Here is a list of players to watch this offseason which could make a significant impact for the CATS during the '10 season.
1. Jake Lanefski-- Why? He could start at Center/Guard or be a very important backup for either position. Word on the street is that he will get some significant reps snapping the ball this spring. He's mean, he's strong, and he can play (is he over his injury?) If he pans out, think of this for an interior line from L to R: S Hines, J Lanefski, and L Warford.
2. Ryan Mossakowski-- Why? He could come out of the QB mix and actually start this year. He has had a year to learn the system, and probably had the best arm of the 3 before he got hurt (again, is he over his injury?)
3. Chris Matthews-- Why? He has had a year in the program. He has a year of time as a starter and is a great downfield blocker. With this offseason of better learning the playbook, he should put up some very impressive numbers this year especially in the red zone and as they say "you can't teach 6 ft 5 in" (how serious will he take this opportunity?).
4. Ryan Wallace-- Why? The Tight Ends were bad during the '08 season and even worse last year. Ryan is a redshirt who has been in the program for a year now is older (20) and will want to breakout to lock down the spot from the other TEs on the roster. I look for him to lock down the TE spot early this year and then after Alex Smith has learned the playbook etc, for him to make a run at Ryan (can he get open and catch the ball?). Did I say we had terrible TE play last year?
5. B J Murphy-- Why? The Offensive Left Tackle position is in transition. Billy Joe has experience and has shown that he can play. Hopefully, another year in the system and offseason workouts put him in a position to lock down the left side and say "come get some of this". If he can lock it down, look for the CATS to be much better than people think on the O-line this year (can he stay healthy?)
Bill- I think Sam Simpson, Matt Smith and Anthony Kendrick are ones to keep an eye on as well.
ReplyDeleteGO CATS!