SB Nation - Josh Hartigan

The North in 2010

Bill C. — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 22:00:31 -0000

The 2009 Big 12 North race is, to say the least, intriguing heading into November, but the way my brain works, I can't help but keep an eye on the future as all of this plays out. And since it's in my head, I might as well type it out too, huh? As November 2009 begins, let's take a look at...2010.

What we're going to do is simple: we're going to take the most recent two-deeps listed on each team's website, remove the seniors, and see what's left. Obviously there will be plenty more analysis to come, but this will be a nice, preliminary peek. I can't help myself.

Missouri

Projected 2010 Depth Chart
QB	Blaine Gabbert (Jr) Jimmy Costello (So)	DE	Jacquies Smith (Jr) Marcus Malbrough (So)
RB	Derrick Washington (Sr) De'Vion Moore (So)	DT	Dominique Hamilton (Jr) Marvin Foster (RSFr)
WR	Jerrell Jackson (Jr) Brandon Gerau (Jr)	DT	Terrell Resonno (Jr) Bart Coslet (Sr)
WR	T.J. Moe (So) Rolandis Woodland (So)	DE	Aldon Smith (So) Brad Madison (So)
WR	Wes Kemp (Jr) Michael Egnew (Jr)	WLB	Zaviar Gooden (So) Donovan Bonner (So)
TE	Andrew Jones (Jr) Beau Brinkley (Jr)	MLB	Will Ebner (Jr) Luke Lambert (Sr)
LT	Elvis Fisher (Jr) Justin Britt (RSFr)	SLB	Andrew Gachkar (Sr) Tyler Crane (Jr)
LG	Austin Wuebbels (Jr) Travis Ruth (So)	CB	Carl Gettis (Sr) Trey Hobson (Jr)
C	Tim Barnes (Sr) J.T. Beasley (Jr)	CB	Kevin Rutland (Sr) Robert Steeples (So)
RG	Jayson Palmgren (Jr) Travis Ruth (So)	FS	Jasper Simmons (Sr) Munir Prince (Sr)
RT	Dan Hoch (Jr) Jack Meiners (So)	SS	Jarrell Harrison (Sr) Kenji Jackson (Jr)

K	Grant Ressel (Jr)	P	Matt Grabner (Jr)
PR	Carl Gettis (Sr)	KR	Jasper Simmons (Sr)

I've got to say, this is the most complete team heading into 2010. Blaine Gabbert will be the most accomplished North QB heading into 2010 and Derrick Washington the second-most accomplished RB. The improved secondary will return just about everybody of importance, and a deep LB corps could be well-positioned to absorb the loss of Sean Weatherspoon with as little drop-off as possible.
Two major question marks: a) who replaces Danario Alexander, and b) who replaces Jaron Baston? Multiple candidates exist to replace Spoon, so that's actually less of a worry, but the WR situation is at least a bit worrisome. Wes Kemp has shown flashes, and if he continues to grow, he could be the deep threat this team needs, but what is it I always say? Until you actually prove it, it's a question mark. Beyond Kemp, guys like Jackson, T.J. Moe (remember him?), Rolandis Woodland, and one of the redshirting freshmen (L'Damian Washington, Jaleel Clark, Kerwin Stricker) will fill out the depth chart, and at least one of them will need to take a step forward.
Of course, you know who else could absorb the loss of Danario? Tight ends. Novel concept, I know.
I really like what I've seen out of Dominique Hamilton recently, but Terrell Resonno seems to have disappeared. Either he or one of the underclassmen (Marvin Foster, Jimmy Burge, George White) will need to raise their game. If somebody competent steps up at WR and DT, this team is loaded.

Colorado

Projected 2010 Depth Chart
QB	Tyler Hansen (Jr) Cody Hawkins (Sr)	DE	Marquez Herrod (Sr) Josh Hartigan (Jr)
RB	Rodney Stewart (Jr) Darrell Scott (Jr)	DT	Curtis Cunningham (Jr) Nate Bonsu (So)
FB	Ryan Deehan (Jr) ?	DT	Will Pericak (So) Conrad Obi (Jr)
WR	Scotty McKnight (Sr) Jason Espinoza (Jr)	DE	Forrest West (So) Nick Kasa (So)
WR	Markques Simas (Jr) Will Jefferson (So)	WLB	Jon Major (So) Tyler Ahles (Jr)
TE	Ryan Deehan? (Jr) ?	MLB	Michael Sipili (Sr) ?
LT	Nate Solder (Sr) Ryan Dannewitz (So)	SLB	B.J. Beatty (Sr) Doug Rippy (So)
LG	Ethan Adkins (Jr) Blake Behrens (Jr)	CB	Jimmy Smith (Sr) ?
C	Keenan Stevens (Sr) Mike Iltis (Jr)	CB	Jalil Brown (Sr) Arthur Jaffee (Jr)
RG	Matthew Bahr (Jr) Max Tuioti-Mariner? (So)	FS	Ray Polk (So) Anthony Perkins (Jr)
RT	Ryan Miller (Jr) Bryce Givens (So)	SS	Travis Sandersfeld (Jr) ?

K	Aric Goodman (Sr)	P	Aric Goodman (Sr)
PR	Jason Espinoza (Jr)	KR	Brian Lockridge (Jr)

I mentioned this past offseason that while Colorado was going to stink in 2009, they might actually be positioning themselves to actually fulfill the role of sleeper that has been foisted upon them for most of the last half-decade. Ironically, they might actually emerge as a sleeper just as everybody finally gives up on them.
Of course, there will still be some major question marks. You know I'm not at all impressed with Rodney "Another Short Gain By" Stewart, and while Scotty McKnight (how is he still an underclassman???) is a great possession guy, he'd be a helluva lot better as a #2 or #3 threat than a #1. Unless Markques Simas finally starts to live up to the potential everybody says he has, this team is still severely lacking at WR, and they're losing both of their top tight ends. (I'm going out of my way not to mention Darrell Scott here, as he...whatever. I have no expectations whatsoever for him at this point, and I'm going to let him surprise me.)
I really like Jimmy Smith at CB, but CU's going to be searching for some replacements in the secondary. Jalil Brown has potential, and Ray Polk is young, but depth could be an issue.
Same can be said for the LB corps. Luckily for CU, they should have a strong D-line to maybe deflect some of the concerns.
If CU really does live up to its annual sleeper reputation, it will be in the trenches, where a struggling O-line will at least have experience on its side, and the D-line could be strong. Then again, after watching CU's O-line attempt to handle MU's improving-but-not-amazing D-line, maybe returning a bunch of these guys might not be a good thing.

Iowa State

Projected 2010 Depth Chart
QB	Austen Arnaud (Sr) Jerome Tiller (So)	DE	Patrick Neal (Jr) ?
RB	Alexander Robinson (Sr) Beau Blankenship (So)	DT	Bailey Johnson (Jr) Stephen Ruempolhamer (Jr)
WR	Jake Williams (Sr) ?	DT	Austin Alburtis (Sr) ?
WR	Sedrick Johnson (Jr) ?	DE	Roosevelt Maggitt (So) Cleyon Lang (So)
WR	Josh Lenz (So) Darius Darks (Jr)	SLB	Jacob Lattimer (Jr) ?
TE	Collin Franklin (Sr) ?	MLB	Matt Tau'fo'ou (Sr) A.J. Klein (So)
LT	Kelechi Osmele (Jr) Brayden Burris (So)	WLB	Jake Knott (So) ?
LG	Alex Alvarez (Sr) Mike Bangston (So)	CB	Leonard Johnson (Jr) Jeremy Reeves (So)
C	Sean Smith (Sr) ?	CB	Jacques Washington (So) ?
RG	Ben Lamaak (Sr) Trey Baysinger (Jr)	FS	Michael O'Connell (Sr) ?
RT	Scott Haughton (Jr) Zack Spears (Jr)	SS	David Sims (Sr) Zac Sandvig (Sr)

K	Grant Mahoney (Jr)	P	?
PR	Leonard Johnson (Jr)	KR	Leonard Johnson (Jr)

So Paul Rhoads' second year in Ames will potentially see a downright strong offense and a thin, depleted, inexperienced defense. I don't want to overstate the offensive potential (the WR situation is iffy, to say the least), but ISU might have the best O-line in the North blocking for what is at least decent skill position talent.
Arnaud vs Tiller. Could be interesting to watch this competition.
Really, if ISU returned just a couple more decent playmakers on defense, I could talk myself into them being a darkhorse contender. But while I do like what Rhoads has done with the talent on hand this year, I just can't figure they'll be that great next year. They will need another year or two of Rhoads developing his own recruits before I feel a lot more comfortable about the potential of their program.

Kansas

Projected 2010 Depth Chart
QB	Kale Pick (So) ?	DE	Jake Laptad (Sr) ?
RB	Toben Opurum (So) ?	DT	Jamal Greene (Sr) ?
WR	Dezmon Briscoe?? (Sr) ?	DT	John Williams (So) Richard Johnson (Jr)
WR	Johnathan Wilson (Sr) Tertavian Ingram (Sr)	DE	Quintin Woods (Sr) ?
WR	Bradley McDougald (So) Chris Omigie (So)	SLB	Justin Springer (Sr) ?
TE	Tim Biere (Jr) Ted McNulty (Jr)	MLB	Drew Dudley (Sr) ?
LT	Tanner Hawkinson (So) Ian Wolfe (Sr)	WLB	Huldon Tharp (So) ?
LG	Brad Thorson (Sr) Carl Wilson (Sr)	CB	D.J. Beshears (So) Daymond Patterson (Jr)
C	Jeremiah Hatch (Jr) Brad Thorson (Sr)	CB	Chris Harris (Sr) Calvin Rubles (Sr)
RG	Sal Capra (Sr) Trevor Marrongelli (So)	FS	Lubbock Smith (So) ?
RT	Jeff Spikes (Jr) Michael Martinovich (Jr)	SS	Phil Strozier (Sr) ?

K	Jacob Branstetter (Sr)	P	Alonso Rojas (Sr)
PR	Daymond Patterson (Jr)	KR	Bradley McDougald (So)

So KU's biggest question mark (offensive line) will return completely intact next year, while most of the known skill position talent disappears. I listed Dez Briscoe on the two-deep above, but I've got to be honest: I'm about 92% sure he's going pro this year. His stats are ridiculous, he's got decent NFL size, he's been suspended for academic reasons, and supposedly he was tied to those football-vs-basketball brawls earlier in the year. That's not a recipe for someone who's going to go out of his way to stick around campus for another season.
Without Briscoe, I have to figure this is going to be a run-heavy offense next year. Kale Pick's got a lot to prove, but with Toben Opurum and an experienced line, they might (might) be able to rely on the run. Then again, they'll still need some sort of passing attack, and...who will be the #1 receiver? Johnathan Wilson, I guess? Color me unafraid.
I'm not even going to try to figure out if KU's D is going to be any good. They've improved recently, but they lose Darrell Stuckey and two linemen, and the depth from LB corps vanishes. I assume this will be a decent unit, and really you can start to maybe see the identity KU might be going with--defense first, run-heavy, grind it out.

Kansas State

Projected 2010 Depth Chart
QB	Carson Coffman (Sr) ?	DE	Brandon Harold (Jr) ?
RB	Daniel Thomas (Sr) ?	DT	Prizell Brown (Sr) ?
FB	Braden Wilson (So) Lucas Hamm (Sr)	DT	Raphael Guidry (Jr) ?
WR	Lamark Brown (Sr) ?	DE	Antonio Felder (Sr) Joseph Kassanavoid (So)
WR	Collin Klein (So) Chris Harper (So)	LB	Kevin Rohleder (Sr) ?
TE	Travis Tannahill (So) ?	LB	Alex Hrebec (Jr) ?
LT	Zach Hanson (Jr) ?	LB	Troy Butler (Sr) Thomas Ferguson (So)
LG	Zach Kendall (Sr) Trevor Viers (Sr)	CB	Joshua Moore (Sr) Darious Thomas (So)
C	Wade Weibert (Sr) ?	CB	Stephen Harrison (Sr) David Garrett (Jr)
RG	Kenneth Mayfield (Sr) Colten Freeze (Jr)	FS	Emmanuel Lamur (Jr) ?
RT	Clyde Aufner (Jr) Ethan Douglas (So)	SS	Tysyn Hartman (Jr) Torrell Miller (So)

K	Josh Cherry (Sr)	P	Ryan Doerr (So)
PR	Tysyn Hartman (Jr)	KR	Daniel Thomas (Sr)

Like Kansas, this looks to be a pretty run-heavy, can't-pass-on-them team, with Daniel Thomas running behind a super-experienced line and a well-coached defense that is iffy in the front seven but stout in the secondary. In other words, this looks like a Bill Snyder team (sans the All-American linebackers). We've made a big deal out of the fact that they're losing about 35 seniors this year (and that's only a slight exaggeration), and that will absolutely murder their depth, but if they stay reasonably healthy, the Snyder identity might be able to take shape a bit more.
Now, I say they'll have a good secondary...I'm still unsure about how good the secondary is now, but returning all four current starters certainly suggests decent improvement for next year.
I believe I heard that Chris Harper is moving to WR instead of competing at QB, right?

Nebraska

Projected 2010 Depth Chart
QB	Cody Green (So) Zac Lee (Sr)	DE	Cameron Meredith (So) Josh Williams (So)
RB	Roy Helu, Jr. (Sr) Rex Burkhead (So)	DT	Baker Steinkuhler (So) Terrence Moore (Jr)
FB	Tyler Legate (So) Mike Hays (Jr)	DT	Jared Crick (Jr) ?
WR	Niles Paul (Sr) Antonio Bell (So)	DE	Pierre Allen (Sr) ?
WR	Curenski Gilleylen (Jr) Khiry Cooper (So)	Will	Blake Lawrence (Sr) Matthew May (Jr)
TE	Mike McNeill (Sr) Dreu Young (Sr)	Mike	Will Compton (So) Micah Kreikemeier (So)
LT	Mike Smith (Sr) ?	Buck	Sean Fisher (So) Eric Martin (So)
LG	Keith Williams (Sr) ?	CB	Prince Amukamara (Sr) Dejon Gomes (Sr)
C	Mike Caputo (Jr) ?	CB	Anthony West (Sr) Alfonzo Dennard (Jr)
RG	Ricky Henry (Sr) ?	FS	Eric Hagg (Sr) Austin Cassidy (Jr)
RT	Marcel Jones (Jr) D.J. Jones (Sr)	SS	P.J. Smith (So) Courtney Osborne (So)

K	Alex Henery (Sr)	P	Alex Henery (Sr)
PR	Niles Paul (Sr)	KR	Niles Paul (Sr)

How the hell is Pierre Allen still an underclassman? I was completely convinced that both he and Barry Turner were seniors, but I guess not.
Next question: how much of Nebraska's defensive identity is grounded in Ndamukong Suh? He and Turner depart, but will Allen and the stout Jared Crick be able to keep the great D-line play coming? And how much of Crick's success is due to offenses' fear of Suh?
The shine is quickly wearing off of Roy Helu, Jr., but he does return next year (lord knows he's not going pro), and with yet another experienced O-line, NU should be able to run the ball pretty well. That will obviously take some pressure off of Cody Green if Green is not, after all, ready to be NU's savior.
I really like what NU has returning at CB, but...safety? I think I like their second-string CBs more than their first string safeties. Will be interesting to see if there's some position shifting when all is said and done.

As a Missouri fan, I look at this information and quickly conclude that Missouri will be the 2010 favorite, and really I'd say I have pretty good basis in fact for that opinion. That said, Nebraska is intriguing, and even though K-State is not a stat-friendly team (I've already accepted that they're better than the stats say--I just can't figure out how much better), Bill Snyder really might get them back into the hunt despite the youth and lack of depth. Colorado could be interesting depending on who the head coach is (ahem), Kansas has recruited well and will see plenty of talented-but-young players hitting the field, and Iowa State might have the best offensive line in the division. I'd like to think Missouri might run away with this thing, and I'm sure it could happen (the trip to Lincoln aside), but with five of six North teams (all but Kansas) looking potentially better next year than this year, we might have another fun race on our hands.

Current Colorado Buffaloes' Defensive and Special Teams Roster

irish1611 — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 19:38:30 -0000

Following our offensive roster chart, below is the 2009 Colorado Buffaloes' defensive and special team players. Compared to the offensive piece, this chart has a little more distribution between years of each position as well as depth oming down the 2010 pipeline unlike tight end and fullback on the offensive side of the ball.

Position		SENIORS	JUNIORS	SOPHOMORES	FRESHMEN	INCOMING Fr
DT		Taj Kaynor	Eric Lawson	C Cunningham	Will Pericak	Nate Bonsu
DT		Tyler Sale*	Eric Lawson	Eugene Goree	Will Pericak	Edward Nuckols
Sch	7	1	1	2	1	2
NSch	1	1
DE			M Herrod	Kevin Cooney*	Nick O'Neill*	Nick Kasa
			Joe Silipo*	David Goldberg*		J. Forrest West
				Conrad Obi		Sc Fernandez*
				Tony Poremba*
				Lagrone Shields
Sch	5		1	2		2
NSch	6		1	3	1	1
LB		Marcus Burton	Michael Sipili	Tyler Ahles	Jon Major	Liloa Nobriga
		Shaun Mohler	B.J. Beatty	*Brandon Gouin	Doug Rippy	Derrick Webb
		Jeff Smart		*Zackary Farley	*Guy Sergent	Geoff Sissom*
		*Bryan Stengel		Josh Hartigan
Sch	11	3	2	2	2	2
NSch	5	1		2	1	1
CB		Cha Brown	Jalil Brown	Jon Hawkins	Stephen Hicks	Deji Olatoye
		Ben Burney	Jimmy Smith	*Arthur Jaffee	Paul Vigo	Cody McAninch*
				Anthony Wright
Sch	9	2	2	2	2	1
NSch	2			1		1
S			*Bret Smith	Patrick Mahnke	Vince Ewing	Parker Orms
				*Erik Manarino	Ray Polk
				*Matt Meyer
				Anthony Perkins
				*T Sandersfeld
Sch	5			2	2	1
NSch	4		1	3		0
K			Aric Goodman	Jameson Davis		Z Grossnickle
P		Matt DiLallo
SN		J Drescher	Austin Bisnow
Sch	5	2	1	1		1
NSch	1	0	1
DEFENSIVE AND SPECIAL TEAMS TOTAL
Sch	42	8	7	11	7	9
NSch	19	2	3	9	2	3
Total	61	10	10	20	9	12
TEAM TOTAL
Sch	78	12	14	24	10	18
NSch	37	5	5	13	5	9
Total	115	17	19	37	15	27
*italics - transfer / - non-scholarship player**

The linebacking and cornerback spots are the class of the defense. The Buffs will have solid depth for many years at linebacker, assuming Jon Major recovers from his ACL injury and Doug Rippy continues to develop. I would expect the Buffs to take a couple more 'backers in the 2010 class to keep the continuity going. The linebacking depth is exactly what you want as a coach when you look at your group of players; a great mix of experience as well as young talent who are pushing the veterans. As for cornerback, the next two years look very solid as long as Jimmy Smith doesn't jump for the NFL early. I think he is still in need of all four years of college but if he has the year that I expect him to have, he may be tempted by the NFL scouts who would be drooling over a sub 4.5, 6'3" physical cornerback. After the next two years, the Buffs will need to get help at corner as you will be looking at all new starters after 2010 with not much known about the players behind the juniors and seniors.

The rest of the defensive positions, youth prevails. There are only three scholarship upperclassmen at defensive line and safety. The Buffs are young at safety with potential starters Patrick Mahnke and Anthony Perkins both sophomores but they gained valuable experience as freshmen. Defensive line continues to be the main question mark on the defense mostly because we don't know what we are going to get from the underclassmen, who will be forced to play this year. Guys like Eugene Goree, Conrad Obi, Lagrone Shields, Curtis Cunningham, Nick Kasa, Edward Nuckols, Nate Bonsu, Will Pericak, Lagrone Sheilds, etc. haven't showed us a lot because they are all first or second year players. They might be great but the doubt surrouding them is one reasons many Buff fans wonder if the team will turn the corner and get to that 8+ win mark.

On special teams, the Buffs had to take a kicker in the 2009 class in Zach Grossnickle after the dismal performance last year. Grossnickle (both a placekicker and punter) may technically be the only punter on the team after this season with starter Matt DiLallo graduating. Special teams is another part of the equation that most Buff fans forget about but shouldn't in evaluating the possible success next year. You name it, it went wrong in 2008 so improved play is a must.

Spring Recap - Linebackers

irish1611 — Wed, 27 May 2009 21:34:35 -0000

View full size photo »

Pre-Spring Thoughts:

Coming into spring ball, the Buffs only had to replace one linebacker in Brad Jones. Not an easy task considering Jones was the only Buff selected in the 2009 NFL draft but most importantly, Jones was the Buffs only consistent pass rusher from a year ago. Couple that with an inexperienced defensive line, many think getting to the opposition's quarterback will be the main reason the Buffs won't be able to take the next step and win the Big 12 North. Jones was 5^th in tackles from a year ago with 78 total (3^rd among the linebackers), lead the team in sacks (7), TFL (7) and quarterback pressures (14).

Although Jones the pass rusher will be hard to replace, the initial thought going into camp was the linebacker positions would be one of the deepest on the team with a healthy mix of experience and youth. The experienced portion begins with returning starters; MLB Jeff Smart and OLB Shaun Mohler, who finished first and second, respectively, in total tackles in 2008. Mohler started the year as a sub but quickly worked his way into the starting lineup and was selected Honorable Mention in the Big 12 by the AP. Smart was named Second Team All-Big 12 by the AP in '08, as he led the Buffs with 118 tackles, good for fourth in the Big 12. Most Buff fans would have probably slotted these two players in the starting linebacker spot for 2009 and been perfectly content.

Next comes an interesting trio of veterans in B.J. Beatty, Michael Sipili and Marcus Burton. BJ Beatty may be able to fill "the Brad Jones role" in 2009 as he was often a rush end last year. Beatty's propensity to make plays and stand out makes him a player that will be hard to keep off the field. He was slowed by injury at the beginning of 2008 but with him healthy, he was expected to be a leading candidate for a starting spot this spring. Sipili and Burton were sort of unknowns coming into spring. They are bigger, "Levon Kirkland" style linebackers. Many thought Sipili might be the next great linebacker at Colorado but with off the field problems and injuries, Sipili never hit full stride in '08. With Mohler and Smart both gone in 2010, Sipili, along with Beatty, will be in a position to play a big role in the defense for the next two years if he can show consistency. Same desire to see consistency would also describe senior MLB Marcus Burton. You look at this guy from the sideline and you see a big athlete who passes the eye test. He wasn't really a factor in 2008 and for the most part, thought we would have to wait and see after spring as to what role he will play in '09. Most figured that Beatty would emerge as the Brad Jones replacement and the starting three linebackers would be set with a few of the younger guys challenging for time.

Then comes the youth and the guys that get people excited about the future of Buff linebacking: Jon Major, Doug Rippy and Lynn Katoa. All three redshirted last year with Major and Katoa being highly touted recruits and Rippy having the "most ready college body" of the trio. Major's freshman campaign was cut short by a torn ACL in fall camp while Lynn Katoa ran into trouble off-the-field and in the classroom. We knew going into camp that Major was going to be very limited if not out this spring as he was still recovering from the ACL injury. As for Lynn, rumors were swirling before camp, whether he would ever play a down for the Buffs. He was once again held out of spring practice for academic reasons and at one time, Natalie Meisler of the Denver Post had a story that LB coach Brian Cabral confirmed Katoa wouldn't return to the team. Katoa is still on the roster and for good reason. Other than being a talent, one theory is that the Buffs need Katoa to stay with the program to avoid hurting their APR score, an NCAA metric that tracks a program's academic achievement. The Buffs are flirting with running into NCAA sanctions which could cost them as many as five scholarships in the upcoming year or two. Katoa's potential departure would almost make that sanction a certainty. Who knows what the real story is but the team has even more incentive to get him on. Most of the optimism about the 2008 linebacker class was subdued as only Doug Rippy would be able to fully showcase his talent this spring.

As for the scheme, it was reasonable to think that the Buffs might implement a 3 - 4 this season considering the depth at linebacker and the unknown of the down linemen. In principle, this is the right direction but last year when the Buffs brought in an extra linebacker or defensive back, the defensive staff would rarely bring extra pressure from the back eight. Many remember Todd Reesing running around in the pocket waiting for options to open up down field. Along with the question of who will be the other one or two starters, the aggressiveness of this unit and the scheme Ron Collins implements was another pressing issue.

Post Spring Thoughts:

Answering the second question first, Ron Collins had this statement in the Boulder Daily Camera early in spring with my commentary:

Two things that we like to hear around here regarding the defense is the combination of "3-4" and "aggressive." Kyle Ringo of the BDC notes that defensive coordinator Ron Collins is all about getting his 11 best players on the field and if that means playing the 3-4 exclusively, so be it. Fine with me as long as the word "aggressive" is attached to it.

The defense was aggressive and it was multiple from what I saw in practice. He was not kidding about playing the best 11. The sets ranged from 3 - 4, 4 - 3, 3 - 3 - 5 with varying blitz packages that saw players like S Patrick Mahnke and S Tyler Sandersfield lining up close to line or moving to a rover spot. I did like the look of the 3 - 4, considering who was where and how they were playing it this spring. If Collins sticks to this aggressive, multiple defense, the Buffs might be able to compensate for a defensive line that has yet to prove much at the college level but the learning curve will be steep since the Buffs have not committed entirely to it as of yet. It was clear this spring that Collins recognized the strength of this team is in the back eight with strong enough corner play to drastically change the defense from a base 4 - 3 a year ago to a more "attack the weakness of the offense" type set. Whether the aggressiveness is implemented in the fall or when it is 3^rd and 8 against CSU remains to be seen but right now, it looks good.

As for the personnel, it was a shocker this spring. Quite possibly the most impressive defender was senior Marcus Burton. At the first practice, I remember thinking to myself "I was right, the Buffs are going to move him to defensive line, he must have put on 10 - 15 pounds from last year and is too big/slow to play the inside." I was wrong. Burton quickly inserted himself at middle linebacker and on many occasions showed his ability to get sideline to sideline. Quietly, last year's starting middle linebacker and award winner, Jeff Smart, was battling for an outside position. Burton's size (6'0" 260) might be an early indication that the Buffs are closer and in a better personnel spot to implement the 3 - 4, although the depth chart is still showing the standard 4 - 3 look. Burton would be better suited to handle interior offensive lineman with his size.

Burton lead the team in total tackles 2 of the 3 scrimmages and ended spring ball as the Buffs most productive tackler:

Name	Tackles	TFL	Sacks
Marcus Burton	21	2	2
Michael Sipili	15	4	2
Jeff Smart	13	2	1
Shaun Mohler	11	1	1
B.J. Beatty	10	3	2
Zack Farley	7	2	1
Bryan Stengel	4	1	0
Doug Rippy	4	0	0
Guy Sergent	4	0	0
Brandon Gouin	2	0	0
Josh Hartigan	DNP	DNP	DNP
Jon Major	DNP	DNP	DNP

Spring stats hardly tell the story nor should they be considered the indicator for future success but Burton's play was very impressive this spring. Michael Sipili also had a strong spring, showing his ability to play behind the line of scrimmage, leading the team in tackles for loss with four. Sip was second in total scrimmage tackles this spring.

Ron Collins was noted saying good things about all the linebackers, including the two vets:

"The linebackers were running around pretty well today," Collins added. "The edge guys, B.J. (Beatty) and Doug (Rippy) came off the edge pretty well. I think Mike (Sipili) and Marcus (Burton) are both playing pretty well right now."

If the Buffs do go 3 - 4, the combination of Burton, Sipili and Smart will be a good trio to hold down the middle. Sipili did a great job this offseason, losing a noticeable amount of weight, helping his quickness. Burton and Sipili are also one year more mature and looks to be making a world of difference.

On the outside, four players were battling it out: Shaun Mohler, Doug Rippy, B.J. Beatty and Jeff Smart. You might throw Jon Major into that list (when healthy) and Smart out of it considering he might be switched back to middle. Both Mohler and Smart, two starters last year are going to have their hands full with Rippy and Beatty on the outside. Rippy, still very young and learning, didn't compile the stats but the amount of playing time he received was enough of an indication that the coaches like his size and athleticism. The growing pains will be there for the redshirt freshman but the talent is evident. Beatty is also still learning. He sat out a lot last year and now as a junior is getting a crash course in playing every down and being a more well rounded linebacker, not just a straight ahead player. He showed he could get in the backfield averaging just under a sack a scrimmage along with a total of three tackles for loss.

If I had to guess who would be the starters in a 4 - 3 day one, it looks like Marcus Burton in the middle, B.J. Beatty at one outside backer and to me, either Shaun Mohler or Doug Rippy. The trendy pick right now is Rippy but he is young and Mohler returns off a solid year last season. Any one of Jeff Smart, Michael Sipili and Jon Major trio would not be a surprise starter at all, especially if the 3 - 4 becomes a reality. The Buffs go seven, maybe eight deep at linebacker.

Injuries/Players Out:

Fr Lynn Katoa - academics/off the field incidents. Status unknown for 2009 and beyond.
Fr Jon Major - recovering from 2008 ACL tear. Should be full go by fall, giving Buff fans their first real look at the highly recruited 'backer.

Player(s) Who Emerged:

Hands down Marcus Burton and Michael Sipili. Most Buff fans would have been content with Shaun Mohler, Jeff Smart and B.J. Beatty starting in 2009. They would have been solid. With the emergence of Burton and Sipili (you can also throw in Rippy), competition for the starting spots is going to be heated the rest of the way with the potential of three new ones from last season. The way Burton played this spring, it will be hard to keep his big frame away from the middle of the field. The added depth will go along way in possibly making a move to a 3 - 4 and being more aggressive in the passing game. Plus the Buffs now have options.

Final Assessment:

This unit has all of the makings to be a top three linebacking corp in the Big 12 but I am not quite ready to commit to that due to the unknowns up front. A linebacker's best friend is penetration/clogs from the defensive linemen to keep blockers from getting to the second level. If no one up front can get attention, it could seriously diminish the production of the linebackers.

If they do get some help from the big guys in the trenches, they are top three in terms of talent especially if the Buffs get the same production from Burton & Sipili and Major progresses this fall. Couple that with a strong linebacker mind in coach Brian Cabral...it could be fun.

Spring Ball Position Preview: Linebackers

irish1611 — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 17:46:57 -0000

Welcome to the first position preview for the 2009 spring ball session. It is definitely an exciting time and I can't think of a better way to kick it off than to cover the linebackers. Words like high potential, depth, possible elite group in the Big 12 come to mind when I think of the guys in the middle of the defense. Coach Brian Cabral has got a core of players this year that he could mold into one of his better linebacker groups, something that is a serious statement when you think about the linebackers Colorado has had over the years. Below is a first look at the guys who will be in black and gold next year at the linebacker:

Roster:

Vitals					2008 Stats
No.	Name	Pos.	Wt.	Yr.	GP	Tackles	Sacks	TFL
45	Smart, Jeff	ILB	215	Sr.	12	118	1	1
47	Mohler, Shaun	LB	220	Sr.	12	97	0	4
10	Sipili, Michael	ILB	260	Jr.	7	19	0	0
59	Beatty, B.J.	OLB	220	Jr.	8	18	1	3
52	Stengel, Bryan	ILB	225	Sr.	9	13	0	0
54	Burton, Marcus	ILB	260	Sr.	10	8	0	0
55	Hartigan, Josh	OLB	220	So.	1	2	0	0
44	Gouin, Brandon	ILB	210	So.	0	0	0	0
58	Ahles, Tyler	ILB	245	So.	0	0	0	0
62	Goldberg, David	ILB	245	So.	0	0	0	0
31	Major, Jon	ILB	225	RFr.	Redshirt
49	Katoa, Lynn	ILB	220	RFr.	Redshirt
51	Rippy, Douglas	LB	235	RFr.	Redshirt
57	Sergent, Guy	LB	210	RFr.	Redshirt
	*Farley, Zackary	OLB	210	So.	Walk on
	*Toppa, Joe	LB	195	Fr.	Walk on
	Webb, Derrick	LB	210	Fr.	Incoming Freshman
	Nobriga, Liloa	LB	211	Fr.	Incoming Freshman

See the breakdown after the jump...

Overview:

Like I said above, there is a sense of excitement around this group. Are there questions? Of course, a few things need to happen before we get to realize all the fruits of this group but undoubtedly, the talent looks good on paper. Most people get excited for the three players who redshirted last year which was one of the best linebacker classes in the 2008 recruiting cycle. But don't forget about the veterans. CU returns their two leading tacklers from a year ago in Jeff Smart and Shaun Mohler. Smart was named to the second team All Big 12 by the AP last year as he led the Buffs with 118 tackles and was fourth in the Big 12. Many hope that Smart is dethroned this year from his seat in the middle due to a number of reasons (not a downhill player, missed tackles) but 118 tackles is 118 tackles. That production is hard to replace.

Last year, Shaun Mohler was a Ralphie Report favorite and quickly became a fan favorite after hearing his story and dedication to qualify academically to attend the University. My only wish is that we would have got him out of high school. Like Smart, Mohler is a senior after transferring in last year from Orange Coast Community College. Mohler, not a starter at the beginning of the year, quickly entered the lineup in the second game and never relinquished the position. There is no doubt in my mind that he would have been the leading tackler if he played extensively in the first two games of the year and didn't get hurt in the Iowa State contest. He was one of the better "downhill" linebackers the Buffs had last year, finding a way into the backfield and making tackles behind the line of scrimmage, something Colorado needs to improve on next year if they hope to be a dominant defense. Mohler was named Honorable Mention in the Big 12 last year. Don't be surprised if Smart and Mohler are mainstays in the lineup in 2009.

Next comes an interesting trio of veterans in BJ Beatty, Michael Sipili and Marcus Burton. BJ Beatty may be able to fill "the Brad Jones role" in 2009 as he was often a rush end last year. Beatty's propensity to make plays and stand out on the screen makes him a player that will be hard to keep off the field. He was slowed by injury at the beginning the year but with him healthy, he is going to be in the running for a starting spot. I kind of group Sipili and Burton together as they are bigger, "Levon Kirkland" style linebackers who will probably see time this year in a flex position, playing on the rush edge/run stopper spot. Many thought Sipili might be the next great linebacker at Colorado but with off the field problems and injuries, Sipili never hit full stride last year and hasn't produced much on the field. He has the talent so it will be interesting to see how he performs this year as a junior. With Mohler and Smart both gone next year, Sipili will be in a position to play a big role in the defense if he can show consistency both against the run and the pass. Same goes for the senior Marcus Burton. You look at this guy from the sideline and you see a big athlete who passes the eye test. He wasn't really a factor in 2008, much to my surprise. We will have to wait and see after spring as to what role he will play in '09.

Now to the guys that get you excited about the future of Buff linebacking: Jon Major, Doug Rippy and Lynn Katoa. When I mentioned "the few things that need to happen for this group to be great above," these are the players I am talking about. All three redshirted last year with Major and Katoa being highly touted recruits and Rippy having the "most ready college body" of the trio. I remember watching Rippy run around last fall, not knowing where he was going half the time, but looking damn impressive doing it. Major's freshman campaign was cut short by a torn ACL in fall camp while Lynn Katoa ran into some trouble off-the-field and in the classroom. Rumors have been swirling about Lynn and whether he will ever play a down for the Buffs. The predictions change by the week as to his status but for now, all we can go by is Hawkins comments that he is still enrolled in Colorado and they are working with him everyday to be a contributor both on and off the field. As for Rippy, he is one of the players I can't wait to see come fall. I think he has got the upside to be a special "downhill" linebacker making plays on the opponent's side of the line of scrimmage. As for Major, lets just hope he recovers fully from his injury because he, too, has all the talent in the world to be a special Buff. Tons of potential with these three redshirt freshmen.

Need to Replace:

OL/Rush End Brad Jones. Jones was the Buffs most consistent pass rusher last year, leading the team with seven sacks and an equal amount of tackles for loss. His ability to get the quarterback was a big help for a weak defensive line last year. Look for B.J. Beatty to display similar pass rushing ability in 2009.

Players to Watch:

I sort of envision "players to watch" being guys who could jump into a starting spot or a guy that didn't start last year that may see extensive playing time. The obvious choice for me as a potential starter is B.J. Beatty, who was on the cusp of being a regular until his injury last year. He played a more situational role in 2008 but with him being healthy, I believe he is on a short list to claim the open spot. My other player is Doug Rippy. He wasn't hurt last year, was able to participate in practices and physically, he just has it. I like what he brings to the table. A guy that won't get recognized much but I thought did a heck of a job filling in for Shaun Mohler last year in the Iowa State game was Josh Hartigan. Watch for him to play a key back up role.

Top 3 Question Marks:

Unfortunately, like most Buff position groups, there are still some unanswered questions around the linebacker position.

Can the Buffs LB's reach their potential and start playing in the opponents backfield? One of the biggest pet peeves of most Buff fans last year was the inability to get to the quarterback. With Brad Jones gone and an unproven defensive line, the linebackers may be facing more debris than ever. Finding a way to make the linebackers go into attack mode will be key this year. Play on the other side of the line!
Can the redshirt freshmen emerge or will their be setbacks? Rumors still swirl about Katoa and his status on this team. Will he ever be a Buff? Major will be limited in spring ball because of his ACL injury from last fall. Will he recover properly to be a factor? Is Doug Rippy ready to take the next step and be a contributor? Tons of talent, tons of questions.
Does Michael Sipili re-emerge as the player we thought he was going to be? No explanation needed here. Is Sip a guy we can count on for 2009?

First Game Starting Lineup Prediction:

Shaun Mohler, Jeff Smart, BJ Beatty

The Ralphie Report Mailbag - Recruiting Question

irish1611 — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 21:29:49 -0000

We received a great question about recruiting via email so I thought I would address it on the front page so that a) we can talk a little recruiting and b) let you know that we welcome your questions or ideas you have for a post. If you want to see something but don't want to do the research, let us know. You have a question about Colorado Buff sports, fire us an email and we will get back to you and if it is something we feel that others would benefit from hearing, we will answer it on the blog. We like questions about recruiting and we know that you like that subject as well so feel free to ask us! Our email address is theralphiereport - at - gmail.com. Today's question comes from Ray:

1) Well, how did the interview with Diante turn out?

2) Also, since Colorado is in on a few others such as Clay, McKay, Ussery and Jackson what are your thoughts on these recruits... Do you think we will get their signature or do you think we will lose out to Oregon again. Are there any other recruits we are on that I did not mention.

1) I wish we had news to report about our Diante Jackson interview but we haven't got a hold of him after a few emails and phone calls. I will keep texting, calling and emailing until we get in touch with him. We hope to bring you audio of it as well.

***UPDATE - we just interviewed Diante and should have audio up tomorrow. We got about 15 minutes of audio. He is sharp and well spoken. Tons of good stuff. He still sounds a little torn as to his decision.*****

2) The Buffs are in on a couple more prominent players than in your list, but we will start with your four:

3*/4* LB Michael Clay - just recently named Oregon and Colorado as his top two, and more importantly, the only two schools he is considering. I am little shocked at this one because he didn't seem to be in love after his visit to CU the week of the Iowa State game. That being said, Oregon has been a favorite for a while and I don't expect to get him. Fine with me, we are deep at linebacker with Smart, Mohler, Katoa, Rippy, Beatty, Sipili, Hartigen and Major.

see after the jump for more recruiting talk and who will be visiting this weekend...

DB Stan McKay - I really want this guy. The Buffs are, once again, in his top two with UCLA, who has not offered yet. If UCLA offers, he will go. I am curious as to why they haven't offered yet. He is a California prep at a top ranked high school so if they haven't offered, it is a good thing for the Buffs. He has all the measurables and speed to boot. With relative inexperience at safety next year, it is a fair game position, so the more competition we have back their, the better. I do like Patrick Mahnke and Anthony Perkins but beyond them, the Buffs are a little light.
3* WR Terdema Ussery - Ussery is 6'4" 200 lbs so he has good size. Sort of a late arriver on the scene as the Buffs were out of the top 3 as recently as last month. But one of our better recruiters in wide receiver coach Kiesau really went to work on this guy and he has now stated that Colorado is his #1. He is a smart kid (his dad is the chairman of the Dallas Mavericks) and wants to go to school for BOTH football and academics. Watch out for Stanford as well because of that reason. We will try to get an interview with him. He will be in Boulder Jan. 16th for his official (the week of the Kansas v CU basketball game)
4* WR Diante Jackson - I believe he will be a Buff...I am dying to talk to him.

Other recruits we are in on that I know about and have a good chance at getting:

WR Alante Wright - 6'3" 190 lbs. In a scout.com article title I saw this morning, he looks to be favoring the Buffs. I believe he will be a Buff.
4* DT Edward Nuckols - If Diante Jackson is priority recruit #1a this year, Nuckols is #1b. He might be one of those silent commits we have been hearing about. He has said CU has been the favorite for a long time now. He hasn't verbally pulled the trigger yet but if he sees our depth at defensive tackle, I would be shocked if he didn't commit. He has been visiting elsewhere since his CU stop. Let's just say if Diante and Ed both don't come to CU, this class with be a rough one.
3* OL/DE Nik Abele - I like this kid's motor. I think the Buffs will try and convert him to a full time defensive end due to our lack of depth there. He has good power and size. I think we land this kid but he has been getting a ton of interest elsewhere.
3* DE Colton Nash - I am surprised he has not pulled the trigger yet as Colorado looks to be his best option. He is choosing between Baylor, CSU and Colorado. He liked his visit, I think he will be a Buff. Nash will have to add weight but he has a huge wingspan and has a decent get off.
3* QB Josh Moten - it is technically still early in his recruiting process as he has just recently emerged on a lot of teams radar. The Buffs are by far and away his best offer. I think this kid is a playmaker and we all know the Buffs need about 18 of those. They will find a place for him.
K Zach Grossnickle - the Buffs need a kicker who can both punt &placekick and Grossnickle is the guy. It will be between CU and Kansas. I like the Buffs chances of getting him. He will be in Boulder Jan. 16th for his official (the week of the Kansas v CU basketball game)

Other recruits that we are in the top 5 but doubt we will get:

4* DL Latu Heimuli - the big run stopper will probably end up in Florida. Thanks for taking Kasa and Heimuli.
4* WR Bryce McNeal - he says the Buffs are still in it but now it looks like Oregon has entered the sweepstakes...who would have guessed that? Minnesota and Oklahoma are also favorites. He won't be a Buff.
Athletes Bryce Lamb, Markus Wheaton, Kyle Van Noy and James Johnson - I think we pull one of these guys but the other three probably end up going elsewhere.
3* DE Kevin Greene - he is enthralled with USC (who wouldn't be) and they have offered him. I think he will be a Trojan. Colorado would probably be his #2 choice.
4* S/CB Bradley McDougald - once an Ohio State verbal, he is now free and visited the Buffs with his teammate Deji Olatoye the week of the Iowa State game. There isn't a ton of press on him right now, even though he is a prized recruit. Most of the Big 10 schools are after this kid as well.

Visitors this weekend:

3* TE Tracy Moore, 3* S Terrell Williams and WR Alante Wright.

If you want to hear anything more on any of these players, let me know.

Poll

Once potential CU commit would you like more information about from The Ralphie Report?

DT Edward Nuckols

20 votes

WR Tederma Ussery

7 votes

WR Diante Jackson

10 votes

LB Michael Clay

0 votes

QB Josh Moten

4 votes

K Zach Grossnickle

8 votes

WR Alante Wright

3 votes

52 votes | Poll has closed