Just trying to give this discussion its own space.
Brandon Vickrey @BrandonVickrey Jan 17
More Valpo football commits: OT Solomon Kamara @kamara72 Plainfield, Ill. & DE Jimmy Zajac @Jimmy50Zajac Tinley Park, Ill.
Another confirmed @valpoufootball commit from today is C/DE @seanpearce51 from Grayslake, Ill.
.@valpoufootball getting a slew of commitments, including Cincinnati duo TE/FB Brannen Martin @Brannen13 & OLB @Kyle_Farwick @LaSallePride.
also was mention of a Florida OL in addition to what Brandon tweeted.
I have been able to scrap together the following QB's that we have offered. There may be others....
Conner Lovely Aurora, IL
Michael Frankl Ames, IA
Zach Hazlett Dublin, OH
JP Petricca Orland Park, IL
Luke Shepherd Grayslake, IL
Joey Moore Lombard, IL
Jimmy Seewald Dearborn, MI
Peyton Huslig Andover, Kansas
Anthony Binetti Huntley, Illinois
Danny Carollo Lake Bluff, Illinois
Here are some more named commits to the 2016 class and the goals for the recruiting class:
[tweet]691347384970952704[/tweet] (6-2, 220, 4.9 40)
[tweet]691330686989406208[/tweet] (6-2, 270)
[tweet]689841240066535425[/tweet]
[tweet]689840754726842368[/tweet]
Adding some data
Quote from: VU2624 on January 19, 2016, 11:15:33 PM
Brandon Vickrey @BrandonVickrey Jan 17
More Valpo football commits: OT Solomon Kamara (6-3, 275, 5.2 40)@kamara72 Plainfield, Ill. & DE Jimmy Zajac (6-6, 235, 5.2 40) @Jimmy50Zajac Tinley Park, Ill.
Another confirmed @valpoufootball commit from today is C/DE @seanpearce51 (6-3, 280) from Grayslake, Ill.
.@valpoufootball getting a slew of commitments, including Cincinnati duo TE/FB Brannen Martin (6-2, 248, 4.9 40) @Brannen13 & OLB @Kyle_Farwick (6-0. 200)@LaSallePride.
also was mention of a Florida OL in addition to what Brandon tweeted.
Also the link to
DT/OG Devan Hunt (Edina, Minnesota) who is deciding between U of North Dakota as a preferred walk-on and Valpo (financial aid package)
http://www.scout.com/college/football/recruiting/story/1632176-hunt-talks-valpo-offer-und-commitment (http://www.scout.com/college/football/recruiting/story/1632176-hunt-talks-valpo-offer-und-commitment)
... and some data:
6-4, 295, 5.3 40 If he comes, the staff sees him as a DT. He certainly has the size we need up front.
Add OL Ron Williams (6-2, 300) Jacksonville, FL
RB Austin Petrie (5-10 210) Livonia, MI
Adding more data.....
Quote from: IndyValpo on January 26, 2016, 12:01:34 PM
Add OL Ron Williams (6-2, 300) Jacksonville, FL (5.80 in the 40 ) hopefully he has a quick first step -- his 24" vertical might be indicative. Watching the Hudl tapes he pulls right and left quite frequently and cleans house inside.
RB Austin Petrie (5-10 210) Livonia, MI (4.53 in the 40 and a 29" vertical) Makes people miss and can outrun most HS DBs.
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 26, 2016, 01:08:26 PMAdding more data..... Quote from: IndyValpo on January 26, 2016, 12:01:34 PMAdd OL Ron Williams (6-2, 300) Jacksonville, FL (5.80 in the 40 ) hopefully he has a quick first step -- his 24" vertical might be indicative. Watching the Hudl tapes he pulls right and left quite frequently and cleans house inside. RB Austin Petrie (5-10 210) Livonia, MI (4.53 in the 40 and a 29" vertical) Makes people miss and can outrun most HS DBs.
Petrie's highlights indicate good football speed and he's got nice size for a RB at this level. Defenders bounce off him.
Jack Buckey (6-2 215) LB South Bend, IN
Nice size. Couldn't find any Hudl clips on him though.
BTW, I went back to the 2012 roster just to see how some of our better seniors looked as freshmen. Alex was 6-3, 235 as a freshmen -- not much change by the time he was a senior -- actually played at 225 his last two years which was better for speed. John Guilford, on the other hand, came in at 6-4, 205 and played at 6-4, 260 as a senior -- shows what maturity and weights can do.
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 26, 2016, 09:46:24 PM
Nice size. Couldn't find any Hudl clips on him though.
BTW, I went back to the 2012 roster just to see how some of our better seniors looked as freshmen. Alex was 6-3, 235 as a freshmen -- not much change by the time he was a senior -- actually played at 225 his last two years which was better for speed. John Guilford, on the other hand, came in at 6-4, 205 and played at 6-4, 260 as a senior -- shows what maturity and weights can do.
Still, the kids coming in are a lot bigger than 260!
Quote from: vu72 on January 26, 2016, 10:05:19 PM
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 26, 2016, 09:46:24 PM
Nice size. Couldn't find any Hudl clips on him though.
BTW, I went back to the 2012 roster just to see how some of our better seniors looked as freshmen. Alex was 6-3, 235 as a freshmen -- not much change by the time he was a senior -- actually played at 225 his last two years which was better for speed. John Guilford, on the other hand, came in at 6-4, 205 and played at 6-4, 260 as a senior -- shows what maturity and weights can do.
Still, the kids coming in are a lot bigger than 260!
True, but my point was the potential if the frame was there. Guilford in his last two years was a beast and played at a great weight for a DE. As for this class, DE
Jimmy Zajac at 6-6, 235 has the frame to grow into a 255-265 body while still getting stronger (he runs a 5.2 40 now so I wouldn't want him any heavier than that if he is to stay at DE). Another DE,
Shawn Pearce at 6-3, 280 should get trimmer (270ish?) but get stronger/quicker. At DT, if
Devan Hunt enrolls, at 6-4, 295, he'd pair up nicely with a bigger
Tristan De La Rosa who played at 275 as a soph. Hopefully another big (6-2 or taller, 270 or bigger), agile DT shows up in the class.
One of the more evident shortcomings of the defense was size across the front. Commentators made that point at both the EKU and JU games. If we stick with the even front (4 DL and 3 LBs) we need the front 4 to be in the 280 (or bigger) range for the DTs and the DEs should both be in the 255-265 range with some height. Last season we played DelLa Rosa at 275, Scoville at 245 at the DT and Guilford (260) and Cody Cotton (210) at DE.
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 27, 2016, 08:48:43 AMOne of the more evident shortcomings of the defense was size across the front. Commentators made that point at both the EKU and JU games. If we stick with the even from (4 DL and 3 LBs) we need the front 4 to be in the 280 (or bigger) range for the DTs and the DEs should both be in the 255-265 range with some height. Last season we played DelLa Rosa at 275, Scoville at 245 at the DT and Guilford (260) and Cody Cotton (210) at DE.
Agreed, whatever happened to Doepke. He played a lot as a freshman then got hurt. He has the necessary size. I wonder if we will move some OL's over during the spring.
Quote from: IndyValpo on January 27, 2016, 09:59:31 AM
Agreed, whatever happened to Doepke. He played a lot as a freshman then got hurt. He has the necessary size. I wonder if we will move some OL's over during the spring.
That might happen. Based on 2015 roster numbers (excluding seniors) and being unable to account for non-returnees ....
There are 11 DEs (3) and DLs (8). Of which 5 are
6-2 or taller and weigh
235 or more. Only 1 of the 5 is a junior -- the rest are sophs and freshmen.
There are 16 OLs. Of which 12 are
6-2 or taller and are
235 or heavier. Only 1 of the 12 was a R-Soph, and 11 were freshmen.
For a better roster balance 2-3 OLs could convert to DE/DTs. But that depends greatly on skills and speed (and a defensive mindset -- which IS DIFFERENT from being an OL).
This data also gives more perspective to the roster makeup for 2016. Our stable of linemen (regardless of O or D) is 27. Of that 27, going into 2016 we will have
18 sophomores, 7 juniors, and only 2 seniors. Wow, still very young up front on both sides of the ball.
UPDATE: More data: Current potential returnees from the "published" 2-deep at the end of the season: OL: Average HT: 6-2 ⅔; Average Weight:
273 (268 without 320 lb. Terrance Roberts who skews the picture a bit)
DL: Average HT: 6-2 ¼; Average Weight:
244 Given my 'arbitrary' OL (285) and DL (265) target thresholds, any doubt that we need to get bigger is laid to rest, yes?
MORE RELATED STUFF.... I compared the OL 2-Deep from game #2 SHU with the game #11 JU 2-Deep. Interesting.
We lost/lose Nate Koeneman to injury and graduation and Sam Matternack to graduation. So among the others BU LT Terrance Roberts, starter at LG Shannon Taliafero (replacing Jones), Connor Rettig (starting after Nate went down), BU at LG and RG Houston Underwood, and BU RT Tom Schofield all appear on both as either starters or backups. Starting players on the SHU 2-Deep who are not on the JU 2-Deep were sophomores LG Jonathan Hammond and RG Kyle Jones (both of whom are not returning for 2016) and freshman Alex Cotton who was a backup RT (could have been hurt?). New to the JU 2-Deep are starter at LT Brian Lang (Freshman 6-4, 255), starter at LG Eric Rentschler (Freshman 6-2, 285), and BU C Jack Jarnigan (Freshman 6-3, 270).
One LAST observation (I promise -- on this post) I looked at the pictures of our underclassmen linemen and came to a generalization. With a few exceptions most of the heavier players still have a lot of baby fat to shed and muscle to build. Hope they are living in the weight room between now and Spring ball.[/li][/list]
National Signing Day is in 6 Days. It will be nice to actually see the first wave of committed recruits.
[tweet]692794502709383168[/tweet]
2 DBs, a LB...specifically mentioned as a MLB, and a WR are the latest commits.
Haven't seen a QB listed yet which is extremely concerning at this point.
With you on the QB.
Updated list of QB candidates, only one has committed that I am aware of...
QB Zach Hazlett Dublin, OH
QB JP Petricca Orland Park, IL
QB Luke Shepherd Grayslake, IL
QB Joey Moore Lombard, IL
QB Jimmy Seewald Dearborn, MI
QB Peyton Huslig Andover, Kansas
QB Anthony Binetti Huntley, Illinois
QB Danny Carollo Lake Bluff, Illinois
QB Conner Lovely Aurora, IL
QB Chris Duncan Woodland Hills, CA
QB Patrick Bringingstool Chippewa Valley, MI
QB Michael Frankl Ames, IA Drake
There may be others.....
Indy, what's your source?
Twitter, sadly I was bored one weekend and I went through our coaches followers looking for QB's. My guess is there are others I missed.
Luke Shepherd committed to St. Cloud State and Payton Huslig to Garden City CC
Quote from: IndyValpo on February 01, 2016, 11:57:52 AMTwitter, sadly I was bored one weekend and I went through our coaches followers looking for QB's. My guess is there are others I missed.
Even more sadly, I did the same searching for any current JC QBs who coaches might be following. Didn't find any.
Tomorrow is National Signing Day.
Here's an early list of 2016 commits from Brandon
[tweet]694303429737517056[/tweet]
Note the two Valpo HS commits. Heavy on Illinois, Michigan and Ohio.
Conspicuous in their absence are big DLs and QBs, as we noted previously. Let's hope that we see some of each tomorrow. Things don't end tomorrow though. If we don't pick up some now, the second wave (after scholarship FCS schools close their books) gives us other opportunities. There is also the transfer route. FCS QBs who see the writing on the wall and realize they might be aced out of a significant playing role are also good targets for Valpo. Butler's record setting QB, Matt Lancaster, who transferred from Illinois State, is a prime example.
My fingers are crossed.
Add another LB:
Michael O'Brien 5-11 210 Mason, OH
Yup. Here's Brandon's tweet on him:
[tweet]694350631348363264[/tweet]
Check out his Hudl highlights. Goes to the ball really well.
Observation on the earlier list -- only one Florida player this time around out of the 19 names we have (now including O'Brien). That could be because former coach, Kurt Mattix, was responsible for that state and he left right after the season ended.
Oops. Just noticed Jack Buckley ( Buckey) was listed twice, so it's 18.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 02, 2016, 09:51:50 AMYup. Here's Brandon's tweet on him: [tweet]694350631348363264[/tweet] Check out his Hudl highlights. Goes to the ball really well. Observation on the earlier list -- only one Florida player this time around out of the 19 names we have (now including O'Brien). That could be because former coach, Kurt Mattix, was responsible for that state and he left right after the season ended.
Aside from the DB from Davie, all of these kids aren't even a stressful car ride from campus. None from TX, CA, westcoast or further from FL. Maybe recruiting budget is down?
Justin Stovall was the Florida recruiter at this time last year. It's also possible that they figure the beef comes from the midwest and the skill players from FL/TX. The need for skill position players, save QB, is less than the trenches/2nd level so they may be focusing on need.
The QB situation remains a potential outright disaster for the program. At this point, an ankle sprain away from not being able to hold a viable spring practice session.
Quote from: VU2624 on February 02, 2016, 11:13:23 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 02, 2016, 09:51:50 AMYup. Here's Brandon's tweet on him: [tweet]694350631348363264[/tweet] Check out his Hudl highlights. Goes to the ball really well. Observation on the earlier list -- only one Florida player this time around out of the 19 names we have (now including O'Brien). That could be because former coach, Kurt Mattix, was responsible for that state and he left right after the season ended.
Aside from the DB from Davie, all of these kids aren't even a stressful car ride from campus. None from TX, CA, westcoast or further from FL. Maybe recruiting budget is down?
Justin Stovall was the Florida recruiter at this time last year. It's also possible that they figure the beef comes from the midwest and the skill players from FL/TX. The need for skill position players, save QB, is less than the trenches/2nd level so they may be focusing on need.
The QB situation remains a potential outright disaster for the program. At this point, an ankle sprain away from not being able to hold a viable spring practice session.
Or maybe there has just been a shift in recruiting philosophy to concentrate on the central Midwest. Of the 17 of 18.....
6 - Illinois
5 - Indiana
3 - Ohio
3 - Michigan
Regardless, it will mean more players' families in the stands at home games.
Not sure what would be the impetus of that type of shift but it could be I guess.
Does anyone know what the retention is for our players from down south?
I can imagine that the weather can have an impact and maybe if they get hurt or their football career doesn't go the way they imagined it they might be more tempted to leave?
I have no idea and I would assume that each class is different. But the Florida kids who came on board during the Carlson era, despite all the hardship and big losses, seemed to enjoy being at Valpo and many stuck it out all four years. Talking to some of their parents, they echoed the same thing -- it was more than just FB.
I don't think the retention rate for FL is any worse, in fact it seems better, over the last few years than Midwest states. The roster lost 2 WRs and a QB all Midwesterners for the spring. If they aren't recruiting FL they're being derelict in their duty. Same with some other more faraway states.
Brandon Vickrey:
Brandon Vickrey @BrandonVickrey · 4h4 hours ago
QB Jimmy Seewald (Dearborn, Mich.) is deciding between Ferris State and Valpo. He's expected to announce his decision today or tomorrow.
Don't know anything about the kid but if he can get the ball past the line of scrimmage he's a keeper.
Quote from: VU2624 on February 02, 2016, 05:28:22 PM
I don't think the retention rate for FL is any worse, in fact it seems better, over the last few years than Midwest states. The roster lost 2 WRs and a QB all Midwesterners for the spring. If they aren't recruiting FL they're being derelict in their duty. Same with some other more faraway states.
Brandon Vickrey:
Brandon Vickrey @BrandonVickrey · 4h4 hours ago
QB Jimmy Seewald (Dearborn, Mich.) is deciding between Ferris State and Valpo. He's expected to announce his decision today or tomorrow.
Don't know anything about the kid but if he can get the ball past the line of scrimmage he's a keeper.
6-5, 215
Divine Child HS, Dearborn.
Sr Season: 8 Games - 140/245 (57%) -- 1723 yds and
24 TDs (1 TD for every 5.8 completions)
Big kid. Looks like a decent arm and he's not a statue. Can get out of trouble...at least in HS.
If he signs, he is guaranteed starting for 2 years (unless we find a 2017 who is better) even if he doesn't beat Ryan out in August. He certainly will see some D-I action this fall. I emphasize D-I even though we are PFL. And during the Winter months he will be attending real D-I MBB games. That kind of legitimizes our FCS program
A little bird told me to expect a first wave of around 26 signees with maybe another 12 or so after the dust settles. That's a great class size wise. Hope we get the quality we need.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 02, 2016, 06:24:31 PM
Quote from: VU2624 on February 02, 2016, 05:28:22 PM
I don't think the retention rate for FL is any worse, in fact it seems better, over the last few years than Midwest states. The roster lost 2 WRs and a QB all Midwesterners for the spring. If they aren't recruiting FL they're being derelict in their duty. Same with some other more faraway states.
Brandon Vickrey:
Brandon Vickrey @BrandonVickrey · 4h4 hours ago
QB Jimmy Seewald (Dearborn, Mich.) is deciding between Ferris State and Valpo. He's expected to announce his decision today or tomorrow.
Don't know anything about the kid but if he can get the ball past the line of scrimmage he's a keeper.
6-5, 215
Divine Child HS, Dearborn.
Sr Season: 8 Games - 140/245 (57%) -- 1723 yds and 24 TDs (1 TD for every 5.8 completions)
Maybe Coach Dorow could relate some of the negatives I'm sure she overheard about football at Ferris State. If she would be inclined to do so. She may have a lot of loyalty to that school. I know that she could at least touch on the fact that Ferris is state run while Valpo has to be more like Divine Child HS.
http://divinechildhighschool.org/ (http://divinechildhighschool.org/)
As much as I despise Mercer for how they manipulated the PFL in their one short year of membership, they really know how to take advantage of PR.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/recruiting/2016/02/02/mercer-football-national-signing-day-times-square-new-york/79712920/ (http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/recruiting/2016/02/02/mercer-football-national-signing-day-times-square-new-york/79712920/)
They will be postponing the publicity about the signings due to the shooting death of one of their basketball players, but the ideas they are running with certainly get them publicity. feel bad for the BB program and Jibri Bryan's family.
QB Seewald committed to Valpo per Brandon Vickrey
Good news for next Fall. Anxiously waiting for the Football Twitter and FaceBook sites to start officially announcing signees.
Quote from: VU2624 on February 03, 2016, 11:17:46 AM
QB Seewald committed to Valpo per Brandon Vickrey
Watched his Hudl highlights just now. At 6'5' he dwarfed many of the kids on the field -- even the linemen. Threw the ball deep a lot. One thing I noted is a a bit of a strange delivery. It's over the top (not side-arm) which is good, but he lifts his right leg as he throws. That means he throws almost entirely off his left (lead) leg. A bit unorthodox.
Rumor has it that two more QBs are on the possibles list -- both will make decisions after NSD. One is more likely, the other is waiting for financial aid information so he can decide..
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 03, 2016, 12:36:04 PMQuote from: VU2624 on February 03, 2016, 11:17:46 AMQB Seewald committed to Valpo per Brandon Vickrey
Watched his Hudl highlights just now. At 6'5' he dwarfed many of the kids on the field -- even the linemen. Threw the ball deep a lot. One thing I noted is a a bit of a strange delivery. It's over the top (not side-arm) which is good, but he lifts his right leg as he throws. That means he throws almost entirely off his left (lead) leg. A bit unorthodox.
Throws out of his shoulder a bit without extending fully. I noticed that his delivery is a little funky but it does seem to come out fast.
So right now I counted 20. 5 from Ohio, 5 from Michigan, 3 from Indiana, 3 from Michigan, 2 from Texas and 1 each from Wisconsin and Florida. Great start!!
Though not announced both DB Sean Moore and DE Connor Sperling have signed.
Anyone have a compilation? I realize I'm in the minority but I prefer a list over the one every 15 mins on twitter.
Quote from: vu72 on February 03, 2016, 04:25:26 PMSo right now I counted 20. 5 from Ohio, 5 from Michigan, 3 from Indiana, 3 from Michigan, 2 from Texas and 1 each from Wisconsin and Florida. Great start!!
Not sure when "right now" was but there's 3 from FL that I see. Williams, Cartales and the unannounced Moore.
Let's hope that Moore and Sperling didn't have second thoughts but based on twitter pages, that does not seem to be the case.
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 26, 2016, 11:13:48 AM
Adding some data
Quote from: VU2624 on January 19, 2016, 11:15:33 PM
Brandon Vickrey @BrandonVickrey Jan 17
More Valpo football commits: OT Solomon Kamara (6-3, 275, 5.2 40)@kamara72 Plainfield, Ill. & DE Jimmy Zajac (6-6, 235, 5.2 40) @Jimmy50Zajac Tinley Park, Ill.
Another confirmed @valpoufootball commit from today is C/DE @seanpearce51 (6-3, 280) from Grayslake, Ill.
.@valpoufootball getting a slew of commitments, including Cincinnati duo TE/FB Brannen Martin (6-2, 248, 4.9 40) @Brannen13 & OLB @Kyle_Farwick (6-0. 200)@LaSallePride.
also was mention of a Florida OL in addition to what Brandon tweeted.
Also the link to DT/OG Devan Hunt (Edina, Minnesota) who is deciding between U of North Dakota as a preferred walk-on and Valpo (financial aid package)
http://www.scout.com/college/football/recruiting/story/1632176-hunt-talks-valpo-offer-und-commitment (http://www.scout.com/college/football/recruiting/story/1632176-hunt-talks-valpo-offer-und-commitment)
... and some data: 6-4, 295, 5.3 40 If he comes, the staff sees him as a DT. He certainly has the size we need up front.
Devan Hunt signed with North Dakota.....too bad
One of the QB's we offered (Danny Carollo) is going to Purdue as a preferred walk on. What exactly is a preferred walk on? That makes 2 walk on QB's at Purdue, not sure what that means for Paliga.
Quote from: VU2624 on February 03, 2016, 08:03:50 PM
Quote from: vu72 on February 03, 2016, 04:25:26 PMSo right now I counted 20. 5 from Ohio, 5 from Michigan, 3 from Indiana, 3 from Michigan, 2 from Texas and 1 each from Wisconsin and Florida. Great start!!
Not sure when "right now" was but there's 3 from FL that I see. Williams, Cartales and the unannounced Moore.
Let's hope that Moore and Sperling didn't have second thoughts but based on twitter pages, that does not seem to be the case.
Not to be a smart ass but "right now" was at the time of the post (4:25) I believe the total now is 24 with 6 from Illinois, 5 from Ohio and 4 from Michigan as the lead states.
Quote from: vu72 on February 03, 2016, 09:07:33 PMQuote from: VU2624 on February 03, 2016, 08:03:50 PMQuote from: vu72 on February 03, 2016, 04:25:26 PMSo right now I counted 20. 5 from Ohio, 5 from Michigan, 3 from Indiana, 3 from Michigan, 2 from Texas and 1 each from Wisconsin and Florida. Great start!!
Not sure when "right now" was but there's 3 from FL that I see. Williams, Cartales and the unannounced Moore. Let's hope that Moore and Sperling didn't have second thoughts but based on twitter pages, that does not seem to be the case.
Not to be a smart ass but "right now" was at the time of the post (4:25) I believe the total now is 24 with 6 from Illinois, 5 from Ohio and 4 from Michigan as the lead states.
No ill will intended.
Quote from: vu72 on February 03, 2016, 04:25:26 PM
So right now I counted 20. 5 from Ohio, 5 from Michigan, 3 from Indiana, 3 from Michigan, 2 from Texas and 1 each from Wisconsin and Florida. Great start!!
Upper and Lower Peninsula?
Good class hopefully these kids come in ready to work I think we have some crybabies last year let them go we need the kids that are hard workers and committed to the program like the coaches and most of the players The new linebacker coach is a hardnose guy and will be a great addition I think My family really enjoys being a part of Val Po and we're looking forward to kicking up the tailgating this season I will be meeting with the coaches this off-season trying to see if we can open up the parking lot earlier on Saturdays to start cooking out and get the students out for some free barbecue and maybe BYOB Before each home game go Val Po. Hardwork determination makes champions
Later this morning I will post a spread of all the announced signings and I will up date as new kids come aboard.
Quote from: IndyValpo on February 03, 2016, 09:06:38 PM
One of the QB's we offered (Danny Carollo) is going to Purdue as a preferred walk on. What exactly is a preferred walk on? That makes 2 walk on QB's at Purdue, not sure what that means for Paliga.
Being a preferred walk-on is a tough proposition and once the illusion wears off many quit the program to focus on studies. If they really want to play FB for 4 years and not just be scout team fodder, they have to transfer. And FBS D-I programs demand so much more of their kids than, say, a Valpo.
Attached (click to magnify) are the 25 official signees as of 10AM CST 02/04/2016 sorted by position. Looking for more as the week progresses and into next week. I'll update the spread as they come in and are announced. BTW: What position is a "SN"?
Some facts
By Position: 3 DBs, 4 DLs (smallish - most are DEs I think), 5 LBs/SNs, 4 OL, 1 QB, 3 RBs (good size), 1 TE, 3 WRs
By State: FL-2, IL-6, IN-3, MI-4, MO-1, OH-5, TX-2, WI-1
I saw someone refer to it as "snake." I assume that it has to do with playing both LB and DB. TCU is well known for having an extra player in the secondary that operates as such.
http://valpoathletics.com/ (http://valpoathletics.com/)
has a pdf of the 27 signees as well.
http://files.streamlinetechnologies.com/valpoathletics/9DB11E6F-3F84-43E9-884D-91E1862A0213/2016RecruitingClass.pdf (http://files.streamlinetechnologies.com/valpoathletics/9DB11E6F-3F84-43E9-884D-91E1862A0213/2016RecruitingClass.pdf)
Quote from: valpotx on February 04, 2016, 11:56:08 AM
I saw someone refer to it as "snake." I assume that it has to do with playing both LB and DB. TCU is well known for having an extra player in the secondary that operates as such.
Spot-on Tex. Here's what Vinny Giacalone sent me when I asked: "SN is our Snake outside linebacker position. It is very unique to our defense so instead of labeling it a LB we use SN. "
Curious as to what happened with Sean Moore. Listed as a commit. Everything about his twitter account indicates he's signed but nothing out "official" if Valpo announcing it via social media is official. Maybe just an oversight.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2016, 03:26:58 PMQuote from: valpotx on February 04, 2016, 11:56:08 AMI saw someone refer to it as "snake." I assume that it has to do with playing both LB and DB. TCU is well known for having an extra player in the secondary that operates as such.
Spot-on Tex. Here's what Vinny Giacalone sent me when I asked: "SN is our Snake outside linebacker position. It is very unique to our defense so instead of labeling it a LB we use SN. "
Maybe more of a LEO position which is used in the NFL. Combo of OLB and DE.
Quote from: VU2624 on February 04, 2016, 03:38:05 PM
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2016, 03:26:58 PMQuote from: valpotx on February 04, 2016, 11:56:08 AMI saw someone refer to it as "snake." I assume that it has to do with playing both LB and DB. TCU is well known for having an extra player in the secondary that operates as such.
Spot-on Tex. Here's what Vinny Giacalone sent me when I asked: "SN is our Snake outside linebacker position. It is very unique to our defense so instead of labeling it a LB we use SN. "
Maybe more of a LEO position which is used in the NFL. Combo of OLB and DE.
I'm thinking that is what Cody Cotton played at 210#. He had a great year and was very dependable. But I still hope they go 2 DEs and 2 DTs, both with good size, plus the weak side SN or OLB stacked and the strong side OLB over the TE. I saw Cody get overwhelmed on runs to his side. He also had trouble pass rushing over and around agile tackles.
and he won the Flashback to the 80s dance at the MBB game a few weeks ago...!
Quote from: talksalot on February 04, 2016, 03:49:56 PM
and he won the Flashback to the 80s dance at the MBB game a few weeks ago...!
No questioning his agility!!
Quote from: VU2624 on February 04, 2016, 03:36:43 PM
Curious as to what happened with Sean Moore. Listed as a commit. Everything about his twitter account indicates he's signed but nothing out "official" if Valpo announcing it via social media is official. Maybe just an oversight.
With the release of the PDF list that is printable, I'll beg off updating my spread. The PDF includes Biggs, Buckey and Sperling who were not on my list and whose Twitter releases came out today.
As for Sean Moore, DB from FL, he's still on the "we're waiting for his stuff" list. The staff still thinks he's a "for sure."
Quote from: GOVALPO! on February 04, 2016, 08:48:18 AMmaybe BYOB
From past experience this will not fly with the VUPD or the administration. Not sure why other than strict insurance liability rules.
Quote from: bbtds on February 04, 2016, 05:07:38 PM
Quote from: GOVALPO! on February 04, 2016, 08:48:18 AMmaybe BYOB
From past experience this will not fly with the VUPD or the administration. Not sure why other than strict insurance liability rules.
At the last bball game I aske the driver of the shuttle what happens if a student gets on the shuttle bus drunk. He said they go straight to VUPD and not a stop inbetween.
Quote from: bbtds on February 04, 2016, 05:07:38 PM
Quote from: GOVALPO! on February 04, 2016, 08:48:18 AMmaybe BYOB
From past experience this will not fly with the VUPD or the administration. Not sure why other than strict insurance liability rules.
Dry campus "image" started by Harre a long while ago. That's softening. The alumni tent in the east end zone at Homecoming served wine and beer, but needed special presidential approval. The University is wary of not having full control over rowdy, adult, Lutheran (and also especially Catholic, not to mention Baptist) people drinking adult beverages without presidential approval.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2016, 03:48:46 PMQuote from: VU2624 on February 04, 2016, 03:38:05 PMQuote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2016, 03:26:58 PMQuote from: valpotx on February 04, 2016, 11:56:08 AMI saw someone refer to it as "snake." I assume that it has to do with playing both LB and DB. TCU is well known for having an extra player in the secondary that operates as such.
Spot-on Tex. Here's what Vinny Giacalone sent me when I asked: "SN is our Snake outside linebacker position. It is very unique to our defense so instead of labeling it a LB we use SN. "
Maybe more of a LEO position which is used in the NFL. Combo of OLB and DE.
I'm thinking that is what Cody Cotton played at 210#. He had a great year and was very dependable. But I still hope they go 2 DEs and 2 DTs, both with good size, plus the weak side SN or OLB stacked and the strong side OLB over the TE. I saw Cody get overwhelmed on runs to his side. He also had trouble pass rushing over and around agile tackles.
I think Roberto Kelly played it the year before. I'm not sure it's a spot you want to force into the defense if you don't have the right guy to play it. NFL teams are different in that they can essentially hire the right guy. With Valpo's recruiting, I'm not sure they are always going to have that guy on the roster.
Thanks for the info on Sean Moore. Maybe his stuff is the academic qualifiers. The picture on his twitter page showed him signing the LOI and wearing VU gear. So unless he's running the letter up to Valpo himself, I guess they have to get everything in order in terms of academics.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 04, 2016, 05:32:26 PM
Dry campus "image" started by Harre a long while ago. That's softening. The alumni tent in the east end zone at Homecoming served wine and beer, but needed special presidential approval. The University is wary of not having full control over rowdy, adult, Lutheran (and also especially Catholic, not to mention Baptist) people drinking adult beverages without presidential approva
Martin Luther
Whoever drinks beer, he is quick to sleep; whoever sleeps long does not sin; whoever does not sin, enters heaven. Thus, let us drink beer!"
Nice summary article by Brandon in the Torch.
http://www.valpotorch.com/sports/article_f4f0d196-cc2b-11e5-a82e-ebe5d2840109.html (http://www.valpotorch.com/sports/article_f4f0d196-cc2b-11e5-a82e-ebe5d2840109.html)
From Brandon's article...
"We're looking to add a second one for sure, possibly a third," Cecchini said. "We've got one where we're waiting on a decision and another who is flying in for a visit next weekend that we're very excited about."
I am guessing the QB visiting is Chris Duncan from California. Cecchini visited him last week.
From his Hudl highlights he is pretty good on his feet, QBs an offense similar to VU, has good vision to pick up secondary receivers and can throw on the run going to both left and right.
6-3, 172# 4.65 40
Quote from: IndyValpo on February 05, 2016, 01:07:09 PMI am guessing the QB visiting is Chris Duncan from California. Cecchini visited him last week.
His dad wasn't a pitching coach for Tony LaRussa was he? ;)
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 05, 2016, 02:14:49 PMFrom his Hudl highlights he is pretty good on his feet, QBs an offense similar to VU, has good vision to pick up secondary receivers and can throw on the run going to both left and right. 6-3, 172# 4.65 40
Like this kid. Looks like he knows he's got to get the ball out and I don't see the receivers struggling to catch the ball. That's a sign the WRs are confident in where the ball will be.
This looks like a solid group (everyone looks good in highlights!). If the two committed DB's are added we have filled a lot positions. We really need another QB and some larger DL. It would be nice to add another TE, perhaps a punter for depth.
Chris Duncan is the QB who is/was visiting Valpo. Probably take a bit of time to get his paperwork together, submitted and accepted assuming he wishes to attend.
I believe he is scheduled for this weekend. If so he'll be attending the Wright State game at the ARC. There will be 4000 there and the place will be rocking. Not a bad way to introduce Valpo to the young man.
We have added a K Dimitrios Latsonas from Westmont, IL
That's good cuz Jake Newman is going into his senior year.
5-11, 170
Hudl snips show him reaching end zone on KOs (from 40 yd line in HS) consistently. Natural follow through on FGs and PATs.
Even caught a pass as a WR 8-)
Rated one of the top 100 kickers in his class. Could be a very important addition.
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3958135/highlights/251775576 (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3958135/highlights/251775576)
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 13, 2016, 08:18:51 AMThat's good cuz Jake Newman is going into his senior year. 5-11, 170 Hudl snips show him reaching end zone on KOs (from 40 yd line in HS) consistently. Natural follow through on FGs and PATs. Even caught a pass as a WR 8-)
IIRC, Newman graduated in 3 years and is moving on.
Whoa, even more important that we signed this kid.
We then only have 3 players with a "K" listed under position on the current roster: Ng (F), Mercado (F), and Simpson (S). Ng did a lot of punting last season. Don't know much about the other two.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 13, 2016, 12:16:18 PMWhoa, even more important that we signed this kid. We then only have 3 players with a "K" listed under position on the current roster: Ng (F), Mercado (F), and Simpson (S). Ng did a lot of punting last season. Don't know much about the other two.
Ng's always been listed as a punter going back to his recruiting. Not sure he's a PK at all.
I'll see if I can confirm Newman graduating but I'm pretty sure I either read it or had a conversation with someone about it at one of the games.
I must be losing my marbles. Everything I've been able to confirm is that Jake Newman will be back in 2016.
Quote from: VU2624 on February 13, 2016, 10:52:19 PM
I must be losing my marbles. Everything I've been able to confirm is that Jake Newman will be back in 2016.
Seinfeld says Newman will be back.
! No longer available (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98dai6CC5BA#)
Add DB Jamari Booker from Kentwood, MI
QB update here is the list of offers, updated and college commitments added:
Jimmy Seewald Dearborn, MI Valpo
Chris Duncan Woodland Hills, CA
JP Petricca Orland Park, IL
Anthony Binetti Huntley, Illinois
Conner Lovely Aurora, IL
JD Ekowa Plainfield, IL Minn-Mankato
Zach Hazlett Dublin, OH Miami O
P Bringingstool Chippewa Valley, MI Emporia State
Peyton Huslig Andover, Kansas Garden City
Luke Shepherd Grayslake, IL St Cloud
Michael Frankl Ames, IA Iowa State
Danny Carollo Lake Bluff, Illinois Purdue
Parker Gdula Chagrin Falls, OH Findlay
Here are others we are at least following:
QB Zach Eaton Fishers, IN
QB PJ Hurst Pacific Palisades, CA
QB Jack Telenko Los Alimitos, CA
QB Charlie Peterson Lake Mary, FL
QB Sam Carey New Berlin, WS
QB Jake Kissling Stoughton, WS
Quote from: IndyValpo on February 17, 2016, 07:54:45 AM
QB update here is the list of offers, updated and college commitments added:
Jimmy Seewald Dearborn, MI Valpo
Chris Duncan Woodland Hills, CA
JP Petricca Orland Park, IL
Joey Moore Lombard, IL
Anthony Binetti Huntley, Illinois
Conner Lovely Aurora, IL
JD Ekowa Plainfield, IL Minn-Mankato
Zach Hazlett Dublin, OH Miami O
P Bringingstool Chippewa Valley, MI Emporia State
Peyton Huslig Andover, Kansas Garden City
Luke Shepherd Grayslake, IL St Cloud
Michael Frankl Ames, IA Iowa State
Danny Carollo Lake Bluff, Illinois Purdue
Parker Gdula Chagrin Falls, OH Findlay
Here are others we are at least following:
QB Zach Eaton Fishers, IN
QB PJ Hurst Pacific Palisades, CA
QB Jack Telenko Los Alimitos, CA
QB Charlie Peterson Lake Mary, FL
QB Sam Carey New Berlin, WS
QB Jake Kissling Stoughton, WS
Pretty sure Joey Moore is a wide receiver.
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3171064/joey-moore (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3171064/joey-moore)
Quote from: vu72 on February 17, 2016, 08:21:02 AMPretty sure Joey Moore is a wide receiver.
Well we really need a QB but perhaps not a WR acting as one.....he has been removed
Latest two to commit:
Tyler Somers DE Wellington, FL
Tyler Newkirk DE Flossmoor, IL
Size-wise they look like OLB's....
I understand the football staff will do a second wave announcement within the week (+ or -). Everything hinges on financial aid packages being completed and accepted.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 27, 2016, 07:56:43 AMI understand the football staff will do a second wave announcement within the week (+ or -). Everything hinges on financial aid packages being completed and accepted.
On break for the next couple of weeks so there may be some time available to put an announcement day together. I assume the official announcements will include the few twitter commitments of the past couple of weeks.
I don't know whether it's worth starting a spring thread but one qb and 1 returning rb with a carry from last year.
Last year I believe that second Twitter/FB release package looked just like the first release.
The above mentioned Chris Duncan has signed his LOI to Valpo according to twitter. Did so a few days ago apparently but snuck it past us.
Quote from: VU2624 on February 27, 2016, 10:10:21 PM
The above mentioned Chris Duncan has signed his LOI to Valpo according to twitter. Did so a few days ago apparently but snuck it past us.
This is good news.
Watch his hudl link. The football field at the beginning is probably the worst field I have ever seen.
Also we have added a second K CD Elion from Flossmoor, IL
At around 3 PM today, the second wave of 2016 signees will be released.
https://twitter.com/valpoufootball
So .... it looks like they've added 10 or 11 new signees. Not all of the signees were introduced by the standard VUFB Twitter splash page, so its a little hard to tell what all of the positions, hts and wts are. Of those that got a splash screen, we have 2 DBs, 1 QB, 1 K, 1 LB. The rest require going to recruit.co to get more info. Gotta focus on the FSU BB game now.
Here's what I got so far:
Taylor Allen DB 5' 10" 170 Zionsville IN
Jamari Booker DB 6' 0" 175 Kentwood MI
Chris Duncan QB 6' 4" 190 Woodland Hills CA
Chris Elion K 5' 10" 150 Homewood IL
Bailey Gessinger WR 5' 9" 160 Goshen IN
Tyler Newkirk LB 6' 2" 190 Homewood IL
Kyle Cartales RB/DE 6' 1" 220 West Palm Beach FL
Dimitrios Latsnas K 5' 11" 170 Westmont IL
Ron Williams OL 6' 2" 315 Jacksonville FL
Thomas Hassel ? ? ? ?
Quote from: VULB#62 on March 18, 2016, 09:47:05 AMHere's what I got so far:
Taylor Allen DB 5' 10" 170 Zionsville IN
Jamari Booker DB 6' 0" 175 Kentwood MI
Chris Duncan QB 6' 4" 190 Woodland Hills CA
Chris Elion K 5' 10" 150 Homewood IL
Bailey Gessinger WR 5' 9" 160 Goshen IN
Tyler Newkirk LB 6' 2" 190 Homewood IL
Kyle Cartales RB/DE 6' 1" 220 West Palm Beach FL
Dimitrios Latsnas K 5' 11" 170 Westmont IL
Ron Williams OL 6' 2" 315 Jacksonville FL
Thomas Hassel ? ? ? ?
This is where is got weird...We already announced Williams and Cartales in the first wave. Not sure why we did it again. Hassel is a TE. There are two additional players who have said they were coming DB Sean Moore and DE Tyler Somers who have not been announced by VU.
Quote from: VULB#62 on March 18, 2016, 09:47:05 AMTaylor Allen DB 5' 10" 170 Zionsville IN
This means Derrik Smits will have a high school classmate on the football team after Alex Green is graduated.
http://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/taylor-allen/MuZDARyiEeOZ5AAmVebBJg/gendersport/football-stats.htm (http://www.maxpreps.com/athlete/taylor-allen/MuZDARyiEeOZ5AAmVebBJg/gendersport/football-stats.htm)
Quote from: IndyValpo on March 18, 2016, 10:27:45 AMQuote from: VULB#62 on March 18, 2016, 09:47:05 AMHere's what I got so far: Taylor Allen DB 5' 10" 170 Zionsville IN Jamari Booker DB 6' 0" 175 Kentwood MI Chris Duncan QB 6' 4" 190 Woodland Hills CA Chris Elion K 5' 10" 150 Homewood IL Bailey Gessinger WR 5' 9" 160 Goshen IN Tyler Newkirk LB 6' 2" 190 Homewood IL Kyle Cartales RB/DE 6' 1" 220 West Palm Beach FL Dimitrios Latsnas K 5' 11" 170 Westmont IL Ron Williams OL 6' 2" 315 Jacksonville FL Thomas Hassel ? ? ? ?
This is where is got weird...We already announced Williams and Cartales in the first wave. Not sure why we did it again. Hassel is a TE. There are two additional players who have said they were coming DB Sean Moore and DE Tyler Somers who have not been announced by VU.
Whatever had to happen with Sean Moore for him to be acknowledged as the other recruits have been, has happened as his commitment to Valpo was put out on twitter today.
Spring practice begins Wednesday.
Football team has announced that their team motto for 2016 will be "No weapon" in relation to Isaiah 54:17, "no weapon forged against me shall prosper."
I know nothing about selecting team mottoes, but does anyone else find it a little mock-able? I'm sure a lot of mottoes get really cliche ("Play like a champion today", "Hard work beats talent..." etc.), but I could easily hear someone saying
"'No weapon' -- does that describe Valpo's motto, or their offense?"
Quote from: hailcrusaders on March 21, 2016, 05:34:34 PM
Football team has announced that their team motto for 2016 will be "No weapon" in relation to Isaiah 54:17, "no weapon forged against me shall prosper."
I know nothing about selecting team mottoes, but does anyone else find it a little mock-able? I'm sure a lot of mottoes get really cliche ("Play like a champion today", "Hard work beats talent..." etc.), but I could easily hear someone saying
"'No weapon' -- does that describe Valpo's motto, or their offense?"
Completely and respectfully disagree with your take on this
Paul
Quote from: 78crusader on March 21, 2016, 05:47:23 PMQuote from: hailcrusaders on March 21, 2016, 05:34:34 PMFootball team has announced that their team motto for 2016 will be "No weapon" in relation to Isaiah 54:17, "no weapon forged against me shall prosper." I know nothing about selecting team mottoes, but does anyone else find it a little mock-able? I'm sure a lot of mottoes get really cliche ("Play like a champion today", "Hard work beats talent..." etc.), but I could easily hear someone saying "'No weapon' -- does that describe Valpo's motto, or their offense?"
Completely and respectfully disagree with your take on this Paul
I understand that, and I was hoping some people would for discussion's sake. Again, I support our football team as much as anyone else does, and I don't mean to ridicule them myself. I was just wondering if that crossed anyone else's mind when they heard this.
Without an explained context (I stopped reading after "no weapon" -- my first thought was "what?" ) I have to agree that it is an unclear and ambiguous. However, after I read the rest of the explanation, I understood. Still, if you put it on a tee shirt, there really isn't much space for the explanation.
[tweet]562804420585725952[/tweet]
JERY: Goodbye Newman *sheds a single tear* *drops a Bee Movie blu-ray into Newman's coffin*
So sad. Newman is gone.
New QB commit as of yesterday. 6'3", 190, 4.8 - 40, West Palm Beach, FL
[tweet]719703950811926528[/tweet]
Hudl
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2566222/grant-papenfuss
Same school as 2016 recruit RB Kyle Cartales.
Wow! The kids has a strong arm and great touch. Somewhere between the California kid and the Florida kid or possibly the Michigan kid, we are going to find a great quarterback!!
I was watching the Hudl clips on this kid and thought it would be fun to see the school he comes from. I am impressed and it was fun to rummage through their website.
Tuition:
Affiliated Catholics - $ 11,000.00 per year
Non Affiliated Families - $ 12,000.00 per year (When I attended Concordia Prep, NY it was $1,000 a YEAR! But that was before they invented the wheel.)
Enrollment: 540. They wear uniforms (but they are pretty cool)
They play Lacrosse! [Valpo should play Lacrosse!]
From The School Website:
Welcome to Crusader Country!
Cardinal Newman High School, home of the Crusaders, is a co-ed college-prep high school in the Diocese of Palm Beach. Located on a 45 acre campus, CNHS students enroll in College-Prep, Honors, Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Courses. Established in 1961, CNHS is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
40,000 service hours are logged each year by the 165 Key Club members! [Fits with the Valpo way.]
http://www.cardinalnewman.com/pdf/CN%20Broch_FINAL%20PROOF%20LR.pdf
Athletics website: http://cardinalnewmanathletics.com
I also looked at his receivers. Wonder where they are going. They are pretty good (especially #80)
Quote from: vu72 on April 12, 2016, 03:12:27 PMWow! The kids has a strong arm and great touch. Somewhere between the California kid and the Florida kid or possibly the Michigan kid, we are going to find a great quarterback!!
I didn't find his arm particularly strong and he had receivers waiting on the ball. To me, all of the other QBs looked better. However film is film and can be deceiving.
I found the kid from CA and Seewald the most impressive based on their highlights.
My guess is at least one of the QBs will probably play some next year with Stokes still not throwing in practice and only one other QB on the roster.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 12, 2016, 05:35:21 PMI was watching the Hudl clips on this kid and thought it would be fun to see the school he comes from. I am impressed and it was fun to rummage through their website. Tuition: Affiliated Catholics - $ 11,000.00 per year Non Affiliated Families - $ 12,000.00 per year (When I attended Concordia Prep, NY it was $1,000 a YEAR! But that was before they invented the wheel.) Enrollment: 540. They wear uniforms (but they are pretty cool) They play Lacrosse! [Valpo should play Lacrosse!] From The School Website: Welcome to Crusader Country! Cardinal Newman High School, home of the Crusaders, is a co-ed college-prep high school in the Diocese of Palm Beach. Located on a 45 acre campus, CNHS students enroll in College-Prep, Honors, Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Courses. Established in 1961, CNHS is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. 40,000 service hours are logged each year by the 165 Key Club members! [Fits with the Valpo way.] http://www.cardinalnewman.com/pdf/CN%20Broch_FINAL%20PROOF%20LR.pdf Athletics website: http://cardinalnewmanathletics.com I also looked at his receivers. Wonder where they are going. They are pretty good (especially #80)
The team wasn't.
1-9 :(
Defense gave up a pile of points apparently. First reaction I had was that it reminded me of Valpo in the Eric Hoffman years. Decent QB who now holds Valpo career passing yards record, but a defense that was almost nonexistent. But as mentioned earlier, film is just that. Was there zing on the ball? Probably not what you want from an immediate freshman starter, but at 6-3 and only 190 he has a long way to go strength-wise. Can't tell from the edited film about overall decision making, but seems to be able to escape pressure (at 1-9 I bet there was a lot of that). Liked that he also took snaps from under center and had enough speed to turn the corner on QB keepers. We know that Cecchini likes his QBs mobile (like Ben) so Grant fits that mold.
With 3 new QBs plus a healthy (fingers crossed for Spring Game) Ryan and hopefully a healed and in shape Dalton Stokes we will have an interesting summer and preseason.
I wonder how many players will stay on campus over the summer.
Given that Hoffman has the career passing yards record at Valpo, would this suffice for him to be in the Valpo Hall of Fame despite his record?
Absolutely not. He built up those yards because we were always behind, and he had to pass on every down. You can blame it on the defense all you want, but he had A LOT of 3 and outs on the offensive side. There is no way that he should be in the HoF, with no offense intended to Mr. Hoffman.
I don't think so as well. There are two modern QBs in the HOF: Dave Lass and Dave Macchi. Both of them have a much better body of work and a more well-rounded collection of records. And here is the key to HOF entry (IMO): Both Lass (my QB BTW) and Macchi were winners and took Valpo to conference championships. I believe Eric was the winning QB in only three games in 3 years.
However, as time passes, Eric's numbers will continue to be among the leaders but the context of how those numbers were achieved will become fuzzier and fuzzier. But that is something for HOF voters to wrestle with a decade+ from now.
Quote from: valpotx on April 14, 2016, 12:22:36 PM
Absolutely not. He built up those yards because we were always behind, and he had to pass on every down. You can blame it on the defense all you want, but he had A LOT of 3 and outs on the offensive side. There is no way that he should be in the HoF, with no offense intended to Mr. Hoffman.
Since I know a lot of people on the HOF selection group this will now guarantee Hoffman's selection to the Valpo HOF. For sure. Way to go guys!
well they did add Jon Steinbrecher as a football player who was very mediocre statistically on some bad teams. so who knows.
Quote from: usc4valpo on April 14, 2016, 10:38:31 PM
well they did add Jon Steinbrecher as a football player who was very mediocre statistically on some bad teams. so who knows.
Exactly!
I am still waiting for the late and great Eugene Parker to get inducted. His accolades are tremendous and it is a crime that Valpo is not recognizing this.
In addition to Papenfuss, we've signed another QB. Joe Mullen from IL. We go from 1 QB in the Spring to 6 in August (assuming Dalton is ready).
[tweet]723533554504753152[/tweet]
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1546596/joseph-mullen
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 12, 2016, 10:19:27 AM
New QB commit as of yesterday. 6'3", 190, 4.8 - 40, West Palm Beach, FL
[tweet]719703950811926528[/tweet]
Hudl
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2566222/grant-papenfuss
There was a QB on his visit for the Spring Game. I assume it was Mr. Mullen. Looks like he's got some ability.
Gonna be crazy in August, unless Ryan clearly separates himself from the other 5. Hate going into the opener with a ? at QB.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 23, 2016, 05:13:56 PMGonna be crazy in August, unless Ryan clearly separates himself from the other 5. Hate going into the opener with a ? at QB.
If Dalton is healthy it's very likely to be the two of the returners initially. If not it gets dicey and will depend on what is likely to be a pretty quick decision on who the best freshmen (1 or 2) are. On the offense, the guys they are throwing to are fairly well defined at this point so I'd expect a fairly quick division into team/scout based on who picks things up the fastest. Even the RBs may be set to some degree although that's a position I think a freshman can play more quickly. They have to get these guys ready to play games in a pretty short period of time.
Agree 2624. Once again we are faced with a dilemma that will probably confront us for a year or two to come: Going into August with essentially a question at QB. Will Ryan's performance and judgment take a large leap forward and give us the versatility and skill at the position that will give our offense the ability to move the ball and the maturity to sustain drives and limit back-breaking turnovers? Or will we be starting off with a new #1 QB with less (Dalton) or no college experience (one of the 4 freshmen QBs)?
Which brings me to the real point in my reply. It's too bad that we are ratcheted into opening our next two seasons against top tier FCS scholarship programs. It's too bad that we can't schedule an NAIA or D-II school to "settle in," as it were, before we take on the big boys. Yes, both NAIA and D-II have scholarship players, but the number and level of skill/talent is at a more competitive level with VU. That said, Illinois State will use us to work out the kinks before they take on Northwestern the following Saturday. Next year, we'll go to Montana to help them warm up for the University of Washington the week to follow (they play Oregon in 2018). In many cases, but not always, our FCS opponent then gets thrashed by the FBS team like we were thrashed the week before. For instance, EKU lost 0-35 to NC State the week after they played us (and NC State went only 3-5 in the ACC) but at least EKU had a game under their belt going in. I am just acknowledging the position we are in. We want the payday. We use those attractive games to help us recruit. The kids want those games to see how they measure up, yaddah, yaddah -- we've been through all this numerous times in previous discussions. It is what it is, and because the Big Boys control the schedule (not unlike VU being a mid-major in BB), this will be the scheduling pattern. I'm resigned to it, but it sure would be nice to open a season in a little more of a competitive contest, so that WE could work out some wrinkles. Just saying..............
Anyway, I hope the off season has been a productive one for the returning players and that the young OL has added a bit more mature muscle and reduced some baby fat going into August. The same for the DL.
Two late additions:
Kyle Bender S from Hawaii
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXD2AAGUhLY&feature=youtu.be
Brenton Dickson DL Plainfield, IL
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3414496/brenton-dickson
Also looks like we lost 2 originally named DB's:
Keegan Brown OH is going to Miami O
Kelan Winters TX is going to Missouri S&T
With those adds and subtracts I make the recruit class roster to be 38 in number. Bender is bigger than the two DB's we lost and is certainly a hitter out of the safety slot. He likes contact. Dickson goes 6'5 230. That's great size for a freshman.
I wonder if the kid from Hawaii lost potential landing spots because of the film production.
Just show your film and leave slo mo/slideshows to NFL films.
FWIW the recruit count given at the spring game was 39.
My 38 was a hodge-podge of tweets, lists and posts. Could be 36, 38, 39 or 22 by August 7th (?) I'm hoping for 40 ;D with the one more guy a real difference maker.
Not sure if these two have been mentioned:
Bailey Gessinger WR Goshen, IN..finished 4th this weekend in the 200 meters at the track state finals.
Martin Petruf TE Whiting, IN
Quote from: IndyValpo on June 06, 2016, 08:04:38 PMNot sure if these two have been mentioned: Bailey Gessinger WR Goshen, IN..finished 4th this weekend in the 200 meters at the track state finals. Martin Petruf TE Whiting, IN
Gessinger was listed previously and he has some wheels. Listed as a WR but played a lot of RB in HS. RB would probably be his best chance to get on the field early.
Petruf's name I hadn't seen listed.
Quote from: VULB#62 on June 06, 2016, 07:22:38 PMMy 38 was a hodge-podge of tweets, lists and posts. Could be 36, 38, 39 or 22 by August 7th (?) I'm hoping for 40 ;D with the one more guys a real difference maker.
It was probably 40 after spring anyway as at least one who was on his visit committed after that weekend. We still have to go through the "I'm not getting on the plane/bus" phase. So if they have 40 commits figure 35-37 probably show up for camp assuming all are invites. That's a good number.
Yep. When Cecchini stablizes the "product," and I believe he will, a solid class of 30-35 would be just about right. In a 2-deep situation you need 44 on both sides of the ball and maybe 10-15 ST specialists as a core. If each class eventually could supply just 15 each year to that core out of the 30 we will be a solid outfit. But the other players who see spot duty and run scout team stuff also contribute greatly to a winning program.
Quote from: VULB#62 on June 06, 2016, 10:33:11 PMYep. When Cecchini stablizes the "product," and I believe he will, a solid class of 30-35 would be just about right. In a 2-deep situation you need 44 on both sides of the ball and maybe 10-15 ST specialists as a core. If each class eventually could supply just 15 each year to that core out of the 30 we will be a solid outfit. But the other players who see spot duty and run scout team stuff also contribute greatly to a winning program.
Scout team is important but atrophy from those "squads" is a problem
Do you actually mean 'atrophy' or are you referring to attrition?
Petruf was the key player in Whiting's run to the state championship game last season.
I'm sold. 6'4", 215, 4.7 40 and two one-handed grabs in the first three receptions in the hi-lite film.
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2678202/martin-petruf
Quote from: VULB#62 on June 07, 2016, 10:56:48 AMDo you actually mean 'atrophy' or are you referring to attrition?
Attrition
Yeah, it's tough getting beat up for X years and only seeing limited game minutes. Not every kid is Rudy and this is not ND.
The 2016 roster is up. There were several recruits who are not on the roster.
The defensive backfield was particularly effected:
Sean Moore - FL
Keegan Brown - OH
Kelan Winters - TX
Also DE/LB Tyler Somers - FL
We have an additional DB added from Valpo named Bryce Crook.
Houston Underwood who played a lot of OL as a freshman is not on the roster...
so what is the prospectus for this season? Who is the projected QB? Is Jean Rene back?
Answers in order: who knows? who knows? Yes!
Roster breakdown by position:
QB - 6
RB - 7
WR - 14
TE/H-Back - 6
OL - 17
TOTAL O - 50
DB - 15
DE/DL - 13
LB/Snake - 20
TOTAL D - 48
Long Snapper - 1
K/P - 5
TOTAL ST - 6
TOTAL - 104
Roster breakdown by class (no differentiation for redshirts):
Seniors - 8
Juniors - 17
Sophomores - 25
Freshmen - 54
Quote from: usc4valpo on July 07, 2016, 01:41:56 PMso what is the prospectus for this season? Who is the projected QB? Is Jean Rene back?
Is there a reason that you're asking about Jean Rene. I haven't heard anything regarding him not returning.
Quote from: VULB#62 on July 07, 2016, 03:55:07 PMAnswers in order: who knows? who knows? Yes! Roster breakdown by position: QB - 6 RB - 7 WR - 14 TE/H-Back - 6 OL - 17 TOTAL O - 50 DB - 15 DE/DL - 13 LB/Snake - 20 TOTAL D - 48 Long Snapper - 1 K/P - 5 TOTAL ST - 6 TOTAL - 104 Roster breakdown by class (no differentiation for redshirts): Seniors - 8 Juniors - 17 Sophomores - 25 Freshmen - 54
You mean the breakdown is listed by eligibility. IOW...a R-FR is scholastically a sophomore but has freshman eligibility.
Otherwise, without looking, they would have lost a ton of players from spring which I don't believe is the case at all.
That's correct - based entirely on how the roster was presented upon its release. My breakdown was only by eligibility and irrespective of redshirt or not. 4 year Senior or R-Senior is still a Senior for eligibility purposes (going into his 4th and final season of eligibility). Freshman (true) or R-Freshman is still a freshman in terms of having this season plus 3 more ahead of him.
I think Jean Rene has a lot of potential to do some great things.
Still, only 25 upper classmen which is not a lot. But this is typical to average Div. 3 football, which in reality the football program reflects.
FYI --- Roster breakdown by class (redshirts in parens):
Seniors - 8 (1)
Juniors - 17 (9)
Sophomores - 25 (3)
Freshmen - 54 (15)
Interesting to see how many true sophs are listed, which, at least to me, indicates how many of them played last year. 15 Freshmen redshirts also indicates how many did not.
Thanks 62
This is an important year for Coach C to see how this football program has progressed. I know they are light at QB, but improvement needs to be shown.
Quote from: usc4valpo on July 08, 2016, 09:06:52 AM
Thanks 62
This is an important year for Coach C to see how this football program has progressed. I know they are light at QB, but improvement needs to be shown.
Light in experience, yes (essentially Ryan and a smidge of Dalton), but with 6 on the roster, certainly not depth. The depth question is intriguing as it relates to talent mix (i.e., 6 average QBs OR 1 good QB and 5 poorly talented backups, OR.... you name it) Gonna be interesting to see how preseason competition unfolds. Unless one of the freshman is a dynamic game changer right out of the box, it's gonna be Ryan taking the first set of snaps vs. Illinois State. Hope he has progressed significantly. According to Cecchini, this is a complicated offense that takes time to digest, so I can't envision one of the F4 jumping ahead of Ryan and Dalton ........ right away, anyway.
Quote from: VULB#62 on July 08, 2016, 09:45:59 AMQuote from: usc4valpo on July 08, 2016, 09:06:52 AMThanks 62 This is an important year for Coach C to see how this football program has progressed. I know they are light at QB, but improvement needs to be shown.
Light in experience, yes (essentially Ryan and a smidge of Dalton), but with 6 on the roster, certainly not depth. The depth question is intriguing as it relates to talent mix (i.e., 6 average QBs OR 1 good QB and 5 poorly talented backups, OR.... you name it) Gonna be interesting to see how preseason competition unfolds. Unless one of the freshman is a dynamic game changer right out of the box, it's gonna be Ryan taking the first set of snaps vs. Illinois State. Hope he has progressed significantly. According to Cecchini, this is a complicated offense that takes time to digest, so I can't envision one of the F4 jumping ahead of Ryan and Dalton ........ right away, anyway.
What I'm getting is not to count on Dalton just yet. So a freshman or two will play early...particularly the first couple of games until league play begins.
Understand. I haven't heard anything at all with respect to his progress (either physical or skill-wise), but you don't want to rush the kid and risk having him go down with a recurrence of the injury. I believe he had the same injury as Connor Smith (labrum?) and Connor reinjured it to the point that he had to stop playing. Dalton is listed as a R-Sophomore so he has 3 seasons of football left -- if he chooses to use them.
Quote from: VULB#62 on July 08, 2016, 04:22:58 PMUnderstand. I haven't heard anything at all with respect to his progress (either physical or skill-wise), but you don't want to rush the kid and risk having him go down with a recurrence of the injury. I believe he had the same injury as Connor Smith (labrum?) and Connor reinjured it to the point that he had to stop playing. Dalton is listed as a R-Sophomore so he has 3 seasons of football left -- if he chooses to use them.
It is the same injury and it is a very tough injury to come back from if you intend to throw a ball. You have to essentially reteach the muscles to do so.
So as they get ready for Illinois State, and knowing they will get blown out, should they treat this as an exhibition type of game to grow and play many to get experience and see what these guys can do?
I think Cecchini will get the job done, but another 1 win season will not cut it. IMO for the football team to show progress they need to win at least 3 and demonstrate that they are competing.
Illinois State is what it is. Just like EKU last year, except maybe we get better QB play and better protection. Dont know if we can stop anyone yet. We should do better against Sacred Heart (than last year) but probably won't win at their place. First really winable game is Trinity International. Then comes the PFL SEASON.
Quote from: usc4valpo on July 09, 2016, 08:05:47 AMSo as they get ready for Illinois State, and knowing they will get blown out, should they treat this as an exhibition type of game to grow and play many to get experience and see what these guys can do? I think Cecchini will get the job done, but another 1 win season will not cut it. IMO for the football team to show progress they need to win at least 3 and demonstrate that they are competing.
This is the same as any team playing in whatever version of their "money" game is. They shouldn't blow a bunch of players redshirts but they can get guys they intend to use some time on the field. Typically at least a couple of QBs play.
Quote from: VULB#62 on July 07, 2016, 03:55:07 PMAnswers in order: who knows? who knows? Yes! Roster breakdown by position: QB - 6 RB - 7 WR - 14 TE/H-Back - 6 OL - 17 TOTAL O - 50 DB - 15 DE/DL - 13 LB/Snake - 20 TOTAL D - 48 Long Snapper - 1 K/P - 5 TOTAL ST - 6 TOTAL - 104 Roster breakdown by class (no differentiation for redshirts): Seniors - 8 Juniors - 17 Sophomores - 25 Freshmen - 54
On the position breakdown there are a couple of players listed at former positions on offense. Both Jarrett Morgan and Elias Earley are at RB rather than WR. Jarrett's been there since midway last year.
Also one of the incoming Freshman, Connor Sperling, is listed as a RB when I think he's a DL. His recruiting profile from Valpo initially had him as DL. His assigned number of 55 would indicate that as well.
That makes 8 RBs, 12 WRs, 14 DL.
Quote from: IndyValpo on July 07, 2016, 08:51:15 AM
The 2016 roster is up. There were several recruits who are not on the roster.
The defensive backfield was particularly effected:
Sean Moore - FL
Keegan Brown - OH
Kelan Winters - TX
Also DE/LB Tyler Somers - FL
We have an additional DB added from Valpo named Bryce Crook.
Houston Underwood who played a lot of OL as a freshman is not on the roster...
A roster update...
add back freshman DB Sean Moore from Florida who I thought looked like a prospect
drop redshirt K Issac Mercado
Since no one here has talked about the 3 Valparaiso High School commits, here's my input:
Chris Orlich: 6'0-6'1 WR, good hands, decent route runner, lacks breakaway speed.
Dylan Johnson: 6'1 OLB, great speed, covers lots of ground well, needs to work on wrapping up guys, was a Track All State in 2015 4x100 (8th place), 2016 200m State Qualifier.
Bryce Crook: 5'11 RB/DB, good breakaway speed, nice vision, sheds defenders well, also played baseball at VHS. Probably will be a KR/PR as well. Lower body strength is a question mark.
Thanks 11. Always like speed in a defender (Orlich) (meant Johnson). Makes it easier to adjust to the faster speed within the college game.
Quote from: VULB#62 on July 18, 2016, 10:22:16 AM
Thanks 11. Always like speed in a defender (Orlich). Makes it easier to adjust to the faster speed within the college game.
Unfortunately, except for Andrean, nothing much is coming out of the Region as far as HS football is concerned. Central Indiana has many teams like Andrean already and some outstanding public schools too.
"Winning some games solves that dilemma." *
Quote from: VULB#62 on July 18, 2016, 10:22:16 AMThanks 11. Always like speed in a defender (Orlich). Makes it easier to adjust to the faster speed within the college game.
I think you're mixing players up. Dylan Johnson is the defender with the apparent wheels.
...and I also thank valpofan11 for his color on the local guys.
Yep 2624. Johnson. 100 meter guys who play LB are in short supply. State qualifier in the 200 translates to a high motor as well. I fixed my previous post too BTW.
Quote from: VULB#62 on July 19, 2016, 09:05:08 PMYep 2624. Johnson. 100 meter guys who play LB are in short supply. State qualifier in the 200 translates to a high motor as well. I fixed my previous post too BTW.
...and if a ball carrier decides to run in the wrong direction and then turn around and head in the right direction, we have our man to run him down. ;D
One note/clarification on recruits. One of the new QBs....Joe Mullen....is a transfer. He originally committed to Tiffin (Div II) for 2015 but doesn't appear to have played for them or was he listed on last year's roster. He's listed as a Freshman and not a RS Freshman on the Valpo roster. I assume he's eligible although that may not be the case. The transfer rules can be dicey particularly when there would be a lot of unknowns and this includes whether he matriculated through his freshman year at Tiffin (or anywhere else).
Christian Coleman who was a verbal recruit I think two years ago before deciding to run track at Tennessee is a member of the US 4 by 100 relay at the Olympics.
Wow, that would have been interesting to see him in a Valpo football uniform.
Quote from: IndyValpo on August 15, 2016, 09:20:17 PM)
That is bizarre to be frank. His track credentials in HS should have had him as a major track recruit from the big boys. Maybe he wanted to play football or maybe he liked the school but that level of talent doesn't show up in the PFL or the Horizon League in track.