When the G-Men take the field Saturday against Nevada, there will be a lot of new faces on the offensive side of the ball that Tiger fans with be unfamiliar with.We’re not sure how the guys will perform until we put them in game situations,” said James Spady, offensive coordinator.
Although the defense has looked solid in fall practice, the offensive has seen its share of struggles.
Offensive football is and about precision,” Spady explained. “If one person does something wrong it throws the whole play off.”
Gone from last year’s 8-4 squad is three-year starting quarterback Brandon Landers and his 2,600 passing yards. Also gone is three-year starting center Taurus Cockrell and left tackle Randall Bennett.
Wide receivers Clyde Edwards, Reggie Jackson and Tim Abney, who accounted for 150 catches and over 1,800 yards must also be replaced. With server al new players at key positions, the Tigers are in a transition mode.
“These guys are very athletic and have a lot of talent,” Spady said. “However, they are just young and don’t understand the speed of the game.”
The quaterback position has been the number one concern in camp. Greg Dillion, J.P. Tillman and Brandon Crawford have battled for the position.
However, Head Coach Rod Broadway has announced that quarterback Greg Dillion will start Saturday’s opener at Nevada.
The quaterback position is not the only position that lacks experience. The offensive line is very young. Besides Revay Smith and Corey Williams, the other three offensive linemen have never played a game on the collegiate level.
“It is very difficult for offensive lineman to come in and pick up the speed of the game,” said Spady.
The running back position returns the tandem of Cornelius Walker and Frank Warren from last year. The two sophomores combined for more than 1,500 yards and will be relied upon to take the pressure off the passing game.
Even though the wide receiver position was depleted by graduation, according to Coach Spady, they have a wealth of athletes at this position. Nick Lewis is the only player that has college experience. Other players such as Terrance Dunn and Kiare Thompson will be relied on as go to guys in tough situations.
Coach Spady has no idea what the offense will do, but he will have an idea after Saturday night.