PJ’s first impression is that he’s very impressed with his football team and how far along they’ve come from the beginning of camp. He credits the two freshman quarterbacks for their leadership and how they’ve commanded the team.
For anyone wondering, Zack won’t be allowed to get a scholarship until January (as he was announced the starter today).
Fleck listed OJ Smith and hopefully Chris Williamson as two transfers that are going to be able to help the defense this season. PJ also commented that he was really impressed with his freshmen in the defensive backfield, so it would not be a surprise for them to see some young defensive backs play this season. Coach said it is easier for young corners to play rather than safeties since safeties have more schematically on their plate than corners. He did give credit to all of the freshmen for being physical players.
The Gophers run defense struggled last season and looks to improve in 2018. PJ said the team is working more cohesively than last year, as well as they are in better shape heading into this season. He believes the 2018 and 2019 class will be defense-centric and will improve that run defense.
Mike Max asked about Seth Green translating to tight end. Coach called it a “seamless” transition due to Seth’s natural athleticism. “The transition will make us a better football team. He’s going to help us.”
Blake Cashman was another player that was asked about and his contributions this season. PJ said he is one of the most instinctual players he’s been around in his football career. Last year he didn’t get as much run since Jon Celestin started, but the team will be creative with him this season to get him heavily involved.
Coach did have an interesting comment that his team physically is not extremely big, but they can run.
“Last year the offensive line we weren’t working as one. I’m proud of how much progress they’ve made. Brian Callahan has done a tremendous job. They’ve made some huge strides to get better everyday. This team is starting to become very mature.”
Side note: I saw Mrs. Fleck at the Chicago airport last night. I said "Row The Boat" as I walked by her. She laughed and said "Thanks for the support."
For anyone wondering, Zack won’t be allowed to get a scholarship until January (as he was announced the starter today).
Fleck listed OJ Smith and hopefully Chris Williamson as two transfers that are going to be able to help the defense this season. PJ also commented that he was really impressed with his freshmen in the defensive backfield, so it would not be a surprise for them to see some young defensive backs play this season. Coach said it is easier for young corners to play rather than safeties since safeties have more schematically on their plate than corners. He did give credit to all of the freshmen for being physical players.
The Gophers run defense struggled last season and looks to improve in 2018. PJ said the team is working more cohesively than last year, as well as they are in better shape heading into this season. He believes the 2018 and 2019 class will be defense-centric and will improve that run defense.
Mike Max asked about Seth Green translating to tight end. Coach called it a “seamless” transition due to Seth’s natural athleticism. “The transition will make us a better football team. He’s going to help us.”
Blake Cashman was another player that was asked about and his contributions this season. PJ said he is one of the most instinctual players he’s been around in his football career. Last year he didn’t get as much run since Jon Celestin started, but the team will be creative with him this season to get him heavily involved.
Coach did have an interesting comment that his team physically is not extremely big, but they can run.
“Last year the offensive line we weren’t working as one. I’m proud of how much progress they’ve made. Brian Callahan has done a tremendous job. They’ve made some huge strides to get better everyday. This team is starting to become very mature.”
Side note: I saw Mrs. Fleck at the Chicago airport last night. I said "Row The Boat" as I walked by her. She laughed and said "Thanks for the support."
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