SB Nation - Ryan Cantrell

RCT Readers Choice Awards; Mr. Jayhawk

Denverjhawk — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 11:00:09 -0000

"RCT Readers Choice Award"

For our final award we've saved the best for last, the RCT Mr. Jayhawk Award. Now this is the award of all awards. If you are a football player at the University of Kansas you dream of one day recieving the RCT Mr. Jayhawk award.

The way this one goes as many might guess is basically you're favorite player. The player that best embodies what it means to be a Jayhawk, what it means to be a teamate, what it means to sacrifice and what it takes to win. This is the one guy you wouldn't trade for anyone and I mean anyone. Think long and hard here folks this one is important. The winner of this one will likely go on to have great fame and fortune so don't take this one lightly.

I hope my sarcastic undertones are coming through regarding the significance of this one. You might also find more nominees than you'd expect but keep in mind this is the winningest class in Kansas history so there are many who deserve the esteemed honor of being nominated. As they say at the Oscars, "it's just an honor to be nominated among these greats." Same rule applies here. Also please look in awe at the larger more magnificent trophy for this one.

On to the Nominees for 2008 RCT Mr. Jayhawk...drumroll please...

Poll

RCT Mr. Jayhawk 2008?

Kerry Meier

26 votes

Todd Reesing

10 votes

Darrell Stuckey

2 votes

Mike Rivera

1 votes

Ryan Cantrell

1 votes

Joe Mortensen

0 votes

Dezmon Briscoe

5 votes

James Holt

0 votes

45 votes | Poll has closed

A Final Reflection; Insight Bowl and 2008

Denverjhawk — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 15:19:59 -0000

New Year’s Eve 2008 marked the end of an exciting Kansas football season as the Jayhawks wrapped up their first ever back to back bowl wins in school history. Already fans, media and players alike are looking toward 2009, but I thought I would take one last opportunity to look back at the 2008 Insight Bowl and discuss 2009 sometime next week.

Full story after the jump…

I myself landed in Tempe early the morning of the game. Weather was fantastic, there looked to be about 8 fellow Jayhawks arriving on the same plane with me. One shuttle to the hotel and one to downtown Tempe and my first bowl experience was underway. Now, before getting to much into the game I’ve got to say if you haven’t made the plunge and forked over the money to attend one of these, do so on your next opportunity. These events are special and going forward I will make every effort to attend in the future. I sat next to an older Jayhawk alum at a bar prior to the game. He had been to the Orange Bowl, Final Fours and many other events I as younger alum had not been able to attend at this point. His advice to me, “go to as many as you can, you’ll never say, gee I wish I hadn’t spent the money to go to that.” After the game and the good feelings you get being surrounded by that many Jayhawk fans in that environment, I think I’ll heed his advice going forward.

Onto the game…after a few beers in downtown Tempe I wandered over to the alumni tailgate and an ocean of blue shirts outside the stadium. Got my tickets at will call, snapped a few photos of the scene and just took it all in waiting for the doors to open. Now, I know this wasn’t the Orange Bowl or a BCS Bowl, but as someone who endured the Terry Allen era and realizes where this program has been, you take nothing for granted. I wandered over to the player will call area and all the parents and guest of the players were lined up for a very, very long stretch. I think my favorite was what I assume was Dezmon Briscoe’s mother. She had a shirt on the back that read Mrs. Briscoe, and on the front the phrase “you got Briscoed.” I wonder if she handed that over to Tim Brewster after the game.

The doors opened, fans filed in and moral was high as Kansas fans far outnumbered the Gopher faithful. My guess would be a good 6:1 ratio of Kansas to Minnesota. I don’t say that as a knock on the Minnesota crowd but more as a acknowledgement of the Kansas following. If you think about it this is a fan base that went to the Orange Bowl last year, the National Championship in basketball and now like everyone else is stuck in one of the worst economies of recent history. Combine all that it makes it very impressive that so many fans, students and family were able to make the effort and fork over their hard earned cash to make the trip. I think it speaks a lot to the potential this program has if the building continues.

Pregame was great, fireworks, precision parachuting and a flyover. One somewhat humorous moment was right before the national anthem started Todd Reesing and the captains came bursting out of the tunnel in a sprint. I think they were expecting a rowdy welcome but since everyone was showing respect for the flag, it remained quiet. Reesing quickly realized what was going on, removed his helmet and showed his respect. One other thing regarding the pregame, there was a Greg Ostertag sighting. Two rows in front of me a freakishly large man rolled in with his wife and kids, I quickly recognized him as the Big O and glad to see he could make it.

Kickoff came, Briscoe back deep and I had a good feeling about our special teams. One play later and we had scored. Jayhawk fans went wild and Gopher fans had that look on their face like they were already convinced Big 12 offenses were as good as advertised. As we all know the game would swing the other direction before Kansas took firm control in the third quarter and never looked back.

There were several player performances I was impressed with. The obvious of Todd Reesing, Dezmon Briscoe and Kerry Meier is worth mentioning but there were others who seemed to save there best for last.

The offensive line, a much maligned unit early in the year pulled it together late and between the Missouri contest and this one allowed Reesing to step up, improvise and make plays. The tackles have come a long way and on one drive in particular Jeremiah Hatch played the whole series with a malfunctioning helmet. The thing must have fallen off three or four times, one time with Reesing picking it up and carrying it up to the line for the big guy. The interior Seniors have been great, going from a question mark in 2007 to the anchors of back to back bowl champions. One other worth mentioning here is Sal Capra. The redshirt sophomore came to Kansas as a linebacker from Rockhurst in Kansas City. He’s bulked up, put in the work and seems like he has the chance to lock down one of these spots next year. He might not be the most physically gifted but he seems to be a very smart gritty player that just gets it done.

The defensive line, another area that has been frustrating throughout the year also seemed to find its way late. The defensive tackle rotation of Blakesly, Greene, Johnson Jr, Wheeler and Parish seemed to really respond to the extra time off and opportunity to heal. The goal line stand showed a lot of what the future may hold for a very young, very raw Parish and with another year in the weight room this unit could be fairly effective. At the ends, Brorson was his usual steady self, but the guy that impressed me most was Maxwell Onyegbule. For the first time the guy with all the potential seemed to really understand the game. He may not have had his name called a ton but he did get pressure, sack the quarterback and showed a lot of athleticism and intelligence on some of the screens shovel passes, and running plays where he put himself in the right position to make the play.

Linebackers are a special group; special guys and they went out the right way. Kansas has shown a knack lately of developing this position and with the advent of the spread these three faced some tougher tests, but they always gave it 150%. Special mention to James Holt, should have had him on the occasional pass rush all year.

The secondary did what they had to do. No huge plays here but Daymond Patterson looks the part after half a season on the defensive side of the ball. Stuckey has a chance to be great next year. Finally, Kendrick Harper I know it hasn’t been a smooth ride but he made a big play on the goal line stand and he is a Jayhawk and for that I am grateful.

On the special team’s side of things, Branstetter again proved our best tackler on kick coverage. Alonso Rojas, this guy is brilliant at times and that punt at the 1 inch line was the most remarkable kick I’ve seen in my life. I’ve been to a lot of football games but I’ve never seen a fan base get that excited over a punt.

The coaching staff deserves some serious recognition as well. Watching the fine tuned, well oiled machine work on the sideline is impressive. The coaching staff orchestrates everything so well and smoothly and I think that is why we get the absolute most out of our players. Expectations are high, everything is taken seriously and all these guys have to worry about is making the play. You also see a real good cop, bad cop dynamic from these guys. Just due to pure personality there are coaches down there that strike fear into a player making the wrong move, but there are also those guys that really pick players up. Clint Bowen comes to mind as he shared a moment with each of the senior linebackers as the game wrapped up. Hugs all around for that group.

As the game wrapped up the Rock Chalk Chant was hear loud and proud. If Minnesota fans hadn’t heard it before they got one of the best versions I’ve heard. As I’ve mentioned before many stayed for the trophy presentation. Coach Mangino thanked the great fans of Kansas; we sang the alma mater, did the Rock Chalk Chant and sent the players off to the locker room I know this was a bit long, but I really think you do gain an appreciation for a team when they go through as many hard times as Kansas has and you witness an event like this. Jayhawks filled the streets of Tempe well past midnight to ring in the New Year. 2008 was a fun, wild ride. It maybe finished a little short of initial expectations but it was still a success, and now 2009 can’t come fast enough.

Top 10 Kansas Football Performances of 2008: #4

Denverjhawk — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:28:19 -0000

The 2008 Kansas football season had several question marks headed into the 2008 season. How would certain losses impact the offense was a big one and specifically how would the departure of Brandon McAnderson, Anthony Collins and Derek Fine affect the running game. While those questions were not answered with resounding confidence early there was a time in the year where things finally seemed to click in a big way and Kansas fans saw a glimpse of what could be to come.

Once again performance #4 brings us to the Sunflower Showdown and the faceoff between the Jayhawks and in state rival Kansas State. This time however the performance was a group effort. While one player ultimately put up the big numbers, six Jayhawks were involved in performance #4.

Jake Sharp, Jeff Spikes, Chet Hartley, Ryan Cantrell, Adrian Mayes, Jeremiah Hatch and backup guard Sal Capra check in at #4 on the top 10 countdown. While Sharp ran wild and put up the numbers, I would be remised if I were to ignore the fact that he ran through some incredible sized holes created by the big guys up front.

The game kicked off with great anticipation. Kansas fans looking for a team to get on track and the Wildcat faithful hoping things weren’t as bad as they seemed. However, this one was over in a hurry. Behind a dominant performance from the Kansas offensive line Jake Sharp would score three times in the first quarter. Runs of 4 yards, 20 yards, and finally 47 yards would all end with Sharp crossing the goalline, and perhaps the most impressive part was he was hitting the secondary before even being touched. Behind the dominant running game Kansas would control the game with what would be a season high 280 yards of offense coming on the ground. The big guys up front would open up holes all afternoon and the 5 that had gone through growing pains throughout the year seemed in sync. In the end these five were finishing blocks, punishing defenders and taking the will out of the Kansas State defense as a result of a maturation process from the tackles and an interior that battled injuries but kept plugging away all season long.

In the end Sharps performance would tell the tale a career high 181 yards on the ground. Sharp tied a school record with four touchdown runs. His 152 yards in the first half alone was a career high and if Mangino would have chosen to be as unmerciful to Kansas State as many fans would have been it could have gone much higher. Sharp also had 5 receptions for 76 yards bringing his total up to 257 all purpose yards in the win. A huge game against a wounded rival and one that brought a lot of satisfaction to a team that didn’t always have the luxury of this type of running game throughout the season.

In the end the combination of the offensive line and Jake Sharp were the reason this game was never going to be close and with that they earned the #4 spot on the top 10 countdown of Kansas football performances of 2008.

Stuckey Named 1st Team All Conference

Denverjhawk — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 21:51:08 -0000

The Big 12 Conference coaches selections for All Conference Honors were announced on Tuesday with Darrel Stuckey among 10 Jayhawks named to the teams.

Stuckey was the only Jayhawk on a loaded first team but several others received either 2nd team or Honorable Mention honors including:

Dezmon Briscoe (2nd)
James Holt (2nd)
Caleb Blakesly (HM)
Ryan Cantrell (HM)
Jake Sharp (HM)
Adrian Mayes (HM)
Jake Laptad (HM)
Mike Rivera (HM)
Kerry Meier (HM)

Obviously the glaring missing Jayhawk would be Todd Reesing but with a stacked Big 12 it's not totally unexpected. Things will likely clear out this season paving the way for Reesing to have a banner Senior campaign and a possible mention on the All Conference Squad.

Huge kudos to Stuckey for a well earned and much deserved honor. Also felt like James Holt was a huge contributor on this team and in any other conference both Briscoe and Meier would certainly garner 1st team attention.

Also worth mentioning the oft rumored to be injured Mike Rivera for a gutsy Senior campaign and Jake Sharp another local boy for resurecting a non existent running game.

Jake Laptad, several key plays in the year and the lone bright spot for a pass rush that is beginning to see improvement

As for the big boys, Cantrell, Mayes, and perhaps most of all Blakesly. It wasn't always pretty but they got it done and Blakesly certainly earned a lot of my respect throughout the season.

Jump into the post for the full story and entire list of awards...

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas safety Darrell Stuckey earned All-Big 12 First-Team football honors to lead a group of 10 Jayhawks, who received all-conference recognition from the league’s coaches it was announced on Tuesday.

In addition to Stuckey’s first-team selection, wide receiver Dezmon Briscoe and linebacker James Holt were both tabbed to the second team.

KU’s honorable mention selections included defensive tackle Caleb Blakesley, center Ryan Cantrell, defensive end Jake Laptad, offensive guard Adrian Mayes, wide receiver Kerry Meier, linebacker Mike Rivera and running back Jake Sharp.

Stuckey, a junior from Kansas City, Kan. is second on the team in tackles with 94. He leads the team with five interceptions and has recorded seven passes broken up, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.

Stuckey has been the lone constant in a KU secondary, which has started six different players at cornerback and two different players at free safety. The strong safety has started 29 consecutive games at that position.

This year he has registered four different double-digit tackle games, including 15 at Nebraska. Last Saturday against Missouri, he recorded two interceptions, a PBU, a fumble forced and a fumble recovered, as well as a team-best tying six tackles. For his efforts he was the first KU defensive player to earn All-Big 12 Player of the Week honors since 2005.

Last year Stuckey was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection.

Briscoe, a sophomore from Dallas, Texas, has been one of the conference’s and nation’s top wide receivers. In the regular season he caught 78 passes for a school-record 1,206 yards and a school-record 12 touchdowns.

His 78 catches are the second-most in a season in KU history behind only Kerry Meier’s 87 receptions this year. He has registered six 100-yard receiving games this season for another school record

Briscoe has averaged 100.5 yards per game to rank eighth nationally. His 6.50 receptions per game are tied for 20^th in the country. His 269-yard game at Oklahoma, was not only another school record, but the best mark in the NCAA this season.

Holt, a senior from Altus, Okla., has had a terrific season, leading the team with 97 tackles through 12 games. He also had 15.5 tackles for loss, including seven sacks. Holt is tied for second in the NCAA with seven forced fumbles, tied for 26^th in tackles for loss, tied for 47^th in sacks, tied for 73^rd in tackles and tied for 89^th in fumbles recovered.

He has five 10-plus tackle games this season with bests of 13 at South Florida and vs. Texas Tech. He ended the regular season with sacks in each of the final five games.

Last year he was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection.

Blakesely, a junior from Ottawa, Kan. has recorded 21 tackles, including four for loss from his defensive tackle position.

Cantrell, a senior from Sugar Land, Texas, was an honorable mention pick for the second straight year. He has started 25 consecutive games at center, as well as 30 in his career.

Laptad, a sophomore from Tulsa, Okla., has 34 tackles, with 8.5 for loss, including seven sacks. His sack average of 0.47 is tied for 47^th in the NCAA.

Mayes, a senior from Manhattan, Kan., has been KU’s most consistent lineman this season. The former walkon has started every game the past two seasons.

Meier, a junior from Pittsburg, Kan., has been one of the most productive wide receivers in the country as he ranks 11^th in the NCAA in receptions at 7.25 per game and 38^th in receiving yards (77.67). Meier has set a number of school records, including receptions in a season with 87 and receptions in a game with 14 vs. Missouri. This season he has 87 catches for 932 yards and seven touchdowns.

Rivera, a senior from Shawnee Mission, Kan., has 79 tackles through 12 games. He has been named All-Big 12 Honorable Mention in each of the last three years.

Sharp, a junior from Salina, Kan. has rushed for 796 yards and produced 283 yards receiving this season. In Big 12 only games, Sharp averaged 88.8 yards rushing and 32.0 yards receiving.

Kansas finished the regular season 7-5 overall and 4-4 in Big 12 play. The Jayhawks will play in a bowl game to be determined by Sunday.

All-Big 12 Football Teams

Individual Awards

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Sam Bradford, Oklahoma, So., QB, Oklahoma City, Okla.

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Brian Orakpo, Texas, Sr., DL, Houston, Texas

SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State, So., PR/KR, Lufkin, Texas

OFFENSIVE FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR

Robert Griffin, Baylor, Fr., QB, Copperas Cove, Texas

DEFENSIVE FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR

Travis Lewis, Oklahoma, Fr., LB, San Antonio, Texas

OFFENSIVE NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR

Brandon Banks, Kansas State, Jr., WR, Garner, N.C.

DEFENSIVE NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR

McKinner Dixon, Texas Tech, Jr., DE, Lufkin, Texas

OFFENSIVE LINEMAN OF THE YEAR

Jon Cooper, Oklahoma, Sr., Fort Collins, Colo.

DEFENSIVE LINEMAN OF THE YEAR

Brian Orakpo, Texas, Sr., DL, Houston, Texas

COACHES OF THE YEAR

Bob Stoops, Oklahoma, 10th season

Mike Leach, Texas Tech, 9th season

2008 All-Big 12 Football First Team

OFFENSE

Pos. Player School Class

QB Sam Bradford Oklahoma So.

RB DeMarco Murray Oklahoma So.

RB Kendall Hunter Oklahoma State So.

FB Matt Clapp Oklahoma Jr.

WR Jeremy Maclin [r1] Missouri So.

WR Dez Bryant Oklahoma State So.

WR Michael Crabtree** [r1] Texas Tech So.

TE Jermaine Gresham Oklahoma Jr.

OL Jason Smith Baylor Sr.

OL Phil Loadholt Oklahoma Sr.

OL Duke Robinson [r1] Oklahoma Sr.

OL Trent Williams Oklahoma Jr.

OL Russell Okung Oklahoma State Jr.

OL Adam Ulatoski Texas Jr.
PK Jeff Wolfert Missouri Sr.

KR/PR Dez Bryant Oklahoma State So.

DEFENSE

DL Ziggy Hood Missouri Sr

DL Gerald McCoy Oklahoma So.

DL Roy Miller Texas Sr.

DL Brian Orakpo Texas Sr.

DL Brandon Williams Texas Tech Jr.

LB Joe Pawelek Baylor Jr.
LB Sean Weatherspoon Missouri Jr.

LB Sergio Kindle Texas Jr.

DB Jordan Lake Baylor Jr.

DB Darrell Stuckey Kansas Jr.

DB William Moore** Missouri Sr.

DB Nic Harris [r1] Oklahoma Sr.

DB Darcel McBath Texas Tech Sr.

P Justin Brantly Texas A&M Sr.

A tie in voting created an additional offensive line spot on the first- and second-teams.

[r1] - Repeat first team selection from last season

**Unanimous Selection

2008 All-Big 12 Football Second Team

OFFENSE

Pos. Player School Class

QB Colt McCoy Texas Jr.

RB Derrick Washington Missouri So.

RB Shannon Woods Texas Tech Sr.

FB Jorvorskie Lane Texas A&M Sr.

WR Dezmon Briscoe Kansas So.

WR Juaquin Iglesias Oklahoma Sr.

WR Jordan Shipley Texas Sr.

TE Chase Coffman Missouri Sr.

OL Kurtis Gregory Missouri Jr.

OL Matt Slauson Nebraska Sr.

OL Jon Cooper Oklahoma Sr.

OL Chris Hall Texas Jr.

OL Louis Vasquez Texas Tech Sr.

OL Rylan Reed Texas Tech Sr.

PK Hunter Lawrence Texas Jr.

KR/PR Jordan Shipley Texas Jr.

DEFENSE

DL George Hypolite Colorado Sr.

DL Ian Campbell Kansas State Sr.

DL Stryker Sulak [r2] Missouri Sr.

DL Ndamukong Suh Nebraska Jr.

DL Jeremy Beal Oklahoma So.
LB James Holt Kansas Sr.

LB Travis Lewis Oklahoma Fr.

LB Andre Sexton Oklahoma State Jr.

DB Dominique Franks Oklahoma So.

DB Lendy Holmes Oklahoma Sr.

DB Jacob Lacey Oklahoma State Sr.

DB Ryan Palmer Texas Sr.

DB Daniel Charbonnet Texas Tech Sr.

P Matt Fodge Oklahoma State Sr.

[r2] - Repeat second team selection from last season

2008 All-Big 12 Honorable Mention

Baylor: Derek Epperson, P; Dan Gay, OL

Colorado: Cha’pelle Brown, DB; Brad Jones, LB; Daniel Sanders, OL

Iowa State: Mike Brandtner, P; Leonard Johnson, DB/KR/PR; Rashawn Parker, DL; James Smith, DB; Jesse Smith, LB; Reggie Stephens, OL; Kurtis Taylor, DL

Kansas: Caleb Blakesley, DL; Ryan Cantrell, OL; Jake Laptad, DL; Adrian Mayes, OL; Kerry Meier, WR; Mike Rivera, LB; Jake Sharp, RB

Kansas State: Brandon Banks, KR/PR/WR; Jordan Bedore, OL; Eric Childs, DL; Brandon Harold, DL; Joshua Moore, DB; Brooks Rossman, PK; Nick Stringer, OL

Missouri: Tim Barnes, OL; Jaron Baston, DL; Castine Bridges, DB; Colin Brown, OL; Brock Christopher, LB; Chase Daniel, QB; Justin Garrett, DB; Jeremy Maclin, KR/PR; Tommy Saunders, WR

Nebraska: Larry Asante, DB; Roy Helu Jr., RB; Alex Henery, PK; Jacob Hickman, OL; Zach Potter, DL; Ty Steinkuhler, DL; Nate Swift, KR/PR/WR

Oklahoma: Chris Brown, RB; Keenan Clayton, LB; Brandon Walker, OL

Oklahoma State: Jeray Chatham, DL; Perrish Cox, KR/PR; Orie Lemon, LB; Ricky Price, DB; Tonga Tea, DL

Texas: Quan Cosby, KR/PR/WR; Cedric Dockery, OL; Blake Gideon, DB; Aaron Lewis, DL; Henry Melton, DL; Roddrick Muckelroy, LB; Chris Ogbonnaya, RB; Charlie Tanner, OL; Earl Thomas, DB<

Press Conference Quotes...11.11.08

Denverjhawk — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 23:51:59 -0000

Highlights from today's press conference w/Coach Mangino and KU Players...

Head Coach Mark Mangino

Opening remarks:

“Looking back on last week, Nebraska made more plays than we did to win the game. We had opportunities and didn’t always capitalize. We didn’t make stops when we needed to make stops. We have got to improve our tackling. We have got to play a lot more sound in our inside run game. There were a few bright spots. Dezmon Briscoe had a big day and looked really good. Todd Reesing had a good day, although his numbers didn’t show that he did. James Holt is really playing good defense for us right now.”

“This week we have Texas, who is a very good, ranked, top-five program. They have a lot of weapons on both sides of the ball and on special teams. Defensively they are very stout. They are only allowing 86 yards per game rushing. They have a very athletic defensive line with very quick, athletic guys who can move around. Their linebackers seem to be the heart of their defense. They are an outstanding group of linebackers. Their secondary is very athletic as always.”

“On the offensive side of the ball they run the ball with a number of different tailbacks. Their big playmaker is obviously Colt McCoy at quarterback, both running and throwing the football. He has a bunch of excellent receivers to throw to, led by Jordan Shipley and Quan Cosby. Shipley is also a very dangerous player on special teams.”

“It is a very good Texas team that is coming here and we are planning on having a good week of preparation and getting ready to play them. It is an opportunity for us to play a top-five team here at home and we want to play well.”

More Coach and Player Quotes after the Jump...

Coach Mangino Cont.

On this year’s senior class:

“This is a senior class that has several fifth-year players and some kids that have played a lot of snaps. They have been through some really good times and have had to fight through some times. We see them as a group of kids who have been here and weathered some storms and have had some really big highs. We expect that they will continue to compete and fight here until the end.”

On Dezmon Briscoe:

“Dez is playing good football. Each and every week he seems to get better. He does a good job of understanding the defense. He knows where the holes are, he understands the coverages and we are really getting the ball to him quite a bit. He is finding holes in zones and leveraging man coverage pretty well. This is only his second year with us, but he is really getting better all the time.”

Junior Quarterback Todd Reesing

On playing Texas:

“I grew up in Austin, obviously watching the Horns. My dad went to UT. So I would be lying if I told you it wasn’t a little bit bigger for me. You got to try to not make it as big to yourself, but it is going to be fun. I grew up watching Texas and cheering for them, so now that I am playing against them it will be a lot of fun.”

On the Big 12 North Race:

“At this point things haven’t gone the way we would have liked them to. Last week obviously was a big game for us in terms of stepping up and playing for the Big 12 North, but that is obviously out of our hands at this point. This week we just have to go out there and play our best. We are playing a very good Texas team that is ranked real high and it one of the best teams in the nation. They are coming to our place on senior day and it is the last time for our seniors to go out there and play in front of our home crowd. We are going to lay it all out on the line and see if we can get a win and the upset.”

On the current senior class’s home success:

“You always want to send your seniors out with a win and that is why senior day is such a big deal. It is the last time you get to play at Memorial Stadium. It is going to be a crowded house and I know that everyone is going to be excited and have a positive attitude this week. We are just going to practice hard, get ready, and try to bounce back.

Senior Linebacker James Holt

On what senior day means:

“There is a lot of history in that stadium. I will always remember the first game that I played in it. It will mean a lot to all of the seniors and hopefully we can play a good game and just leave it all out there and give the people a good show.”

On getting a signature win for the year:

“Definitely with it being senior day and getting to go against No. 4 ranked Texas, a real powerhouse team, would be great to go out and pull an upset that would be a tremendous statement for the senior class.”

Junior Cornerback Justin Thornton

On helping the younger cornerbacks believe in themselves:

“A lot of guys came in knowing that they could compete and play. After being at practice with them all year we know that they can play and we are taking it upon ourselves to keep beating it into their heads that they can play at this level and they are here for a reason.”

On James Holt:

“Moving him around has been a great thing for us. He gives us the chance to blitz from different angles and play different coverages from different spots. He is great around the ball and he just gets the job done. He is a great athlete. If you get him matched up against bigger, slower guys he will beat them with speed. He isn’t the biggest or heaviest guy, but he plays hard and has a nose for the ball.”

Junior Safety Darrell Stuckey

On his thoughts of playing Texas this week:

“It’s one of those games that you go into where you have to do everything right. You have to execute every play and can’t have a lot of mental mistakes, because they will exploit them and take advantage of them. Texas is one of those teams that builds on what they can do to put themselves in a position to move forward. Our best opportunity is to do the same thing and go out there and focus on what we are doing right, focus on making our plays and executing on our side of the ball.”

Senior Defensive End John Larson

On playing in his last home game as a Jayhawk:

“You walk around and everything’s starting to look a little different, knowing that you aren’t going to get on that field again. I think the whole senior class is really looking forward to this weekend.”

Sophomore Wide Receiver Dezmon Briscoe

On his record-breaking year at receiver for Kansas:

“It’s a blessing, I haven’t really paid much attention to it though. I usually find out from the media.”

On the key to his improvement over last year:

“My work ethic has always been good, but I came into this season with a little more of a chip on my shoulder, knowing that we need to build on what we did last season. Film time and coming in and watching the opponents by myself or with some of the veterans on the team. They have helped me how to read a zone and how to beat man coverage.”

Senior Defensive End Russell Brorsen

On why he chose to play at Kansas:

“Coming out of high school I didn’t really have a lot of options. This was my best option by far, because it gave me a chance to play in the Big 12 and that’s why I came here.”

On what being named to the Lott Trophy watch list means to him:

“I feel that it was an achievement, I think there were 40 players on it. I think being named to a watch list shows that you have done a little bit in the college football world.”

NOTES...

FINAL HOME GAME FOR 18 SENIORS -- The Texas game will be the final home contest for 18 Kansas seniors, including DE Richard Alspaugh, S Tang Bacheyie, DE Russell Brorsen, WR Micah Brown, WR Raymond Brown, OC Ryan Cantrell, OT Matt Darton, WR Dexton Fields, WR Gary Green, CB Kendrick Harper, OG Chet Hartley, WR Marcus Herford, LB James Holt, DE John Larson, OG Adrian Mayes, LB Joe Mortensen, S Patrick Resby, and LB Mike Rivera.

THE LAST FOUR YEARS -- In the last four years, this senior group has been a part of some special things in Kansas football history. Among the numerous highlights are:

• Combined 31-16 record with two games left.

• 31 wins are the second-most in a four-year period in KU history behind the 32-6 record from 1896-99

• Produced at least six wins in four straight seasons for the first time since 1903-06.

• Saw home attendance average records set in each of the last four years.

• Posted two undefeated home seasons (2005 and 2007).

• Recorded a 23-3 home record in their four years.

• Played in first January bowl game since 1969 with last year's FedEx Orange Bowl victory.

• Could reach bowl game for the second straight year, the first bowl games in consecutive seasons in school history.

• Returned to the national polls in 2007, the Jayhawks' first ranking since 1996.

• Were part of a school-record 19 straight weeks in the Associated Press poll.

Press Conference Quotes...11.04.08

Denverjhawk — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:04:05 -0000

Highlights from today's press conference w/Coach Mangino and KU Players...

Head Coach Mark Mangino

Opening remarks:

“We had a great effort from both the offense and the defense (last week vs. Kansas State). We played well. We played sound, fundamental football. I was pleased overall with the performance. There are still things to build off of, but certainly it was a good springboard as we head into the home stretch of the season.”

“This week we travel to Lincoln to play Nebraska. They are a good football team and they are much improved from a year ago. Defensively, they are much improved. They have a different system. They are teaching their kids good, fundamental football. On offense they have been very effective. Joe Ganz is a quality quarterback. He is sometimes forgotten in this league, but I haven’t forgotten about him. I think he has passed for about 2,500 yards this year. They have quality receivers to throw the ball to in Todd Peterson and Nate Swift. To put things into perspective, Nate Swift passed Johnny Rogers on the all-time reception list at Nebraska. He is moving in here to take over as the all-time leader in career receiving yardage at Nebraska. You are talking about a quality football player when you mention somebody in the same breath as Johnny Rogers.

“They are running the ball pretty well. They have a couple of really good running backs. (Marlon) Lucky is a talented kid and so is (Roy) Helu. We are preparing hard and hopefully we will continue to have a good week.”

New This Week...After the Jump get player quotes, notes and quick look at some team statistics.

Coach Mangino Continued:

On playing in Lincoln:

“Memorial Stadium is a fun place to play. Kids play in the Big 12 Conference for a number of reasons. One of them is that they like playing in all of these storied venues. Our kids will go there and play well and will not be intimidated. We respect the Nebraska fans and the Nebraska program, but we have played pretty well the last couple of times we have gone there.”

On the election:

“I told (the team) to vote. I told them that it is their right and that they should exercise that right. Who knows, maybe their vote will make a difference.”

Senior Offensive Lineman Ryan Cantrell

On what the offensive line can improve on:

“We can be more consistent coming off of the ball. We can understand the defense a little bit better, getting in there and really studying them and recognizing certain formations. I think that is going to be a big key the rest of the season.”

On what he remembers about KU’s 76-39 victory over Nebraska last season:

“I can hardly remember what I had to eat for lunch today, but I do remember that it was a lot of fun just like all of last year. It is hard to accept a defeat like that, just like it is hard to accept a loss to Texas Tech like we had at home. Any good program is going to move on and keep building on what they have.”

Junior Running Back Jake Sharp

On if the game against Kansas State was like being back in high school:

“I was definitely exhausted like I was back then. Like I said, the offensive line had a great day, they opened up holes and I was able to do a lot of running.”

His thoughts on Nebraska:

“It’s going to be tough. They’re still Nebraska, and we’re going to be in Lincoln and it’s definitely a tough place to play. We’re going to have to have another great week of preparation and hopefully take care of business on Saturday.”

Sophomore Wide Receiver Dezmon Briscoe

On how the team has gotten better week to week:

“It’s the approach we’re taking. We’re one of the most competitive teams in the nation. Of course no one likes losing, so we always go out there with a competitive edge.”

On last year’s victory over Nebraska:

“We dropped 76 on them on our homecoming so that was a great accomplishment. But we can’t look back on that. They are a much improved team. Their coaching staff and players know what happened last year and they don’t want that to happen again.”

Freshman Cornerback Daymond Patterson

On the switch from wide receiver to defensive back:

“It’s been pretty good for me so far. It hasn’t been too tough of a switch. Going from offense to defense, you kind of know what the other receiver is thinking because you were a receiver. That definitely helps me. I’m liking it so far and I’m just looking to improve each and every week.”

Notes…

QUICKLY -- Kansas (6-3 overall, 3-2 Big 12) will head to Lincoln, Neb. to face Nebraska (5-4, 2-3) on Saturday, Nov. 8 at 1:30 p.m... The game will be televised on a pay-per-view basis (details will be made available later in the week)... Kansas played eight straight games on network or cable television before this week... The Kansas-Nebraska series is the nation’s longest uninterrupted series as the teams will meet for the 103rd consecutive year... KU has won 18 of its last 22 and 21 of its last 26 games... KU is 1-2 on the road this season after going 4-0 in road games a year ago... KU has won 16 consecutive games against un-ranked teams.

BOWL ELIGIBLE -- With a 6-3 record Kansas has become bowl eligible for the fourth consecutive year, marking the first time the Jayhawks have won at least six games in four straight seasons since actually winning six striaght five times from 1902-06. The Jayhawks were 7-5 and played in the Fort Worth Bowl in 2005, 6-6 and did not play in a bowl game in 2006, and 12-1 and played in the FedEx Orange Bowl in 2007. A bowl trip in 2008 would give the Jayhawks bowl games in consecutive years for the first time in school history.

TWO YEARS IN A ROW -- For the second season in a row, Kansas enters the Nebraska game with a better overall record than the Huskers as the Jayhawks are 6-3, while Nebraska is 5-4. Last year KU entered the game with an 8-0 mark, while Nebraska was 4-5. Prior to last year, the last time the Jayhawks entered a meeting with Nebraska with a better record was 1974 when KU was 4-1 and Nebraska 3-2. The teams had identical records in 1981 (both 5-2) and 2006 (both 3-1).

Stats Special…

2008 INDIVIDUAL BESTS

Rushing

181 Jake Sharp vs. Kansas State

118 Jake Sharp vs. Colorado

103 Jake Sharp at Oklahoma

Passing

412 Todd Reesing vs. Louisiana Tech

381 Todd Reesing at South Florida

356 Todd Reesing vs. Sam Houston

Receiving

269 Dezmon Briscoe at Oklahoma

179 Johnathan Wilson at South Florida

146 Dezmon Briscoe vs. Louisiana Tech

Tackles

13 Mike Rivera vs. Texas Tech

13 James Holt vs. Texas Tech

13 Kendrick Harper at Oklahoma

13 James Holt at South Florida

2008 TEAM BESTS

Offense

Rushing

280 vs. Kansas State

161 vs. Texas Tech

161 vs. Sam Houston

Passing

412 vs. Louisiana Tech

381 at South Florida

357 at Oklahoma

Total Offense

538 vs. Louisiana Tech

528 vs. Sam Houston

491 at Oklahoma

Defense

Rushing

45 vs. Sam Houston

66 vs. FIU

86 vs. Colorado

Passing

73 vs. FIU

119 vs. Louisiana Tech

147 vs. Colorado

Total Defense

139 vs. FIU

233 vs. Colorado

267 vs. Louisiana Tech

Hawk Talk...The Morning After(Sunflower Edition)

Denverjhawk — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 20:35:44 -0000

A look at news and notes about Jayhawks and upcoming opponents...

Jake Sharp runs wild behind the Kansas offense.
Russel Brorson turns in a memorable performance.
Notes including news on season ending injury to Justin Springer.
KU Athletics game recap.
Final Stats.
Game Notes.

My Thoughts...The morning after and the win feels just as satisfying as the day of. While it seems like our true football rivalry is Missouri this game was a big win for the Jayhawks and their fans. My only question is why the hell are there empty seats after halftime when we are handing our instate rival who we clearly have on the ropes an absolute beat down. Enjoy the journey and don't get so wrapped up in the destination Jayhawk fans.

Enough of that tangent how about a look at the game. There has been recent mention of Ed Warriner changing his offensive blocking scheme from a zone block to man. Clearly that is the right move. Yesterday, I saw our offensive line dominating man on man throughout the game. K-State players found their faces buried in the grass and I can count more than a few times where Jeff Spikes and Jeremiah Hatch our two newbie’s were on top. Jake Sharp used this to his advantage in a big way. Many of his big runs were off the right side behind Spikes and Sharp made the right reads hit the holes aggressively, got to the next level and then made guys miss. Not to mention his touchdown where he outran the Kansas State safety. Fact of the matter is Sharp proved a lot yesterday, and with consistent blocking he can be a very effective back for us. The shovel pass that he broke for long yardage was probably his best example of reading and cutting off blocks all year. Overall, kudos to the running game for being the focal point and not an afterthought this week.

Defensively it was hard not to be very happy with the scheme and effort. Josh Freeman is a very good quarterback with a pocket and with time. Under pressure he sometimes tries to do too much. Clint Bowen's zone blitzing along with the decision to utilize James Holt as an end was huge in applying pressure and allowing our secondary to provide solid coverage. The scheme also allowed Russel Brorson to pick off his 2nd and 3rd Josh Freeman passes adding to his one from last year’s game against Kansas State. In the backfield Justin Thornton and Daymond Patterson both looked much more comfortable in their positions this week, which might have something to do with not playing Texas Tech, but nonetheless both looked improved. Another crew that made a difference was our defensive tackles. Caleb Blakesly was a warrior in the middle, while Jamal Greene and Darius Parish did an excellent job filling in for Richard Johnson and tied up blockers allowing our linebackers to run free. Finally the leaders of this defense Joe Mortenson, Mike Rivera and Darrell Stuckey used their freedom to roam and stifle the running game holding Kansas State to a minimal 91 yards rushing.

Even the special teams were improved. Daymond Patterson had room to work on returns, Herford and Crawford looked more decisive on kickoff returns, Branstetter put a few in the end zone, knocked through a FG and made some great tackles. The only low point was the blocked field goal, but then again Kansas State doesn't lead the nation in that statistic for nothing.

From a mental standpoint Kansas definitely recovered from the haymaker that Tech threw their way a week ago. The players showed they aren't done yet and next week against Nebraska, the Jayhawks have a chance to break a streak, lock up a seventh win and probably creep back into the Top 25 before facing a tough Texas Longhorn team in Lawrence. Big win this week, another huge and difficult game next week but fans can rest easy as Kansas for the third year in a row defeated rival K-State in the sunflower showdown.

Press conference highlights after the Jump...some good stuff this week...

Image Source: KUSports.com

Kansas Head Coach Mark Mangino:

On things that stand out from the game:

“First of all, our defense played really well today. I liked the plan that we had on defense, but our coaches did a good job of getting our kids to bounce back and play really well. Our pass defense, including our pass rush, put some pressure on the quarterback for the better part of the day, we got some sacks, so I’m really pleased with that aspect. Offensively we noticed during the week that they were giving some opportunities to run the ball, and we felt that they played us on defense the way we expected. Our offensive line did a terrific job of getting off the ball and knocking the defensive line back a little bit, and gave Jake Sharp room, and Jake just had a great day. He not only ran the ball well in space, but he took some viscous hits today and he jumped back up, and like I said before, Jake Sharp is a hard-charger. He’s a tough guy.”

On the improvement of the program:

“Obviously we’ve made great improvement, but I still think it’s a great in-state rivalry (with K-State). This year and the last few years we’ve played very well and I’m proud of the way our kids have played. Our program has made a lot of progress. Our fans are elated that KU is winning some of these games in this Sunflower Series. Overall, the credit goes to the kids. They want to do it, they want to get better, and each and every year we seem to have kids that really play hard, play together, and have great resolve. They are resilient; they bounce back from tough days. I’m very proud of the players that play in this program.”

On the success of the defensive pressure playing a part in the win:

“We put a great deal of pressure on the quarterback, or at least didn’t give him as much time as he would like to have. He’s a talented guy, he can hurt you, he made some very good throws today, you can see that he’s really a talented player. He made some tough throws. There were a couple of times I thought we had good coverage. He put the ball in there. If you give him a lot of time to stand back there you’re going to have a long day, and we’ve learned some lessons about that in the past, so we didn’t want that to happen today.”

On Jake Sharp getting knocked around:

“He has proven to us he is exceptional. Most guys his size cannot. But you cannot measure a guy’s heart. You can measure how fast he runs, how high he jumps, the weights he lifts, but you cannot measure intestinal fortitude. There’s no real measurement for it, and he has it. He’s a tough customer, and he’s a great guy to be around. His teammates like him, he’s proven that he can play at the highest level of college football and be successful at it, and I think there were some people who questioned that at one point in time. I’m glad that we didn’t, because we’re glad to have him in our program.”

Kansas senior center Ryan Cantrell

On rushing for 280 yards:

“The results speak for themselves. Before I knew it, I looked up on the stat boards and saw that we had over 100 yards rushing before the end of the first quarter. It was a good feeling. I think we had the right schemes. Jake (Sharp) ran his butt off today. I can’t say enough good things about the way he ran today. I wanted 300 yards (rushing), but we didn’t get that. It’s a good feeling. It makes all the work you put into it, especially in the run game, worth it. It helps motivate you for the next time.”

On the progression of freshmen tackles Jeremiah Hatch and Jeff Spikes:

“Anytime you have young guys and they are both redshirt freshmen, you are going to go through some growing pains. Every week they mature more and more. We’ll go through film each day and see if they had any mistakes. And every week there mistakes get to be less and less.”

Kansas senior linebacker Mike Rivera

On winning three in a row against K-State:

“I can’t tell you how good it feels. It was a great game for us to win, and to win it handily. We did a really good job. Being from Kansas, it is one game that I mark on my calendar each year. I’m glad that we went out there and gave our best effort. We had an awesome game and we put it all together. It’s my second to last game at Memorial Stadium, so it was exciting.”

Kansas State Head Coach Ron Prince

Opening Statement:

“They were a good team; a team that needed a win. KU lost a game badly and came back well organized and very well coached and did a terrific job today. On the flip side, we were not well coached today and that is my responsibility and the people of Kansas State deserve better then this. It is about as bad of a loss that I have been associated with, particularly the way we played in the first half. A number of things come to mind. No. 1, the offensive line from an offensive standpoint. Number two on offense, the turnovers continue to plague us. When you look at the number of carries that Lamark Brown was able to get, he had the same carries that Jake Sharp had, but the outcome was tremendously different. KU did a terrific job and we failed to beat blocks and once again tackle. They got big plays and we had very few. Also despite some positive things that could have occurred in the kicking game they did a really good job of limiting any big plays. When you are on the road and fall behind it is very difficult to keep balance in the game from a run or pass situation. We had to get some quality stops in the second half in order to get back into it and we just never got those. So it was a thorough and complete defeat by a very good KU team and my hat’s off to them. It was a very poor one by myself and my coaching staff.”

On the Kansas running game:

“They did a really good job of running the ball inside and then they did a very good job taking the ball to the perimeter on the option. We had some very specific things that we wanted to do to handle the option and we didn’t get them accomplished so therefore we had some plays that really looked uncontested, but they weren’t designed that way. As a coach I have to take responsibility for those.”

On the significance of the game:

“This is a thorough and complete beating and defeat there is no question about it. I’m not one that’s going to try to mince words and try to spin anything. They did a great job, they were very well prepared for the game and it meant a lot to them. We were very well prepared coming into the game, but didn’t execute like we needed to and that’s my job to

Sunflower Beatdown!!!

Denverjhawk — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 23:12:17 -0000

Image Source: KUsports.com

Last week following the game Kansas fans did a little venting...this week we'll to a little gloating. Kansas came out and beat Kansas State in convincing fashion during the 106th edition of the rivalry game between these two schools.

A few things that stood out for me and are worth a little discussion. First the running game. The Kansas offensive line for the first time all year dominated. Granted K-State has had trouble against the run all season but Jake Sharp was going untouched into the secondary frequently during this game. I recall multiple replays where Sharp was shaking tackles in the secondary while some unfortunate K-State defender was planted into the grass by a Kansas offensive lineman in the background. Excellent job by the coaching staff to focus on this weakness and kudos to the players for playing with a physical nastiness that we haven't seen consistently throughout the year. In terms of Jake Sharp he looked to be seeing the blocks and making the right reads all day long. It's been a while since Todd Reesing's numbers have been dwarfed by the rest of the offense and today was one of those days and it was impressive.

Secondly how about James Holt on the defense. Clint Bowen put this guy in a 3 point, on a pass rush and he created havoc in the K-State backfield all day. His versatility and speed was as good a weapon as Kansas has had on the defensive line all year. Remember Kansas State was third in the country in terms of sacks allowed and Kansas got to Josh Freeman and as I said in the team analysis if that happens he will make mistakes.

Russel Brorson...what more can you say this guy may not be the fastest, strongest etc. but he just keeps "sawin wood" and it paid off for him today.

I am also a little more sold on the moves made in the secondary for the most part. Justin Thornton looks to be an effective corner and comfortable in the role. Daymond Patterson was rarely seen which as a corner that is a good thing. When he was I thought he made some great open field tackles. Lastly Stuckey with 9 tackles was very effective at keeping the run at bay for Kansas State.

Overall, huge kudos to the players for showing a passion and fire that I desperately wanted to see after last week, and also to the coaching staff for developing an outstanding gameplan in every phase of the game. Offense, defense and special teams all seemed to click. Things are once again looking up in Lawrence Kansas and onward to Lincoln where a streak is in need of breaking.

Press Conference Quotes...10.28.08

Denverjhawk — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 22:45:41 -0000

Highlights from today's press conference w/Coach Mangino...

Head Coach Mark Mangino

On the KU-KSU rivalry:

“This game has been played at times when both teams have had zero wins or one win a piece. The people in the state of Kansas still got excited about it because it was two Big 12 or Big 8 teams playing against each other. It is state pride. It is bragging rights. This game will always be fun for the fans. I look back over the years and it doesn’t matter what the records are, the fans look forward to this game. More importantly, the players look forward to this game. I know our players are looking forward to this game.”

Player quotes after the jump....

Head Coach Mark Mangino

On the KU-KSU rivalry:

Senior Outside Linebacker Mike Rivera

On getting over last week’s loss:

“Last week we didn’t play very well and we have to put it behind us and get ready for the next game. That’s exactly what we are going to do. We aren’t going to think about that game anymore. We are focused on K-State. I can’t wait to get after it in practice and get a good week in.”

Senior Center Ryan Cantrell

On if the rivalry is a factor in the game:

“I think living in Lawrence as long as I have you can’t help but to get into the rivalry more. I think you also see how the Kansas guys feel about it and I want to win it just a little bit more for them.”

Junior Safety Darrell Stuckey

On if he is worried the image of the team is fading after a few losses:

“Sometimes things don’t go your way and I don’t think it defines or breaks this program at all. I think we are still at a stronger point then where we were five or six years ago, before Coach Mangino got here. I still think this program is going to improve, you can’t have superior seasons every season when you are a growing program.”

Senior Linebacker Joe Mortensen

On the team clearing its minds of the Texas Tech loss:

“I really liked the attitude of the players and the coaches on Sunday. We watched film and we just got outplayed and there is nothing you can say about it. The attitude of the team is just to put it behind us and let’s go play K-State. This is a big rivalry and we are always looking forward to playing them. They are coming to our house and we are just hoping we can go out there and beat them. The attitude of the team is fine, our practice tempo is focused and we are looking forward to trying to get a win.”

Senior Wide Receiver Dexton Fields

On the numbers the teams in the Big 12 are scoring:

“I’m really proud to be a part of an offense that can spread the ball around and any guy can have a big game. The teams in the Big 12 can really put up points. I can’t really think of a quarterback in the Big 12 that is below average. That is rather unheard of. It is just very uncommon anywhere in the NCAA for all these great quarterbacks to be in one conference. It could be a product of the spread offense, but never the less, they are all good quarterbacks.”

Freshman Cornerback Daymond Patterson

On his transition from wide receiver to cornerback:

“I feel that I can play both positions or just cornerback or just receiver. I am just happy to get back onto the field and try and help the team.”

Junior Quarterback Todd Reesing

On having a big game looming and trying to put the Texas Tech behind them:

“We are obviously trying to forget about last week as quick as possible and get focused on this Saturday. We have put that behind us, we have learned from it and we are going to move on. We look forward to an exciting game this week.”

Full transcript available from kuathletics.com.