Notes from Skip Holtz Press Conference 11/7/2011

From Gousfbulls.com - Coach Holtz held his normal Monday afternoon press conference as the team prepares for Syracuse, trying to snap the 4-game losing streak, the longest in program history. Holtz stated that the team is still confident and working hard (they will practice today, usually an off day for the team). Holtz stated the team was a few plays away from being 7-1 and was frustrated because they had come so close in the last few games. He acknowledged the mistakes and understands the team has to correct a bunch of areas in order to get the team back on the right track. He also realizes that with only 4-games remaining, the hunt for a bowl game is getting tougher for them.

Holtz stated there could be a few changes on special teams, especially at punter with Justin Brockhaus-Kann who ranks 85th in the country out of 89 punters, averaging just around 36 yards a punt. While he did not say he would pull him, don't be surprised to see Chris Veron or Mattias Ciabatti out on the field at some point if he continues to struggle. Holtz stated he still has faith in Bonani and still considers him a solid place kicker. He stated "Bonani did not lose the game for us, but he didn't win it either." Expect to see Bonani remain at kicker for the long haul.

Holtz had a lot of praise for the play of the defensive line, which is leading the nation in tackles for loss at the moment. The unit, anchored by Giddins and Watson, continue to play well and will need to continue to play at the high level they have been.

There was a new injury note to make during the press conference. Holtz stated that linebacker and special team standout Armando Sanchez and running Darrell Scott are both questionable for the game on Friday. While the injury report on Sanchez is new, Scott was banged up in the loss (wrist and headaches) at Rutgers, leaving the game, but returned. He is missing practice today with the same injuries and will be questionable. While he might play Friday night, expect to see a lot more of Murray and Shaw in the game if he is not ready to return.