- May 2nd, 2006, 7:13 pm
#14214
Thanks for the kind words. This is what I have observed in the true freshman starting, particularly in Mike Godsil's case. He was a center for a spread option team which excelled in running the midline option, in which the fullback runs an option path right over the center's cheeks. He overpowered noseguards and single blocked them most of the time. In veer option, there is often a huge emphasis on crowding the line of scrimmage and exploding into the defender. Guards and tackles are often in a four point stance to really come off the ball. Often, defenders would dive at his feet to cause a pile up, where he would then try to root them out. That aggressiveness still contributes to his style of play now, and is what gained the attention of the coaches last aug. However, in the bronco's style zone scheme, there is now a call to step laterally, while keeping your hips under you, as you reach thru an area. Mike had to adjust by not being so over extended, and playing more under control. Add to this the increased speed of the game at this level as opposed to high school, a new system, and other freshmen deer in the headlights amidst a leadership void, and you have a tough initiation. Coach Wachenheim, noting that Mike was a mauler in terms of blocking, told him that the increase in overall strength gained in the offseason, would allow him to play more under control, as he would be strong enough to not feel like he has to overextend himself in his blocking in order to play against older, stronger competition. This is what I have seen in spring ball. Now, they are still learning a new system, but the experience of these good young players will contribute to the learning curve. I tell you guys this, because, I believe there is a common thread to many of our younger players, that will change the end product this upcoming fall. Zach T, PatC, Britt Stone, etc. Add to this the 180 degree turn in attitude and enthusiasm......Mike said that spring ball was a blast. Most college players I know dread it, because it is brutal. Wind of change is blowing.....
Vince Lombardi, football coach for the NFL (1913-1970)
Individual commitment to a group effort-that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.