(Sirhornsalot) With Poona Ford being cleared by the NCAA Clearinghouse, what kind of impact do you think he’ll have at DT or will his snaps be limited?
The staff believes Ford is capable of receiving some playing time this year, but they’re very confident in their top three players at DT (Brown, Jackson & Ridgeway). If Ford plays much, he’ll need to prove that he’s a better option than Alex Norman. Considering he hasn’t been on campus to lift weights and go through conditioning, Ford has a lot to prove in August.
(Sirhornsalot) Who is our fastest Longhorn not named Daje?
When he’s 100% healthy, Sheroid Evans probably gives Daje a run for the fastest guy on the team.
(Sirhornsalot) We saw UT go from preferring light and more agile OL to recently trying to divert to heavier, bulkier OL. What is Wickline looking for?
First thing that is important to understand is that Coach Wickline is very good at projecting what a kid is going to look like once he has had several years in a Division I strength and conditioning program. With that in mind, Wickline prefers to recruit large road graders with a mean streak. Because he has confidence is his projections, Wickline has no problem taking kids that have some bad weight and reshaping their body. Another key attribute for recruits is versatility. Wickline prefers for his OL to be able to play multiple positions along the line.
(texasdobbs) I’m starting to “feel” a little momentum in recruiting with Texas making some top recruits lists…. is this a false momentum I’m feeling or is there something there?
More than “momentumâ€, Charlie Strong’s program is experiencing a natural progression from an unknown entity to a known. Building relationships with high school coaches and recruits takes time and as Strong & his staff have had more opportunities to meet folks face-to-face, those relationships are being built. What you’re sensing is the normal evolution for a no-nonsense persona like Strong.
(Shevis Irons) Who does it appear will be the most vocal leaders of the incoming class?
Jarrod Heard will undoubtedly be the leader of his class and could emerge as one of the stronger leaders on the entire team. Heard isn’t so much a vocal guy yet, but the guys really gravitate towards him and his on-field presence. WR Lorenzo Joe will be one of the more outspoken members of the incoming class.
(Shevis Irons) Any season long/ Gameday traditions that Mack embraced that will be changed by Coach Strong?
Coach Brown focused on environmental things that could be controlled – meal times, wake-up calls, etc. The point of that structure was to have the players habituated to a routine for a game and it’s start time. Coach Strong’s focus is on preparation and confidence. Rather than environmental factors, expect Strong to keep players focused on their roles & jobs as the way to build their confidence.
(doc longhorn) What is the latest on Plonsky?
Our expectation is for Plonsky to be reassigned this summer.
(doc longhorn) How does Powers leaving affect Patterson’s job?
Patterson loses an important layer of protection when Powers steps down next year. As an example, think of the risks of working for a new President/CEO at a Fortune 500. More on this in Crossfire.
(doc longhorn) Are big money donors (Joe Jamail) behind the Powers kerfuffle?
Joe Jamail has definitely been involved in the Powers saga, but it isn’t at all accurate to say he’s the one driving it. However, Jamail is not pleased with Powers at this time.
(Bobo) What info do you have on the a&m football player who hit the Rice student?
(ATX89) I too am curious as to the status of the Stansbury(sp?) situation for the Ags.
(UTPhil2006) I’d also like to know whats going on with Stansbury/potential timing of the case.
(Randolph Duke) According to the docket sheet, Gavin Stansbury is set for trial on August 12th for the one assault charge. Can we close the matter of the alleged investigation into more serious charges and say they were baseless, with appropriate apologies to Mr. Stansbury?
McPhaul: I’m being told that the Harris County DA is putting a strong case together and it may take several more months to complete.
(ATX89) What’s the latest on the two players allegedly involved in some form or fashion with the sexual assault occurrence from a few weeks ago? Is it looking like a case of them being witnesses and not directly involved, mistaken identity or do you anticipate suspensions, dismissals, or arrests?
In addition to the two Texas players, there were countless people questioned concerning this incident. Given the timeframe since the questioning, we don’t expect any suspensions.
(ATX89) Any insight or updates on the recruitment of Boyd? Ag sites say he’s indicating he knows where he wants to go and it may be tough to get him out of the Opening uncommitted to the Ags despite his family’s preference for Texas. Also, curious if we have any updates on Sheffield and Jefferson. Am hoping we see some strong commits start to fall and get the momentum rolling. Newsome would be nice.
According to recent reports, Boyd wants to play with his younger brother (a 2016 recruit). Boyd has long been an A&M lean, but the Ag’s are slow on the recruitment of his brother. Currently Boyd lists FSU and Texas as his leaders but he’s a recruit that will change his mind a lot between now and February. If A&M pursues Demarco (Kris’ brother) don’t be surprised to see Boyd commit to the Aggies but continue to treat his recruitment as if he were not committed.
As for Sheffield and Jefferson, both want to see what Charlie Strong and his staff are building at Texas before committing anywhere. Realistically, that’s the best scenario Texas fans can ask for.
(doc longhorn) Malik Jefferson? What’s up with him? His SPARQ killed it at The Opening.
Jefferson is focused on Baylor, A&M and Texas. His mother was quoted as favoring the Horns, but Jefferson appears to be willing to extend his recruitment enough to see how each school does this season. The latest rumor is that Jefferson may delay visiting UT by a week in order to be in College Station.
(echeese) Last week the staff gave their playoff picks. . . .I’m curious if each would offer their “dark horse” choices. .. .teams with an outside shot at a nod and why.
McPhaul: OU is my dark horse after they finished last season with dismantling of Bama.
Adams: Baylor could take advantage of a weakened Big 12.
Carrara: Texas could make an historic run if Ash stays healthy.
Cotcher: I picked Notre Dame last week. The Domers will be solid up front and it’s Year 5 for Brian Kelly.
(MikeV73) How has Papi fared playing in Greece?
Ioannis Papapetrou played for the Greek team Olympiacos last season. He played in 12 games, averaging about 10 minutes per game and 5 ppg. He’s considered a good but raw NBA prospect at this point.
(monarch) Since TEXAS shall be playing it’s very first game as per the season upon next month (august), have we finally received word vs any indication, for what disney shall be implementing as per the TEXAS game day experience for 2014?
We will continue to inquire. If you’re expecting major changes to the gameday experience, you’re likely in for a let down.
(monarch) The shocking situation as per BILL POWERS vs the board of regents, just could not have arrived at a worst time upon the 40 acres. what form of an impact shall the profound episode of the UT president being threatened with termination, at a time when LONGHORN NATION should be hereby gearing up for what shall be an historic first, as per the forthcoming inaugural football season of it’s new black head coach?
There are some undercurrents in play, but when August 30th rolls around and Charlie Strong’s Longhorn team takes the field, there won’t be anyone worrying about Powers or the BOR.
(monarch) Head coach charlie strong, is now scheduled for a couple of hour long speeches as per the TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOC as per july 20-23. do you foresee any form of circus atmosphere at this convention, in lieu of the disastrous travis haney rogue reporting saga?
Absolutely not. Calling Haney’s article “disastrous†is giving it way too much credit.
(monarch) TEXAS, is planning / preparing for the new “under the lights” camp arriving as per july 18 respectively. shall we expect any forthcoming surprises as per recruitment, during this last major UT camp of the season? what is the exact mood of the coaching staff vs bellmont in lieu of this forthcoming camp? just how BIG is this particular camp going to be.. as compared to all of the rest held this season?
This camp could be a turning point for the staff. The coaches have been working overtime to build relationships and most of the players have had a chance to see other schools. Don’t be surprised if Texas is leading for some of the top in-state prospects after the camp concludes.
(J.B. TexasEx) Who are our top uncommitted DL, LB, and DB targets?
LB: Malik Jefferson – Not just at LB but in the entire state, it’s Jefferson and then everyone else.
DB: Holton Hill, Kris Boyd & Kendall Sheffield – The state is loaded at DB and the Texas coaches will make room for any/all of these three.
DL: Du’Vonta Lampkin – there are a handful of national guys holding offers but Lampkin is a key piece to the class.
(J.B. TexasEx) Do we anticipate many out-of-state or less heralded recruits (3*) being targeted by CFS?
Absolutely – the staff has offers from coast to coast. As the in-state picture crystallizes in the next 60-90 days, you’ll begin to see which OOS names the Texas coaches are seriously after.
(Chitownhorn) Now that Coach Strong has had time to make it around the state and meet many of the coaches, what are you or FOB hearing from the Texas high school coaches about the direction of the program and their willingness to recommend UT to their top players?
Football coaches don’t gush, but as Strong becomes better known, the high school coaches are definitely warming up to him. Where Coach Brown was able to fit in and be friendly with any & everyone, Coach Strong is being accepted as “one of us†by the “hardcore†football coaches.
(street2peschel) Is Condeleeza Rice a legitimate candidate for president of UT?
No. As Chancellor, she has a longshot. Not as President.