Didn't get to see all of 2nd half, but from what I saw, some thoughts heading into wait until the OSU game to kick things off.
Offense:
Still think Lagow is the QB to go with to start, but like many, Ramsey shows promise and would seem to be the clear #2 now, which is probably good to have that pecking order settled. Lagow does throw some great balls, but still has some yips/happy feet it seems to me. Hope he keeps improving.
TE's - seem very good there with Thomas, Friend and now Bonner. Seems like Thomas wants shot at NFL and is going all in. He has the size and really looks good.
WR's - best position group on offense (if not the team). Appear to have about 6-7 legit talented guys they can rotate and keep fresh bodies going. Cobbs/Westbrook lead the way, but a lot of able bodies who will see time. Could be the serious passing game story next year and like the new coach too.
RB's - hard to judge off last night alone, but this area is "concerning" right now. Don't see the knockout punch, breakaway talent anywhere near the caliber of what we've had last 3 seasons (yes, even including Devine Redding, 2 yr 1000 yard seasons.) Hoping Patrick can be the real deal, and others step up.
OL - my biggest concern of entire offense. Last night did not show them creating great holes for run game, nor incredible protection for passing game. New coach, some new players stepping up. Like football at any level - sometimes as the OL goes, so goes the offense. This is a watch area of concern until we see them gel and show they are B10 level. (Spriggs/Feeney spoiled us!)
DEFENSE:
DLine - like the depth, aggressiveness and activity, especially from Def ends. I think there are players with lot of experience who are ready to step up and there is depth for fresh bodies.
LB - Tegray is going to be an all-american again. So who is going to step up as wing man and provide real depth. I think the crew we have now will. Not too worried here either at Tegray is poised for a great year.
DB - Think we have real talent here. Fant/Ball/Green are really good. Riggins back and improving. Lots of good play and some good freshmen coming in too with talent. Unlike many years in past, think the DBs have the athleticism and talent to be in top tier of B10, really do.
Overall the defense has a new swagger. Tom Allen has transformed the culture and they have good coaches here too.
Like what is happening overall. Love Coach and positive spirit throughout. I see this as a #breakthrough for at least the 7 game win season...believe it could be more if the offense can gel. And specifically the Oline/RB (running game) to then open up what could be an amazing passing game if have good protection and a running game they have to be concerned about.
Fun stuff...leaves us excited for the "Upset heard around the world" vs. Ohio State!
Offense:
Still think Lagow is the QB to go with to start, but like many, Ramsey shows promise and would seem to be the clear #2 now, which is probably good to have that pecking order settled. Lagow does throw some great balls, but still has some yips/happy feet it seems to me. Hope he keeps improving.
TE's - seem very good there with Thomas, Friend and now Bonner. Seems like Thomas wants shot at NFL and is going all in. He has the size and really looks good.
WR's - best position group on offense (if not the team). Appear to have about 6-7 legit talented guys they can rotate and keep fresh bodies going. Cobbs/Westbrook lead the way, but a lot of able bodies who will see time. Could be the serious passing game story next year and like the new coach too.
RB's - hard to judge off last night alone, but this area is "concerning" right now. Don't see the knockout punch, breakaway talent anywhere near the caliber of what we've had last 3 seasons (yes, even including Devine Redding, 2 yr 1000 yard seasons.) Hoping Patrick can be the real deal, and others step up.
OL - my biggest concern of entire offense. Last night did not show them creating great holes for run game, nor incredible protection for passing game. New coach, some new players stepping up. Like football at any level - sometimes as the OL goes, so goes the offense. This is a watch area of concern until we see them gel and show they are B10 level. (Spriggs/Feeney spoiled us!)
DEFENSE:
DLine - like the depth, aggressiveness and activity, especially from Def ends. I think there are players with lot of experience who are ready to step up and there is depth for fresh bodies.
LB - Tegray is going to be an all-american again. So who is going to step up as wing man and provide real depth. I think the crew we have now will. Not too worried here either at Tegray is poised for a great year.
DB - Think we have real talent here. Fant/Ball/Green are really good. Riggins back and improving. Lots of good play and some good freshmen coming in too with talent. Unlike many years in past, think the DBs have the athleticism and talent to be in top tier of B10, really do.
Overall the defense has a new swagger. Tom Allen has transformed the culture and they have good coaches here too.
Like what is happening overall. Love Coach and positive spirit throughout. I see this as a #breakthrough for at least the 7 game win season...believe it could be more if the offense can gel. And specifically the Oline/RB (running game) to then open up what could be an amazing passing game if have good protection and a running game they have to be concerned about.
Fun stuff...leaves us excited for the "Upset heard around the world" vs. Ohio State!