GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
While the big story out of Gainesville this week was the recent arrest of Janoris Jenkins for alleged possesion of marijuana and his subsequent banishment from the program, there were other important developments concerning Gator football in the last few days---news that two other Gators, Redshirt Soph Kedric Johnson and Redshirt Fr Chris Martin, were arrested in early 2011 for alleged marijuana possesion in separate incidents and a report from Pro Football Weekly that Gator Sr offensive lineman Maurice Hurt tested positive for marijuana at the 2011 NFL combine earlier this year.
Let's see now....we have a Senior (Hurt) who just completed his eligibility, notice we didn't say "will be graduating", a Junior (Jenkins), a R-Soph, and now a R-Freshman...the Gators, and especially former coach Urban Meyer, can be proud that every class is representing! It is good to see that the younger Gators....er, Stoners....are learning from the example of their more experienced upper classmen.
Janoris deserves special recognition because this is his second arrest for pot and his 3rd arrest since he has been in Gainesville. I guess you could say Janoris has worked overtime to help the Gators to build our "street cred". In fact Janoris Jenkins single-handedly accounts for almost 10% of all the arrests during the Urban Meyer era. Gator Gridiron suggest a new award to be established in Janoris honor, "The Janoris Jenkins Street Cred" award.
Actually, the arrests of Johnson and Martin in Gainesville are dwarfed by Maurice Hurt's contributions to the new Florida idenity at the NFL combine. By testing positive for illegal drugs...I know it's "only" marijuana, but, hey, it's still a drug and it's illegal...Maurice has helped Florida Gator Football establish a new tradition in the National Football League; Florida is the only program in NFL history to have alumni test positive (reportedly) for illegal drugs for an impressive 3 years in a row; Percy Harvin at the '09 combine, Aaron Hernandez last year and now Maurice continues the traditon in 2011. Plus Maurice helps put the Gator Stoners on the NATIONAL stage, it's one thing to have a couple of underclassmen who nobody has ever heard of get popped for pot by the local cops, but by getting "outed" at one of the most high profile officially sanctioned NFL events of the off-season Maurice has helped to give our Stoners a truly national profile.....
I think this is what is called "building a brand".
Way to go Stoners!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
JANORIS JENKINS IS GONE
GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
Less that 72 hours after All-SEC CB Janoris Jenkins second arrest for marijuana possesion in 3 months Coach Will Muschamp weighed in with his response. Janoris Jenkins is no longer a Gator.
On Tuesday Coach Muschamp posted the following statement on twitter; "After meeting with Janoris Jenkins today, we both felt it was in his best interest to move ahead to the next stage of his career. We appreciate Janoris' contributions to the University of Florida during his time here and wish him the best of luck."
Jenkins arrest last Saturday came in the wake of the news that two other Gator football players were arrested for marijuana possession in early 2011 AND a report from Pro Football Weekly that former UF OL Maurice Hurt tested positive for marijuana at the NFL combine this year. If the PFW report is true, that gives the University of Florida an embarassing trifecta---for the last 3 years in a row UF, reportedly, has had a former player test positive for pot at the combine (reportedly Percy Harvin '09, Aaron Hernandez in '10 and Hurt in '11). (With Janoris projected as a possible 1st round pick for 2012, the Gators have a chance to extend this dubious achievement a record 4 years in a row.)
It is regretful that a great player who was a key member of a National Championship and back to back 13 win seasons has to end his career as a Gator in such an ignominous way. Janoris, however, left Coach Muschamp no other choice. Jenkins was arrested in January, just weeks into Muschamp's new regime. By willfully engaging in the same illegal behavior in the same part of town less than 3 months later Jenkins obviously was sending a message that he didn't take his new Head Coach seriously.
Now, we suspect, the other Gators, most of whom CWM inherited from the Urban Meyer/Steve Addazio regime, will take the new HC a little more seriously. If he'll bounce a Senior, All-SEC, potential 1st Round NFL draft choice out of the program for a little pot smoking, what will he do to the next guy who breaks the law?
There is one other significant footnote to this story that is either tragic or hilarious depending on your perspective. As we know, the NFL is currently engaged in negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement. One aspect of the potential new agreement is that the pay scale for rookie draft choices could be significantly reduced, significantly as in millions of dollars. Coupled with the fact that this kind of career "turbulance" is not exactly conducive to raising a players draft stock, the "marijuana cigar" that Janoris so proudly lit up, allegedly, in downtown Gainesville last Saturday could end up costing the youngster from Pahokee several million dollars.
Upon reflection, this difficult decision by the Gators young, new Head Coach just might work out best for all involved---Coach Muschamp and his staff can continue to move forward in building the foundation for the new culture of the Gator program and Janoris is now free to take his bong and blunts to Valdosta St or Bethune Cookman to play a little football while blissfully enjoying his true passion in life.
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
Less that 72 hours after All-SEC CB Janoris Jenkins second arrest for marijuana possesion in 3 months Coach Will Muschamp weighed in with his response. Janoris Jenkins is no longer a Gator.
On Tuesday Coach Muschamp posted the following statement on twitter; "After meeting with Janoris Jenkins today, we both felt it was in his best interest to move ahead to the next stage of his career. We appreciate Janoris' contributions to the University of Florida during his time here and wish him the best of luck."
Jenkins arrest last Saturday came in the wake of the news that two other Gator football players were arrested for marijuana possession in early 2011 AND a report from Pro Football Weekly that former UF OL Maurice Hurt tested positive for marijuana at the NFL combine this year. If the PFW report is true, that gives the University of Florida an embarassing trifecta---for the last 3 years in a row UF, reportedly, has had a former player test positive for pot at the combine (reportedly Percy Harvin '09, Aaron Hernandez in '10 and Hurt in '11). (With Janoris projected as a possible 1st round pick for 2012, the Gators have a chance to extend this dubious achievement a record 4 years in a row.)
It is regretful that a great player who was a key member of a National Championship and back to back 13 win seasons has to end his career as a Gator in such an ignominous way. Janoris, however, left Coach Muschamp no other choice. Jenkins was arrested in January, just weeks into Muschamp's new regime. By willfully engaging in the same illegal behavior in the same part of town less than 3 months later Jenkins obviously was sending a message that he didn't take his new Head Coach seriously.
Now, we suspect, the other Gators, most of whom CWM inherited from the Urban Meyer/Steve Addazio regime, will take the new HC a little more seriously. If he'll bounce a Senior, All-SEC, potential 1st Round NFL draft choice out of the program for a little pot smoking, what will he do to the next guy who breaks the law?
There is one other significant footnote to this story that is either tragic or hilarious depending on your perspective. As we know, the NFL is currently engaged in negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement. One aspect of the potential new agreement is that the pay scale for rookie draft choices could be significantly reduced, significantly as in millions of dollars. Coupled with the fact that this kind of career "turbulance" is not exactly conducive to raising a players draft stock, the "marijuana cigar" that Janoris so proudly lit up, allegedly, in downtown Gainesville last Saturday could end up costing the youngster from Pahokee several million dollars.
Upon reflection, this difficult decision by the Gators young, new Head Coach just might work out best for all involved---Coach Muschamp and his staff can continue to move forward in building the foundation for the new culture of the Gator program and Janoris is now free to take his bong and blunts to Valdosta St or Bethune Cookman to play a little football while blissfully enjoying his true passion in life.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
TIME TO DISCIPLINE JANORIS, REGRETFULLY
GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
In case you missed it, Cornerback Janoris Jenkins was arrested over the weekend and charged with possession of marijuana....for the second time in the last 3 months. While close observers have commented that Gator players have taken to Coach Will Muschamp and his new staff, Janoris, apparantly, has taken his celebrating to a whole new level.
Ironically, Jenkins first arrest came just days before the launch of the then-fledgeling (now highly acclaimed, of course) Gator Gridiron blog. In an early post Gator Gridiron (misguidedly) urged the new HC to resist the urge to, as we termed it, "overreact" by responding to Media-types and other Gator Haters who were calling for draconian penalties for the talented rising Sr CB. In other words we urged Coach WM to go easy on Janoris.
Obviously, the "velvet glove" approach did not work with Janoris Jenkins.
After being arrested, reportedly, for rolling a "joint" in the mens room of a downtown Gainesville nightclub in January, Jenkins on Saturday was arrested after he, reportedly, attracted the attention of a Gainesville Police officer while smoking a "marijuana cigar" in a parked car....on Main Street, no less. Is it just me, but does Janoris seem to be flaunting his drug use/law breaking?
Now it is time, regretfully, for significant....no, not significant....harsh discipline. While marijuana use among college students is certainly not an earth shattering situation, it is against the law. Not to mention the fact that recreational drug use in no way helps prepare one to achieve peak performance on the football field. It's not a great example of leadership or respect, either.
As a Senior and argueably the best returing veteran player, in fact, one of the last remaining starters from the '08 National Championship team, if not the only one, Jenkins is---or was---in a position to provide leadership for a Gator program that sorely needs leadership during this period of turbulance and transition.
Needless to say, leadership is the last thing on Janoris Jenkins mind. Jenkins has no desire to serve as a leader for his younger teammates, to ease the challenges facing first time Head Coach Will Muschamp, or to even demonstrate respect for his new HC.........But he will take another toke.....
Time for CWM to forget the original advice of Gator Gridiron. Throw away our ill-advised "velvet glove", Coach.
Six game suspension....and if Janoris Jenkins is arrested or caught with illegal drugs again, expell him from the program. NFL prospect or no-NFL prospect.
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
In case you missed it, Cornerback Janoris Jenkins was arrested over the weekend and charged with possession of marijuana....for the second time in the last 3 months. While close observers have commented that Gator players have taken to Coach Will Muschamp and his new staff, Janoris, apparantly, has taken his celebrating to a whole new level.
Ironically, Jenkins first arrest came just days before the launch of the then-fledgeling (now highly acclaimed, of course) Gator Gridiron blog. In an early post Gator Gridiron (misguidedly) urged the new HC to resist the urge to, as we termed it, "overreact" by responding to Media-types and other Gator Haters who were calling for draconian penalties for the talented rising Sr CB. In other words we urged Coach WM to go easy on Janoris.
Obviously, the "velvet glove" approach did not work with Janoris Jenkins.
After being arrested, reportedly, for rolling a "joint" in the mens room of a downtown Gainesville nightclub in January, Jenkins on Saturday was arrested after he, reportedly, attracted the attention of a Gainesville Police officer while smoking a "marijuana cigar" in a parked car....on Main Street, no less. Is it just me, but does Janoris seem to be flaunting his drug use/law breaking?
Now it is time, regretfully, for significant....no, not significant....harsh discipline. While marijuana use among college students is certainly not an earth shattering situation, it is against the law. Not to mention the fact that recreational drug use in no way helps prepare one to achieve peak performance on the football field. It's not a great example of leadership or respect, either.
As a Senior and argueably the best returing veteran player, in fact, one of the last remaining starters from the '08 National Championship team, if not the only one, Jenkins is---or was---in a position to provide leadership for a Gator program that sorely needs leadership during this period of turbulance and transition.
Needless to say, leadership is the last thing on Janoris Jenkins mind. Jenkins has no desire to serve as a leader for his younger teammates, to ease the challenges facing first time Head Coach Will Muschamp, or to even demonstrate respect for his new HC.........But he will take another toke.....
Time for CWM to forget the original advice of Gator Gridiron. Throw away our ill-advised "velvet glove", Coach.
Six game suspension....and if Janoris Jenkins is arrested or caught with illegal drugs again, expell him from the program. NFL prospect or no-NFL prospect.
Friday, April 22, 2011
AHMAD BLACK, GREAT FOOTBALL PLAYER
GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
The approaching NFL draft provides Gator Gridiron a welcome opportunity to reflect on the career of a Great Gator---Safety Ahmad Black. As someone who has closely followed Gator football for over 40 years now (attended first game at Florida Field in 1962 when Tommy Shannon was starting QB) I must say that the sturdy, hard hitting ball hawk from Lakeland is one of the top players that this Gator has had the pleasure of watching.
My respect for Ahmad Black started early in his career...the 2008 opener against Hawaii ....which with 95+ degree heat and smothering humidity frequently interupted by intermittent rain showers was a verrrry swampy day in the Swamp. Shortly after finding my seat, I noticed a #35 who was seemingly in on every play and displayed a particular knack for finding the football. I didn't know who this unknown Soph #35 was, but it was obvious he had a real nose for finding the football. As the 2008 season progressed, the undersized headhunter continued to impress until, ultimately, the Gators were playing for the National Championship against Oklahoma and their highly acclaimed passer Sam Bradford. As we all know, the Gators prevailed and one main reason was the outstanding play of the Gator secondary, especially #35.
Ahmad continued his outstanding play over the course of the 2009 season when the Gators put together a 12-0 regular season and ultimate 13-1 record. In 2010, with a Gator team depleted by the departure of several dozen upperclassmen, including 13 who went to the NFL, Ahmad was one of the few bright spots, continueing to demonstrate his excellent play while also providing an outstanding example of leadership for his younger, less experienced teammates. Hard nosed tackler, excellent pass defender, smart, heady player who has a true gift for finding the football, all while providing great leadership with his work ethic and love for the game....that's the Gator Gridiron scouting report on Ahmad Black (And I assure it is more accurate that those of the NFL draft "experts", especially Mel Kuiper, The Moron and Todd "Suzie" McShay). Whichever NFL team is fortunate enough to draft Ahmad Black will add a Great Football Player and True Winner.
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
The approaching NFL draft provides Gator Gridiron a welcome opportunity to reflect on the career of a Great Gator---Safety Ahmad Black. As someone who has closely followed Gator football for over 40 years now (attended first game at Florida Field in 1962 when Tommy Shannon was starting QB) I must say that the sturdy, hard hitting ball hawk from Lakeland is one of the top players that this Gator has had the pleasure of watching.
My respect for Ahmad Black started early in his career...the 2008 opener against Hawaii ....which with 95+ degree heat and smothering humidity frequently interupted by intermittent rain showers was a verrrry swampy day in the Swamp. Shortly after finding my seat, I noticed a #35 who was seemingly in on every play and displayed a particular knack for finding the football. I didn't know who this unknown Soph #35 was, but it was obvious he had a real nose for finding the football. As the 2008 season progressed, the undersized headhunter continued to impress until, ultimately, the Gators were playing for the National Championship against Oklahoma and their highly acclaimed passer Sam Bradford. As we all know, the Gators prevailed and one main reason was the outstanding play of the Gator secondary, especially #35.
Ahmad continued his outstanding play over the course of the 2009 season when the Gators put together a 12-0 regular season and ultimate 13-1 record. In 2010, with a Gator team depleted by the departure of several dozen upperclassmen, including 13 who went to the NFL, Ahmad was one of the few bright spots, continueing to demonstrate his excellent play while also providing an outstanding example of leadership for his younger, less experienced teammates. Hard nosed tackler, excellent pass defender, smart, heady player who has a true gift for finding the football, all while providing great leadership with his work ethic and love for the game....that's the Gator Gridiron scouting report on Ahmad Black (And I assure it is more accurate that those of the NFL draft "experts", especially Mel Kuiper, The Moron and Todd "Suzie" McShay). Whichever NFL team is fortunate enough to draft Ahmad Black will add a Great Football Player and True Winner.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
FROM PRESSURE COOKER TO BON JOVI & LIL' WAYNE
With new HC Will Muschamp's first spring practice now complete, the budding identity of the new Gator football program is beginning to come into focus. Close observers have detected numerous subtle---and not-so-subtle---changes that range from the depth chart, to new offensive and defensive formations to different personnel groupings.
Spring practice included a highly acclaimed new Offensive Coordinator (Charlie Weis), a brand new NFL-style offense, a new Defensive coordinator (Dan Quinn) and music by Jon Bon Jovi.
Charlie Weis, Dan Quinn and who......er......what...?
Jon Bon Jovi. The day before featured the recorded stylings of rap hipster Lil' Wayne.
Now before we "Old School" Gators race to get on the horn to Jeremy to protest the degradation of the program, let's take a deep breath. One consistent message that has emerged in the aftermath of CWM's new staff is a more relaxed approach with a particular emphasis on teaching. Tasked with taking over a team that never really gained the confidence needed to even approach true potential in 2010, Coach Muschamp has reportedly brought a more patient approach the practice field in Gainesville. Teaching has taken the place of yelling. Encouragement is "in" and manic, in-your-face, primal sceaming is on the wane.
This "Old School Gator" welcomes the change in atmosphere.
Coach Urban Meyer's intensity, focus and dedication to "hard coaching" is well documented....actually legendary at this point. In the Spring of 2004, taking over after the well intentioned but misguided compassionate, doting older brother approach of Coach Ron Zook, Meyer's no-nonsense culture of rigid discipline, accountability and intensity were EXACTLY what Florida Football needed at that time. The result is self-evident---2 National Championships, back-to-back 13 win seasons (only time in NCAA history), recruiting dominance that brought boatloads of elite players to Gainesville including 2 of the greatest college players ever and so many BCS Bowl Game Championships that Gator fans came to take them for granted. Ultimately the same manic 24/7/365 intensity that fueled CM's incredible success became the catalyst for his demise. CM literally almost worked himself to death for the Florida Gators. The flip side is that Coach Meyer not only burned himself out, he burned out everybody else as well.
Coach Will is now charged with picking up the pieces with the young, inexperienced, unsteady players who recently arrived to replace the confident, hard-nosed veterans who were 4-5 year products of Meyer's Spartan culture. 2011 is a new era, with new players and new challenges. Before Coach Will, Coach Weis and Coach Quinn can put wins on the board they need rebuild the confidence and enthusiasm of these talented, but tenative young Gators. If Bon Jovi and Lil' Wayne "music" at practice is part of that process, more power to CWM.
Spring practice included a highly acclaimed new Offensive Coordinator (Charlie Weis), a brand new NFL-style offense, a new Defensive coordinator (Dan Quinn) and music by Jon Bon Jovi.
Charlie Weis, Dan Quinn and who......er......what...?
Jon Bon Jovi. The day before featured the recorded stylings of rap hipster Lil' Wayne.
Now before we "Old School" Gators race to get on the horn to Jeremy to protest the degradation of the program, let's take a deep breath. One consistent message that has emerged in the aftermath of CWM's new staff is a more relaxed approach with a particular emphasis on teaching. Tasked with taking over a team that never really gained the confidence needed to even approach true potential in 2010, Coach Muschamp has reportedly brought a more patient approach the practice field in Gainesville. Teaching has taken the place of yelling. Encouragement is "in" and manic, in-your-face, primal sceaming is on the wane.
This "Old School Gator" welcomes the change in atmosphere.
Coach Urban Meyer's intensity, focus and dedication to "hard coaching" is well documented....actually legendary at this point. In the Spring of 2004, taking over after the well intentioned but misguided compassionate, doting older brother approach of Coach Ron Zook, Meyer's no-nonsense culture of rigid discipline, accountability and intensity were EXACTLY what Florida Football needed at that time. The result is self-evident---2 National Championships, back-to-back 13 win seasons (only time in NCAA history), recruiting dominance that brought boatloads of elite players to Gainesville including 2 of the greatest college players ever and so many BCS Bowl Game Championships that Gator fans came to take them for granted. Ultimately the same manic 24/7/365 intensity that fueled CM's incredible success became the catalyst for his demise. CM literally almost worked himself to death for the Florida Gators. The flip side is that Coach Meyer not only burned himself out, he burned out everybody else as well.
Coach Will is now charged with picking up the pieces with the young, inexperienced, unsteady players who recently arrived to replace the confident, hard-nosed veterans who were 4-5 year products of Meyer's Spartan culture. 2011 is a new era, with new players and new challenges. Before Coach Will, Coach Weis and Coach Quinn can put wins on the board they need rebuild the confidence and enthusiasm of these talented, but tenative young Gators. If Bon Jovi and Lil' Wayne "music" at practice is part of that process, more power to CWM.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
NFL SCOUTS, MEDIA RATE MIKE POUNCEY NO. 1 CENTER PROSPECT.....THIS IS A JOKE, RIGHT?
GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
Those same zany, zaftig, absurdist, cut-ups (NFL & media draft "experts") who last spring declared the greatest college football player of all-time, Tim Tebow, to be a non-prospect at the NFL level are at it again. This year they are declaring Gator Mike Pouncey to be the best Center prospect in the 2011 draft.
According to an article in the April 20 edition of USA Today by Nate Davis, "Mike (Pouncey) is almost universally rated as the best interior offensive lineman.....which (could) make Mike (Pouncey) the highest-drafted center since Damien Woody went 17th in 1999." The story also said, "Mike (Pouncey), who would prefer to play center instead of guard in the NFL ...wants to be selected 18th or earlier in the first round....."
He would prefer to play Center instead of Guard?..... Why?........ So he can destroy an NFL QB?
This is a joke, right? What alternative universe are these "experts" living in?
Things become more clear, however, when some of the "experts" are revealed. Steve Addazio (yes, THAT Steve Addazio) said, "I would tell you he's the best offensive lineman in the draft." Steve Addazio? Why is Steve Addazio commenting on Florida? He is the coach at Temple. Is this overrated, incompetent, know-nothing program destroyer ever going to stop gravy-training off of the Florida Gator football program?
Did the "experts" (including Addazio) even watch the Gators play in 2010?
Those who did watch the games in 2010 saw a Center who literally could not consistently execute shotgun snaps to the quarterback....which is a problem when your offense is run exclusively out of the shotgun. The performance of the Gator center in 2010 was so poor that it is credited with being a key reason that highly touted first year starter John Brantley struggled throughout the season. In addition, a much hyped, veteran offensive line anchored by Senior Captain Pouncey underachieved at stunning proportions; a central factor in the Gators anemic offensive performance and ultimate disappointing 8-5 season.
Gator Gridiron knows that Mike Pouncey is a good football player with NFL potential who contributed greatly to the success of the Gators over the course of his career. We wish him the all the best in the NFL and beyond, just as we wish the best for all Gators. However, that does not mean he is a good Center or that he had a successful Senior season in 2010.
This situation illustrates what many Gator fans have come to know about the so-called "experts" of the football world--college, pro or draft; that most actually know NOTHING about football--college, pro or draft. Whether it is former Ohio St QB Kirk Herbstreit promoting an Ohio St--Michigan re-match in the 2007 National Championship game, Kuiper, McShay and Cowherd trashing Tim Tebow or Nate Davis of USA Today promoting Mike Pouncy as the "Greatest Center Ever!" beware of those wearing the self-annointed Crown of "FOOTBALL EXPERT".
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
Those same zany, zaftig, absurdist, cut-ups (NFL & media draft "experts") who last spring declared the greatest college football player of all-time, Tim Tebow, to be a non-prospect at the NFL level are at it again. This year they are declaring Gator Mike Pouncey to be the best Center prospect in the 2011 draft.
According to an article in the April 20 edition of USA Today by Nate Davis, "Mike (Pouncey) is almost universally rated as the best interior offensive lineman.....which (could) make Mike (Pouncey) the highest-drafted center since Damien Woody went 17th in 1999." The story also said, "Mike (Pouncey), who would prefer to play center instead of guard in the NFL ...wants to be selected 18th or earlier in the first round....."
He would prefer to play Center instead of Guard?..... Why?........ So he can destroy an NFL QB?
This is a joke, right? What alternative universe are these "experts" living in?
Things become more clear, however, when some of the "experts" are revealed. Steve Addazio (yes, THAT Steve Addazio) said, "I would tell you he's the best offensive lineman in the draft." Steve Addazio? Why is Steve Addazio commenting on Florida? He is the coach at Temple. Is this overrated, incompetent, know-nothing program destroyer ever going to stop gravy-training off of the Florida Gator football program?
Did the "experts" (including Addazio) even watch the Gators play in 2010?
Those who did watch the games in 2010 saw a Center who literally could not consistently execute shotgun snaps to the quarterback....which is a problem when your offense is run exclusively out of the shotgun. The performance of the Gator center in 2010 was so poor that it is credited with being a key reason that highly touted first year starter John Brantley struggled throughout the season. In addition, a much hyped, veteran offensive line anchored by Senior Captain Pouncey underachieved at stunning proportions; a central factor in the Gators anemic offensive performance and ultimate disappointing 8-5 season.
Gator Gridiron knows that Mike Pouncey is a good football player with NFL potential who contributed greatly to the success of the Gators over the course of his career. We wish him the all the best in the NFL and beyond, just as we wish the best for all Gators. However, that does not mean he is a good Center or that he had a successful Senior season in 2010.
This situation illustrates what many Gator fans have come to know about the so-called "experts" of the football world--college, pro or draft; that most actually know NOTHING about football--college, pro or draft. Whether it is former Ohio St QB Kirk Herbstreit promoting an Ohio St--Michigan re-match in the 2007 National Championship game, Kuiper, McShay and Cowherd trashing Tim Tebow or Nate Davis of USA Today promoting Mike Pouncy as the "Greatest Center Ever!" beware of those wearing the self-annointed Crown of "FOOTBALL EXPERT".
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
A CLOSER LOOK AT THE QBs
GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
One result of the 2011 Spring game was to further highlight the QB position as the Gators move toward new HC Will Mushchamp's first season. As previously mentioned, the Orange and Blue game provided either reason for further doubt or a faint silver cloud of optimism for 2011.
Current starting QB John Brantley's 4-14 passing performance was disappointing, but should also be viewed in the context that defense is usually ahead of offense at this early stage, especially during the process of instituting a brand new offense with brand new coaches.
Redshirt Freshman Tyler Murphy's showing was an unexpected positve for some Gators, including Gator Gridiron (no big deal or even reason for further pessimism and frustration for others). The 6'2" Murphy, who by many accounts looked comfortable navigating the new offense, is a physically impressive young QB who also has impressive speed. He was recruited out Connecticut by former HC Urban Meyer as much for his competitive spirit and intensity as for his obvious athleticism.
Pure Freshman Jeff Driskel needs no introduction, so to speak. The most acclaimed and recruited QB in the nation, Driskel has Tebow-esque physical attributes and is also renown for both extraordinary passing and running feats at the high school level. Driskel left high school early to participate in Spring football, got significant action in the Orange and Blue game and is expected to compete for the starting QB job in the fall.
Surprise signee Jacoby Brissett adds further interest and excitement to the QB battle. An impressive dual-threat QB, Brissett was recruited by new OC Charlie Weis. Brissett is emphatic that he comes to Gainesville as a QB only and declared his expectation to compete for the No 1 QB job. The confident youngster brings a refreshing air of confidence and spirit to the new era of Gator football.
Dark horse candidate Christian Provancha, a tall, strong walk-on out of the "off-broadway" Cocoa Beach Minutemen program, capped a productive spring by providing the biggest highlight of the Spring game---a dramatic late 4th quarter TD pass to WR Robert Clark which won the game for the Blue.
Judging these talented young men on their merits, not their press clippings, Gator Gridiron expects this impressive group of QBs, under the expert instruction of one of the top offensive stratigists/tacticians/teachers in the game, to infuse Gator Football with a spirited battle for the No 1 QB position and possibly carry the Gators to an unexpectedly successful season for new Head Coach Will Muschamp.
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
One result of the 2011 Spring game was to further highlight the QB position as the Gators move toward new HC Will Mushchamp's first season. As previously mentioned, the Orange and Blue game provided either reason for further doubt or a faint silver cloud of optimism for 2011.
Current starting QB John Brantley's 4-14 passing performance was disappointing, but should also be viewed in the context that defense is usually ahead of offense at this early stage, especially during the process of instituting a brand new offense with brand new coaches.
Redshirt Freshman Tyler Murphy's showing was an unexpected positve for some Gators, including Gator Gridiron (no big deal or even reason for further pessimism and frustration for others). The 6'2" Murphy, who by many accounts looked comfortable navigating the new offense, is a physically impressive young QB who also has impressive speed. He was recruited out Connecticut by former HC Urban Meyer as much for his competitive spirit and intensity as for his obvious athleticism.
Pure Freshman Jeff Driskel needs no introduction, so to speak. The most acclaimed and recruited QB in the nation, Driskel has Tebow-esque physical attributes and is also renown for both extraordinary passing and running feats at the high school level. Driskel left high school early to participate in Spring football, got significant action in the Orange and Blue game and is expected to compete for the starting QB job in the fall.
Surprise signee Jacoby Brissett adds further interest and excitement to the QB battle. An impressive dual-threat QB, Brissett was recruited by new OC Charlie Weis. Brissett is emphatic that he comes to Gainesville as a QB only and declared his expectation to compete for the No 1 QB job. The confident youngster brings a refreshing air of confidence and spirit to the new era of Gator football.
Dark horse candidate Christian Provancha, a tall, strong walk-on out of the "off-broadway" Cocoa Beach Minutemen program, capped a productive spring by providing the biggest highlight of the Spring game---a dramatic late 4th quarter TD pass to WR Robert Clark which won the game for the Blue.
Judging these talented young men on their merits, not their press clippings, Gator Gridiron expects this impressive group of QBs, under the expert instruction of one of the top offensive stratigists/tacticians/teachers in the game, to infuse Gator Football with a spirited battle for the No 1 QB position and possibly carry the Gators to an unexpectedly successful season for new Head Coach Will Muschamp.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
GATORS COULD BE GOOD IN 2011
GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
During the process of handwringing over the overall performance of the 2011 Orange and Blue game, particularly on offense, this Gator had a surprising revelation---the Gators could be good in 2011!
As previously mentioned, based on talent level and Spring performance the defense suggests the prospect that defense could be a real building block for 2011---the D-line looks solid; the secondary, anchored by All-Star Janoris Jenkins and stocked with talented players with game experience (Jeremy Brown, Matt Elam, Josh Evans, Cody Riggs), should be an excellent unit and the linebacker corp has 2 talented returning starters.
On the much-maligned offensive side of the ball, don't forget that the WR corps is stocked with talented players literally stacked on top of one another---Omarius Hines, Andre Dubose, Frankie Hammond, Jr, Stephen Alli, Quinton Dunbar to name a few, not to mention several highly touted incoming Freshman. (Deonte "Stonehands" Thompson is still around, but HOPEFULLY, since the Gators seemingly now have competent coaches on the offensive side of the ball, "D" will spend the fall of 2011 where he belongs, and where he had belonged for the past 2 years.....on the bench.)
At TE, Jordan Reed has All-SEC potential, especially in a new offense that is structured to take advantage of the TE position in the passing game. Reed is backed up by A. C. Leonard, another big, strong, tall, fast receiver who shined in the Spring.
Barring extreme misfortune, the RB position should be a team strength with the Gators boasting one of the deepest units in the country---proven speedsters Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps and productive, but under-utilized, Mike Gillislee pushed by highly coveted former national recruit Mack Brown and impressive, highly recruited incoming Freshman Mike Blakely.
The most significant addition is coaching--- an offensive coordinator, Charlie Weis, who is not only credible and competent---something the Gators have not had the last 2 years---(not to beat a dead horse, of course), but has proven to be one of the best offensive minds in the game, both professional and college, coupled with a Head Coach who established his reputation as an outstanding builder of defenses at elite college programs (Texas, LSU, Auburn).
Most glaringly, as every Gator knows, the QB position is unsettled. Even here there is potential for optimism. First, new OC Weis has a long, impressive track record of grooming succesful QBs. Theoretically at least, an OC with his credentials should give Sr QB John Brantley the best possible chance for success. If, for whatever reason, Brantley doesn't emerge as the starter, a long line of talented youngsters is forming to get their shot---unheralded redshirt Freshman Tyler Murphy whose mobility and command of the offense impressed in the Orange and Blue game, high school phenom Jeff Driskel who participated in Spring football and got his feet wet in the Spring game, incoming Freshman Jacoby Brissett, the highly recruited dual threat QB from south Florida who surprisingly chose UF over Miami and even "under the radar" walk-on Christian Provancha, the physically impressive drop-back QB out of Cocoa Beach, who had arguably the best performance of all in the Orange and Blue game (a plus or a big cause for concern, depending on your perspective).
Obviously, there are myriad reasons for Gator fans to be anxious about the upcoming season. Gator Gridiron, for one day at least, would like to suggest some, not insignificant, reasons for optimism.
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
During the process of handwringing over the overall performance of the 2011 Orange and Blue game, particularly on offense, this Gator had a surprising revelation---the Gators could be good in 2011!
As previously mentioned, based on talent level and Spring performance the defense suggests the prospect that defense could be a real building block for 2011---the D-line looks solid; the secondary, anchored by All-Star Janoris Jenkins and stocked with talented players with game experience (Jeremy Brown, Matt Elam, Josh Evans, Cody Riggs), should be an excellent unit and the linebacker corp has 2 talented returning starters.
On the much-maligned offensive side of the ball, don't forget that the WR corps is stocked with talented players literally stacked on top of one another---Omarius Hines, Andre Dubose, Frankie Hammond, Jr, Stephen Alli, Quinton Dunbar to name a few, not to mention several highly touted incoming Freshman. (Deonte "Stonehands" Thompson is still around, but HOPEFULLY, since the Gators seemingly now have competent coaches on the offensive side of the ball, "D" will spend the fall of 2011 where he belongs, and where he had belonged for the past 2 years.....on the bench.)
At TE, Jordan Reed has All-SEC potential, especially in a new offense that is structured to take advantage of the TE position in the passing game. Reed is backed up by A. C. Leonard, another big, strong, tall, fast receiver who shined in the Spring.
Barring extreme misfortune, the RB position should be a team strength with the Gators boasting one of the deepest units in the country---proven speedsters Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps and productive, but under-utilized, Mike Gillislee pushed by highly coveted former national recruit Mack Brown and impressive, highly recruited incoming Freshman Mike Blakely.
The most significant addition is coaching--- an offensive coordinator, Charlie Weis, who is not only credible and competent---something the Gators have not had the last 2 years---(not to beat a dead horse, of course), but has proven to be one of the best offensive minds in the game, both professional and college, coupled with a Head Coach who established his reputation as an outstanding builder of defenses at elite college programs (Texas, LSU, Auburn).
Most glaringly, as every Gator knows, the QB position is unsettled. Even here there is potential for optimism. First, new OC Weis has a long, impressive track record of grooming succesful QBs. Theoretically at least, an OC with his credentials should give Sr QB John Brantley the best possible chance for success. If, for whatever reason, Brantley doesn't emerge as the starter, a long line of talented youngsters is forming to get their shot---unheralded redshirt Freshman Tyler Murphy whose mobility and command of the offense impressed in the Orange and Blue game, high school phenom Jeff Driskel who participated in Spring football and got his feet wet in the Spring game, incoming Freshman Jacoby Brissett, the highly recruited dual threat QB from south Florida who surprisingly chose UF over Miami and even "under the radar" walk-on Christian Provancha, the physically impressive drop-back QB out of Cocoa Beach, who had arguably the best performance of all in the Orange and Blue game (a plus or a big cause for concern, depending on your perspective).
Obviously, there are myriad reasons for Gator fans to be anxious about the upcoming season. Gator Gridiron, for one day at least, would like to suggest some, not insignificant, reasons for optimism.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
DON'T OVERLOOK THE POSITIVES..... LIKE THE DEFENSE
GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
In the aftermath of a less than stellar offensive showing in last Saturday's Orange and Blue game, it is easy to overlook a number of positive elements that the Gators will take into the fall.
First, it should be noted that large swaths of key Gator players did not even participate in the spring game due to a variety of factors, especially injury. For example, RBs Jeff Demps, Mike Gillislee, Mack Brown and Mike Blakely all missed the game. The offensive line was decimated by injuries by the time the Orange and Blue game came around and veteran defensive standouts Janoris Jenkins and Jaye Howard missed the entire spring due to surgery.
Based on Saturday's performance, the defense, especially the DL, offers great potential for 2011. Highly touted rising Sophs Sharrif Floyd, Dominique Easley and Ronald Powell capped off an impressive spring with excellent performances in the spring game with DT Floyd dominating. Add Omar Hunter and Jaye Howard, who both missed Spring practice, and you have a D-line that has the talent and potential to be dominating in 2011. The secondary, with Sr Janoris Jenkins, already one of Florida's all-time best DB's, returning to go along with 2010 starting CB Jeremy Brown and speedy, hard-hitting new starters Matt Elam and Josh Evans, should be strong. The linebacking corps needs to step up their 2010 performance, but on the positive side, Jonathon Bostic in the middle and outside LB Jelani Jenkins bring experience as returning starters. Add the fact that Head Coach Will Muschamp is a former SEC caliber (at Georgia, but we'll not mention that) starting Safety who comes to the Gators as HC because of the reputation he earned as one of college football's best D-Coordinators at places like Texas, Auburn and LSU and the Gators might just have the recipe for an outstanding 1980's style defense.
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
In the aftermath of a less than stellar offensive showing in last Saturday's Orange and Blue game, it is easy to overlook a number of positive elements that the Gators will take into the fall.
First, it should be noted that large swaths of key Gator players did not even participate in the spring game due to a variety of factors, especially injury. For example, RBs Jeff Demps, Mike Gillislee, Mack Brown and Mike Blakely all missed the game. The offensive line was decimated by injuries by the time the Orange and Blue game came around and veteran defensive standouts Janoris Jenkins and Jaye Howard missed the entire spring due to surgery.
Based on Saturday's performance, the defense, especially the DL, offers great potential for 2011. Highly touted rising Sophs Sharrif Floyd, Dominique Easley and Ronald Powell capped off an impressive spring with excellent performances in the spring game with DT Floyd dominating. Add Omar Hunter and Jaye Howard, who both missed Spring practice, and you have a D-line that has the talent and potential to be dominating in 2011. The secondary, with Sr Janoris Jenkins, already one of Florida's all-time best DB's, returning to go along with 2010 starting CB Jeremy Brown and speedy, hard-hitting new starters Matt Elam and Josh Evans, should be strong. The linebacking corps needs to step up their 2010 performance, but on the positive side, Jonathon Bostic in the middle and outside LB Jelani Jenkins bring experience as returning starters. Add the fact that Head Coach Will Muschamp is a former SEC caliber (at Georgia, but we'll not mention that) starting Safety who comes to the Gators as HC because of the reputation he earned as one of college football's best D-Coordinators at places like Texas, Auburn and LSU and the Gators might just have the recipe for an outstanding 1980's style defense.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
TYLER MURPHY ADDS INTRIGUE TO QB RACE
GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
One thing Gator fans learned Saturday about the new Will Muschamp-era Gators is there appears to be a couple of good QB prospects on the roster for 2011. That much was expected; what was not expected is the talented QBs names are Tyler Murphy and Christian Provancha.
As projected starter John Brantley turned in his typical performance and highly touted mega-recruit Jeff Driskel failed to get untracked, two new faces provided the fireworks in the annual Orange and Blue Spring Game. Murphy was able to move the chains and put a touchdown on the board with a respectable 7-11 passing day which also included several nifty runs. Provancha, an unherald walk-on from Cocoa Beach High, proved to be the star of the game, hitting WR Robert Clark with a 39 yard TD pass late in the 4th quarter to provide his Blue team with an exciting come-from-behind victory.
Further inspection of the nimble, athletic Murphy reveals a young QB who should not be overlooked when the real life QB battle begins in the fall. Murphy, a lanky 6' 2'' 190 lb redshirt Freshman compiled an impressive high school career as a dual threat QB in Connecticut. Known as much for his running ability and impressive 4.4 speed as for his passing, Muphy caught the eye of then-Gator Head Coach Urban Meyer based on his competitiveness and flair for making the big play at the crucial time. Thus far Murphy has impressed new Coach Will Muschamp with his ability to run the offense and move the chains with a combination of knowledge of the offense, knack of hitting a high percentage of passes as well as his ability to provide an extra dimension with his ability to run.
As the focus shifts to Fall Coach Muschamp has said that Brantley starts fall practice as No 1, but that the QB position, same as all positions, is still an open competition. Before Saturday that competition appeared to be a lopsided contest between an experienced, redshirt SR and two green Freshmen---Driskel and Jacoby Brissett. Today, that competition has one more name---Tyler Murphy.
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
One thing Gator fans learned Saturday about the new Will Muschamp-era Gators is there appears to be a couple of good QB prospects on the roster for 2011. That much was expected; what was not expected is the talented QBs names are Tyler Murphy and Christian Provancha.
As projected starter John Brantley turned in his typical performance and highly touted mega-recruit Jeff Driskel failed to get untracked, two new faces provided the fireworks in the annual Orange and Blue Spring Game. Murphy was able to move the chains and put a touchdown on the board with a respectable 7-11 passing day which also included several nifty runs. Provancha, an unherald walk-on from Cocoa Beach High, proved to be the star of the game, hitting WR Robert Clark with a 39 yard TD pass late in the 4th quarter to provide his Blue team with an exciting come-from-behind victory.
Further inspection of the nimble, athletic Murphy reveals a young QB who should not be overlooked when the real life QB battle begins in the fall. Murphy, a lanky 6' 2'' 190 lb redshirt Freshman compiled an impressive high school career as a dual threat QB in Connecticut. Known as much for his running ability and impressive 4.4 speed as for his passing, Muphy caught the eye of then-Gator Head Coach Urban Meyer based on his competitiveness and flair for making the big play at the crucial time. Thus far Murphy has impressed new Coach Will Muschamp with his ability to run the offense and move the chains with a combination of knowledge of the offense, knack of hitting a high percentage of passes as well as his ability to provide an extra dimension with his ability to run.
As the focus shifts to Fall Coach Muschamp has said that Brantley starts fall practice as No 1, but that the QB position, same as all positions, is still an open competition. Before Saturday that competition appeared to be a lopsided contest between an experienced, redshirt SR and two green Freshmen---Driskel and Jacoby Brissett. Today, that competition has one more name---Tyler Murphy.
Monday, April 11, 2011
RELAX...IT'S JUST A SPRING SCRIMMAGE
GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
In the aftermath of a 13-10 2011 Spring Game where the defense clearly outplayed the offense, not to mention another less that stellar performance by projected starting QB John Brantley---4-14, no TD passes, a few......alright,a lot....of Gator fans will, no doubt, feel the urge to hit the panic button.
In the area of most interest to Gator fans--the offense and especially the QB position--these are the highlights:
Orange (second team offense) QB Tyler Murphy was the leading passer with 68 yards on 7-11 passing and 1 TD pass. Murphy also had 6 rushes. The "star" of the game was Blue QB Christian Provancha (???) who hit WR Robert Clark for a late TD to seal a win for the Blue.....Unfortunately, Gator Fan, you read that right---the two most productive QB's Saturday were a scholarship guy most Gator fans have never heard of and a walk-on. On top of that, the leading RB was another walk-on, Malcolm Jones--15 carries for 63 yards, who started the Spring as a DB.
No wonder the confidence of some Gator fans is getting a little shaky....
Gator Gridiron urges restraint.
The aforementioned statistics represent the very reason that this Gator stopped going to the Orange and Blue game decades ago....because, despite the great anticipation and enthusiasm of Gator fans, the game is nothing more than a scrimmage with uniforms and live crowd noise. In fact, it is a scrimmage where unknown Gators often shine, only to never be heard from again.
Add to that the fact that in the early stages defense almost always is ahead of offense and large numbers of prominent Gators missed Spring practice due to injury and what you have is the bottom line that the Spring Game is meaningless.
Now, of course, that doesn't necessarily mean the Gators will be good next year, either.......
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS
In the aftermath of a 13-10 2011 Spring Game where the defense clearly outplayed the offense, not to mention another less that stellar performance by projected starting QB John Brantley---4-14, no TD passes, a few......alright,a lot....of Gator fans will, no doubt, feel the urge to hit the panic button.
In the area of most interest to Gator fans--the offense and especially the QB position--these are the highlights:
Orange (second team offense) QB Tyler Murphy was the leading passer with 68 yards on 7-11 passing and 1 TD pass. Murphy also had 6 rushes. The "star" of the game was Blue QB Christian Provancha (???) who hit WR Robert Clark for a late TD to seal a win for the Blue.....Unfortunately, Gator Fan, you read that right---the two most productive QB's Saturday were a scholarship guy most Gator fans have never heard of and a walk-on. On top of that, the leading RB was another walk-on, Malcolm Jones--15 carries for 63 yards, who started the Spring as a DB.
No wonder the confidence of some Gator fans is getting a little shaky....
Gator Gridiron urges restraint.
The aforementioned statistics represent the very reason that this Gator stopped going to the Orange and Blue game decades ago....because, despite the great anticipation and enthusiasm of Gator fans, the game is nothing more than a scrimmage with uniforms and live crowd noise. In fact, it is a scrimmage where unknown Gators often shine, only to never be heard from again.
Add to that the fact that in the early stages defense almost always is ahead of offense and large numbers of prominent Gators missed Spring practice due to injury and what you have is the bottom line that the Spring Game is meaningless.
Now, of course, that doesn't necessarily mean the Gators will be good next year, either.......
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