Here's something on Toby Gerhart, one of Stanford's RB's.
It appears that they will have at least a RB who is ready to play. Still can't find out much about their "veteran" OL in practice. And it's just as hard to find anything on their DL too. Where's that depth chart Harbaugh promised? This is frustrating... trying to get something on them in fall camp so they can be bet or faded. I still have lingering doubts because of the secrecy.
It appears that they will have at least a RB who is ready to play. Still can't find out much about their "veteran" OL in practice. And it's just as hard to find anything on their DL too. Where's that depth chart Harbaugh promised? This is frustrating... trying to get something on them in fall camp so they can be bet or faded. I still have lingering doubts because of the secrecy.
To sum up a very recent Oregon St. scrimmage... it's interesting to see who the play makers are on this day.
-written by a scout.com reporter:
A couple of days ago, this correspondent had posed the question about the offense translating their recent success at practices into the scrimmages. That happened today via some big plays and a couple of well sustained drives.
Together the Rodgers' brothers accounted for 243 all-purpose yards (Jacquizz – 162; James- 81) during the 55-play scrimmage at the Tommy Prothro Football Complex.
The defense tackled well for most of the scrimmage and had some standout plays of their own. Unfortunately for the D, there were three big runs they couldn’t stop, and all went for touchdowns.
The OSU second string receiving corps appears too good for most any second string secondary. The No. 2 receivers managed to get open most of the time and would have had more TDs had the QBs been in a better rhythm and found them in stride. Adeniji and Nichols each had great outings -- Adeniji with a pair of 15 and 8-yard TD receptions. Also notable was the blocking of the receivers on a couple of the long TD plays.
McCants and Quizz had a lot of carries between them -- and they were tackled fairly hard on most every play. Still, McCants managed to find positive yards on every one of his runs, finishing with 50 yards on 10 carries. Quizz, meanwhile, is just mesmerizing to watch. On both of his touchdown runs, he made hard, sure cuts without sacrificing virtually any speed.
The tight ends were not a huge part of the passing offense on Thursday but they did a great job blocking. Chris Johnson and Shane Morales also had solid outings today. Morales was perhaps unluckiest of all the wideouts not to have been on the receiving end of accurate passes -- he managed to get open on a number of plays. The d-line appeared to have sacked the QB on a a handful of occasions.
If the o-line can hold the charge and give Moevao just enough time for the offensive play to develop, the receivers will get open. And the QBs are doing a good job finding them most of the time but on Thursday, there was a little left to be desired.
Nevertheless, the offense wins this scrimmage without a doubt. The defense’s vulnerability on big plays might be an area the coaches will look hard at for the next two weeks. Lyle Moevao had a poor completion percentage but all in all, he had a good scrimmage and didn’t make any major mistakes -- mental of physical. It was refreshing to watch Justin Engstrom develop before your eyes. He's improving rapidly, getting better at his reads and throws and his growing confidence is apparent.
The final two-a-day practice session will be held Friday, with the Aug. 28 opener at Stanford now less than two weeks out.
-written by a scout.com reporter:
A couple of days ago, this correspondent had posed the question about the offense translating their recent success at practices into the scrimmages. That happened today via some big plays and a couple of well sustained drives.
Together the Rodgers' brothers accounted for 243 all-purpose yards (Jacquizz – 162; James- 81) during the 55-play scrimmage at the Tommy Prothro Football Complex.
The defense tackled well for most of the scrimmage and had some standout plays of their own. Unfortunately for the D, there were three big runs they couldn’t stop, and all went for touchdowns.
The OSU second string receiving corps appears too good for most any second string secondary. The No. 2 receivers managed to get open most of the time and would have had more TDs had the QBs been in a better rhythm and found them in stride. Adeniji and Nichols each had great outings -- Adeniji with a pair of 15 and 8-yard TD receptions. Also notable was the blocking of the receivers on a couple of the long TD plays.
McCants and Quizz had a lot of carries between them -- and they were tackled fairly hard on most every play. Still, McCants managed to find positive yards on every one of his runs, finishing with 50 yards on 10 carries. Quizz, meanwhile, is just mesmerizing to watch. On both of his touchdown runs, he made hard, sure cuts without sacrificing virtually any speed.
The tight ends were not a huge part of the passing offense on Thursday but they did a great job blocking. Chris Johnson and Shane Morales also had solid outings today. Morales was perhaps unluckiest of all the wideouts not to have been on the receiving end of accurate passes -- he managed to get open on a number of plays. The d-line appeared to have sacked the QB on a a handful of occasions.
If the o-line can hold the charge and give Moevao just enough time for the offensive play to develop, the receivers will get open. And the QBs are doing a good job finding them most of the time but on Thursday, there was a little left to be desired.
Nevertheless, the offense wins this scrimmage without a doubt. The defense’s vulnerability on big plays might be an area the coaches will look hard at for the next two weeks. Lyle Moevao had a poor completion percentage but all in all, he had a good scrimmage and didn’t make any major mistakes -- mental of physical. It was refreshing to watch Justin Engstrom develop before your eyes. He's improving rapidly, getting better at his reads and throws and his growing confidence is apparent.
The final two-a-day practice session will be held Friday, with the Aug. 28 opener at Stanford now less than two weeks out.
Update on UA's young defense....
This is part of a report on Thursday evening's scrimages detailing the Cat's young defense (not too bad, not too bad at all):
The defense came out on a mission as Xavier Kelley, D'Aundre Reed and Hans Philipp all recorded sacks within the first few plays and Marquis Hundley made a nice play for one of his three pass deflections of the practice.
Scott came in after Tuitama went two for four passing the ball and impressed once again despite great play from an active defense.
<!--Start Image--><script language="Javascript">document.write(insertImage('http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/974/673877.jpg', '673877.jpg', 0, 225, 405, 1, 'Willie Tuitama gets good protection from the offensive line.', 'GOAZCATS.com', 1218789032000, '', 974, 'Align=Right'));</script><table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="413"><tbody><tr><td rowspan="4" width="6">
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</td></tr><tr><td align="center">Willie Tuitama gets good protection from the offensive line.</td></tr></tbody></table><!-- End Image-->A batted down pass by Kelley and a sack by Sterling Lewis didn't deter Scott as he threw a 15-yard completion to Veal and a 40-yard bomb to Terrell Turner despite lots of pressure from the defense.
The hit of the practice came on the next play when Hundley separated David Douglas from the ball just as he caught the ball on the far sideline.
Douglas would make up for it, though, and he and Scott connected a couple plays later for a 30-yard gain as Scott finished completing three of five passes.
Tuitama entered the action again before the full scrimmage and went two for five, capping off 11 on 11's with a nice 25-yard run up the middle of the defense.
The final part of practice was a full scrimmage and Tuitama took all of the snaps for the rest of the practice.
The scrimmage was uneventful for the most part and the defense forced the offense to go four-and-out on its first series. Like the rest of practice, there was absolutely no room for the running backs to break anything and the defense was staunch all practice against the ground game.
The next series would be the last of the practice and it was highlighted by a sack by Josh Lewis.
The offense had difficulty moving the ball and really only did any sort of damage after being forced into a fourth-down situation.
Tuitama didn't fare well in the scrimmage, completing just three of his 10 passes.
This is part of a report on Thursday evening's scrimages detailing the Cat's young defense (not too bad, not too bad at all):
The defense came out on a mission as Xavier Kelley, D'Aundre Reed and Hans Philipp all recorded sacks within the first few plays and Marquis Hundley made a nice play for one of his three pass deflections of the practice.
Scott came in after Tuitama went two for four passing the ball and impressed once again despite great play from an active defense.
<!--Start Image--><script language="Javascript">document.write(insertImage('http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/974/673877.jpg', '673877.jpg', 0, 225, 405, 1, 'Willie Tuitama gets good protection from the offensive line.', 'GOAZCATS.com', 1218789032000, '', 974, 'Align=Right'));</script><table align="right" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="413"><tbody><tr><td rowspan="4" width="6">
The hit of the practice came on the next play when Hundley separated David Douglas from the ball just as he caught the ball on the far sideline.
Douglas would make up for it, though, and he and Scott connected a couple plays later for a 30-yard gain as Scott finished completing three of five passes.
Tuitama entered the action again before the full scrimmage and went two for five, capping off 11 on 11's with a nice 25-yard run up the middle of the defense.
The final part of practice was a full scrimmage and Tuitama took all of the snaps for the rest of the practice.
The scrimmage was uneventful for the most part and the defense forced the offense to go four-and-out on its first series. Like the rest of practice, there was absolutely no room for the running backs to break anything and the defense was staunch all practice against the ground game.
The next series would be the last of the practice and it was highlighted by a sack by Josh Lewis.
The offense had difficulty moving the ball and really only did any sort of damage after being forced into a fourth-down situation.
Tuitama didn't fare well in the scrimmage, completing just three of his 10 passes.
Hmm. I know beaver fans will get excited by this after last years anemic offense but I think the opposite. At this time in camp I expect defenses to be ahead. I do NOT consider this a good indication of how good the offense is but how poor the defense is.
Most camp reports are similar, defense is winning a lot more in week 2. Weeks 3 and 4 offense starts clicking.
I think this is true UoD.
From these reports, it's not easy to put the finger on one thing or another because the reports vary widely from day to day. I'm thinking the reporters are focusing one one player or another depending on how he plays that day. It's hard sometimes to read between the lines as to "overall" performance, defensively or offensively because these are just snapshots of one practice. Even then there are twice a days. You'd almost have to be there to get a feel for consistency. I'm just happy to see that there are individuals who are stepping up. Maybe it will all come together (or not) next week.
Regardless, I think "Quizz" will be something else to watch this season. He should make things a lot more fun to watch.
Well, what do you expect????
Bruin defense holding steady. Offense still falling apart...
UCLA scrimmage: Hey, the defense looked good
August 16, 2008 11:27 PM
Posted by ESPN.com's Ted Miller
LOS ANGELES -- To quantify how far ahead UCLA's defense is of its offense, halfway through Saturday's scrimmage the score was 9-0. In favor of the Bruins D, which got a safety and interception return for a TD from linebacker Kyle Bosworth (the bad news being that his brother Korey Bosworth hurt his ankle blocking on the play). The offense couldn't run a lick. The mix-and-match offensive line couldn't pass block, surrendering eight sacks. The likely starting quarterback Kevin Craft was 8 of 18 for 93 yards with three interceptions....
Bruin defense holding steady. Offense still falling apart...
UCLA scrimmage: Hey, the defense looked good
August 16, 2008 11:27 PM
LOS ANGELES -- To quantify how far ahead UCLA's defense is of its offense, halfway through Saturday's scrimmage the score was 9-0. In favor of the Bruins D, which got a safety and interception return for a TD from linebacker Kyle Bosworth (the bad news being that his brother Korey Bosworth hurt his ankle blocking on the play). The offense couldn't run a lick. The mix-and-match offensive line couldn't pass block, surrendering eight sacks. The likely starting quarterback Kevin Craft was 8 of 18 for 93 yards with three interceptions....
UCLA's defense continues to impress.
You have to allow for a seriously depleted offensive line when you make the call about their defense in practice, however they've performed almost flawlessly, and it continues to be evident day after day. Details will be forthcoming as the days roll by.
Now it seems that the Bruins have come up with a punter Aaron Perez, who averages 50+ yards per punt. This again goes to their developing game plan strategy (born by necessity) of playing for field position and with their special teams looking fine lately -- and it looks as though they may have something going for themselves. I can't speak to their coverages YET, but I do believe they'll be huffing and puffing down field a long time with some nice hang time to stretch things out.
Keep an eye on the totals in Bruin games this season. Many will be below 40 points when it's all said and done. I think the Bruins will be hard pressed to score 20 themselves so depending on how well their defense holds up, under totals will happen often (until the bettors and linemaker's totals sharpen up.)
You have to allow for a seriously depleted offensive line when you make the call about their defense in practice, however they've performed almost flawlessly, and it continues to be evident day after day. Details will be forthcoming as the days roll by.
Now it seems that the Bruins have come up with a punter Aaron Perez, who averages 50+ yards per punt. This again goes to their developing game plan strategy (born by necessity) of playing for field position and with their special teams looking fine lately -- and it looks as though they may have something going for themselves. I can't speak to their coverages YET, but I do believe they'll be huffing and puffing down field a long time with some nice hang time to stretch things out.
Keep an eye on the totals in Bruin games this season. Many will be below 40 points when it's all said and done. I think the Bruins will be hard pressed to score 20 themselves so depending on how well their defense holds up, under totals will happen often (until the bettors and linemaker's totals sharpen up.)
No idea CP.
Pags, heh... you wouldn't be thinking Craft would you? Whoever starts better have on their track shoes to run fast away from the blitz. That would be a good asset for a UCLA QB this year. Last I heard Kahlil Bell was throwing fits in practice because nobody could open any holes on the OL for him to run through. The LA sportswriters have been writing editorials trying to calm restless Bruin fans telling them it's not really that hopeless. Norm Chow will come up with something, you think???
This week the final depth charts will come out, pretty much for everyone as teams switch into game preparation mode.
Stanford's QB and DL will be settled at last. I wonder who Harbaugh has settled on with speed at the wideouts? A few more young inexperienced players on offense to pick up the tempo? They look like they will be able to run the ball a lot better (according to rumor.) What about some new blood to speed up and bolster that retarded, returning defense? I hear they might stuff the run better too this year but they have a ways to go defensing the pass. How much pressure can they lay on their "decent" LB's before they crack? Depth charts notwithstanding, something tells me we may not find out what's really going on there until a week from Thursday when they open the season.
And also how many freshmen will Wulff be starting/playing for the (cough cough) "NEW COUGS." Most of what I've been hearing from WSU is about the sun shining and birds chirping. I also saw a little propaganda piece on Cougar Football in 2008 on FSN that was similar. A bunch of BS. After all, they do have to sell some tickets.
Erickson's new OL... does Carpenter get a little better protection? Who it is? I'd sure like to find out some of these things long before UGA rolls into town. Supposedly they've added some depth to that flacid OL of theirs. We'll see about that. Speaking of OL's I hear the Dawgs OL recently lost a stud OT... a major hit. Will the Devils be able to capitalize? Do they have the players to lay it on UGA's weak points? One thing I know is that Erickson likes to play dirty and he will do that if he can. I bet he's making preparations for exactly that as I write.
OSU's DL and OL both reloaded to an extent. That depth chart will mean an extra lot for the Beavers because of all the player rotations they use which will also include their OL this season out of necessity. From having read up on their practices, it looks like Fr. RB Jaquizz Rogers will skip the redshirt season and play PLENTY this year. That kid puts on a show! Definitely worth an "E" Ticket at Disneyland. For that matter, I think the whole Beaver O will be vastly improved. (In a way, that's not really saying much.) I'll be watching Moevao to see if his improved play at QB isn't just a fall camp aberration.
It will be interesting to see who's left available to play at UW after all the dust settles from all the injuries and ineligibles. Locker will start at UO, count on it. We'll see how well he practices in the mean time.
Chip Kelly will have his receiving corps set to go for the Ducks. I am curious to see their final depth chart at those positions -- it's a mere formality naming Costa as the starting QB. Also, who is going to work the right side of the Duck DL? Not many questions to answer there or anywhere on D for that matter, however I think it might take Costa/Johnson/Blount a game or few to find their mojo but they'll be pretty good until they do, above average. The Ducks will be fine. The only question is how fine?
Tedford's newly anointed offense (and starting QB) will be unveiled -- and we'll finally see what's up with their new 3-4 defense... Stoops new defense too, etc. etc. All this is coming down this week and I'm sure I missed plenty.
Pags, heh... you wouldn't be thinking Craft would you? Whoever starts better have on their track shoes to run fast away from the blitz. That would be a good asset for a UCLA QB this year. Last I heard Kahlil Bell was throwing fits in practice because nobody could open any holes on the OL for him to run through. The LA sportswriters have been writing editorials trying to calm restless Bruin fans telling them it's not really that hopeless. Norm Chow will come up with something, you think???
This week the final depth charts will come out, pretty much for everyone as teams switch into game preparation mode.
Stanford's QB and DL will be settled at last. I wonder who Harbaugh has settled on with speed at the wideouts? A few more young inexperienced players on offense to pick up the tempo? They look like they will be able to run the ball a lot better (according to rumor.) What about some new blood to speed up and bolster that retarded, returning defense? I hear they might stuff the run better too this year but they have a ways to go defensing the pass. How much pressure can they lay on their "decent" LB's before they crack? Depth charts notwithstanding, something tells me we may not find out what's really going on there until a week from Thursday when they open the season.
And also how many freshmen will Wulff be starting/playing for the (cough cough) "NEW COUGS." Most of what I've been hearing from WSU is about the sun shining and birds chirping. I also saw a little propaganda piece on Cougar Football in 2008 on FSN that was similar. A bunch of BS. After all, they do have to sell some tickets.
Erickson's new OL... does Carpenter get a little better protection? Who it is? I'd sure like to find out some of these things long before UGA rolls into town. Supposedly they've added some depth to that flacid OL of theirs. We'll see about that. Speaking of OL's I hear the Dawgs OL recently lost a stud OT... a major hit. Will the Devils be able to capitalize? Do they have the players to lay it on UGA's weak points? One thing I know is that Erickson likes to play dirty and he will do that if he can. I bet he's making preparations for exactly that as I write.
OSU's DL and OL both reloaded to an extent. That depth chart will mean an extra lot for the Beavers because of all the player rotations they use which will also include their OL this season out of necessity. From having read up on their practices, it looks like Fr. RB Jaquizz Rogers will skip the redshirt season and play PLENTY this year. That kid puts on a show! Definitely worth an "E" Ticket at Disneyland. For that matter, I think the whole Beaver O will be vastly improved. (In a way, that's not really saying much.) I'll be watching Moevao to see if his improved play at QB isn't just a fall camp aberration.
It will be interesting to see who's left available to play at UW after all the dust settles from all the injuries and ineligibles. Locker will start at UO, count on it. We'll see how well he practices in the mean time.
Chip Kelly will have his receiving corps set to go for the Ducks. I am curious to see their final depth chart at those positions -- it's a mere formality naming Costa as the starting QB. Also, who is going to work the right side of the Duck DL? Not many questions to answer there or anywhere on D for that matter, however I think it might take Costa/Johnson/Blount a game or few to find their mojo but they'll be pretty good until they do, above average. The Ducks will be fine. The only question is how fine?
Tedford's newly anointed offense (and starting QB) will be unveiled -- and we'll finally see what's up with their new 3-4 defense... Stoops new defense too, etc. etc. All this is coming down this week and I'm sure I missed plenty.
Beaver Update
I just finished reading up on the Beaver's Monday practice in several blogs and the "state" of Oregon State is becoming much clearer. The one remaining area of concern is their OL. The problem has been consistency because there have been a lot of minor dings (turf toe, sprained wrist, etc.) keeping the same players from playing together for more than a couple days so things can gel. The good news is that all but one showed up for practice and played. (Marcus Henderson has mono for another week or so.) But as of now, OSU's OL remains Riley's main concern.
There does appear to be enough depth on the team to man up a decent OL rotation. (Levitre, Speer, Linnenkohl, Peat, Remmers, McAndrews, Smiley, Johnson, Ellis, Oshinowo.) Cavenaugh has settled on his starting 5 for the Stanford game and he's working them HARD. The ones had a pretty good practice on Monday. (Jeremy Perry update...he practiced Monday and is probable in the Stanford game -- if he plays, he will rotate his position with Gregg Peat. This is a plus.)
There are two positive headlines to report, the most important of which is the play of QB Lyle Moevao. Monday was his day. His play was exceptional. One of his weaknesses last season was his ability to throw a frozen rope on a slant pattern. That has improved dramatically as has his accuracy all over the field. Out of 8 or 9 throws in an 11 on 11, Straughter ran 8 or 9 different patterns (including some deep routes) and Moevao connected accurately with him on all of them.
Some local writers in the know have commented that the Moevao/Straughter connection reminds them of Sammie Straughter's all-American season in '06 when he hooked up with Matt Moore. It is clear that Moevao's arm strength and accuracy are greatly improved, also his confidence and command of the field. He stole the show Monday spreading his throws around to all of his receivers making good decisions and throwing with near perfect accuracy. For the Beavers, there is nothing more important that needed to happen than for them to field a competent QB. So far so good. His improvement over last year will be evident soon enough for all to witness.
The other notable headline is the play of Fr. RB Jacquizz Rogers (a former EA Sports and Parade all-American and Texas HS player of the year.) OSU has one of the fastest defenses in CFB but when he breaks into the open, they can't touch him. (Next week he will be Stanford's problem.) Many who have seen him play say that he runs like Barry Sanders, his childhood hero. His blinding speed and ability to make cuts without breaking stride makes him extremely difficult to catch and his vision is remarkable. Just remember this, you heard it here first -- Jacquizz Rogers is must-see TV. I don't say things like that very often. This kid will amaze. He's a one-man show.
As things begin to fall into place, the Beavers appear to be a very different team than the one that struggled so terribly on offense in '07. Coach Riley has been seen scampering around the field working his offense with an enthusiasm and energy that has rarely been seen before. I'd have to conclude that his body language indicates that good things are happening at OSU. But knowing where this team is coming from and where they've been in the past, it's going to take more than a good Monday to convince me that they are ready to take on some real competition.
I just finished reading up on the Beaver's Monday practice in several blogs and the "state" of Oregon State is becoming much clearer. The one remaining area of concern is their OL. The problem has been consistency because there have been a lot of minor dings (turf toe, sprained wrist, etc.) keeping the same players from playing together for more than a couple days so things can gel. The good news is that all but one showed up for practice and played. (Marcus Henderson has mono for another week or so.) But as of now, OSU's OL remains Riley's main concern.
There does appear to be enough depth on the team to man up a decent OL rotation. (Levitre, Speer, Linnenkohl, Peat, Remmers, McAndrews, Smiley, Johnson, Ellis, Oshinowo.) Cavenaugh has settled on his starting 5 for the Stanford game and he's working them HARD. The ones had a pretty good practice on Monday. (Jeremy Perry update...he practiced Monday and is probable in the Stanford game -- if he plays, he will rotate his position with Gregg Peat. This is a plus.)
There are two positive headlines to report, the most important of which is the play of QB Lyle Moevao. Monday was his day. His play was exceptional. One of his weaknesses last season was his ability to throw a frozen rope on a slant pattern. That has improved dramatically as has his accuracy all over the field. Out of 8 or 9 throws in an 11 on 11, Straughter ran 8 or 9 different patterns (including some deep routes) and Moevao connected accurately with him on all of them.
Some local writers in the know have commented that the Moevao/Straughter connection reminds them of Sammie Straughter's all-American season in '06 when he hooked up with Matt Moore. It is clear that Moevao's arm strength and accuracy are greatly improved, also his confidence and command of the field. He stole the show Monday spreading his throws around to all of his receivers making good decisions and throwing with near perfect accuracy. For the Beavers, there is nothing more important that needed to happen than for them to field a competent QB. So far so good. His improvement over last year will be evident soon enough for all to witness.
The other notable headline is the play of Fr. RB Jacquizz Rogers (a former EA Sports and Parade all-American and Texas HS player of the year.) OSU has one of the fastest defenses in CFB but when he breaks into the open, they can't touch him. (Next week he will be Stanford's problem.) Many who have seen him play say that he runs like Barry Sanders, his childhood hero. His blinding speed and ability to make cuts without breaking stride makes him extremely difficult to catch and his vision is remarkable. Just remember this, you heard it here first -- Jacquizz Rogers is must-see TV. I don't say things like that very often. This kid will amaze. He's a one-man show.
As things begin to fall into place, the Beavers appear to be a very different team than the one that struggled so terribly on offense in '07. Coach Riley has been seen scampering around the field working his offense with an enthusiasm and energy that has rarely been seen before. I'd have to conclude that his body language indicates that good things are happening at OSU. But knowing where this team is coming from and where they've been in the past, it's going to take more than a good Monday to convince me that they are ready to take on some real competition.
Trojans RB McKnight sidelined again with hyperextended elbow
ESPN.com news services
Updated: August 18, 2008, 11:30 PM ET
USC running back Joe McKnight missed more practice this weekend with another injury.
Joe McKnight could bid to become USC's workhorse in the backfield after showing moderate promise as a freshman.
According to coach Pete Carroll, McKnight suffered a hyperextended right elbow in a scrimmage at the Coliseum on Saturday and sat out Sunday's practice with a near full-length brace on his arm, the Los Angeles Times reported.
Carroll told reporters after practice McKnight could miss several more workouts but downplayed the injury.
"It's not damaged or anything like that," Carroll said. "I don't think it will be but a couple of days."
McKnight was expected, along with junior Stafon Johnson, to spearhead USC's ground game after showing promise as a freshman.
McKnight, a 6-foot, 200-pound sophomore, is among a cadre of six talented running backs vying for playing time with the Trojans.
McKnight ran for 540 yards on 94 carries for a 5.7 per-carry average in 2007, when he rushed for three touchdowns.
The Trojans also used him extensively as a receiver last season, when he caught 23 passes for 203 yards and a touchdown.
This summer, McKnight was sidelined for parts of other practices after a teammate accidentally closed a door on his right hand, fracturing the tip of a finger and slightly injuring another, the Times reported.
He has also missed practice with a skin irritation.
Pac-10 blog
USC coach Pete Carroll says Joe McKnight's injuries wouldn't keep him out of a game, but he needs to heal, writes ESPN.com's Ted Miller. Blog
• Blog network
The Trojans, ranked No. 3 in AP's preseaon poll and No. 2 in USA Today's coaches poll, open their season at Virginia on Aug. 30 before a highly anticipated showdown against Ohio State (No. 2 AP, No. 3 USA Today).
They host the Buckeyes Sept. 13.
McKnight declined to comment to the Times on Sunday.
"It's unfortunate, Joe keeps coming up with something," Carroll said, according to the Times. "He has missed a lot of practice already and it's killing him. He hates the fact that he has. The fingers are fine, he's ready to go, but something else popped up."
Information from ESPN.com's Ted Miller was used in this report.
ESPN.com news services
Updated: August 18, 2008, 11:30 PM ET
USC running back Joe McKnight missed more practice this weekend with another injury.
Joe McKnight could bid to become USC's workhorse in the backfield after showing moderate promise as a freshman.
According to coach Pete Carroll, McKnight suffered a hyperextended right elbow in a scrimmage at the Coliseum on Saturday and sat out Sunday's practice with a near full-length brace on his arm, the Los Angeles Times reported.
Carroll told reporters after practice McKnight could miss several more workouts but downplayed the injury.
"It's not damaged or anything like that," Carroll said. "I don't think it will be but a couple of days."
McKnight was expected, along with junior Stafon Johnson, to spearhead USC's ground game after showing promise as a freshman.
McKnight, a 6-foot, 200-pound sophomore, is among a cadre of six talented running backs vying for playing time with the Trojans.
McKnight ran for 540 yards on 94 carries for a 5.7 per-carry average in 2007, when he rushed for three touchdowns.
The Trojans also used him extensively as a receiver last season, when he caught 23 passes for 203 yards and a touchdown.
This summer, McKnight was sidelined for parts of other practices after a teammate accidentally closed a door on his right hand, fracturing the tip of a finger and slightly injuring another, the Times reported.
He has also missed practice with a skin irritation.
Pac-10 blog
USC coach Pete Carroll says Joe McKnight's injuries wouldn't keep him out of a game, but he needs to heal, writes ESPN.com's Ted Miller. Blog
• Blog network
The Trojans, ranked No. 3 in AP's preseaon poll and No. 2 in USA Today's coaches poll, open their season at Virginia on Aug. 30 before a highly anticipated showdown against Ohio State (No. 2 AP, No. 3 USA Today).
They host the Buckeyes Sept. 13.
McKnight declined to comment to the Times on Sunday.
"It's unfortunate, Joe keeps coming up with something," Carroll said, according to the Times. "He has missed a lot of practice already and it's killing him. He hates the fact that he has. The fingers are fine, he's ready to go, but something else popped up."
Information from ESPN.com's Ted Miller was used in this report.
Latest News: Willingham catches a rare break
[SIZE=+2]QB Locker returns to full participation at Huskies' practice
[/SIZE] [SIZE=-1]07:23 AM PDT on Tuesday, August 19, 2008
[/SIZE] [SIZE=-1]Associated Press[/SIZE]
AP
Washington quarterback Jack Locker caches the ball during a workout Monday, Aug. 4, 2008, in Seattle on the opening day of football practice.
SEATTLE - Washington quarterback Jake Locker returned for a full practice yesterday -- the first time he had done so since he injured his hamstring 11 days earlier.
Locker had been limited in recent practices to throwing and conditioning work.
Locker, a sophomore, was hurt Aug. 7 in a non-contact practice drill. Coach Tyrone Willingham had been saying that Locker's status for returning was day-to-day.
Coaches had said they wanted to see Locker back to practice before Aug. 25 so he would be fully prepared for Washington's opener Aug. 30 at Oregon.
Last season, Locker was named Pac-10 freshman of the year after throwing for 2,062 yards and running for another 986 yards, a modern Pac-10 record for a quarterback.
[SIZE=+2]QB Locker returns to full participation at Huskies' practice
[/SIZE] [SIZE=-1]07:23 AM PDT on Tuesday, August 19, 2008
[/SIZE] [SIZE=-1]Associated Press[/SIZE]
Washington quarterback Jack Locker caches the ball during a workout Monday, Aug. 4, 2008, in Seattle on the opening day of football practice.
SEATTLE - Washington quarterback Jake Locker returned for a full practice yesterday -- the first time he had done so since he injured his hamstring 11 days earlier.
Locker had been limited in recent practices to throwing and conditioning work.
Locker, a sophomore, was hurt Aug. 7 in a non-contact practice drill. Coach Tyrone Willingham had been saying that Locker's status for returning was day-to-day.
Coaches had said they wanted to see Locker back to practice before Aug. 25 so he would be fully prepared for Washington's opener Aug. 30 at Oregon.
Last season, Locker was named Pac-10 freshman of the year after throwing for 2,062 yards and running for another 986 yards, a modern Pac-10 record for a quarterback.
Aside from the fact that Wulff has been moving his defensive players around, playing them at new positions (to fill all the holes) in that 87th ranked defense with 8 returning starters, many of whom won't win their jobs back, their defense looks superb and deep (in reflective thought.) Bottom line: There's no way the Cougs will ever stop OK.St.'s offense from doing as they please.
On offense, the task at hand is much simpler to grasp. This is the situation that their new HC Paul Wulff needs to address:
1) An inexperienced QB in a brand new system.
2) An unsettled running back situation with injury (Tardy) and academic (Ivory) questions.
3) A talented WR group, but it's young, and it loses three of the top four from last year in Michael Bumpus, Charles Dillon and Jed Collins.
4) Unproven kicking game where one of Wade Penner, Patrick Rooney and the new JC guy will be a starter for the first time.
Anyway, it's up to you to decide if you are prepared to take the risk and bet OK St. like me and everyone else that follows the Pac-10 has already done.
I found this article in a SF Bay area newspaper as I was browsing around the locals for some info on today's scrimmages. At first glance, the order of finish here seems reasonable. But the more I read, the more I realized that this guy really has his head up his ass. I hardly agree with anything he says. Maybe he does a better job writing WAC stuff. Have a good laugh. I did.
Pac-10 football: Predicted order of finish (updated version)
Posted by Jon Wilner on August 19th, 2008 at 11:08 am
As with my Western Athletic Conference projections, this is all about getting on the record — about calling my shot now, before the first kickoff. If I’m wrong, I look silly (no problem there: it happens plenty over the seven months of the football/basketball season). And if I’m right, then I’ve got some credibility behind future comments. Both possibilities are better than the alternative: Not getting on the record before the season, then second guessing/taking pot-shots afterwards. That’s the worst.
The truth is, the Pac-10 seems more wide open than it has in years, partly because USC looks a bit vulnerable (relative to previous Trojan teams) and partly because there’s no clear-cut No. 2 or No. 3, in my mind. I could see any of four teams finishing second, including USC. This also seems like a year for a four-way tie for fourth, or something funky like that.
1. USC: The injury to Mark Sanchez doesn’t strike me as a major development, for two reasons: 1) the Trojans are well-stocked everywhere else, and 2) we don’t know how good he is. But it comes down to this: You have to keep picking the Trojans to win the Pac-10 until they don’t.
2. Oregon: I like the defense, I like the skill-position talent and the offensive line … I like everything about the Ducks except the quarterback, but Mike Bellotti and staff won’t put the QBs in high-risk situations. Could the go-go Ducks actually win games 17-13?
3. Arizona State: Everything indicates the Devils will have another good season and possibly challenge USC for the title/win the title. That’s similar to the outlook for ASU basketball, but something doesn’t feel right (on either front) — like the forecast is just a bit too sunny.
4. Cal: The chemistry should be better than last season, the defense should be better than last season, the quarterback play should be better than last season (the second half of last season, anyhow). And the schedule is favorable, with ASU, UCLA and Oregon visiting Berkeley. The Bears are much better off with low/mild expectations, and that’s what they have in ‘08.
5. Oregon State: A default selection. Thought about UCLA but the schedule and Ben Olson’s health … Thought about Arizona, but I’d like to see proof the Cats can win before I pick them to win … The Beavers could have QB issues, but Mike Riley and Mark Banker deserve the benefit of the doubt based on recent performance.
6. Arizona: Veteran quarterback with a slew of receivers to run the spread offense, but there are questions/holes throughout the defense. (I can’t believe Mike Stoops is back for another year. If he doesn’t win this season, look for the rudderless Cats to sign him to a five-year extension.)
7. UCLA: As mentioned briefly above … Tough schedule, rebuilt defense, injured quarterback, new coach, new playbook — that’s a lot to overcome, especially with modest talent. But the Bruins do have two of the best coordinators in the business.
8. Stanford: Improving on the four wins of ‘07 will be difficult unless one of the quarterbacks emerges as a consistent playmaker. The defense will keep the Cardinal in mny games, but not all of them.
9. Washington: The guess here is that, because of another brutal schedule, the Huskies start slowly, then fade under the intense speculation about Tyrone Willingham’s future … and crumble when it becomes obvious that Willingham’s done. (Then again, he has dodged doom before: Stanford in ‘99, after the Texas blowout.)
10. Washington State: New coach, new quarterback, questionable recruiting during the Doba years — a steady decline from the Price years — make this a fairly easy call. (Which means it’ll turn out to be wrong.)
Pac-10 football: Predicted order of finish (updated version)
Posted by Jon Wilner on August 19th, 2008 at 11:08 am
As with my Western Athletic Conference projections, this is all about getting on the record — about calling my shot now, before the first kickoff. If I’m wrong, I look silly (no problem there: it happens plenty over the seven months of the football/basketball season). And if I’m right, then I’ve got some credibility behind future comments. Both possibilities are better than the alternative: Not getting on the record before the season, then second guessing/taking pot-shots afterwards. That’s the worst.
The truth is, the Pac-10 seems more wide open than it has in years, partly because USC looks a bit vulnerable (relative to previous Trojan teams) and partly because there’s no clear-cut No. 2 or No. 3, in my mind. I could see any of four teams finishing second, including USC. This also seems like a year for a four-way tie for fourth, or something funky like that.
1. USC: The injury to Mark Sanchez doesn’t strike me as a major development, for two reasons: 1) the Trojans are well-stocked everywhere else, and 2) we don’t know how good he is. But it comes down to this: You have to keep picking the Trojans to win the Pac-10 until they don’t.
2. Oregon: I like the defense, I like the skill-position talent and the offensive line … I like everything about the Ducks except the quarterback, but Mike Bellotti and staff won’t put the QBs in high-risk situations. Could the go-go Ducks actually win games 17-13?
3. Arizona State: Everything indicates the Devils will have another good season and possibly challenge USC for the title/win the title. That’s similar to the outlook for ASU basketball, but something doesn’t feel right (on either front) — like the forecast is just a bit too sunny.
4. Cal: The chemistry should be better than last season, the defense should be better than last season, the quarterback play should be better than last season (the second half of last season, anyhow). And the schedule is favorable, with ASU, UCLA and Oregon visiting Berkeley. The Bears are much better off with low/mild expectations, and that’s what they have in ‘08.
5. Oregon State: A default selection. Thought about UCLA but the schedule and Ben Olson’s health … Thought about Arizona, but I’d like to see proof the Cats can win before I pick them to win … The Beavers could have QB issues, but Mike Riley and Mark Banker deserve the benefit of the doubt based on recent performance.
6. Arizona: Veteran quarterback with a slew of receivers to run the spread offense, but there are questions/holes throughout the defense. (I can’t believe Mike Stoops is back for another year. If he doesn’t win this season, look for the rudderless Cats to sign him to a five-year extension.)
7. UCLA: As mentioned briefly above … Tough schedule, rebuilt defense, injured quarterback, new coach, new playbook — that’s a lot to overcome, especially with modest talent. But the Bruins do have two of the best coordinators in the business.
8. Stanford: Improving on the four wins of ‘07 will be difficult unless one of the quarterbacks emerges as a consistent playmaker. The defense will keep the Cardinal in mny games, but not all of them.
9. Washington: The guess here is that, because of another brutal schedule, the Huskies start slowly, then fade under the intense speculation about Tyrone Willingham’s future … and crumble when it becomes obvious that Willingham’s done. (Then again, he has dodged doom before: Stanford in ‘99, after the Texas blowout.)
10. Washington State: New coach, new quarterback, questionable recruiting during the Doba years — a steady decline from the Price years — make this a fairly easy call. (Which means it’ll turn out to be wrong.)
Gable to have MRI after suffering injury in practice
By Bruce Feldman
ESPN The Magazine
(Archive)
<!-- promo plug -->
<!-- end promo plug -->
<!-- end story header --><!-- begin left column --> <!-- begin page tools --> Updated: August 20, 2008, 2:42 AM ET
<!-- end page tools --><!-- begin story body --> <!-- template inline -->The good news for USC is that quarterback Mark Sanchez was back throwing to receivers and Joe McKnight was on the practice field as well. The bad news: C.J. Gable was injured on Tuesday and is on crutches now.
Gable, a speedy redshirt sophomore who is battling for the starting tailback job, was injured after he was tackled and his leg was pinned underneath his body. He has been diagnosed with a sprained left hip and ankle and is scheduled to get an MRI on Wednesday.
In 2006, Gable became the first USC true freshman to start an opener at tailback. He finished the season with 434 rushing yards on 111 carries (3.9 avg.) with four TDs, while also ranking second in the Pac-10 in kickoff returns.
He started the Trojans' first two games last year before suffering a strained abdomen prior to the Washington game and having season-ending surgery. He was then granted a redshirt year.
By Bruce Feldman
ESPN The Magazine
(Archive)
<!-- promo plug -->
<!-- end promo plug -->
<!-- end story header --><!-- begin left column --> <!-- begin page tools --> Updated: August 20, 2008, 2:42 AM ET
<!-- end page tools --><!-- begin story body --> <!-- template inline -->The good news for USC is that quarterback Mark Sanchez was back throwing to receivers and Joe McKnight was on the practice field as well. The bad news: C.J. Gable was injured on Tuesday and is on crutches now.
Gable, a speedy redshirt sophomore who is battling for the starting tailback job, was injured after he was tackled and his leg was pinned underneath his body. He has been diagnosed with a sprained left hip and ankle and is scheduled to get an MRI on Wednesday.
In 2006, Gable became the first USC true freshman to start an opener at tailback. He finished the season with 434 rushing yards on 111 carries (3.9 avg.) with four TDs, while also ranking second in the Pac-10 in kickoff returns.
He started the Trojans' first two games last year before suffering a strained abdomen prior to the Washington game and having season-ending surgery. He was then granted a redshirt year.
