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| Wide receiver Sterling Griffin is coming back healthy this season and should help open up the USF passing attack. |
The Bulls lacked true wide receivers in 2010. With multiple injuries, walk-ons, and converted players, the USF passing attack was one of the most inconsistent in the nation. But entering 2011, with returning players and committed recruits, the position is now suddenly full of talent. Let's take a look at some of the names that could be catching touchdowns in 2011.[keep reading]
The two big names that return this year are Sterling Griffin and A.J. Love. Both were going to be starters in 2011, but injuries forced both of them to miss the entire season. Now that they are healthy, both should be instant starters and bring back leadership, experience, and tons of potential. They will help open up the offense and stretch the field.
Evan Landi returns as one of the few experienced Bulls from last season. He is a converted quarterback, but now has one full season under his belt as wide receiver. He should have a huge season for the Bulls in 2011. Lindsey Lamar returns as a great speed weapon the Bulls can use more of in the slot receiver position. His cousin, Terrence Mitchell, another big speed threat, will be in the mix as well and could create tons of matchup problems for defenses.
There are some other names that made plays for the Bulls this season. Joel Miller stepped up this year and made some big catches. T.J. Knowles is a big target and should be more comfortable for the Bulls this year. Stephen Bravo-Brown could be a target as well and made some key plays for the Bulls in 2011. Freshman Deonte Welch is also another weapon that was impressive on the scout team and should be in the mix in 2011. Don't forget Faron Hornes and Derrick Hopkins as well.
There are also 3 incoming freshman wide receivers. Andre Davis, Ruben Gonzalez, and Alex Mut are three great looking receiver prospects that could be big time players for the Bulls and if they shine they could make an impact right away (keep an eye on Andre Davis in his first season). Mut won't play this year as he rehabs from ACL surgery, but he will return healthy.
So despite losing Dontavia Bogan to the NFL Draft, the Bulls are reloaded in 2011. If everyone just stays healthy to start the season, the Bulls will have a great receiving corps that could be one of the best in the league.
Matt, great article. I have to agree that the WR situation appears to be a 180 from 2010. I am projecting that Love, Griffin, Landi, Lamar, and Mitchell are likely locked in to get playing time. Given the depth behind him it would surprise me if Miller, Welch (from 2010 recruiting class) and true-freshman Andre Davis round out the depth. But who knows? This is definitely a GOOD problem to have. Go BULLS \m/
ReplyDeletecorrection: it "wouldn't surprise me" if Miller, Welch, and Davis round out the depth!
ReplyDeleteThe main thing to watch is health. Griffin and Love haven't played football in a year, but should be ready to go. Mitchell is still raw, but the speed gives him an advantage. Davis may play early, but Welch and even Gonzalez, due to his raw ability, may find their way onto the field. Just need Daniels to get the ball to them to be effective.
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