https://niuhuskies.com/news/2022/4/9/foo...mmage.aspx

Well, I had written half of a really long report on today's practice and just lost it due to a crash. I'm not writing that whole thing again, so here's the abbreviated version. Thanks to Teamduh for previous reports by the way, much appreciated.

They practiced outside in Huskie Stadium. It was spirited to say the least, even chippy at times, which is OK by me. This team is really getting after it.

Rocky was excellent and looks like he has taken the next step. In command, accurate, great decisions, you name it. He made one long TD connection with Trayvon Rudolph down the left sideline which was a great throw and equally great catch, with Javaughn Byrd all over Rudolph. Rocky also threw some accurate intermediate routes and checked down when necessary. Great day for him and the passing game overall. Watch out for this offense if they are always that good.

The QB order was Rocky, followed by Jeff Lomax, then Justin Lynch. Ethan Hampton was not dressed. Lomax really impressed me. Big kid, very strong arm, throws a nice, tight spiral. He looked very good and will definitely be in the conversation down the road. Lynch did well too. He suffers a bit in comparison to Lomax because the latter has such a strong arm, but Lynch did well. Nothing spectacular, but solid.

Dustin Fletcher did not get into the scrimmage. He has, however, eliminated the hitch in his throwing motion, which is quite an accomplishment. Throwing motions can be really hard to change. He looks much, much better throwing the ball, good for him. Not so good for him is that he appears stuck at the bottom of the depth chart. By the looks of him he can definitely help someone, if not our team, so he likely has some decisions to make.

The first O-line was Marques Cox, John Champe, Pete Nygra, Logan Z, and Nolan Potter left to right. JJ Lippe was dressed but did not participate in the scrimmage, as was true of several guys on both sides of the ball. The first O-line looked good as you would expect, although the D-line made them work hard. The second O-line was Evan Buss (who was in with the ones on various packages as he was last fall), Luke Pinnick, Matt Schooley/Seth Thompson, Tyler Pitcel, and Drew Hoth left to right. Schooley and Thompson rotated at center. This group was in a real dogfight with the D-line.

Harrison Waylee and Billy Dozier got all the carries today. Antario Brown and Mason Blakemore were not dressed. Coach has said that's a precaution to keep them healthy. Fine by me. I held my breath every time Waylee carried the ball too. Both Waylee and Dozier did well. You can see why the coaches are interested in Dozier as a swiss army knife guy, he has good skills and looks natural carrying the ball.

All the tight ends except Miles Joiner played today. Liam Soraghan and Tristen Tewes had most of the throws directed toward them, with Drew Cassens getting a couple too. They all looked good and caught everything that was catchable.

A whole bunch of receivers rotated today. The top three of Cole Tucker, Trayvon Rudolph and Shemar Thornton looked very good and should make for a dynamic group this fall. Several others had their moments, including Mohamed Toure, Fabian McCray and Messiah Travis. Mason Pierre-Antoine looks good and you can see why the coaches are talking him up. Kacper Rutkiewicz participated in drills and looked good, although I did not notice him in the scrimmage. I believe he has been out for some of the spring, so its good to see him back. George Gumbs is very interesting, whether you consider him a small tight end or big receiver. He runs and catches well and looks like he could provide some match-up problems for defenses.

Quite a few guys on defense were not dressed and/or did not participate in the scrimmage, including Devonte O'Malley, Jeff Griffin, James Ester, Cade Haberman, Kyle Pugh, Makhi Nelson-Douglas, Jordan Hansen, Eric Rogers and probably others. Izayah Green-May played a lot at D-end and was solid but not spectacular. Demond Taylor, Jacob Waskow, Jalonnie Williams and Jaden Wilson took most of the reps at D-tackle. Taylor looks like he has raised his game and could be a force this fall. He's starting to do a nice Nabal Jefferson impersonation, and that is quite a compliment. Wilson has been listed at D-end and weighs 254 pounds. This could be a permanent move where he's making the long term commitment to gain the necessary weight for D-tackle, or maybe he's just pitching in while so many others are out. He held his own out there.

Lots of linebackers saw action. The one who caught my eye was Ryan King. He lined up in the middle quite a bit and did pretty well. Jaden Dolphin made a bunch of plays, as did Nick Rattin, Daveren Rayner and others. Dayven Shinhoster too, lots of guys running around out there.

Jordan Gandy and Javaughn Byrd are the clear starters at corner. Several others saw time with Eric Rogers not dressed. I'm not sure who's starting at safety, but Devin Lafayette and Jordan White sure look the part physically. They look like NFL-sized safeties out there. CJ Brown is going to start and/or play a lot of course, just commenting on the size of those other guys.

Tom Foley did some punting and averaged about 40 yards a kick. He did launch a few longer ones and looks like he will be solid. It was weird not seeing Ference though. No field goals were attempted while I was there.

(04-09-2022 07:54 PM)NIU1981 Wrote:  Well, I had written half of a really long report on today's practice and just lost it due to a crash. I'm not writing that whole thing again, so here's the abbreviated version. Thanks to Teamduh for previous reports by the way, much appreciated.

They practiced outside in Huskie Stadium. It was spirited to say the least, even chippy at times, which is OK by me. This team is really getting after it.

Rocky was excellent and looks like he has taken the next step. In command, accurate, great decisions, you name it. He made one long TD connection with Trayvon Rudolph down the left sideline which was a great throw and equally great catch, with Javaughn Byrd all over Rudolph. Rocky also threw some accurate intermediate routes and checked down when necessary. Great day for him and the passing game overall. Watch out for this offense if they are always that good.

The QB order was Rocky, followed by Jeff Lomax, then Justin Lynch. Ethan Hampton was not dressed. Lomax really impressed me. Big kid, very strong arm, throws a nice, tight spiral. He looked very good and will definitely be in the conversation down the road. Lynch did well too. He suffers a bit in comparison to Lomax because the latter has such a strong arm, but Lynch did well. Nothing spectacular, but solid.

Dustin Fletcher did not get into the scrimmage. He has, however, eliminated the hitch in his throwing motion, which is quite an accomplishment. Throwing motions can be really hard to change. He looks much, much better throwing the ball, good for him. Not so good for him is that he appears stuck at the bottom of the depth chart. By the looks of him he can definitely help someone, if not our team, so he likely has some decisions to make.

The first O-line was Marques Cox, John Champe, Pete Nygra, Logan Z, and Nolan Potter left to right. JJ Lippe was dressed but did not participate in the scrimmage, as was true of several guys on both sides of the ball. The first O-line looked good as you would expect, although the D-line made them work hard. The second O-line was Evan Buss (who was in with the ones on various packages as he was last fall), Luke Pinnick, Matt Schooley/Seth Thompson, Tyler Pitcel, and Drew Hoth left to right. Schooley and Thompson rotated at center. This group was in a real dogfight with the D-line.

Harrison Waylee and Billy Dozier got all the carries today. Antario Brown and Mason Blakemore were not dressed. Coach has said that's a precaution to keep them healthy. Fine by me. I held my breath every time Waylee carried the ball too. Both Waylee and Dozier did well. You can see why the coaches are interested in Dozier as a swiss army knife guy, he has good skills and looks natural carrying the ball.

All the tight ends except Miles Joiner played today. Liam Soraghan and Tristen Tewes had most of the throws directed toward them, with Drew Cassens getting a couple too. They all looked good and caught everything that was catchable.

A whole bunch of receivers rotated today. The top three of Cole Tucker, Trayvon Rudolph and Shemar Thornton looked very good and should make for a dynamic group this fall. Several others had their moments, including Mohamed Toure, Fabian McCray and Messiah Travis. Mason Pierre-Antoine looks good and you can see why the coaches are talking him up. Kacper Rutkiewicz participated in drills and looked good, although I did not notice him in the scrimmage. I believe he has been out for some of the spring, so its good to see him back. George Gumbs is very interesting, whether you consider him a small tight end or big receiver. He runs and catches well and looks like he could provide some match-up problems for defenses.

Quite a few guys on defense were not dressed and/or did not participate in the scrimmage, including Devonte O'Malley, Jeff Griffin, James Ester, Cade Haberman, Kyle Pugh, Makhi Nelson-Douglas, Jordan Hansen, Eric Rogers and probably others. Izayah Green-May played a lot at D-end and was solid but not spectacular. Demond Taylor, Jacob Waskow, Jalonnie Williams and Jaden Wilson took most of the reps at D-tackle. Taylor looks like he has raised his game and could be a force this fall. He's starting to do a nice Nabal Jefferson impersonation, and that is quite a compliment. Wilson has been listed at D-end and weighs 254 pounds. This could be a permanent move where he's making the long term commitment to gain the necessary weight for D-tackle, or maybe he's just pitching in while so many others are out. He held his own out there.

Lots of linebackers saw action. The one who caught my eye was Ryan King. He lined up in the middle quite a bit and did pretty well. Jaden Dolphin made a bunch of plays, as did Nick Rattin, Daveren Rayner and others. Dayven Shinhoster too, lots of guys running around out there.

Jordan Gandy and Javaughn Byrd are the clear starters at corner. Several others saw time with Eric Rogers not dressed. I'm not sure who's starting at safety, but Devin Lafayette and Jordan White sure look the part physically. They look like NFL-sized safeties out there. CJ Brown is going to start and/or play a lot of course, just commenting on the size of those other guys.

Tom Foley did some punting and averaged about 40 yards a kick. He did launch a few longer ones and looks like he will be solid. It was weird not seeing Ference though. No field goals were attempted while I was there.

That was the "condensed" version?

Nice job though....thanks.

always appreciate the practice reports by everyone. Thanks. Lots to look forward to in September[/align]

Excellent as always. Can't wait for the season.

1981 - Love your report. Better than mine. Wish we could see your full notes. I'll write from my notes (text messages to my NIU buddy) so there may be some repeat comments.

45, partly sunny and mild wind allowed the team to practice outdoors today. The team invited the refs to practice. Glad to be in stands again. Better view of the action.

Travyon in the Juiced jersey started practice with a round-off and backflip. The team had another strong practice with energy on both sides.

First few minutes was a battle on 1-1, Offensive player vs Defensive. I loved the Oline vs Dline bomb that Rocky just misssed deep. Funny stuff but good energy to get practice going. Competition is a theme.

Didn't see Hamption today. Kacper was practing. I recall he missed the last 2 Saturdays. I think it was Pugh who was slowed with an ankle but did return half-way in practice.

Foley had some good hang-time today in full punting action. Saw several fair catches Team practiced getting on the field quickly and precisely. Then covering/returning the kick. Tucker looks to be #1 returner again.

10, Dozier and 82 Tewes had TDS early.

QBs Lomax is clearly #2 and Lynch #3. Fletcher did drills but not live offense.

Rocky stepped over fallen lineman for a goalline TD.

Dozier had another TD this time a 10 yard run after Lynch saved a low snap.

Ball at Midfield:
Rocky's deep pass caused a pass interference on D.
Starting to notice that the RBs catching passes is going to be a part of this offense this year.

Cowbells were a part of the practice today along with a big silver necklace with a cowbell. No word if Blue Oyster Cult approved.

Lomax to McCray. Next play Lomax pressured and sacked.
Next Lomax QB keeper failed.

A Brown and Blakemore in street clothes again. Dozier is getting plenty of reps and showing that he can be a weapon. It may not be a surprise if Dozier gets RB reps come September.

Classen, TE big catch over mid then takes a big hit for first down. Lots of energy from sidelines.

Tucker was doing Tucker things today. Watching him in drills. Great hands, still.
Looked like he dislocated a finger. Came back with a finger splint. Hoping for best.

Mason Pierre-Antoine 20 yards to sideline from Rocky.

After watching a few practices, and this won't be a surprise, Rocky is a clear number 1 and everyone else fighting for second spot.

Lynch hits 84, Gumbs on curl, almost intercepted but George takes it for TD.

Next play Quinn Urwiler gets a sack
Sidelines struggles to get plays called. Coach demands sidlelines improves communication.

Lynch to Travis TD.

Trick play snuffed by D. Def. sideline erupts.
Couple plays later and D snuffs out another trick play.

Offensive line backups false start twice in a row. Coach does a hockey line change and puts first team O-line back in.

Harry, as teammates call him, Waylee is good and not being challenged for top RB spot.

20, Jordan White gets pick 6 TD on a deflected pass. He is a having a good day. Defense is starting to get under O skin. Next play or 2 and there is a skirmish on defensive sidelines.

Offense wakes up. Soraghan big play for first down and O erupts.
Downfield blocking goes on past whistle and D gets called for retaliation for another 15 yards. Things a tad testy.
Next play Rocky hits Trey for TD. 80 TD yard drive after a pick 6. Great battle.

Lomax trouble finding open WR. QB keeper. Lomax pass broken up by Joey Rattin. Pass into double team.

Rocky 1st down pass. Harry for 30 yd TD but called "tagged" at 20.
Rocky looks off defender and completes another first down.

Trick play for a TD. Had me lauging mid-play. Sorry to tease but rather not put this play out there. If they use it this season I'll be sure to tell.

2 point play but defense calls timeout.
Tewes high point ball but lands out of bounds.
Toure TD from Rocky.

Lomax incomplete on sidearm pass.
Lomax to Gumbs.

End of practice and Coach reminds team to review the film.

Spring Showcase is next Saturday 10am.
https://niuhuskies.com/sports/2022/3/23/...ntral.aspx

Thanks to you both for writeups and observations.

Ethan Hampton must have some sort of injury. The NIU website mentioned he will be back in summer practice.

The NIU article also mentioned O'Malley, Ester, and Haberman not playing either.

I really hope our D-line pass rush is improved to give our corners a chance this year. It’s good to hear that we have good talent at the safety positions again. Time will tell. I was never worried about our offense. It was a young and potent offense last year. They will only continue to improve.

CJ brown might be a nice 3rd safety when you want an extra non cb DB.

Thing is, he’s not great at coverage so I can see white passing him, but I am sure he’ll get a ton of snaps.

He made all MAC because he came up and made plays near the line last season.

Coaches like Lomax. I would not be surprised if he is firmly in the competition as the starter next year and beats lynch and co.

Personally I feel good about lynch being here. He’s played. If Rocky is down at any time and the kids aren’t doing it, lynch can come in and be OK.

Solid roster here.

(04-10-2022 11:52 AM)BigChilla Wrote:  CJ brown might be a nice 3rd safety when you want an extra non cb DB.

Thing is, he’s not great at coverage so I can see white passing him, but I am sure he’ll get a ton of snaps.

He made all MAC because he came up and made plays near the line last season.

Coaches like Lomax. I would not be surprised if he is firmly in the competition as the starter next year and beats lynch and co.

Personally I feel good about lynch being here. He’s played. If Rocky is down at any time and the kids aren’t doing it, lynch can come in and be OK.

Solid roster here.

Definitely agree with you on the roster. It also seems from the articles and videos that they all seem to be great teamsters to each other. The more I hear him talk, the more I think Drucker would have been a cancer in the locker room.

(04-10-2022 12:03 PM)Schaefer Beer Wrote:  

(04-10-2022 11:52 AM)BigChilla Wrote:  CJ brown might be a nice 3rd safety when you want an extra non cb DB.

Thing is, he’s not great at coverage so I can see white passing him, but I am sure he’ll get a ton of snaps.

He made all MAC because he came up and made plays near the line last season.

Coaches like Lomax. I would not be surprised if he is firmly in the competition as the starter next year and beats lynch and co.

Personally I feel good about lynch being here. He’s played. If Rocky is down at any time and the kids aren’t doing it, lynch can come in and be OK.

Solid roster here.

Definitely agree with you on the roster. It also seems from the articles and videos that they all seem to be great teamsters to each other. The more I hear him talk, the more I think Drucker would have been a cancer in the locker room.

Who is this DRUCKER guy and when did he leave?

GO HUSKIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(04-10-2022 01:24 PM)pantone1935 Wrote:  

(04-10-2022 12:03 PM)Schaefer Beer Wrote:  

(04-10-2022 11:52 AM)BigChilla Wrote:  CJ brown might be a nice 3rd safety when you want an extra non cb DB.

Thing is, he’s not great at coverage so I can see white passing him, but I am sure he’ll get a ton of snaps.

He made all MAC because he came up and made plays near the line last season.

Coaches like Lomax. I would not be surprised if he is firmly in the competition as the starter next year and beats lynch and co.

Personally I feel good about lynch being here. He’s played. If Rocky is down at any time and the kids aren’t doing it, lynch can come in and be OK.

Solid roster here.

Definitely agree with you on the roster. It also seems from the articles and videos that they all seem to be great teamsters to each other. The more I hear him talk, the more I think Drucker would have been a cancer in the locker room.

Who is this DRUCKER guy and when did he leave?

GO HUSKIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

CRAP!!!! Now Drucker left too??


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Couple thoughts hit me today. The QBs are so much better than the first padded practice. Personally Rocky looks like he will dominate this year.

The defense looks night and day better than last year at this time. I'm comparing spring practices. I remember writing about the huge holes the D allowed for multiple TDs. It is always hard to evaluate a team when they practice each other for weeks at a time but I'm seeing improvement.

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Thanks for the recaps guys. Makes me feel like I was there.

I’m pulling for Rocky to win MAC MVP this year.

Practice updates are the best!

I like the fact that they are recruiting taller quarterbacks. Better to put on the weight that is needed to take the pounding back there and to see the passing lanes.

I feel cheated by the "condensed'' version, but I'll take what I can get. Thank you. Really looking forward to seeing Rocky establish himself as the MAC's best player and propel himself into being drafted and having a successful NFL career. Great to have great receivers like Tucker and Rudolph to throw to. Hopefully others emerge as well. Really, hoping we can have a lot of dominant wins so my heart can recover from last season.

(04-11-2022 08:18 AM)badmoonrising13 Wrote:  I feel cheated by the "condensed'' version, but I'll take what I can get. Thank you. Really looking forward to seeing Rocky establish himself as the MAC's best player and propel himself into being drafted and having a successful NFL career. Great to have great receivers like Tucker and Rudolph to throw to. Hopefully others emerge as well. Really, hoping we can have a lot of dominant wins so my heart can recover from last season.

Thornton is a great player as well. This is a nice group of WR.

I would argue we have some depth too. I feel very good about everywhere on the offense. Many spots are 3 deep.

QB is a question mark - but Lynch has me feeling good

Just want to repeat what everyone else has said about 81 and Teamduh's football reports (and Big Red's for b-ball and other guys who go to the trouble): Thanks! There are a lot of great reasons to read the Dog Pound, but info about the teams I can't get anywhere else is #1. And these reports are worth their weight in gold!

(04-11-2022 09:50 AM)HW58 Wrote:  Just want to repeat what everyone else has said about 81 and Teamduh's football reports (and Big Red's for b-ball and other guys who go to the trouble): Thanks! There are a lot of great reasons to read the Dog Pound, but info about the teams I can't get anywhere else is #1. And these reports are worth their weight in gold!

+1

GO HUSKIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!