-conferences/22813887/ (http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2015/02/03/college-football-recruiting-signing-day-sec-power-conferences/22813887/)
I wonder how we match up heh, heh, heh. :rotfl:
Hint: Tennessee spent $1.2 million
Quote from: valpopal on February 03, 2015, 09:19:01 AM
I thought I'd place this here: the 2015 football schedule has been released: http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/schedule/2015-16/#.VNDkjNLF-yU (http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/schedule/2015-16/#.VNDkjNLF-yU)
God forbid we lose to College of Faith. That must be the Homecoming game. Correct?
I thought that the 2014 season was the first for College of Faith football? I remember seeing them lose by 70 or so every game, including against some of our opponents.
Apparently they have multiple campuses with recent football programs:
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/08/29/5138201/college-of-faith-hoping-to-extend.html#.VNHJt3lgOUk (http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/08/29/5138201/college-of-faith-hoping-to-extend.html#.VNHJt3lgOUk)
Quote from: bbtds on February 04, 2015, 12:39:37 AMGod forbid we lose to College of Faith
There's nothing worse than losing your Faith.
This should be their 3rd year...Ave Maria blew them out down here in 2013, 52-0...and we are just NAIA-II, I think.
http://www.avemariagyrenes.com/news/2013/10/19/FB_1019135250.aspx (http://www.avemariagyrenes.com/news/2013/10/19/FB_1019135250.aspx)
First time AMU ever pitched a shutout. 13 yards of total offense for CoF...
Quote from: bbtds on February 04, 2015, 12:39:37 AM
Quote from: valpopal on February 03, 2015, 09:19:01 AM
I thought I'd place this here: the 2015 football schedule has been released: http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/schedule/2015-16/#.VNDkjNLF-yU (http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/schedule/2015-16/#.VNDkjNLF-yU)
God forbid we lose to College of Faith. That must be the Homecoming game. Correct?
San Diego is our Homecoming game.
Quote from: valpotx on February 04, 2015, 01:21:14 AM
I thought that the 2014 season was the first for College of Faith football? I remember seeing them lose by 70 or so every game, including against some of our opponents.
Apparently they have multiple campuses with recent football programs:
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/08/29/5138201/college-of-faith-hoping-to-extend.html#.VNHJt3lgOUk (http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/08/29/5138201/college-of-faith-hoping-to-extend.html#.VNHJt3lgOUk)
To my knowledge there are three "__X__ of Faith" institutions. Last year the COF in Charlotte began their FB program and got hammered by a couple of PFL teams. There is a University of Faith someplace in Florida and now the COF - Arkansas is starting up. After hard games against EKU and SHU, this
should be similar to a scrimmage for VU and a chance to get more players onto the field, rest injured players, etc. etc. before we open up the PFL season.
Quote from: vumsb on February 04, 2015, 09:06:32 AMSan Diego is our Homecoming game.
i think he was joking based on the poor quality of opponent. obviously homecoming would be a conference game, although a cupcake would be nicer!
Just a reminder to those following the coaches' tweets today, you can embed them in posts here (please!) by simply doing this:
[ t w e e t ] INSERT THE LONG NUMBER AT THE END OF THE TWEET AFTER THE SLASH HERE [ / t w e e t ]
obviously without the spaces :)
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2015, 10:10:05 AMTo my knowledge there are three "__X__ of Faith" institutions.
well, i heard that VU is welcoming to many different Faiths
Quote from: bbtds on February 04, 2015, 12:39:37 AMGod forbid we lose to College of Faith. That must be the Homecoming game. Correct?
Have you no faith?!!?
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 03, 2015, 09:33:51 AMWe open a week later than in the past with 11 games and no bye weeks to lick wounds.
We have one bye week - All Hallows' Eve.
Team doesn't really need RBs other than for depth or down the road with Hall, Bastin and Hutson all returning. Jarrett Morgan was a back in HS as well, I believe and he may line up all over the place as I'm not sure he's a pure receiver.
Offensively, the upcoming season will be a challenge for Coach C and Coach Miran. Ryan Clarke would seem to be the choice at QB but he only played in mopup duty. The returning QB who played didn't play well and Stokes was redshirted. They did a great job with Lehman last year through the course of the season despite some limitations with the player but they are still dealing with a ton of inexperience at the position. In addition, there's a rumor of a potential eligible transfer who may be a choice.
WRs have three 2nd year players (1 RS soph and 2 sophs if you count Morgan) after graduating virtually everyone else who was on the roster at the end of the year. There is also one upper classman in Etzler who didn't see a lot of action. It appears they are bringing in a number of WRs but, as with all Valpo commits, sometimes they don't always make it to camp and the offense does not usually allow for players hitting the field right away. In addition, there were a number of WRs who were signed for 2013 of which 1 remains for a variety of reasons. Right now the numbers don't work here. The 3 guys who played were slots last year and the offense is geared towards at least one outside position. So either a new guy is playing or at least one of the 3 is moving outside. TEs are not really receiving threats. So filling the WR position is important for the offense.
I think the defense will be very solid and may drive the results of the season which appears to provide a pretty tough schedule.
Great post VU2624..... I don't remember his name but I heard from many of the returning players that the transfer QB that was redshirted last year is REALLY good and was a scholarship player at another university before coming to Valpo. I think he's smaller than Ryan but has a cannon of an arm. I also think if Ryan doesn't start next year he may move to TE or another position because he's a very versatile and talented athlete.
Quote from: valpochgo on February 04, 2015, 01:56:33 PM
Great post VU2624..... I don't remember his name but I heard from many of the returning players that the transfer QB that was redshirted last year is REALLY good and was a scholarship player at another university before coming to Valpo. I think he's smaller than Ryan but has a cannon of an arm. I also think if Ryan doesn't start next year he may move to TE or another position because he's a very versatile and talented athlete.
If he's still around, he's not with the team from what I've been able to scrum together. I think they've recruited at least 2 QBs in this new class as well which would put 5 on the roster without the mystery man.
Day One apparently in the books. 28 kids including 7 wide receivers, 4 defensive backs, 3 defensive linemen, 3 offensive linemen, 4 linebackers, 2 tight ends, 2 quarterbacks, 1 h-back, 1 kicker and 1 running back. The come from 8 states, including 8 from Florida, 6 from Illinois, 4 from Indiana, 3 from Michigan, 2 from Texas, 3 from Missouri and one each from North Carolina and California.
I attended Davis Harbin's signing ceremony today at Orangewood.
I asked him why Valpo and his reply was, "It just felt right. When I left I knew I wanted to go back." He said he has to report on 8/1 and that the staff had already told him what was required for his fitness test on the first day of practice... 22x80 yard sprints.
Best of luck to all of you and Davis too. Again, I really proud of him and y'all have a fine young man joining your program/family.
Today was a great day. 8-)
From the kids' Twitter chatter I see a lot of "I am blessed". We are doing OK. These kids will work their tails off to contribute.
But man, I'd really like to see a few more 280 lb + guys.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2015, 05:59:19 PM
From the kids' Twitter chatter I see a lot of "I am blested". We are doing OK. These kids will work their tails off to contribute.
But man, I'd really like to see a few more 280 lb + guys.
Agree 100%. Need more big linemen. To win a championship you have to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
The recruiting class got some real positive press coverage:
http://www.nwitimes.com/high-school/andrean/jim-peters-paliga-s-choice-could-open-region-roads-to/article_b333c854-c6d0-50fb-b6dc-43e5bfe857a8.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/high-school/andrean/jim-peters-paliga-s-choice-could-open-region-roads-to/article_b333c854-c6d0-50fb-b6dc-43e5bfe857a8.html)
and
http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/cecchini-hopes-vu-football-recruiting-class-builds-on-program-s/article_7875d138-dc1f-530c-9438-11ea7b1839a6.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/cecchini-hopes-vu-football-recruiting-class-builds-on-program-s/article_7875d138-dc1f-530c-9438-11ea7b1839a6.html)
And Paul Oren tweeted that he was enjoying the way this staff handles signing day. Gary Puetz also tweeted support. From the article it looks like there are another 6-10 players who may join the class after the weekend. Size might be addressed in that bunch.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2015, 05:59:19 PM
From the kids' Twitter chatter I see a lot of "I am blessed". We are doing OK. These kids will work their tails off to contribute.
But man, I'd really like to see a few more 280 lb + guys.
Of the players signed yesterday, the biggest OL or DL kids are 6'6" 260#, 6'4" 260#, 6'2" 260#, and 6'4" 245#. I suspect the coaches will want to add 20# of muscle as these kids mature.
I do like some of the size at WR and LB. Wideouts include 6'2" 205#, 6'1" 200#, 6'2" 180#, and 6'1" 200#. At linebacker we added 6' 218#, 6'2" 220#, 6'1" 215#, and 6' 215#.
Quote from: vu72 on February 05, 2015, 09:47:00 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2015, 05:59:19 PM
From the kids' Twitter chatter I see a lot of "I am blessed". We are doing OK. These kids will work their tails off to contribute.
But man, I'd really like to see a few more 280 lb + guys.
Of the players signed yesterday, the biggest OL or DL kids are 6'6" 260#, 6'4" 260#, 6'2" 260#, and 6'4" 245#. I suspect the coaches will want to add 20# of muscle as these kids mature.
I do like some of the size at WR and LB. Wideouts include 6'2" 205#, 6'1" 200#, 6'2" 180#, and 6'1" 200#. At linebacker we added 6' 218#, 6'2" 220#, 6'1" 215#, and 6' 215#.
To compete in the future with some PFL, the trenches need to be beefed up. Hopefully there are still some signings out there for the OL/DL. The defensive scheme they use requires some pretty good athletes at LBer to give them some flexibility in terms of coverage and getting after the QB. They like to mix it up. Couple of these guys fit that mold. Most WRs who come in can catch and HS stats can be misleading because there is so much separation in HS. Once that space disappears and they have blocking assignments some of these guys disappear. I looked at some of the highlights for this group and thought it was the slot guys who were more impressive and that includes over the guy who seems to be getting the most attention out of this group. Between the choice of QB, who is almost assuredly going to be what amounts to a first year player and a WR group which includes 2 or 3 second year players and a bunch of freshmen, it will be interesting to see if the offense moves to a more ground oriented attack considering the experience at RB.
Quote from: VU2624 on February 06, 2015, 08:28:56 AM
Quote from: vu72 on February 05, 2015, 09:47:00 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2015, 05:59:19 PM
From the kids' Twitter chatter I see a lot of "I am blessed". We are doing OK. These kids will work their tails off to contribute.
But man, I'd really like to see a few more 280 lb + guys.
Of the players signed yesterday, the biggest OL or DL kids are 6'6" 260#, 6'4" 260#, 6'2" 260#, and 6'4" 245#. I suspect the coaches will want to add 20# of muscle as these kids mature.
I do like some of the size at WR and LB. Wideouts include 6'2" 205#, 6'1" 200#, 6'2" 180#, and 6'1" 200#. At linebacker we added 6' 218#, 6'2" 220#, 6'1" 215#, and 6' 215#.
To compete in the future with some PFL, the trenches need to be beefed up. Hopefully there are still some signings out there for the OL/DL. The defensive scheme they use requires some pretty good athletes at LBer to give them some flexibility in terms of coverage and getting after the QB. They like to mix it up. Couple of these guys fit that mold. Most WRs who come in can catch and HS stats can be misleading because there is so much separation in HS. Once that space disappears and they have blocking assignments some of these guys disappear. I looked at some of the highlights for this group and thought it was the slot guys who were more impressive and that includes over the guy who seems to be getting the most attention out of this group. Between the choice of QB, who is almost assuredly going to be what amounts to a first year player and a WR group which includes 2 or 3 second year players and a bunch of freshmen, it will be interesting to see if the offense moves to a more ground oriented attack considering the experience at RB.
One of the WRs was very highly regarded coming out of Bloomington South in Indiana. Keenan Franz, 6'2" 180#, was voted Mr. Football (not THE Mr. Football) at Wide Receiver. Apparently in Indiana they give the award out by position as well as overall. To be voted the top receiver in the state says a lot.
Quote from: vu72 on February 06, 2015, 09:23:39 AMOne of the WRs was very highly regarded coming out of Bloomington South in Indiana. Keenan Franz, 6'2" 180#, was voted Mr. Football (not THE Mr. Football) at Wide Receiver. Apparently in Indiana they give the award out by position as well as overall. To be voted the top receiver in the state says a lot.
I thought I recognized that name. He has won some high school awards that is for sure.
(http://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/heraldtimesonline.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/f7/bf77a8ee-1013-5405-9bae-7a0083c42929/523f9d37c0c47.image.jpg)
Excellent article by Jim Peters about Paliga's choice to commit with Valparaiso: http://www.nwitimes.com/high-school/andrean/jim-peters-paliga-s-choice-could-open-region-roads-to/article_b333c854-c6d0-50fb-b6dc-43e5bfe857a8.html#utm_source=nwitimes&utm_campaign=index-list-2&utm_medium=direct&utm_label=autoshow (http://www.nwitimes.com/high-school/andrean/jim-peters-paliga-s-choice-could-open-region-roads-to/article_b333c854-c6d0-50fb-b6dc-43e5bfe857a8.html#utm_source=nwitimes&utm_campaign=index-list-2&utm_medium=direct&utm_label=autoshow)
...and here is Peters writing about the incoming class: http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/cecchini-hopes-vu-football-recruiting-class-builds-on-program-s/article_7875d138-dc1f-530c-9438-11ea7b1839a6.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/cecchini-hopes-vu-football-recruiting-class-builds-on-program-s/article_7875d138-dc1f-530c-9438-11ea7b1839a6.html)
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 05, 2015, 09:21:11 AM
The recruiting class got some real positive press coverage:
http://www.nwitimes.com/high-school/andrean/jim-peters-paliga-s-choice-could-open-region-roads-to/article_b333c854-c6d0-50fb-b6dc-43e5bfe857a8.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/high-school/andrean/jim-peters-paliga-s-choice-could-open-region-roads-to/article_b333c854-c6d0-50fb-b6dc-43e5bfe857a8.html)
and
http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/cecchini-hopes-vu-football-recruiting-class-builds-on-program-s/article_7875d138-dc1f-530c-9438-11ea7b1839a6.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/cecchini-hopes-vu-football-recruiting-class-builds-on-program-s/article_7875d138-dc1f-530c-9438-11ea7b1839a6.html)
And Paul Oren tweeted that he was enjoying the way this staff handles signing day. Gary Puetz also tweeted support. From the article it looks like there are another 6-10 players who may join the class after the weekend. Size might be addressed in that bunch.
Quote from: bbtds on February 06, 2015, 10:29:28 AM
Quote from: vu72 on February 06, 2015, 09:23:39 AMOne of the WRs was very highly regarded coming out of Bloomington South in Indiana. Keenan Franz, 6'2" 180#, was voted Mr. Football (not THE Mr. Football) at Wide Receiver. Apparently in Indiana they give the award out by position as well as overall. To be voted the top receiver in the state says a lot.
I thought I recognized that name. He has won some high school awards that is for sure.
(http://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/heraldtimesonline.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/f7/bf77a8ee-1013-5405-9bae-7a0083c42929/523f9d37c0c47.image.jpg)
These articles and signings are very positive for Valpo football. Congrats to Coach C and his staff. A Region and state pipeline would be very nice.
Look forward to this fall!
From the picture, Franz will do lots of filling out once in the VU weight room. -> -> -> 6'2" and 195 going into his sophomore season.
Quote from: vu72 on February 06, 2015, 09:23:39 AM
One of the WRs was very highly regarded coming out of Bloomington South in Indiana. Keenan Franz, 6'2" 180#, was voted Mr. Football (not THE Mr. Football) at Wide Receiver. Apparently in Indiana they give the award out by position as well as overall. To be voted the top receiver in the state says a lot.
I know who he is and hopefully he works out well. The kids from FL and TX in particular appear to be better. Recruiters have a completely different view of the WR situation in the state. Think about the entirety of the situation and you'll understand my point.
Quote from: VU2624 on February 06, 2015, 12:55:38 PMI know who he is and hopefully he works out well. The kids from FL and TX in particular appear to be better. Recruiters have a completely different view of the WR situation in the state. Think about the entirety of the situation and you'll understand my point.
I totally agree with you. Winning awards in Indiana can be equivalent to playing second string to players in Florida, Texas, Georgia, Alabama, etc.
I will say that IHSAA football has come a long way, especially in the Indianapolis area, in just the last 10 years. In the past you would have seen all the best athletes only playing basketball.
Moving in the right direction. Just added a 6'2" 285 # OL!!
Chatted with Coach Cecchini at the UWM game and found out that the 2015 class will be around 35 players. Toughest target area is the OL. OL is in high demand at the FCS level and there jUst are not that many to go around. They are still looking for/at OL recruits.
That's why I had to smile at all the people wanting 6'4" 280 kids.
Out of HS.
The FBS all want them, though, and they each take, say 4 a class on average. That's 500 of the biggest and best off the top.
The FCS look for the next 500. In the non-schollie group, we just have to take who we can.
Concordia Lutheran High School has twin brothers that are 6'5" 300-325 who will be seniors next year. One of them has been starting OL since his freshman year. Might be worth a look.
Email Cecchini about these boys!
Another release of recruits is coming on Friday -- maybe 8 to 10 more players. According to Twitter, this class might have as as many as 10+ kids from Florida. :o
Liking the Facebook Postings for the Football Recruits signed, for example: Terrance Roberts 6"5' - 320 OL from St. Rita's Chicago.
Congrats Coach!
Some big OL guys -- just what they were going after.
We are now at 42 recruits! Last year we ended up with 20 from an original of 30. I would assume we will lose some this year along the way.
To me our #1 need was WR and we added nine new receivers. We needed depth on both lines and added nine OL and four DL. We needed some additional QB competition so we added two new guys. On top that the class includes seven LB's. four DB's, three TE's, 2 RB's, and two K's.
This has the makings of an incredible class.
Quote from: IndyValpo on February 27, 2015, 01:17:48 PM
We are now at 42 recruits! Last year we ended up with 20 from an original of 30. I would assume we will lose some this year along the way.
To me our #1 need was WR and we added nine new receivers. We needed depth on both lines and added nine OL and four DL. We needed some additional QB competition so we added two new guys. On top that the class includes seven LB's. four DB's, three TE's, 2 RB's, and two K's.
This has the makings of an incredible class.
I'm liking the direction this program is headed!
:thewave:
Biggest difference between FCS scholarship OL/DL recruits (our demographic) and Pioneer recruits is in the strength and quickness areas -- we have the size. I watched the huddle tapes on these guys and, while dominant on the HS level, our recruits do reflect some of that delta. I'm not worried, however, because the new weight room will take these new recruits and close the gap. I am sooooo grateful for that new facility. BTW, Footwork and balance are also issues but these are totally coachable -- and our staff coaches them up pretty good.
Now we need a legit 2-deep each week, so that we can actually see the depth of the team.
Quote from: covufan on March 03, 2015, 05:47:40 PM
Now we need a legit 2-deep each week, so that we can actually see the depth of the team.
We could use one coming out of Spring ball for a baseline and then one before the the EKU game. And then have it reliably updated weekly.
I have heard info that 2013 team members DB Hannibal Mathis and DL Nick Scoville are back on the roster, also a tight end transfer Tyrie Fuller from Sienna Heights
VULB--
As a defensive lineman, I always found the shorter, smaller quicker players tougher to play against than the big oafs who couldn't move. I'd be happy with an O-Line that averages 260-270 that scraps and claws for everything.
Scraps and claws! Yeah, that's where it needs to begin. Given a 6' 265 OG who S&Cs vs. 6'4" who relies on height and weight alone I'd go with the shorter guy every time. But I'd take a 6'4" S&Cer over a shorter one because of range and leverage. One of the things I noticed about our '14 team was that at about the half way point of the season our bulls turned into the S&Cers we are talking about. My biggest issue in the Carlson years (besides the concept of "who needs to play defense when you just out score the other guy") is that total reliance on the pass turned the S&Cs passive. I love the way Coach C has turned that around. Cool too that he was a record setting WR when he played. Would da thought the opposite.
Two more recruits:
Valpo Football @valpoufootball · 18h18 hours ago
We are pleased to add this extremely versatile LB to our defense! @drewsnouffer
#attitude
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1579278/highlights/184300386 (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1579278/highlights/184300386) ...
Valpo Football @valpoufootball · 18h18 hours ago
Please welcome the newest Crusader OL Alex Helander! #attitude @thebeefy_heman http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1765881/highlights/217224384 (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1765881/highlights/217224384) ...
Yep. Quite a "sizeable" class now.
I believe only 95 players can get an invite to summer football camp in the PFL. With 44 freshman being invited the coaching staff is going to have to make some tough decisions on what upperclassman they invite and which ones they don't. Hopefully, the freshman are as good as advertised because the bigger the class the more upperclassman that you have to pass on. As Valpo gets better in future years the coaches will have to scale down the freshman recruiting class some....seems 30"ish" is a good number in the next few years. I'm sure that the 40+ this year balances out the smaller class of 20 from last year yet I'm sure the coaches have a strategy moving forward.
Don't forget, this is Coach Cecchini's first major recruiting class. I'm not upset with 44 freshmen, as we may see some guys from last year's roster deciding they don't want to play football any longer or for Valpo, and having a class large enough to fill the holes is not bad. We may even see some of these commits get to campus, find out the grind of college sports is a lot different than high school, and they mentally can't handle it, and quit. Why would the PFL want to limit the number of kids in "training camp"? It's not like the schools are using scholarship dollars on these guys, most likely a good portion of football donations from alums are going to house these kids during camp, so why need to limit how many are in camp? Let the kid decide if he has the stomach to handle camp, not some guy at the PFL office deciding who should be cut from training camp...
The size of the class could be reduced by a couple of issues. One are kids deciding they don't wish to play football or go away to school. This happened with a few kids from last year's class. The other is the cost. Financial Aid packages haven't been sent out yet....or usually haven't by this point....and there are usually kids who realize they really can't afford the commitment over what is provided by the school.
As to upper classman dropping....they had a lot of kids drop off the roster during the season last year. So I'm not sure how much further attrition occurs. I think the roster is in the mid 50's currently. In addition, for the program to move forward, the coaching staff can't be throwing a bunch of freshman and sophomore eligible players (redshirt or otherwise) onto the field. That's a recipe for a 2 win season. Even without the incoming freshman, the roster was likely going to be young anyway between the freshman and redshirt freshman who contributed last season.
Hopefully there won't be too much personnel loss but let's see who shows up for camp.
Has anyone seen a roster for spring practices?
Quote from: IndyValpo on March 27, 2015, 01:06:56 PM
Has anyone seen a roster for spring practices?
Is one typically published? I don't think there was one last year.
Quote from: VU2624 on March 27, 2015, 02:04:06 PM
Quote from: IndyValpo on March 27, 2015, 01:06:56 PM
Has anyone seen a roster for spring practices?
Is one typically published? I don't think there was one last year.
I'm told that there will be a roster for the Spring game -- once the captains draft their players for the Brown and Gold teams. There has been some non-participation in Spring ball by some players for academic reasons (i.e., getting their GPAs up) and some guys had to take the semester off for $$ reasons.
Weight Room Results Update: It has paid dividends already. Word is that a lot of the guys now really "look like D-I Players."
Class of 2015: 47 players have committed to Valpo for next fall so far. Believe it or not, there are still a couple of guys out there with VU offer letters who still haven't committed anywhere. Part of the extended process is that with a non-scholarship program, for some it comes down to where a kid can get the best financial aid package and some schools are slower than others in doing that.
The ANNOUNCER hopes there is a roster printed... preferably with names and numbers...
I haven't see this posted here (for a while anyway)... 11am Saturday April 18th.
Actually, I had to go to the Pioneer site ??? the week before the first scheduled practice to get the start date for spring ball and the date of the Spring Game.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 01, 2015, 09:16:54 AM
Quote from: VU2624 on March 27, 2015, 02:04:06 PM
Quote from: IndyValpo on March 27, 2015, 01:06:56 PM
Has anyone seen a roster for spring practices?
Is one typically published? I don't think there was one last year.
I'm told that there will be a roster for the Spring game -- once the captains draft their players for the Brown and Gold teams. There has been some non-participation in Spring ball by some players for academic reasons (i.e., getting their GPAs up) and some guys had to take the semester off for $$ reasons.
Weight Room Results Update: It has paid dividends already. Word is that a lot of the guys now really "look like D-I Players."
Class of 2015: 47 players have committed to Valpo for next fall so far. Believe it or not, there are still a couple of guys out there with VU offer letters who still haven't committed anywhere. Part of the extended process is that with a non-scholarship program, for some it comes down to where a kid can get the best financial aid package and some schools are slower than others in doing that.
Roster last year was tweeted out a day or so prior to the game, as mentioned, once teams were drawn up. I'm not sure they'll do anything more than scrimmage offense vs. defense with no defined teams. There are some positions which are simply undermanned from a numbers point of view and can't support 2 rosters. I know this was what was out there as a strong probability prior to the start of spring practice. Don't know if that's changed. Hopefully there will be some name vs. number publication or perhaps simply a depth chart.
Based on last years roster there should be close to 70 players back from last year. Does anyone know the actual number remaining? Who has left? Also, I heard that Conner Smith, considered last years best recruited QB, who did not play, is with the team.
And finally, we added two more recruits yesterday.
Quote from: IndyValpo on April 03, 2015, 07:46:06 AM
Based on last years roster there should be close to 70 players back from last year. Does anyone know the actual number remaining? Who has left? Also, I heard that Conner Smith, considered last years best recruited QB, who did not play, is with the team.
And finally, we added two more recruits yesterday.
The two newest are a DB and a WR. Before that we added an OL, DL and a WR. RE: Conner Smith. He was the first signee last year and then decided not to enroll. Pretty big disappointment at the time. But if he didn't burn up a year of eligibility somewhere else, he has 5 years left unless he comes in and wins the starting position. At 6'3", 220 he has the size and the arm.
70 returning + 49 recruits = 119 potential players. That's incredible. Do we have enough uniforms and gear?
Realistically, I don't think all of the possible 70 returnees will return and I haven't heard which of last year's players are in that group.
What I have heard is that John Guilford is tearing 'em up in practice and is impressing the staff. John was a dominant player last season, so he must be taking his game up a notch or two. That's good news. Now we need to find 3 other DLs to complement him at or near that level.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 03, 2015, 08:56:18 AM
Quote from: IndyValpo on April 03, 2015, 07:46:06 AM
Based on last years roster there should be close to 70 players back from last year. Does anyone know the actual number remaining? Who has left? Also, I heard that Conner Smith, considered last years best recruited QB, who did not play, is with the team.
And finally, we added two more recruits yesterday.
The two newest are a DB and a WR. Before that we added an OL, DL and a WR. RE: Conner Smith. He was the first signee last year and then decided not to enroll. Pretty big disappointment at the time. But if he didn't burn up a year of eligibility somewhere else, he has 5 years left unless he comes in and wins the starting position. At 6'3", 220 he has the size and the arm.
70 returning + 49 recruits = 119 potential players. That's incredible. Do we have enough uniforms and gear?
Realistically, I don't think all of the possible 70 returnees will return and I haven't heard which of last year's players are in that group.
What I have heard is that John Guilford is tearing 'em up in practice and is impressing the staff. John was a dominant player last season, so he must be taking his game up a notch or two. That's good news. Now we need to find 3 other DLs to complement him at or near that level.
When I was in Valpo for the basketball tourney, I had the chance to go across the street and visit with Coach C. I asked about the quarterback situation and he basicly said that Ryan Clarke looked like the front runner. He said that if you lined the candidates up side by side, in t-shirts and shorts, Ryan is just huge compared to the others. At 6'5" 220 lbs., who was the long snapper last year, I can imagine that he is quite imposing.
That's interesting. Ryan used up a full season at the LS position and didn't see any QB time on the field that I can recall. But here's an up side: having to snap, block and cover/tackle downfield on punts shows his grit. Coach Cecchini likes a QB who can throw AND run and has a measure of toughness. Watching Ben mature into that role last season is testimony to that. Then there's Scott Staal (Jr., 6'4'', 215) more passer than runner, and Dalton Stokes (RF, 6'0" 185) more runner than passer who are the other returnees. Clark reminds me a lot of Butler's Matt Lancaster of two seasons ago who was all-everything in their PFL title year.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 03, 2015, 09:50:29 AM
That's interesting. Ryan used up a full season at the LS position and didn't see any QB time on the field that I can recall. But here's an up side: having to snap, block and cover/tackle downfield on punts shows his grit. Coach Cecchini likes a QB who can throw AND run and has a measure of toughness. Watching Ben mature into that role last season is testimony to that. Then there's Scott Staal (Jr., 6'4'', 215) more passer than runner, and Dalton Stokes (RF, 6'0" 185) more runner than passer who are the other returnees. Clark reminds me a lot of Butler's Matt Lancaster of two seasons ago who was all-everything in their PFL title year.
That is essentially correct. I just looked at the box scores and saw that Ryan had a few throws in the Homecoming game as well as the Dayton game. Scott was the backup, particularly early in the year, and most games Ben went the distance. Don't we have some high powered freshman coming in as well? Coach mentioned the local kid (Jacob Paliga, Chesterton) who flew under the radar as until his senior year was the backup to a D1 kid. Then, his senior year, put up ridiculous numbers, taking his team to the state championship game. As most schools had already focused in on kids when they were juniors, he was for the most part passed over.
Quote from: vu72 on April 03, 2015, 10:36:18 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 03, 2015, 09:50:29 AM
That's interesting. Ryan used up a full season at the LS position and didn't see any QB time on the field that I can recall. But here's an up side: having to snap, block and cover/tackle downfield on punts shows his grit. Coach Cecchini likes a QB who can throw AND run and has a measure of toughness. Watching Ben mature into that role last season is testimony to that. Then there's Scott Staal (Jr., 6'4'', 215) more passer than runner, and Dalton Stokes (RF, 6'0" 185) more runner than passer who are the other returnees. Clark reminds me a lot of Butler's Matt Lancaster of two seasons ago who was all-everything in their PFL title year.
That is essentially correct. I just looked at the box scores and saw that Ryan had a few throws in the Homecoming game as well as the Dayton game. Scott was the backup, particularly early in the year, and most games Ben went the distance. Don't we have some high powered freshman coming in as well? Coach mentioned the local kid (Jacob Paliga, Chesterton) who flew under the radar as until his senior year was the backup to a D1 kid. Then, his senior year, put up ridiculous numbers, taking his team to the state championship game. As most schools had already focused in on kids when they were juniors, he was for the most part passed over.
Good that you checked back on Clarke. And, yes, there are some expectations for Paliga (6-1, 175) from Andrean. For comparison, Ben Lehman played at 6-1, 200 last year and was not too shabby. The only other 2015 QB recruit is Mikey Roth (6-0, 175) from Grand Rapids, MI, who appears to be a scrambler from the release notes on Twitter.
Here are the QBs going into August camp:
Ryan Clarke
Scott Staal
Dalton Stokes
Jacob Paliga
Mike Roth
Conner Smith (Rumored???)
Low 50's for # players in Spring ball now, WR, OL and LB not deep, esp WR, it will be a scrimmage 4/18 due to roster size. Nice sized recruiting class, assume a 10-15% recruit attrition rate prior to Aug and a few more once things get rolling.
Comments over the last few posts. I don't think the number is 70 returners. Some guys listed on last years roster didn't make it through the season last year and aren't back for spring. The number is in the mid 50's which makes a likely number of just under 100 considering some of the recruits won't make it through. That's just reality.
Conner Smith is practicing. The QB will come from one of the four practicing now. Ryan Clarke doesn't appear as he would be labeled mobile. He can snap and run down the field to cover a kick but moving around behind center is a different animal. Stahl and Stokes have both looked decent. Stahl did last year as well at this time and then didn't play well when given the opportunity. I don't think there's much chance a true freshman is the QB with 3 weeks of summer camp to prepare in this offense. This isn't like the bigtime programs where you get the guy in there early and can get him ready to play.
One note is that Brandon Hall is not at Spring practice. Apparently with an ankle problem that I was told he had or is having surgery.
In today's scrimmage O looked better than it had the first week plus.
Thanks for the summary 2624. Good to hear that Smith is more than rumored. Did he enroll at the semester? Must have.
Quote from: VU2624 on April 04, 2015, 12:38:25 AM
Comments over the last few posts. I don't think the number is 70 returners. Some guys listed on last years roster didn't make it through the season last year and aren't back for spring. The number is in the mid 50's which makes a likely number of just under 100 considering some of the recruits won't make it through. That's just reality.
Why do we make it so hard to follow this team? Guys dropped during last season and were listed the entire year? Weeks of guys on the two deep that we know are injured, which by the way is always a challenge to find out about. Players disappear for weeks with no mention, some return and apparently some quit.
Gotta agree with INDY...seems we should be getting better info regarding who is on team and where...esp on who returning prior to the team picture.
There are 67 returning players (sophomore, junior, senior) and 50 new recruits.
Quote from: vumsb on April 07, 2015, 07:20:54 AM
There are 67 returning players (sophomore, junior, senior) and 50 new recruits.
Things will be competitive this spring and even more so this summer!
Great retention and recruiting!
Quote from: vumsb on April 07, 2015, 07:20:54 AM
There are 67 returning players (sophomore, junior, senior) and 50 new recruits.
Are you getting this from last years roster as far as the returners are concerned?
If it's from last fall's roster, then the number is probably too high. I understand from one of the coaches that there are some absences due to academic concentration and financial hardship.
The number is at least in the low 60's according to a reliable source. So the 67 number may be reasonable. Even with attrition from the recruiting class, that's a lot of players on the roster.
Last year a few players were asked not to come back to the team and some were asked not to come to camp. That was with a much smaller roster. There's going to be a lot of disappointed players over the next few months if some are asked to not return to the team and, likely, a fair number are not given camp invites.
A vert reliable source has the number at 68 returning players (67 was a typo) currently on the roster.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Quote from: VU2624 on April 04, 2015, 12:38:25 AM
Comments over the last few posts. I don't think the number is 70 returners. Some guys listed on last years roster didn't make it through the season last year and aren't back for spring. The number is in the mid 50's which makes a likely number of just under 100 h some of the recruits won't make it through. That's just reality.
Conner Smith is practicing. The QB will come from one of the four practicing now. Ryan Clarke doesn't appear as he would be labeled mobile. He can snap and run down the field to cover a kick but moving around behind center is a different animal. Stahl and Stokes have both looked decent. Stahl did last year as well at this time and then didn't play well when given the opportunity. I don't think there's much chance a true freshman is the QB with 3 weeks of summer camp to prepare in this offense. This isn't like the bigtime programs where you get the guy in there early and can get him ready to play.
One note is that Brandon Hall is not at Spring practice. Apparently with an ankle problem that I was told he had or is having surgery.
In today's scrimmage O looked better than it had the first week plus.
Somebody help me out here. Is this the Conner Smith that played quarterback at Colorado State and was the 12th rated quarterback in the State of Texas??
Quote from: vu72 on April 07, 2015, 08:42:08 PM
Quote from: VU2624 on April 04, 2015, 12:38:25 AM
Comments over the last few posts. I don't think the number is 70 returners. Some guys listed on last years roster didn't make it through the season last year and aren't back for spring. The number is in the mid 50's which makes a likely number of just under 100 h some of the recruits won't make it through. That's just reality.
Conner Smith is practicing. The QB will come from one of the four practicing now. Ryan Clarke doesn't appear as he would be labeled mobile. He can snap and run down the field to cover a kick but moving around behind center is a different animal. Stahl and Stokes have both looked decent. Stahl did last year as well at this time and then didn't play well when given the opportunity. I don't think there's much chance a true freshman is the QB with 3 weeks of summer camp to prepare in this offense. This isn't like the bigtime programs where you get the guy in there early and can get him ready to play.
One note is that Brandon Hall is not at Spring practice. Apparently with an ankle problem that I was told he had or is having surgery.
In today's scrimmage O looked better than it had the first week plus.
Somebody help me out here. Is this the Conner Smith that played quarterback at Colorado State and was the 12th rated quarterback in the State of Texas??
He was our first named recruit last season from Indianapolis who did not enroll.
Go to the Valpo football Twitter site and go back to the 2014 recruiting class pages. He was the first tweet in the recruit releases. You can see his Hudl tapes there.
We have been able to establish that we either have low 50's, mid 50's, low 60's, 67 or 68 returnees from last year. Does Valpo have a Sports Information Department?
Quote from: IndyValpo on April 08, 2015, 07:44:37 AM
We have been able to establish that we either have low 50's, mid 50's, low 60's, 67 or 68 returnees from last year. Does Valpo have a Sports Information Department?
This would be your guy:
http://www.valpoathletics.com/athletics/staff/6343/brad-collignon/#.VSU1pvnF9y8 (http://www.valpoathletics.com/athletics/staff/6343/brad-collignon/#.VSU1pvnF9y8)
I suspect it is a difficult, moving target with non-scholarship guys deciding about academic and financial issues all the time.
I also believe that officially football is in the offseason and the focus of the SID is on in-season sports: BB, SB, T&F, Golf and Tennis. The SID office is thin in terms of staffing as well. Finally, unlike the guy he replaced, I think Coach C is not a promotional kind of guy. Therefore, he doesn't think in those terms, so things like up-to-date rosters during spring ball are not as important to him as getting practices and conditioning programs and recruiting squared away. That's where his attention to detail is placed and his staff follows suit. Regarding the in-season two-deep, I wonder if the sloppiness is a little bit by design -- especially if a player is slowed by injury.
So we'll get a occasional Tweet and there will be minimal coverage of the Spring game/scrimmage and that's about it. This year because of depth issues I wouldn't be surprised if we return to the Carlson method of O vs. D and points allotted by play category.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 08, 2015, 10:24:57 AM
I also believe that officially football is in the offseason and the focus of the SID is on in-season sports: BB, SB, T&F, Golf and Tennis. The SID office is thin in terms of staffing as well. Finally, unlike the guy he replaced, I think Coach C is not a promotional kind of guy. Therefore, he doesn't think in those terms, so things like up-to-date rosters during spring ball are not as important to him as getting practices and conditioning programs and recruiting squared away. That's where his attention to detail is placed and his staff follows suit. Regarding the in-season two-deep, I wonder if the sloppiness is a little bit by design -- especially if a player is slowed by injury.
So we'll get a occasional Tweet and there will be minimal coverage of the Spring game/scrimmage and that's about it. This year because of depth issues I wouldn't be surprised if we return to the Carlson method of O vs. D and points allotted by play category.
Since the answer to any situation where we produce substandard information is that the department is thin, perhaps we should hire some additional help.
I'm sure Aaron is all for it :thumbsup:
Quote from: IndyValpo on April 08, 2015, 11:31:31 AMSince the answer to any situation where we produce substandard information is that the department is thin, perhaps we should hire some additional help.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 08, 2015, 01:46:58 PMI'm sure Aaron is all for it
I'm sure Aaron is for it and I'm doubly sure the board of directors is not for more hiring in an area that they most likely believe is a drain on finances and does not have a return.
Did anyone not give to the "Proud to be Valpo" fund drive simply because they can't get the sports info that they desire about the football team? It's not rocket science (although it may be too much math) to deem that the numbers of people that desire this info don't pay for extra help in the sports info department.
Update: Brad has posted on twitter some information about the spring game next week. Details include that there are 54 players in uniform for spring game with only Hall (high ankle sprain) and Etzler (foot) unlikely to play due to injury. Expectations are that there will be 95 players at summer camp since incoming freshmen will number in the 40s. Clarke, Stokes, and Staal have looked good at the QB position in practice. Spring game format will differ from last year's draft method since there are fewer players. Most likely offense vs defense with modified scoring. Brad will be posting a full report in coming days and Todd Ickow will conduct a video interview with Coach C in the week before the game.
To make it easier on everyone:
https://twitter.com/bradcollignon/with_replies
Quote from: IndyValpo on April 08, 2015, 11:31:31 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 08, 2015, 10:24:57 AM
I also believe that officially football is in the offseason and the focus of the SID is on in-season sports: BB, SB, T&F, Golf and Tennis. The SID office is thin in terms of staffing as well. Finally, unlike the guy he replaced, I think Coach C is not a promotional kind of guy. Therefore, he doesn't think in those terms, so things like up-to-date rosters during spring ball are not as important to him as getting practices and conditioning programs and recruiting squared away. That's where his attention to detail is placed and his staff follows suit. Regarding the in-season two-deep, I wonder if the sloppiness is a little bit by design -- especially if a player is slowed by injury.
So we'll get a occasional Tweet and there will be minimal coverage of the Spring game/scrimmage and that's about it. This year because of depth issues I wouldn't be surprised if we return to the Carlson method of O vs. D and points allotted by play category.
Since the answer to any situation where we produce substandard information is that the department is thin, perhaps we should hire some additional help.
What a concept! My experience trying to interact with SID has not been all that great.
On a non related note, might not be a bad idea to tell your DBs not to headhunt in practice. This is particularly true when the squad has only 3 or 4 WRs in the first place and one other is already out. But that's just me.
Coach Cecchini previews the Spring Game and talks recruiting in video interview with Todd: http://youtu.be/gO_ebMk-Hdg (https://youtu.be/gO_ebMk-Hdg)
Quote from: valpopal on April 14, 2015, 09:55:31 AM
Coach Cecchini previews the Spring Game and talks recruiting in video interview with Todd: http://youtu.be/gO_ebMk-Hdg (https://youtu.be/gO_ebMk-Hdg)
Nice 11:30 interview. Nothing that we didn't already know but good to hear from the coach. Sounds like the secondary has really jelled behind a pretty experienced front 7. Interesting that the running backs weren't given more emphasis. But some of the freshman running backs who saw action in the backfield in the fall are now seeing WR time. I can't make the spring game but I hope someone can swing by and provide an account of who looks good and how the game went
The football program took two of the three incentive grants during Proud to be Valpo. Amazing what 4 wins in a season after 4 years and only 3 wins will do in terms of support. Sort of indicates that people were just waiting for FB to turn it around. No guarantees that they will even win as many as last year but the support is there.
Spring Game Rosters are posted on the VU Athletics site.
Brown - offense - 31 players, 5 will not play (injured - including Conner Smith and Brandon Hall) 7 have not played for VU before and 2 of whom were redshirted.
Gold - defense - 30 players, 6 will not play (injured - including Cody Cotton and JJ Nunez) 8 have DNPs after their names, 2 of whom were redshirted
This level of football always has turnover. Obviously we have lost some players. The biggest appears to be Pennington a fullback who played a role for us last year. The others were mostly further down the depth chart. I thought TE Gajda and LB Eppinger had potential to play.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 17, 2015, 01:04:23 PM
Spring Game Rosters are posted on the VU Athletics site.
Brown - offense - 31 players, 5 will not play (injured - including Conner Smith and Brandon Hall) 7 have not played for VU before and 2 of whom were redshirted.
Gold - defense - 30 players, 6 will not play (injured - including Cody Cotton and JJ Nunez) 8 have DNPs after their names, 2 of whom were redshirted
J. Morgan is banged up as well. Don't think he'll see any time today.
In general, with limited options at WR for the scrimmage, we'll probably see much more multiple TE sets than we would in a game. Particularly 4 wr sets.
The sunny and warm weather was great for today's Brown & Gold game, and the attitude among the participants was equally bright. Coaches and players appeared upbeat in my conversations with them, and there were a number of recruits in attendance enjoying themselves as well. I photographed the game and will have more images later, but here are three representative pictures. The first shows Kellan Hughes with an acrobatic interception for the Gold team. The second displays Frank Catrine on a long touchdown run after a pass reception with coach Cecchini looking on behind him. The third shows the players and various recruits addressed by Coach Cecchini following the game.
(http://i60.tinypic.com/236srl.jpg)
(http://i60.tinypic.com/t6ba6q.jpg)
(http://i61.tinypic.com/25ujhfp.jpg)
Couple of questions Pal:
Who won -- B or G?
How did the QBs look? Rushing attack?
Did we come out of it without any injuries?
Brown (offense) won the game by a wide margin but the scoring system was heavily slanted towards offense as defense could only get 7 points for a turnover and the offense never really went down field until the last drive and it ended (top picture above with Kellen) with an INT.
I thought the QBs and RBs looked decent..... Play calling was great for a real game but rather boring for a scrimmage where it was just the offense vs. the defense. I couldn't tell if one QB stood out vs another as all seemed to manage the "underneath" offense scheme very well. I did think the RBs did a nice job and ran hard......
I saw a lineman limp off the field once but I think he came back into the game.
Defense overall played flat to me..... Offense seemed to have more energy. They had over 20 freshman recruits visiting and overall they looked much bigger than I expected and some looked very athletic also.
The "score" meant nothing.
The offense went down the field at least a few times. A couple of WR screens went 50 yards or so and the RBs looked pretty good. Hopefully Hall makes it back to make it the three headed monster. In general, at least a couple of the WRs seemed capable of stepping into the shoes of the departed but depth will be an issue there. The DB play, mentioned by Coach C. in the preview I wouldn't say showed up. There was a fair amount of space. The INT was on what was essentially a hail mary at the end of the game. The OL was spotty. Didn't start off too well in pass protection but seemed to improve as time went on and there were some holes for the backs. DL looks like a strength. The QBs got the ball out of their hands quicker than they have in practice and I thought all three looked good and capable.
I would echo the thoughts already offered by others. The modified format did not reveal much about the players, and the play calling wasn't meant for dramatic viewing. I can report that there didn't seem to be any bad injuries during the game. I observed two players with twisted ankles and one with a bruised hip. All were treated and seemed okay. The two players dealing with serious injuries, Hall and Etzler, got around the sidelines on scooters, but I was told both are expected to be healthy by fall. I stood with the group of recruits for a while, and they all seemed eager to get on the field themselves. Here is a link with a gallery of additional photos from the game: https://www.flickr.com/photos/96208998@N05/sets/72157652031842012/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/96208998@N05/sets/72157652031842012/)
Thanks all and great photos (as always) Pal!
Regarding the recruits:I can't help but believe that these HS kids have got to be impressed by the size, speed and maturity of the guys who are out on the field. If I were 18 and were there, I'd be thinking: Whooa, I better get my body (and attitude) in shape for another level of football. Even at our level, the speed of the game is so different than what they are used to.
BTW I really liked Coach C's positive take on the whole process. It's easy to see why the kids respond to him and his staff.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 18, 2015, 11:42:50 PM
Thanks all and great photos (as always) Pal!
Yes, thanks. Your photos are always great and the players appreciate seeing them!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Quote from: vumsb on April 19, 2015, 12:04:23 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 18, 2015, 11:42:50 PM
Thanks all and great photos (as always) Pal!
Yes, thanks. Your photos are always great and the players appreciate seeing them!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Thanks to both of you for the kind words. I am always pleased by the responses and encouragement I get for my photos from the coaches, players, and family members.
Photos are Fantastic valpopal. Really appreciated.
Quote from: VU2624 on April 20, 2015, 10:13:15 PM
Photos are Fantastic valpopal. Really appreciated.
Thanks very much! By coincidence, the Brown & Gold game photo album was the 200th added to my website, and the number of images included rose above 3,000. For those interested in looking back, here is the link:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/96208998@N05/sets/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/96208998@N05/sets/)
Couple of local articles related to the Spring Game. One discussing the QBs and the other more on the WRs.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-john-mutka-column-st-0420-20150418-column.html (http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-john-mutka-column-st-0420-20150418-column.html)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-football-valparaiso-st-0419-20150418-story.html (http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/post-tribune/sports/ct-ptb-football-valparaiso-st-0419-20150418-story.html)
Class is finalized at 53!! Wow, that is a lot of new faces. Very impressed that 13 are from Florida. 4 from California and 2 from Texas. I think it said the class is from 9 different states.
http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/news/2014-15/14723/cecchini-puts-finishing-touches-on-recruiting-class/#.VXBt8s9Viko (http://www.valpoathletics.com/football/news/2014-15/14723/cecchini-puts-finishing-touches-on-recruiting-class/#.VXBt8s9Viko)
We were actually at 54 as Mikey Roth a previously committed QB from Michigan is no longer listed. One of the late adds, LB Colton Keene was a recruit last year but did not enroll.
Now, step 2 getting them all on campus. If we can get something north of 40 players I think we have been successful.
This looks like a really good group!
Although not technically part of the recruiting class, QB Connor Smith, enrolled at mid-term as well.