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| Darrell Scott will play a big role on the offense this season for the Bulls. |
As this short countdown continues, we look at the players that are going to be key to the success of the 2011 football team. The Bulls are loaded with talent, but there are key players and positions that have to excel in order to help the Bulls try to capture that elusive Big East title. Here are the number three players I personally think will need to have a big season. [keep reading]
On the offensive side of the ball, running back Darrell Scott checks in at number three on my list. Scott, the transfer from Colorado last season, had to sit out the 2010 season due to NCAA rules. Now, he is ready to take over, but there are some questions about how football ready is he?
The 6-1 230-pound junior is a physical runner that can run it north and south easily, getting between the tackles and can even display some speed as well (think a better version of Mike Ford, without the legal issues). His last season at Colorado he had only 95 rushing yards as he battled for position, but did bring back 564 yards in kick returns, showing his vision and ability with the ball in his hands.
Now, Scott sat out a season, but has worked out with the team, been in the Spring games, and should be ready once the fall camps begin. He is listed as the number two running back behind Demetris Murray, but Scott's raw power and ability will get him on the field very often in game. He needs to help provide a better running game for the Bulls as they look for more production and balance.
On the defensive side of the ball, defensive tackle Kevin McCaskill checks in at number three. McCaskill, the 6-foot 286-pound senior takes over for the dancing bear Terrell McClain who was drafted by the NFL, big shoes to fill and a big position to take over.
McCaskill played in every game last season, but never started one. He finished the season with 12 tackles, 4 for loss and gained one sack (big against Rutgers). He is an average size defensive tackle, but may be over matched by some of the bigger centers and guards in the league.
McCaskill will have some competition behind with incoming Elkino Watson, and others on the team like Luke Sager and Todd Chandler, but as the senior leader, a lot is expected of him as he finally gets his chance to start on the line.
So these are the players that are rated number three on my list that need to have big seasons. What are your thoughts USF family?
I definitely think the seniors will have to step up this season. I feel like there is a definite lack of leadership now with the seniors gone, such as Jacquain Williams.
ReplyDeleteDarrell Scott seems to me as much more of a power back than a speed back, so hopefully Demetris Murray can open up the big plays and be one who can break one for a long TD. I recall reading that USF was one of the last in the FBS in plays exceeding 20 yards. So while expectations are high for Scott, I feel like with the experience and familiarity with the new offense, Murray should be number 3.
Interesting take on the leadership of the seniors. Losing Williams, Mistral, etc. is huge, but with Webster, Washington, Young, McCaskill, they should have enough leadership. Trouble is, some of the starting seniors have been back-ups most of their careers and are now getting starting jobs.
ReplyDeleteI disagree with Murray. Scott is talented, no question and will probably be the feature back at the end of the season, but Murray can carry the load and has the most experience. Holtz will have him be the number one until Scott or even maybe Aycock step up.
It sounds like you have more faith in Scott than I do. I guess after seeing Mike Ford disappoint and fail to be a reliable back, I am a bit skeptical. But there is nothing I would love more than to see Scott become our next Andre Hall and tear up the Irish defense!
ReplyDeleteSo much of this team is wait and see, such as BJ Daniels, Darrell Scott, and hopefully Andre Davis! And that makes next season so exciting!
Go bulls!
I am on the fence really with Scott and Aycock as well. They have the tools, talent, but sitting out a season hurts them. But knowing Holtz, he will put them in the best spot to succeed on the field.
ReplyDeleteDavis is a kid to watch.
I got the chance to speak with Andre Davis the other day, and he told me that he expected to see the field this season. Hopefully he's not just being optimistic that he won't have to redshirt.
ReplyDeleteHe has a chance to get out there, maybe as the 5th wide receiver, talent is there, already been at practices taking notes. can't wait for the season to start already.
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