|
|
Post by midwestsader05 on Jul 25, 2023 8:48:47 GMT -5
With PL Media day upon us and as someone who grew up memorizing the Street and Smiths, Athlon and Sporting News College Football Magazines this time each year, I thought I’d prepare something similar for HC as we are 8 days out from report day. Hopefully it facilitates more conversation than other threads.
HOLY CROSS CRUSADERS
2022 RECORD 12-1. Final Season ranking #6 in both Stats Perform and Coaches Polls
Offensive Outlook:
Starters/Key Reserves lost - RB Peter Oliver, WR Ayir Asante, C Nick Olsofka, OT Grady Smith, WR Spencer Gilliam, C Jack McCauley
Likely Two Deep to Start Camp (“OR” designates players still competing for various reasons i.e. recovering from injury, unique position/role).
QB - SR Matt Sluka / JR Joe Pesansky
RB - JR Jordan Fuller / 5TH Tyler Purdy OR 5TH Jordan Forrest
WR - SR Jalen Coker / SO Max Mosey
WR - JR Justin Shorter / SR Quinton Gregory
WR - SR Byron Shipman / SO Blake Youngblood
TE - 5TH Sean Morris / SR Phoenix Dickson (FB) OR JR Jacob Petersen
LT - SR Luke Newman / SR Declan McCauley
LG - SR Eric Schon / SO Joe Metzger
C - SR Christo Kelly / 5TH Dalton Daddona (still #3 OG, utility IOL)
RG - 5TH CJ Hanson / SO Cam Nolan
RT - 5TH Pat McMurtrie / JR Cam McNair
Questions for the offense:
1) How do Peter Oliver’s carries get redistributed? Can Jordan Fuller become a true featured back rather than a short yardage specialist?
2) Can Matt Sluka take another step forward in his passing prowess? Does this lead to fewer scrambles and more throws downfield as he’s moving/stepping up in the pocket?
3) Can the OL sustain or even build upon their top 5 FCS performance from 2022?
4) Who emerges as WR #3 and #4 with the losses of Ayir Asante & Spencer Gilliam?
Defense and Special Teams to follow…
|
|
|
|
Post by dharry13 on Jul 25, 2023 9:31:19 GMT -5
Great stuff Midwest!
|
|
|
|
Post by cruskater31 on Jul 25, 2023 14:38:48 GMT -5
Thanks so much Midwest!
Looking at our line, I hope a couple seniors come back next year. Our window is now!
|
|
|
|
Post by drjack on Jul 25, 2023 14:47:38 GMT -5
I will say, our starting O being basically entirely seniors has me a bit worried for the future, especially if the dreaded day of HCBC getting an FBS offer comes.
|
|
|
|
Post by midwestsader05 on Jul 25, 2023 15:31:54 GMT -5
Agree Doc. Retaining several with 5 year eligibility will be crucial especially on the O line. The following have the 5th year option:
Sluka
Coker
Shipman
Gregory
Dickson
Newman
Schon
Kelly
McCauley
I’m sure we’d love to have back all 9 but if ~6 stay for a 5th year the O should still be dangerous in ‘24. Obviously, Sluka will matter most based on position.
|
|
|
|
Post by midwestsader05 on Jul 26, 2023 6:18:09 GMT -5
Defensive Outlook:
Starters/Key Reserves lost - LB Liam Anderson, DE Dan Kuznetsov, DE Jack Reichwein, CB/Nickel John Smith, FS Walter Reynolds, SS Terrell Prince, WS Cris Argys, S Hunter Burns
Likely Two Deep to Start Camp.
DE SR Brian Vaganek / SO Colin Reynolds
NG SR Dillion Springer / SO Daniel “Boobie” Santiago
DT JR Damon Danolds OR SR Jared Dyer
DE SO Christian Ross / JR Joe Townsend
LB 5TH Jake Dobbs / JR Frankie Monte
LB SR Dante Bolden / SR Matt Kane
CB 5TH Devin Haskins / SR Matt Duchemin
SS JR Ryan Ruane / 5SR Hugh Kelly
FS JR Jake Jarmolowich / SR JP Raiger
WS JR Curtis Harris-Lopez / 5SR Kam Molton
CB SR Terrence Spence / SR Malik Scott
Special Teams:
P - 5SR Pat Haughney
K - JR Jack Norris OR SO Luis Palenzuela
LS - SO Francisco Castro
KR - Justin Shorter
PR - Open
Questions for the defense:
1) How does the DL replace Kuz and Reich? Can enough IDLs take their game to another level to take some pressure off the younger/less experienced D Ends? Do we see more 4 man fronts vs 3 man?
2) Who emerges as the next playmaker at LB next to Dobbs?
3) Can the new Safeties minimize growing pains? Who emerges as the top nickel DB?
4) What does the Sader kicking game look like after 5 seasons behind the leg of Derek Ng?
5) With so much inexperience on Defense, do any newcomers (transfers or freshman) emerge to provide needed depth?
|
|
|
|
Post by HC92 on Jul 26, 2023 7:05:11 GMT -5
Just realized that our roster at goholycross.com only shows two frosh. Someone needs to tell the AD that we’re taking our football pretty seriously now so the roster kind of needs to include incoming freshmen a month before the first game.
|
|
|
|
Post by dharry13 on Jul 26, 2023 7:14:14 GMT -5
Agree HC92. Midwest - great stuff. Which Frosh play is the gaping hole. Some will have to - particularly in the secondary.
Players report 8/2. First practice next Friday 8/4.
|
|
|
|
Post by football44 on Jul 26, 2023 7:34:52 GMT -5
I will say, our starting O being basically entirely seniors has me a bit worried for the future, especially if the dreaded day of HCBC getting an FBS offer comes. Stop worrying! He isn't going any where. This recruiting class is probably one of the best. Coach Chesney is loyal to his guys. |
|
|
|
Post by hchoops on Jul 26, 2023 8:04:14 GMT -5
I will say, our starting O being basically entirely seniors has me a bit worried for the future, especially if the dreaded day of HCBC getting an FBS offer comes. . Coach Chesney is loyal to his guys. But unless this is his last job, he has to be “disloyal” at some point, correct ? |
|
|
|
Post by midwestsader05 on Jul 26, 2023 8:12:35 GMT -5
. Coach Chesney is loyal to his guys. But unless this is his last job, he has to be “disloyal” at some point, correct ? The thread is for the 2023 season preview. Can we at least postpone the Coach Chesney projection and conjecture till after this season? He’s our Coach NOW. ENJOY IT! I literally proposed 9 questions to chew on and yet we still get off topic. |
|
necfbfan
Climbing Mt. St. James
Posts: 78
|
Post by necfbfan on Jul 26, 2023 8:18:06 GMT -5
7 seniors on the OLine 2 deep, but only 3 seniors on the DLine 2 deep. What's the confidence level in that position group?
|
|
|
|
Post by Ignutz on Jul 26, 2023 8:48:19 GMT -5
. Coach Chesney is loyal to his guys. But unless this is his last job, he has to be “disloyal” at some point, correct ? While everyone has their hopes and dreams - for a (perceived to be) better job and for more money, etc., there are others who are able to be content with a position and salary that don't necessarily "ring the bell". I like to think that maybe Chesney is cut from the same cloth as John Stiegelmeier. We can be sure that Stieg had opportunities to take his talents to the next level, but he was likely very comfortable with SDS and they made it worth his while to stay there. Chesney is at a great school, makes a fair bit of coin, gets to deal with good kids, and has a real opportunity to make history for himself and for the HC football program. While I'm not discounting that Chesney is a driven individual, I also find him to be a very grounded guy who won't necessarily chase other opportunities just because those opportunities are more financially lucrative and/or more nationally recognized. Discuss.. |
|
|
|
Post by nycrusader2010 on Jul 26, 2023 9:01:57 GMT -5
Street & Smith was the best! I definitely spent some August mornings reading through that over the years.
|
|
|
|
Post by dharry13 on Jul 26, 2023 9:02:43 GMT -5
Questions for the defense:
1) How does the DL replace Kuz and Reich? BV and Reyolds/Ross really have to step up. Honestly I think Robinson will be in that mix, but I know we don't know enough about Frosh. Can enough IDLs take their game to another level to take some pressure off the younger/less experienced D Ends? This is a bigger question to me than DE. DT have to step up and actually make plays. Do we see more 4 man fronts vs 3 man? Personally I think it has to be 4 man fronts because I don't think we have Kuz/Reich to play like that at DE.
2) Who emerges as the next playmaker at LB next to Dobbs? For my money - Spinogatti.
3) Can the new Safeties minimize growing pains? I think this position will emerge 3-4 games into the season. It's really up for grabs for me with upper classmen starting out the season. Who emerges as the top nickel DB? I would have said Wood, but I think he's going to be hurt. Honestly - could be a Stu Smith/Comestro type.
4) What does the Sader kicking game look like after 5 seasons behind the leg of Derek Ng? This one also VERY interesting. My money would be on Palenzeuela, but you might also see the Frosh from FL who had a couple of other offers get in the mix as well. Porto I believe is his name.
5) With so much inexperience on Defense, do any newcomers (transfers or freshman) emerge to provide needed depth? They really have to. There are 7/8 names off the top of my head that could/will be on the 2 deep by mid season. Chisom/Robinson/George/Stevenson/McNair/Spinogatti/Comestro/Smith/Jones/Mills/Due, etc. This will be interesting to see how it all evolves once pads come on next Friday.
|
|
|
|
Post by KY Crusader 75 on Jul 26, 2023 9:14:34 GMT -5
Answering question #1, as a non-expert,I see Jordan Fuller having a very big season. The fact that he averaged 4.8 yards per carry bid particularly impressive considering many attempts were in short yardage situations. If you’re on their 3 yard line the longest carry you can post is… 3 yards. I don’t think he has Oliver’s speed but I think he’ll fare well as a featured back. Very well.
Also looking to see more of Sammy Slade
|
|
|
|
Post by midwestsader05 on Jul 26, 2023 9:37:43 GMT -5
7 seniors on the OLine 2 deep, but only 3 seniors on the DLine 2 deep. What's the confidence level in that position group? Good question NEC. I think we first have to distinguish between SRs and 5TH years which I do above. Kuz and Reich would tell you that the additional year with Coach Grautski as 23-year-old grown men allowed them to take their games to another level. They were asked to do things in 2022 they weren't sure they could have done in 2021 as traditional seniors. So, while the O-line has three 5th years, there are 4 that could still come back. As for DL, there are NO 5th years. That's why this group of all positions likely determines how far this team can go. On the bright side, they could return EVERYONE in 2024 and suddenly go from one of least tenured rooms to one of the more experienced. |
|
|
|
Post by midwestsader05 on Jul 26, 2023 9:38:21 GMT -5
But unless this is his last job, he has to be “disloyal” at some point, correct ? While everyone has their hopes and dreams - for a (perceived to be) better job and for more money, etc., there are others who are able to be content with a position and salary that don't necessarily "ring the bell". I like to think that maybe Chesney is cut from the same cloth as John Stiegelmeier. We can be sure that Stieg had opportunities to take his talents to the next level, but he was likely very comfortable with SDS and they made it worth his while to stay there. Chesney is at a great school, makes a fair bit of coin, gets to deal with good kids, and has a real opportunity to make history for himself and for the HC football program. While I'm not discounting that Chesney is a driven individual, I also find him to be a very grounded guy who won't necessarily chase other opportunities just because those opportunities are more financially lucrative and/or more nationally recognized. Discuss.. Nope. Not in this thread and not now. See above. |
|
|
|
Post by dlshc27 on Jul 26, 2023 10:31:42 GMT -5
Questions for the defense: 1) How does the DL replace Kuz and Reich? BV and Reyolds/Ross really have to step up. Honestly I think Robinson will be in that mix, but I know we don't know enough about Frosh. Can enough IDLs take their game to another level to take some pressure off the younger/less experienced D Ends? This is a bigger question to me than DE. DT have to step up and actually make plays. Do we see more 4 man fronts vs 3 man? Personally I think it has to be 4 man fronts because I don't think we have Kuz/Reich to play like that at DE. 2) Who emerges as the next playmaker at LB next to Dobbs? For my money - Spinogatti. 3) Can the new Safeties minimize growing pains? I think this position will emerge 3-4 games into the season. It's really up for grabs for me with upper classmen starting out the season. Who emerges as the top nickel DB? I would have said Wood, but I think he's going to be hurt. Honestly - could be a Stu Smith/Comestro type. 4) What does the Sader kicking game look like after 5 seasons behind the leg of Derek Ng? This one also VERY interesting. My money would be on Palenzeuela, but you might also see the Frosh from FL who had a couple of other offers get in the mix as well. Porto I believe is his name. 5) With so much inexperience on Defense, do any newcomers (transfers or freshman) emerge to provide needed depth? They really have to. There are 7/8 names off the top of my head that could/will be on the 2 deep by mid season. Chisom/Robinson/George/Stevenson/McNair/Spinogatti/Comestro/Smith/Jones/Mills/Due, etc. This will be interesting to see how it all evolves once pads come on next Friday. DL will be key to our success as a Defense. There is more talent and depth than last year it is all about experience. I believe with the added depth more 4-Man will be played. Having #27 back in the lineupt will be huge as far as alignment and scheme. In the secondary i think we have some very talented guys who have the chance to shine this year. Curtis Harris-Lopez and Jake Jarmolowich along Ryan Ruane when he returns will be a very athletic and fast group of Safeties. Again experience will be the key. Corner has talent, experience and depth and should be huge in supporting the emerging safety group. |
|
|
|
Post by Chu Chu on Jul 26, 2023 10:32:16 GMT -5
But unless this is his last job, he has to be “disloyal” at some point, correct ? While everyone has their hopes and dreams - for a (perceived to be) better job and for more money, etc., there are others who are able to be content with a position and salary that don't necessarily "ring the bell". I like to think that maybe Chesney is cut from the same cloth as John Stiegelmeier. We can be sure that Stieg had opportunities to take his talents to the next level, but he was likely very comfortable with SDS and they made it worth his while to stay there. Chesney is at a great school, makes a fair bit of coin, gets to deal with good kids, and has a real opportunity to make history for himself and for the HC football program. While I'm not discounting that Chesney is a driven individual, I also find him to be a very grounded guy who won't necessarily chase other opportunities just because those opportunities are more financially lucrative and/or more nationally recognized. Discuss.. Fingers crossed that you are correct! |
|
|
|
Post by hc2020 on Jul 26, 2023 11:22:56 GMT -5
Answering question #1, as a non-expert,I see Jordan Fuller having a very big season. The fact that he averaged 4.8 yards per carry bid particularly impressive considering many attempts were in short yardage situations. If you’re on their 3 yard line the longest carry you can post is… 3 yards. I don’t think he has Oliver’s speed but I think he’ll fare well as a featured back. Very well. Also looking to see more of Sammy Slade I think the RBs on the current roster are all skilled and that group is pretty deep. I think the trio of Fuller, Forrest and Rivers all provide that between the tackle, downhill-style type of running back. The incoming freshman also provides that type of running style. It remains to be seen how quickly he picks up all of the offensive calls. |
|
|
|
Post by hiltonheadcrusader on Jul 26, 2023 12:17:18 GMT -5
Defensive Outlook: Starters/Key Reserves lost - LB Liam Anderson, DE Dan Kuznetsov, DE Jack Reichwein, CB/Nickel John Smith, FS Walter Reynolds, SS Terrell Prince, WS Cris Argys, S Hunter Burns Likely Two Deep to Start Camp. DE SR Brian Vaganek / SO Colin Reynolds NG SR Dillion Springer / SO Daniel “Boobie” Santiago DT JR Damon Danolds OR SR Jared Dyer DE SO Christian Ross / JR Joe Townsend LB 5TH Jake Dobbs / JR Frankie Monte LB SR Dante Bolden / SR Matt Kane CB 5TH Devin Haskins / SR Matt Duchemin SS JR Ryan Ruane / 5SR Hugh Kelly FS JR Jake Jarmolowich / SR JP Raiger WS JR Curtis Harris-Lopez / 5SR Kam Molton CB SR Terrence Spence / SR Malik Scott Special Teams: P - 5SR Pat Haughney K - JR Jack Norris OR SO Luis Palenzuela LS - SO Francisco Castro KR - Justin Shorter PR - Open Questions for the defense: 1) How does the DL replace Kuz and Reich? Can enough IDLs take their game to another level to take some pressure off the younger/less experienced D Ends? Do we see more 4 man fronts vs 3 man? 2) Who emerges as the next playmaker at LB next to Dobbs? 3) Can the new Safeties minimize growing pains? Who emerges as the top nickel DB? 4) What does the Sader kicking game look like after 5 seasons behind the leg of Derek Ng? 5) With so much inexperience on Defense, do any newcomers (transfers or freshman) emerge to provide needed depth? Thank you MW. As always very insightful. |
|
|
|
Post by hcnj on Jul 26, 2023 14:47:57 GMT -5
Two different discussions depending on whether we initially stick to players who played for us last season vs including Xfers, frosh.
Sticking to returning rostered players until real camp opens then 05's 2 deep and staying with defense: QB and 2 wide outs, 2 DBs are no-brainers. Shipman would have a precamp edge IMHO for 3rd WO. I think our DBs have greatest chance for tussles, esp safeties and backups there and corners. On the line, maybe Osa challenges later on. The interior DL is my guess for players moving up and down. I don't think anyone has proven they can't be challenged. Likewise the second team LBs. Kudos to the rising sophs and upper classmen on both lists who didn't see a lot of action last year.
|
|
|
|
Post by Sons of Vaval on Jul 26, 2023 15:44:37 GMT -5
Answering question #1, as a non-expert,I see Jordan Fuller having a very big season. The fact that he averaged 4.8 yards per carry bid particularly impressive considering many attempts were in short yardage situations. If you’re on their 3 yard line the longest carry you can post is… 3 yards. I don’t think he has Oliver’s speed but I think he’ll fare well as a featured back. Very well. Also looking to see more of Sammy Slade I think the RBs on the current roster are all skilled and that group is pretty deep. I think the trio of Fuller, Forrest and Rivers all provide that between the tackle, downhill-style type of running back. The incoming freshman also provides that type of running style. It remains to be seen how quickly he picks up all of the offensive calls. Rivers is interesting. In the couple of carries he had against Bucknell, he ran really hard. That said, I wouldn't think he'd be in the regular rotation at RB and would be more of a ST guy. Between Fuller, Forrest, Purdy, and Slade it's hard to see Rivers cracking the rotation, IMO. |
|
|
|
Post by hc2020 on Jul 26, 2023 17:36:40 GMT -5
I think the RBs on the current roster are all skilled and that group is pretty deep. I think the trio of Fuller, Forrest and Rivers all provide that between the tackle, downhill-style type of running back. The incoming freshman also provides that type of running style. It remains to be seen how quickly he picks up all of the offensive calls. Rivers is interesting. In the couple of carries he had against Bucknell, he ran really hard. That said, I wouldn't think he'd be in the regular rotation at RB and would be more of a ST guy. Between Fuller, Forrest, Purdy, and Slade it's hard to see Rivers cracking the rotation, IMO. You may be correct. Although I don’t want to jinx either of them, I know Forrest has had multiple shoulder injuries and Purdy is recovering from a broken foot that required surgery in the spring. Depth is always important and the rotation could experience a shake-up if one or more players go down with an injury. It’s good to know that we have a pretty good stable of runners on the roster. |
|
