We had this thread last year, so let's open 'er up for 2011. Predict which Tigers you hope/expect will elevate their game this season. Thread rule: you can't pick Jefferson; that's too easy. I'm looking for Craig Loston on defense and, assuming no freshman emerges, Kadron Boone as the third receiver.
I am thinking that these guys have monster season's: DEFENSE Mo Caliborne Ryan Baker Michael Brockers I would say T-Rex but he already had a great year last year and thats an obvious OFFENSE Spencer Ware Russell Shepard D-Pete But if you are talking ZERO to HERO I have to say: Brockers & Boone
Offense: Chris Faulk, because he's probably got a freshman breathing down his neck and someone has to keep the QB upright from the blindside. Defense: Tharold Simon - he needs to be effective #2 guy to keep T-Rex free to continue being The Weapon...unless T-Rex is just that much better than him in coverage. I've heard a couple of the new guys (Micah Eugene being one), have been trying out T-Rex's role from last year on blitz packages. Freshmen: The ODB or Jarvis Landry because one of the frosh receivers will need to step up and be ready. Pre-injury, I would've bet the farm on Landry. Pre-injury, I would not have been shocked by Landry working his way into the #3 role because of his commitment to route running and the way he attacks the football when he catches. Didn't know The ODB was that kind of talent though... The Freak. I just have a feeling about this dude. I smell a #1 pick in his future.
In my eyes the two most obvious improvements will come from a. Spencer ware b. Ryan Baker i think these two guys become big time playmakers......among others
Those two names popped into my head when I was starting the thread, but I thought Baker was solid last year. Ware as well, though he didn't get the playing time of a Baker, but he gave us a taste of what to expect in the Cotton Bowl. Someone said Zero to Hero in another post.....that's where I was going with this.
I am really curious to see how he does, Josh left some big shoes to fill in terms of a relaible kicker
In no particular order: Baker-as the leader on D Loston-guy would hit his Grandmother if she had the ball JJ-hopefully the dazed and confused time is over with Crowtons exit Mingo- added some bulk this off season Downs-very quick off the ball and will be a plug in the middle 9-3-11 hurry the hell up!!!!!:tigereye:
