Greetings from Washington, D.C., where I’m spending a few days with the family before football practice starts on Monday.
The Gazette’s four-part preview of Air Force’s preseason began today with Five Pressing Questions facing the Falcons as they open camp. Tomorrow’s edition of The Gazette will have Five Players to Watch in the preseason (players who haven’t started and maybe are under the radar but could make big contributions in 2009). Sunday’s paper will have a feature on strong safety Chris Thomas, a player I think could emerge as a candidate for Mountain West Conference Player of the Year honors. And Monday’s paper will have the Top Five Position Battles at camp.
And look for updates on the blog after Monday’s practice.
Here are my big concerns for the year:
#1) Special Teams. You just don’t replace a Ryan Harrison…and even with Harrison, they cost us the Navy game last year. They could cost us even more this year.
2) Jefferson’s Academics. I think this is the only reason Asher Clark is even in the QB conversation. Jefferson had a very solid QB rating of 136, and though is ypc wasn’t great, Clarks 4.45ypc from the HB slot are not fantastic, so his rushing many not be that much of an upgrade. Tew averaged over 6ypc from the Fullback slot.
3) WR-X. We need a deep threat.
4) D-line Depth. Rickets and Garland are very solid, and Morales will live up to his full potential. But who are the next 3? Granted..Deruyter can generate a pass rush from all over the field, but its pretty common to rotate D-line to keep the unit fresh.
1) A kicker like Ryan Harrison is not easily replaced. However, Air Force always seems to find a solid place kicker. Also, having a dedicated punter and dedicated place kicker will undoubtedly aid the development of Harrison’s replacements. Harrison himself said on multiple occasions how difficult it was to go from place kicking to punting, and some errors occurred due to this. We may not have the ability to kick 57 yard FGs next year, but the unit has potential to be more consistent.
2) By all accounts Tim Jefferson has the academics under control, and I seriously doubt that Asher Clark was ever seriously contending for the QB position, but it was to everyone’s benefit to try him there a little. TJ will benefit from the perceived competition and Asher will only gain a better understanding of the offense. Also, having to possible passing threats in the backfield opens the door for some interesting play opportunities.
3) WR-X. Honestly not a huge concern here. Kevin Fogler flashed big play potential up until he was injured last year, and Josh Cousins also has the ability to stretch defenses.
4) D-line depth: Honestly, not looking at to much of a different situation here than last year. Battle tested starters and relatively untested subs. Expect the D-line to be led by Ricketts who could have a Paulson-esque year, as well as plenty of tough underclassmen ready to come in and give him a breather.
5) To me the biggest question mark heading into this season is Reggie Rembert’s suspension. His status threatens the fabric of what could be one of the top secondaries in Academy history. Warzeka is a capable special teamer to cover for Reggie on punt returns, but if Reggie isn’t in the line-up by the Minnesota game we can expect big problems from Eric Decker.
Ok…I can buy your position on special teams…all but long field goals. I just hope a 30-35 yarder does not become a long field goal. I also accept your reasoning on the D-line. We can find at least 1 and probably 2 underclassmen who can make solid contributions.
But you’ve done little to assuage my worries at WR-X. I thought Fogler was a big target possession guy…and I don’t recall Cousins creating much of deep threat last year.
Jefferson’s Academic standing? I don’t think anyone knows for sure….nor will any of us find out until he’s getting outprocessed. It scares me like a CDO on a balance sheet. But If Dee Dowis can pull through, I suspect anyone who keeps a good attitude and trying in the classroom will get bye.
On the other hand…I don’t worry too much about Rembert. Not too familiar with Decker@Minn, but I don’t think that game is a must win. I just want him back by Navy.
Fogler doesn’t have break away speed, but he is a guy who is going to win a lot of jump balls and defenses will have to account for him. Cousins will make big plays off the play action. He may not beat to many people with straight up speed, but he is a solid route runner and has great hands. A solid route can beat a faster corner more often than not.
As for Decker, he is one of the quickest, most physical WRs in the game. Reggie is one of the more physical corner’s I have seen, but I think Decker may be too much for Wright. Nevertheless, I expect to see a lot of points that game, and if AF can get +2 in the turnover margin I think we get a 10 point win.