About the 60-point spread for this game, Jay Kornegay, director of the Las Vegas Hilton's sports book, said:
"I haven't heard of (a spread) like that in a long time. Probably since Barry Switzer was in his coaching heyday (1973-'87) at Oklahoma." (HA)
Friday, August 31, 2007
Quotes about Timmy Chang being the new starter in Hamilton
About losing his starting job to Timmy, Maas said:
"It's obviously disappointing. But it is what it is and I'm going to support it. I'm a team guy, I've been one all of my career. So it's no different now. I've started 24 games here and my record isn't very good as a starter. They've tried numerous things since we've been here, and none of it has worked, so I guess this is the next logical step. I can't argue it.
I prepare every week, I work very hard, I haven't changed anything here that I used to do in Edmonton. It just hasn't worked out on the field, as far as Ws are concerned. We're not in the business of entertaining, we're in the business of winning. And when you're not winning, these are the consequences that come with it. I understand that, and changes need to be made." (Hamilton Spectator)
HS Note: "Maas said that general manager Marcel Desjardins and head coach Charlie Taaffe asked him whether he felt he could remain here in a diminished role. If not, the Cats were likely willing to seek a place for him on another team."
About how his GM and coach asked him whether or not he could accept being the backup, Maas said:
"They told me they wanted me to be here if I wanted to be here, so I said, 'Yeah, I'd like to be here.' So that's where it left off. I'm a competitor. I have pride and all those other things that anyone who gets demoted has. I have mixed emotions about it for sure. The reason it's easier to deal with, I guess, is I don't have the ego to say I should be the starter ... and only me." (HS)
About how he's been demoted before, Maas said:
"In this league I've been starter, backup and third-string all in the same season. I understand how to deal with demotion. I understand how to deal with it when you get called upon again, after being demoted. I've chosen to deal with the situation every time I've been dealt it, by working harder, trying to improve my game, staying with it mentally and being supportive of the guy in there, and of the team.
People want to label you as a starter or a backup, but ultimately I'm just another player on this team. I want to win as badly as anybody. If making this change is going to help propel us to win ball games, I'm all for it." (HS)
About how being in the starting QB spot will result in his leading more, Timmy said:
"In the No. 2 position you don't open your mouth. You're watching. You observe the team. And that's what I was doing. Obviously, when you step into the starting quarterback position, it's a different mind set." (HS)
About being suddenly elevated from backup to starting QB, Taaffe said:
"You've gotta be yourself. But you've also got to understand that you've just taken a big move forward. And with it comes expectations and accountability. Tim's always been prepared, but now he's got to prepare even more. He has to make sure that's visible, that he's out front as the leader." (HS)
About taking on a leadership role, Timmy said:
"Leadership is something I'm going to have to take on. It doesn't just come right away. I'm not going to ask these guys to just jump aboard. It's something that you earn between the lines. I feel like I need to earn these guys' respect. That's extended to everywhere. The locker room, practice, the film room, everywhere. It doesn't stop." (HS)
About how people have always said that his mobile game was suited for the CFL, Timmy said:
"Even coaches mentioned it to me, that my game was real suitable for the CFL. Coming out of college, I didn't think of the CFL at first. I was trying to make an NFL team. But continuing to progress in my career, or in some cases regress - because I wasn't' getting assigned to a team - I looked to the CFL and thought that I could do something special there. It was in the back of my mind, and now I'm here. I really believe God has a plan for everybody, and I guess my plan is to be in on Monday." (HS)
About how he's got to restrain Timmy's urge to go deep too much, Taaffe said:
"The thing I've gotta get (Chang) to do is not want to chuck it 80 yards downfield every time." (HS)
About his appreciation for the patience that the team will show in him as the starter, Timmy said:
"I appreciate that they're going to be patient with me, and I thank them for that. But I want to put it in the end zone every time we get the ball." (HS)
"It's obviously disappointing. But it is what it is and I'm going to support it. I'm a team guy, I've been one all of my career. So it's no different now. I've started 24 games here and my record isn't very good as a starter. They've tried numerous things since we've been here, and none of it has worked, so I guess this is the next logical step. I can't argue it.
I prepare every week, I work very hard, I haven't changed anything here that I used to do in Edmonton. It just hasn't worked out on the field, as far as Ws are concerned. We're not in the business of entertaining, we're in the business of winning. And when you're not winning, these are the consequences that come with it. I understand that, and changes need to be made." (Hamilton Spectator)
HS Note: "Maas said that general manager Marcel Desjardins and head coach Charlie Taaffe asked him whether he felt he could remain here in a diminished role. If not, the Cats were likely willing to seek a place for him on another team."
About how his GM and coach asked him whether or not he could accept being the backup, Maas said:
"They told me they wanted me to be here if I wanted to be here, so I said, 'Yeah, I'd like to be here.' So that's where it left off. I'm a competitor. I have pride and all those other things that anyone who gets demoted has. I have mixed emotions about it for sure. The reason it's easier to deal with, I guess, is I don't have the ego to say I should be the starter ... and only me." (HS)
About how he's been demoted before, Maas said:
"In this league I've been starter, backup and third-string all in the same season. I understand how to deal with demotion. I understand how to deal with it when you get called upon again, after being demoted. I've chosen to deal with the situation every time I've been dealt it, by working harder, trying to improve my game, staying with it mentally and being supportive of the guy in there, and of the team.
People want to label you as a starter or a backup, but ultimately I'm just another player on this team. I want to win as badly as anybody. If making this change is going to help propel us to win ball games, I'm all for it." (HS)
About how being in the starting QB spot will result in his leading more, Timmy said:
"In the No. 2 position you don't open your mouth. You're watching. You observe the team. And that's what I was doing. Obviously, when you step into the starting quarterback position, it's a different mind set." (HS)
About being suddenly elevated from backup to starting QB, Taaffe said:
"You've gotta be yourself. But you've also got to understand that you've just taken a big move forward. And with it comes expectations and accountability. Tim's always been prepared, but now he's got to prepare even more. He has to make sure that's visible, that he's out front as the leader." (HS)
About taking on a leadership role, Timmy said:
"Leadership is something I'm going to have to take on. It doesn't just come right away. I'm not going to ask these guys to just jump aboard. It's something that you earn between the lines. I feel like I need to earn these guys' respect. That's extended to everywhere. The locker room, practice, the film room, everywhere. It doesn't stop." (HS)
About how people have always said that his mobile game was suited for the CFL, Timmy said:
"Even coaches mentioned it to me, that my game was real suitable for the CFL. Coming out of college, I didn't think of the CFL at first. I was trying to make an NFL team. But continuing to progress in my career, or in some cases regress - because I wasn't' getting assigned to a team - I looked to the CFL and thought that I could do something special there. It was in the back of my mind, and now I'm here. I really believe God has a plan for everybody, and I guess my plan is to be in on Monday." (HS)
About how he's got to restrain Timmy's urge to go deep too much, Taaffe said:
"The thing I've gotta get (Chang) to do is not want to chuck it 80 yards downfield every time." (HS)
About his appreciation for the patience that the team will show in him as the starter, Timmy said:
"I appreciate that they're going to be patient with me, and I thank them for that. But I want to put it in the end zone every time we get the ball." (HS)
Quotes about Amani Purcell
Happy that both of his UH-playing sons will graduate, Mel and Amani Purcell's father said:
"Two athletes in the university, two graduates, that's a hundred percent. They've achieved what Mom and Dad wanted them to do, and that's graduate using sports as a vehicle to get there." (HSB)
Needing just 12 credits to graduate with his sociology degree, Amani Purcell said:
"It's been a big deal for me. My parents have been preaching that since we were little -- go to college, get a degree and get a paying job. When I saw (Melila) graduate I was real proud of him and it made me determined to graduate even more." (HSB)
About how he still needs to prove himself because injuries have held him back, Amani said:
"I'm a senior, but I still have to prove I can play, so I'm trying to show more by my actions than my words. I'm trying to hustle a little bit harder and be more precise." (HSB)
About how Amani gained weight (15 pounds during the offseason) but kept his quickness, his cousin Hercules Satele said:
"When he first came (Purcell's strength) was his quickness. Now he's added the weight and he still got the quickness, but he's got some power with that too now." (HSB)
About how he'll understand his his Dad goes to more of Mel's games this year instead of his, Amani said:
"It always feels good to have my dad at the game. But I told him not to worry about me this year, told him to support Mel. It's his rookie year and he needs to see the family as much as he can." (HSB)
"Two athletes in the university, two graduates, that's a hundred percent. They've achieved what Mom and Dad wanted them to do, and that's graduate using sports as a vehicle to get there." (HSB)
Needing just 12 credits to graduate with his sociology degree, Amani Purcell said:
"It's been a big deal for me. My parents have been preaching that since we were little -- go to college, get a degree and get a paying job. When I saw (Melila) graduate I was real proud of him and it made me determined to graduate even more." (HSB)
About how he still needs to prove himself because injuries have held him back, Amani said:
"I'm a senior, but I still have to prove I can play, so I'm trying to show more by my actions than my words. I'm trying to hustle a little bit harder and be more precise." (HSB)
About how Amani gained weight (15 pounds during the offseason) but kept his quickness, his cousin Hercules Satele said:
"When he first came (Purcell's strength) was his quickness. Now he's added the weight and he still got the quickness, but he's got some power with that too now." (HSB)
About how he'll understand his his Dad goes to more of Mel's games this year instead of his, Amani said:
"It always feels good to have my dad at the game. But I told him not to worry about me this year, told him to support Mel. It's his rookie year and he needs to see the family as much as he can." (HSB)
Quotes about Colt
About how Colt makes plays look easy, RGM said:
"You have to be one of his receivers to understand. He does so many different things to make every play look easy." (HA)
About how comfortable Colt is in his offense, JJ said:
"This is his third year in this offense. He's very comfortable in it. Can you imagine if he had two years left? How many more records would he break?" (HA)
About how wanting to learn the offense better was one incentive in returning to UH, Colt said:
"I'm having fun with (the offense). That's why I came back, for that complete understanding of the offense, and to really take my game to the next level." (HA)
About how Colt goes through his progressions so quickly now, JJ said:
"He was a little slow in his read progressions when he first came in (as a sophomore in 2005). Now he gets through them pretty quick. It's 1, 2, 3, 4, throw." (HA)
Comparing Colt's speed of reading the progressions ot his experience, JJ said:
"When I was playing, I wasn't doing it as a fast as I wanted. It just comes with being in it for a while. He's been in it for a while. He knows what he's doing." (HA)
About how Colt goes through all of his reads to give each WR a chance on each play, Hawthorne said:
"He goes through all of his reads. It's not like he locks in on one guy. It's not like, 'I'm going to throw to my favorite receiver,' or 'this play is for one person.' " (HA)
About why he spreads the ball around so well, Colt said:
"My whole mentality is I want my receivers to know that no matter what the play is, even if it's not designed for them, there's a possibility they can get the ball. You never know when things are going to break down (defensively). I like letting my receivers feel any night can be their night." (HA)
About how Colt confuses the secondary with the looks he gives, QB coach Dan Morrison said:
"Everybody sees his eyes going there, and they start to pull there, then he throws to the other side. He can move corners and safeties and linebackers with his eyes. If he wants you to move, he'll look a particular way to move you. He's very good at that. He's very convincing." (HA)
About how Colt throws catchable passes, Hawthorne said:
"His passes are fast, but they're also soft. It's hard to explain." (HA)
About how Colt throws catchable passes, RGM said:
"The ball gets there fast, but it doesn't jam your fingers, like catching a bullet. That's the magic of Colt." (HA)
HA Note: "Brennan said the key is the way the football spins when he releases it. Morrison agreed, noting a fast-spinning pass is easier to catch."
About how he throws the football, Colt said:
"I've never been a very strong kid. I've never been able to lift a lot. Maybe that's one of the underlying qualities that karmically comes to my advantage because maybe I'm not that strong, but I'm really strong at throwing a football. But as hard as I throw it, it still comes with a nice, soft touch." (HA)
About how Colt throws where he anticipates the WR to be open, Morrison said:
"His passes are not high-miles-per-hour fast. But because his vision is so good, and he anticipates so well, he throws it earlier. He anticipates a window is going to be over here. When he releases the ball, the receiver is not even near the window. Because he's throwing ahead, the ball and the receiver get to the window at the same time. It makes it seem like the pass is faster than it really is." (HA)
JJ said that those qualities of Colt:
"show why he's a phenomenal quarterback." (HA)
"You have to be one of his receivers to understand. He does so many different things to make every play look easy." (HA)
About how comfortable Colt is in his offense, JJ said:
"This is his third year in this offense. He's very comfortable in it. Can you imagine if he had two years left? How many more records would he break?" (HA)
About how wanting to learn the offense better was one incentive in returning to UH, Colt said:
"I'm having fun with (the offense). That's why I came back, for that complete understanding of the offense, and to really take my game to the next level." (HA)
About how Colt goes through his progressions so quickly now, JJ said:
"He was a little slow in his read progressions when he first came in (as a sophomore in 2005). Now he gets through them pretty quick. It's 1, 2, 3, 4, throw." (HA)
Comparing Colt's speed of reading the progressions ot his experience, JJ said:
"When I was playing, I wasn't doing it as a fast as I wanted. It just comes with being in it for a while. He's been in it for a while. He knows what he's doing." (HA)
About how Colt goes through all of his reads to give each WR a chance on each play, Hawthorne said:
"He goes through all of his reads. It's not like he locks in on one guy. It's not like, 'I'm going to throw to my favorite receiver,' or 'this play is for one person.' " (HA)
About why he spreads the ball around so well, Colt said:
"My whole mentality is I want my receivers to know that no matter what the play is, even if it's not designed for them, there's a possibility they can get the ball. You never know when things are going to break down (defensively). I like letting my receivers feel any night can be their night." (HA)
About how Colt confuses the secondary with the looks he gives, QB coach Dan Morrison said:
"Everybody sees his eyes going there, and they start to pull there, then he throws to the other side. He can move corners and safeties and linebackers with his eyes. If he wants you to move, he'll look a particular way to move you. He's very good at that. He's very convincing." (HA)
About how Colt throws catchable passes, Hawthorne said:
"His passes are fast, but they're also soft. It's hard to explain." (HA)
About how Colt throws catchable passes, RGM said:
"The ball gets there fast, but it doesn't jam your fingers, like catching a bullet. That's the magic of Colt." (HA)
HA Note: "Brennan said the key is the way the football spins when he releases it. Morrison agreed, noting a fast-spinning pass is easier to catch."
About how he throws the football, Colt said:
"I've never been a very strong kid. I've never been able to lift a lot. Maybe that's one of the underlying qualities that karmically comes to my advantage because maybe I'm not that strong, but I'm really strong at throwing a football. But as hard as I throw it, it still comes with a nice, soft touch." (HA)
About how Colt throws where he anticipates the WR to be open, Morrison said:
"His passes are not high-miles-per-hour fast. But because his vision is so good, and he anticipates so well, he throws it earlier. He anticipates a window is going to be over here. When he releases the ball, the receiver is not even near the window. Because he's throwing ahead, the ball and the receiver get to the window at the same time. It makes it seem like the pass is faster than it really is." (HA)
JJ said that those qualities of Colt:
"show why he's a phenomenal quarterback." (HA)
Injury update
About how he won't get to play vs. UNC, Blaze said:
"The best thing is to rest it. I hate watching, but some things happen for a reason. I've been reading the Bible a lot lately, and that helps my patience. LaTech is a more important game." (HSB)
About how Blaze will miss the UNC game due to his injury, JJ said:
"I'm going to hold him out." (HA)
About Brad Kalilimoku, who will start in place of Blaze, GM said:
"He can play either side. He's got great speed and can hit and he's a real smart ballplayer. He's been playing all along and getting a lot of reps and been in our plans since the spring." (HSB)
About leaving practice early when his foot was stepped on by a teammate, Colt said:
"No worries, you know how when your foot gets stepped on and it hurts at first and it's annoying. I'm walking fine right now; there's nothing wrong." (HSB)
About how Ryan Keomake won't play vs. UNC, especially since he hasn't practiced with pads yet, GM said:
"He won't be suiting up (tomorrow). (Keomaka) gives us more depth and competition. We started out with out a lot of depth at the corner and now a good depth situation." (HSB)
About how he was taken out of practice on Wednesday and held out of practice yesterday because UH needed written verification of his associate's degree, Calvin Roberts said:
"It was posted on the Internet, but they needed the actual paper. They got it (yesterday)." (HSB)
"The best thing is to rest it. I hate watching, but some things happen for a reason. I've been reading the Bible a lot lately, and that helps my patience. LaTech is a more important game." (HSB)
About how Blaze will miss the UNC game due to his injury, JJ said:
"I'm going to hold him out." (HA)
About Brad Kalilimoku, who will start in place of Blaze, GM said:
"He can play either side. He's got great speed and can hit and he's a real smart ballplayer. He's been playing all along and getting a lot of reps and been in our plans since the spring." (HSB)
About leaving practice early when his foot was stepped on by a teammate, Colt said:
"No worries, you know how when your foot gets stepped on and it hurts at first and it's annoying. I'm walking fine right now; there's nothing wrong." (HSB)
About how Ryan Keomake won't play vs. UNC, especially since he hasn't practiced with pads yet, GM said:
"He won't be suiting up (tomorrow). (Keomaka) gives us more depth and competition. We started out with out a lot of depth at the corner and now a good depth situation." (HSB)
About how he was taken out of practice on Wednesday and held out of practice yesterday because UH needed written verification of his associate's degree, Calvin Roberts said:
"It was posted on the Internet, but they needed the actual paper. They got it (yesterday)." (HSB)
Quote from JJ about their preparation for the season
About their preparation for the season, JJ said:
"I feel like we had a good camp and everyone came together. We can only do the next step by playing games and making it through the tough times together." (HA)
"I feel like we had a good camp and everyone came together. We can only do the next step by playing games and making it through the tough times together." (HA)
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Quotes from Nate
Asked whether or not he's going to replay game situations in his head, thinking about whether he did enough to make the team, Nate said:
\"You always go back and do that, but I am not going to beat myself up like that. You play, watch it on film and continue to learn from mistakes that might have happened, and continue doing the things you do well." (PhiladelphiaEagles.com)
Asked if he will be happy ending the preseason with a 2-point conversion, if this is his last opportunity with the team this year, Nate said:
"Yeah, that was great. There are no hard feelings if I don't make the team. What you do is come in here and do whatever you can to help the team. I was fortunate enough to come out with an opportunity and convert a two-point conversion. It was something we practiced for and it was a good thing. I am all smiles about that. I am going to just enjoy the next day and a half and just see what happens." (PhiladelphiaEagles.com)
\"You always go back and do that, but I am not going to beat myself up like that. You play, watch it on film and continue to learn from mistakes that might have happened, and continue doing the things you do well." (PhiladelphiaEagles.com)
Asked if he will be happy ending the preseason with a 2-point conversion, if this is his last opportunity with the team this year, Nate said:
"Yeah, that was great. There are no hard feelings if I don't make the team. What you do is come in here and do whatever you can to help the team. I was fortunate enough to come out with an opportunity and convert a two-point conversion. It was something we practiced for and it was a good thing. I am all smiles about that. I am going to just enjoy the next day and a half and just see what happens." (PhiladelphiaEagles.com)
Quotes about Colt being the best QB in UH history
About Colt, former UH QB Michael Carter said:
“He’s probably the most accurate quarterback I’ve ever seen in person. Probably the most special. He’s a guy that (teammates) look to and trust. That’s the thing that made me play well, and helped Garrett (Gabriel) and the others play well. With that, it allows him to use his ability carefree and do his thing. He’s super comfortable.” (HSB)
About how some QBs have the ability to inspire their team, former UH QB Garrett Gabriel said:
“There are some guys the players want to play for. When he’s on the field you know your chances (to win) dramatically increase.” (HSB)
“He’s got it all." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Warriors quarterback coach Dan Morrison has lived and coached in Hawaii the past 26 years, following UH football closely, even before he joined Jones’ staff as a charter member in 1999. He says Brennan is the best in school history. It’s hard to argue. Morrison agrees that Brennan is in the top two to five in a lot of the categories you would use to compare QBs, like arm strength, quick release, vision. There are no deficiencies … nothing where you would call him “average” or “poor.” Maybe the bench press, but he’s working on that."
HSB Note: "An NFL scout said Brennan is the best quarterback in the West because his passes nearly always go where he wants them to go. And when circumstances don’t allow him to throw a dart, he can still make something positive happen."
About Colt, an NFL scout said:
“Colt can put the ball in a tight spot, and he has a stronger arm (than USC’s John David Booty). He’s a better runner and he can make a play when things break down because he is put in so many decision-making situations.” (HSB)
About how Rolo and Colt were competitors, Morrison said:
“I think Nick had a lot of that. Moxie is a good word for that. The grittiness that Colt and Nick have stems from being very competitive. They love to compete in all aspects of life.” (HSB)
“He’s probably the most accurate quarterback I’ve ever seen in person. Probably the most special. He’s a guy that (teammates) look to and trust. That’s the thing that made me play well, and helped Garrett (Gabriel) and the others play well. With that, it allows him to use his ability carefree and do his thing. He’s super comfortable.” (HSB)
About how some QBs have the ability to inspire their team, former UH QB Garrett Gabriel said:
“There are some guys the players want to play for. When he’s on the field you know your chances (to win) dramatically increase.” (HSB)
“He’s got it all." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Warriors quarterback coach Dan Morrison has lived and coached in Hawaii the past 26 years, following UH football closely, even before he joined Jones’ staff as a charter member in 1999. He says Brennan is the best in school history. It’s hard to argue. Morrison agrees that Brennan is in the top two to five in a lot of the categories you would use to compare QBs, like arm strength, quick release, vision. There are no deficiencies … nothing where you would call him “average” or “poor.” Maybe the bench press, but he’s working on that."
HSB Note: "An NFL scout said Brennan is the best quarterback in the West because his passes nearly always go where he wants them to go. And when circumstances don’t allow him to throw a dart, he can still make something positive happen."
About Colt, an NFL scout said:
“Colt can put the ball in a tight spot, and he has a stronger arm (than USC’s John David Booty). He’s a better runner and he can make a play when things break down because he is put in so many decision-making situations.” (HSB)
About how Rolo and Colt were competitors, Morrison said:
“I think Nick had a lot of that. Moxie is a good word for that. The grittiness that Colt and Nick have stems from being very competitive. They love to compete in all aspects of life.” (HSB)
Quotes about Blaze Soares
About how he discovered Blaze while watching film, LB coach Cal Lee said:
“When I saw somebody chase (Kealoha) Pilares down, I found out who that was, and it was Blaze Soares.” (HSB)
About Blaze, Cal Lee said:
“I think his strength is he’s got good size and he can run.” (HSB)
“Anytime you have a guy who can run to the ball, it’s something that’s hard to teach. You can work on your strength, but it’s hard to get speed.” (HSB)
About his ability to read the flow of the action quickly, Blaze said:
“To me it just comes natural. Just being out here, this is where I feel like I’m untouchable. It just clicks.” (HSB)
HSB Note: "Soares played in 12 games as a freshman and initially earned the praise of the coaching staff through his play on special teams. That eventually led to more time at linebacker and by the end of the season he had built enough trust to be left on the field in critical late-game situations. Among the highlights of his freshman year was a key fourth-quarter sack in Hawaii’s 42-35 win over Purdue."
About their new 4-3 defense, Blaze said:
“It’s going to be something. You never know where we’re coming from. Coach McMackin has some good schemes for us and I can’t wait to see what we can do. I love to blitz personally - that’s just what I love to do. I think it fits perfect, because I ran that in high school and the reads are all the same, just faster.” (HSB)
About Blaze, Cal Lee (who played with Blaze's grandfather at Kalani High) said:
“He’s got some good genes. Blaze comes from that Soares mold and has a great passion for the game.” (HSB)
“When I saw somebody chase (Kealoha) Pilares down, I found out who that was, and it was Blaze Soares.” (HSB)
About Blaze, Cal Lee said:
“I think his strength is he’s got good size and he can run.” (HSB)
“Anytime you have a guy who can run to the ball, it’s something that’s hard to teach. You can work on your strength, but it’s hard to get speed.” (HSB)
About his ability to read the flow of the action quickly, Blaze said:
“To me it just comes natural. Just being out here, this is where I feel like I’m untouchable. It just clicks.” (HSB)
HSB Note: "Soares played in 12 games as a freshman and initially earned the praise of the coaching staff through his play on special teams. That eventually led to more time at linebacker and by the end of the season he had built enough trust to be left on the field in critical late-game situations. Among the highlights of his freshman year was a key fourth-quarter sack in Hawaii’s 42-35 win over Purdue."
About their new 4-3 defense, Blaze said:
“It’s going to be something. You never know where we’re coming from. Coach McMackin has some good schemes for us and I can’t wait to see what we can do. I love to blitz personally - that’s just what I love to do. I think it fits perfect, because I ran that in high school and the reads are all the same, just faster.” (HSB)
About Blaze, Cal Lee (who played with Blaze's grandfather at Kalani High) said:
“He’s got some good genes. Blaze comes from that Soares mold and has a great passion for the game.” (HSB)
Quotes about Colt
About how his teammates keep him humble, Colt said:
"They do a good job of making sure whoever's getting a lot of the publicity during a certain time, they usually attack them, make fun of them, bring them right back down to humility." (HSB)
About how they tease Colt, Bess said:
"We have fun. We call him Mr. Heisman, Mr. ESPN. It comes with the territory." (HSB)
About Colt's popularity may be the greatest of any UH athlete ever, QB coach Dan Morrison said:
"I've been here 26 years, and people who have been here for a lot longer say that he is probably one of the most celebrated athletes we've had in Hawaii." (HSB)
About how he has to make sure that Colt gets away from the autograph seekers and media interviewers after a decent amount of time after practice so that he doesn't miss classes, Morrison said:
"We have to make sure he's out of here at a fairly decent time because he'll be here for a long time. He has a hard time saying no to people, and I hope the community understands that it can be overwhelming. ... We want to try to simplify his life to a certain degree." (HSB)
Asked if Colt or Dog the Bounty Hunter was the more famous person from Hawaii, JJ laughed and said:
"I don't know the stats on that. But I can't think of anyone from Hawaii right now more popular than Colt." (HSB)
About the media attention he got recently, Colt said:
"Everybody came in the same week and really ran me ragged. But that's over and done with and I've been able to practice and get ready and I'm back to my normal routine." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Though he finds himself repeatedly recounting his journey, Brennan hasn't backed down from addressing his past along with talking about his current station as the nation's top college passer and an NFL future."
About how he talked and talked about his past with all of those reporters, Colt said:
"It's just something I can't shy away from. If people are going to talk about it you might as well really try to stress for them to say the right things and get it accurate. Some people have, some people haven't. Time will tell." (HSB)
Happy that the media has been taking the time to learn the truth behind Colt's Colorado incident, his father Terry Brennan said:
"It's good to see some of the reporters have taken a little more time to look into the whole scenario. The Colorado thing happened and we're trying to move on. ... It would be nice to see it go away at some point, but that's part of the deal." (HSB)
About how Colt's story and play has been selling itself and UH hasn't had to do much, UH Assistant AD McNamara said:
"He's created the message, we're just the messengers. The DVD was a way for us to spread the news, but he told the story. If Colt wasn't the phenomenal story he was, you wouldn't see those types of numbers or that type of impact." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As the Warriors headed into game preparations this week, UH sports media relations structured Brennan's availability. He's scheduled to have a teleconference for national media on Mondays and will be available to local reporters after Wednesday practices only."
Feeling that Colt can handle all of the media attention, Morrison said:
"I think he's pretty good at keeping an eye on things and we're trying to help him with this stuff. He's always handled it with grace and sincerity." (HSB)
"They do a good job of making sure whoever's getting a lot of the publicity during a certain time, they usually attack them, make fun of them, bring them right back down to humility." (HSB)
About how they tease Colt, Bess said:
"We have fun. We call him Mr. Heisman, Mr. ESPN. It comes with the territory." (HSB)
About Colt's popularity may be the greatest of any UH athlete ever, QB coach Dan Morrison said:
"I've been here 26 years, and people who have been here for a lot longer say that he is probably one of the most celebrated athletes we've had in Hawaii." (HSB)
About how he has to make sure that Colt gets away from the autograph seekers and media interviewers after a decent amount of time after practice so that he doesn't miss classes, Morrison said:
"We have to make sure he's out of here at a fairly decent time because he'll be here for a long time. He has a hard time saying no to people, and I hope the community understands that it can be overwhelming. ... We want to try to simplify his life to a certain degree." (HSB)
Asked if Colt or Dog the Bounty Hunter was the more famous person from Hawaii, JJ laughed and said:
"I don't know the stats on that. But I can't think of anyone from Hawaii right now more popular than Colt." (HSB)
About the media attention he got recently, Colt said:
"Everybody came in the same week and really ran me ragged. But that's over and done with and I've been able to practice and get ready and I'm back to my normal routine." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Though he finds himself repeatedly recounting his journey, Brennan hasn't backed down from addressing his past along with talking about his current station as the nation's top college passer and an NFL future."
About how he talked and talked about his past with all of those reporters, Colt said:
"It's just something I can't shy away from. If people are going to talk about it you might as well really try to stress for them to say the right things and get it accurate. Some people have, some people haven't. Time will tell." (HSB)
Happy that the media has been taking the time to learn the truth behind Colt's Colorado incident, his father Terry Brennan said:
"It's good to see some of the reporters have taken a little more time to look into the whole scenario. The Colorado thing happened and we're trying to move on. ... It would be nice to see it go away at some point, but that's part of the deal." (HSB)
About how Colt's story and play has been selling itself and UH hasn't had to do much, UH Assistant AD McNamara said:
"He's created the message, we're just the messengers. The DVD was a way for us to spread the news, but he told the story. If Colt wasn't the phenomenal story he was, you wouldn't see those types of numbers or that type of impact." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As the Warriors headed into game preparations this week, UH sports media relations structured Brennan's availability. He's scheduled to have a teleconference for national media on Mondays and will be available to local reporters after Wednesday practices only."
Feeling that Colt can handle all of the media attention, Morrison said:
"I think he's pretty good at keeping an eye on things and we're trying to help him with this stuff. He's always handled it with grace and sincerity." (HSB)
Quotes about Colt, Herc, and Lafaele being named captains
About being voted by his teammates to be their captain, Colt said:
"It's a tremendous honor, especially because your teammates selected you. I love my teammates. I think I'm going to do a great job for them this year. They know I came back to play for them and to give them a great year. No matter how I'm going to do it, I'm going to give them a great year." (HA)
About how he worked hard to become the player that he is, Colt said:
"When I was growing up, I wasn't the talented athlete. I wasn't the kid everybody talked about. I wasn't an all-star. I was the kid who was never getting the attention and the love and respect. I respect kids who didn't get those things, but worked hard continuously. I was one of those kids. I see a lot of guys who don't get the credit, but come to practice every day no matter if they're fourth team or second team. It doesn't matter. They all deserve respect." (HA)
HA Note: "Brennan, Lafaele and Satele coordinated the players' summer workouts. It was a sacrifice for Lafaele, who is married with three children. Lafaele also attended summer-session classes."
Crediting his wife for sacrificing so that he can devote himself to the team, Lafaele said:
"That's why my wife plays a big part in what I do. If it wasn't for her, I don't know where I'd be. She has a lot of patience." (HA)
Praising Lafaele, JR said:
"He's a guy who's been a leader through the offseason and training camp. He's the kind of guy who exemplifies June's values for this program - hard work, unselfishness, and an understanding there's something in the program bigger than you are. Those are the qualities that are going to make Mike a success always." (HA)
About serving as a mentor to his teammates, Lafaele said:
"I treat all of these guys like they're my family. They have a special place in my heart. I try my best to take care of each one of them." (HA)
About being named captain, Hercules (who voted for Colt) said:
"I didn't ask for it, but I'm honored. I want to lead this team like the other captains." (HA)
About how Hercules is a "natural" leader, OL coach Dennis McKnight said:
"When your peers vote you captain, that's the highest honor. That's the dot on your exclamation point, that your teammates respect you, and they want, when we go into battle, for you to be in front. That's an honor, and Herc deserves it." (HA)
About naming Hercules as their 3rd captain because he received so many votes, JJ said:
"It was such a close vote. And Herc also has the respect of his teammates and is a great leader." (HSB)
About Colt and Lafaele, JJ said:
"Colt has all the intangibles. He's very competitive, and the players play for him. Michael works as hard as anyone and does a great job with everything. He's a coach on the field." (HSB)
About how they are just as excited opening with UNC as they were opening vs. Alabama last year, Lafaele said:
"It's about the same. This year we have a lot more talent, and people worked 10 times as hard as last year (in the offseason)." (HSB)
"It's a tremendous honor, especially because your teammates selected you. I love my teammates. I think I'm going to do a great job for them this year. They know I came back to play for them and to give them a great year. No matter how I'm going to do it, I'm going to give them a great year." (HA)
About how he worked hard to become the player that he is, Colt said:
"When I was growing up, I wasn't the talented athlete. I wasn't the kid everybody talked about. I wasn't an all-star. I was the kid who was never getting the attention and the love and respect. I respect kids who didn't get those things, but worked hard continuously. I was one of those kids. I see a lot of guys who don't get the credit, but come to practice every day no matter if they're fourth team or second team. It doesn't matter. They all deserve respect." (HA)
HA Note: "Brennan, Lafaele and Satele coordinated the players' summer workouts. It was a sacrifice for Lafaele, who is married with three children. Lafaele also attended summer-session classes."
Crediting his wife for sacrificing so that he can devote himself to the team, Lafaele said:
"That's why my wife plays a big part in what I do. If it wasn't for her, I don't know where I'd be. She has a lot of patience." (HA)
Praising Lafaele, JR said:
"He's a guy who's been a leader through the offseason and training camp. He's the kind of guy who exemplifies June's values for this program - hard work, unselfishness, and an understanding there's something in the program bigger than you are. Those are the qualities that are going to make Mike a success always." (HA)
About serving as a mentor to his teammates, Lafaele said:
"I treat all of these guys like they're my family. They have a special place in my heart. I try my best to take care of each one of them." (HA)
About being named captain, Hercules (who voted for Colt) said:
"I didn't ask for it, but I'm honored. I want to lead this team like the other captains." (HA)
About how Hercules is a "natural" leader, OL coach Dennis McKnight said:
"When your peers vote you captain, that's the highest honor. That's the dot on your exclamation point, that your teammates respect you, and they want, when we go into battle, for you to be in front. That's an honor, and Herc deserves it." (HA)
About naming Hercules as their 3rd captain because he received so many votes, JJ said:
"It was such a close vote. And Herc also has the respect of his teammates and is a great leader." (HSB)
About Colt and Lafaele, JJ said:
"Colt has all the intangibles. He's very competitive, and the players play for him. Michael works as hard as anyone and does a great job with everything. He's a coach on the field." (HSB)
About how they are just as excited opening with UNC as they were opening vs. Alabama last year, Lafaele said:
"It's about the same. This year we have a lot more talent, and people worked 10 times as hard as last year (in the offseason)." (HSB)
Random Warrior Quotes
About how Oregon "pressured" him to practice 2 days after he stopped wearing a medical boot after surgery to remove scar tissue in his left ankle, Dowling said:
"I didn't want to lose my senior year like that." (HA)
About how Rich Miano expressed the most interest in his transfer plans after he contacted several schools, Dowling said:
"I liked what he was talking about." (HA)
Dowling said that his left ankle is:
"100 percent." (HA)
HA Note: "He said he will play either cornerback or safety."
HA Note: "Keenan Jones has rebounded from a difficult offseason to become the top backup to right cornerback Myron Newberry. Jones was suspended from spring training after missing several meetings. He eventually forfeited his football scholarship. But during the summer, he was allowed to rejoin the team, although his scholarship won't be reinstated until January."
About how he met with Keenan Jones days before the start of training camp, GM said:
"(Head coach) June (Jones) had given him another chance, and I felt I should, too." (HA)
About how coach McMackin had him start fresh under him, Keenan said:
"He gave me a new start. He told me: 'As long as you're handling things off the field, not embarrassing the team, doing what you're supposed to do, the sky's the limit.' " (HA)
About serving as the top backup to Newberry, Keenan said:
"I go out there trying to make plays. When you make plays, you can work your way up the depth chart." (HA)
About playing RG during scout drills yesterday, especially when they run their "Tampa" play where the guard pulls and serves as a lead blocker, Estes said:
During scout drills yesterday. I asked (right guard) Larry (Sauafea), 'Go play center for me.' I wanted to play guard. I missed pulling. I miss running downhill and hitting somebody." (HA)
About how JJ told Blaze that he would miss the UNC game if he couldn't practice without pain today, GM said:
"Coach Jones will make the decision. But there's no reason to take a chance on him pulling something." (HA)
About possibly missing the UNC game, Blaze said:
"I'll let the coaches make the decision. I felt good running. If I play, I play. If I don't, I don't." (HA)
About Blaze's chance to play in the UNC game, JJ said:
"If he goes full-speed tomorrow, he'll play. If not we'll hold him out." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Jones said he would evaluate Soares on tape and make a decision."
About how he finally is officially a graduate assistant with the team, instructing the CBs and serving as a quality-control coach for the D, coach Duffield (who earned his bachelor's degree last month and had his transcripes finally certified) said:
"I don't have any problems accepting the G.A. title. Whatever I have to do to help June Jones." (HA)
About helping out wherever he can, Duffield (known for his recruiting skills) said:
"There's no ego issues. I'm here to do exactly what I'm told." (HSB)
About preparing for UH's offense, UNC coach Scott Downing said:
"We went down to Denver and practiced against the Broncos for a while." (HA)
HA Note: "The line was met with silence, as if the strategy might not be far-fetched. Downing said his team has studied the pass routes of UH's four-wide offense."
About how it is hard to prepare for the offense, Downing said:
"The critical factor is in practice, you can't replicate the game speed." (HA)
About how starting LB Asa Matthews won't play because of academics, UNC coach Downing said:
"We'll miss Asa's athleticism, but we've got three junior linebackers who have played quite a bit of football." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Also, starting cornerback Aaron Henderson will not play for an undisclosed reason, but is making the trip, UNC media relations director Heather Kennedy said. Henderson led the Bears with three interceptions last year."
About LWJ, who he coached when he was the specials teams coach at Nebraska 2 years ago, Downing said:
"Leon's a great guy and we had a lot of fun with him. I hope he remembers that if he's in the middle of a long run against us." (HSB)
"I didn't want to lose my senior year like that." (HA)
About how Rich Miano expressed the most interest in his transfer plans after he contacted several schools, Dowling said:
"I liked what he was talking about." (HA)
Dowling said that his left ankle is:
"100 percent." (HA)
HA Note: "He said he will play either cornerback or safety."
HA Note: "Keenan Jones has rebounded from a difficult offseason to become the top backup to right cornerback Myron Newberry. Jones was suspended from spring training after missing several meetings. He eventually forfeited his football scholarship. But during the summer, he was allowed to rejoin the team, although his scholarship won't be reinstated until January."
About how he met with Keenan Jones days before the start of training camp, GM said:
"(Head coach) June (Jones) had given him another chance, and I felt I should, too." (HA)
About how coach McMackin had him start fresh under him, Keenan said:
"He gave me a new start. He told me: 'As long as you're handling things off the field, not embarrassing the team, doing what you're supposed to do, the sky's the limit.' " (HA)
About serving as the top backup to Newberry, Keenan said:
"I go out there trying to make plays. When you make plays, you can work your way up the depth chart." (HA)
About playing RG during scout drills yesterday, especially when they run their "Tampa" play where the guard pulls and serves as a lead blocker, Estes said:
During scout drills yesterday. I asked (right guard) Larry (Sauafea), 'Go play center for me.' I wanted to play guard. I missed pulling. I miss running downhill and hitting somebody." (HA)
About how JJ told Blaze that he would miss the UNC game if he couldn't practice without pain today, GM said:
"Coach Jones will make the decision. But there's no reason to take a chance on him pulling something." (HA)
About possibly missing the UNC game, Blaze said:
"I'll let the coaches make the decision. I felt good running. If I play, I play. If I don't, I don't." (HA)
About Blaze's chance to play in the UNC game, JJ said:
"If he goes full-speed tomorrow, he'll play. If not we'll hold him out." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Jones said he would evaluate Soares on tape and make a decision."
About how he finally is officially a graduate assistant with the team, instructing the CBs and serving as a quality-control coach for the D, coach Duffield (who earned his bachelor's degree last month and had his transcripes finally certified) said:
"I don't have any problems accepting the G.A. title. Whatever I have to do to help June Jones." (HA)
About helping out wherever he can, Duffield (known for his recruiting skills) said:
"There's no ego issues. I'm here to do exactly what I'm told." (HSB)
About preparing for UH's offense, UNC coach Scott Downing said:
"We went down to Denver and practiced against the Broncos for a while." (HA)
HA Note: "The line was met with silence, as if the strategy might not be far-fetched. Downing said his team has studied the pass routes of UH's four-wide offense."
About how it is hard to prepare for the offense, Downing said:
"The critical factor is in practice, you can't replicate the game speed." (HA)
About how starting LB Asa Matthews won't play because of academics, UNC coach Downing said:
"We'll miss Asa's athleticism, but we've got three junior linebackers who have played quite a bit of football." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Also, starting cornerback Aaron Henderson will not play for an undisclosed reason, but is making the trip, UNC media relations director Heather Kennedy said. Henderson led the Bears with three interceptions last year."
About LWJ, who he coached when he was the specials teams coach at Nebraska 2 years ago, Downing said:
"Leon's a great guy and we had a lot of fun with him. I hope he remembers that if he's in the middle of a long run against us." (HSB)
Quotes about C.J. Hawthorne adjusting to UH's offense
About how adjusting to UH's offense isn't "so easy a caveman can do it," Hawthorne laughed and said:
“No, no. it’s definitely a lot harder than that.” (HSB)
About being more confident at WR, Hawthorne said:
“I thought it was a lot harder when (the offense) dictated - I enjoy dictating. I feel way more confident and this is where I started my whole career. I’m back where I feel I have the most confidence in myself.” (HSB)
About having Hawthorne's speed at WR, Colt said:
“With him and Jason on the outside, it’s very scary. The two guys on the outside are the guys who can threaten the defense and really stretch the field. With him out there it’s going to create more of a threat and really scare defenses.” (HSB)
About spending the entire summer in Hawaii to help his adjustment to the offense, Hawthorne said:
“It takes getting into the offense to really see it. Once you can really understand all the reads you’re on your way. If you can learn this offense, you can run anything.” (HSB)
About how Hawthorne's hard work over the summer has helped him learn the offense quickly, Colt said:
“There’s been a night-and-day difference as far as how he looks out there and how he understands the offense." (HSB)
About Lane, who is pushing him hard for playing time, Hawthorne said:
“We’re both capable, we’re both equally talented and whoever is in there is going to do a great job." (HSB)
“No, no. it’s definitely a lot harder than that.” (HSB)
About being more confident at WR, Hawthorne said:
“I thought it was a lot harder when (the offense) dictated - I enjoy dictating. I feel way more confident and this is where I started my whole career. I’m back where I feel I have the most confidence in myself.” (HSB)
About having Hawthorne's speed at WR, Colt said:
“With him and Jason on the outside, it’s very scary. The two guys on the outside are the guys who can threaten the defense and really stretch the field. With him out there it’s going to create more of a threat and really scare defenses.” (HSB)
About spending the entire summer in Hawaii to help his adjustment to the offense, Hawthorne said:
“It takes getting into the offense to really see it. Once you can really understand all the reads you’re on your way. If you can learn this offense, you can run anything.” (HSB)
About how Hawthorne's hard work over the summer has helped him learn the offense quickly, Colt said:
“There’s been a night-and-day difference as far as how he looks out there and how he understands the offense." (HSB)
About Lane, who is pushing him hard for playing time, Hawthorne said:
“We’re both capable, we’re both equally talented and whoever is in there is going to do a great job." (HSB)
Quote about Al Noga
About how Al Noga became an All-American because everyone could see him on National TV beating Michigan's star tackle, UH sports information director Eddie Inouye said:
”He was just beating him." (HSB)
”He was just beating him." (HSB)
Quotes from each position coach
About their QBs, QB coach Dan Morrison said:
“It’s such a unique thing to start with a guy like Colt who has captured so much national attention. Obviously he has had a great offseason getting ready for this particular year. He’s just so confident. Tyler has the same confidence and knows the system and Inoke is doing well too. The young kids are in the learning stage, but because the three veterans are so far along the kids are learning faster.” (HSB)
About their RBs, RB coach Wes Suan said:
“We’re looking for everybody to be on the same page and then we’re coaching clones. Everybody has got their different athletic ability, but as far as what we want out of assignment, technique, foot patterns, inside-out position and so forth, we want them all to be on the same page. They are all athletic. They are all competitors and they are all coachable.” (HSB)
About their WRs, WR coach Ron Lee said:
“We’re an experienced corps with all the returnees we have. Right now we’re working on the second unit. Thus far, Aaron Bain, Malcolm Lane and C.J. Hawthorne are doing an excellent job. Greg Salas is looking good. They’re getting better but we got a lot of experience with Davone, Ryan and Rivers so we’re going to be OK. We are working hard on not being complacent.” (HSB)
About their OL, OL coach Dennis McKnight said:
“John Estes and Herc (Satele) the two starters that do return, to me, are all-conference players. They’re dominant, they’re smart, they’re tough, they’re physical. We’re going to be OK (on the rest of the line) but we’ve got a lot of work to do. But they’re fighters, they’re scrappers, and I like what I see so far.” (HSB)
About their DL, DL coach Jeff Reinbold said:
“We have high expectation levels across the board. We humbly believe that we’re ready to make a statement. And our guys know they have a responsibility to live up to a legacy of great players here.” (HSB)
About their LBs, LB coach Cal Lee said:
“I’m happy with the entire group; starters, second, overall. Their enthusiasm is great, as it is for everyone about this team. But when you get players excited and enthused, you’ve really got something to work with.” (HSB)
About their secondary, secondary coach Rich Miano said:
“Three of our starters are back, and they came back ready to perform. That’s a good starting point. It’s been a dead heat at the open safety spot between Desmond and Keao. We also have Dane Porlas, who is experienced, and some exciting newcomers.” (HSB)
About their special teams, special teams coordinator Dennis McKnight said:
“Jeff and Rich and I will be working together. We need to improve special teams. In my opinion it cost us two games last year. Our job is for it to not cost us games. Special teams need to win games for us or at least hold our own.” (HSB)
“It’s such a unique thing to start with a guy like Colt who has captured so much national attention. Obviously he has had a great offseason getting ready for this particular year. He’s just so confident. Tyler has the same confidence and knows the system and Inoke is doing well too. The young kids are in the learning stage, but because the three veterans are so far along the kids are learning faster.” (HSB)
About their RBs, RB coach Wes Suan said:
“We’re looking for everybody to be on the same page and then we’re coaching clones. Everybody has got their different athletic ability, but as far as what we want out of assignment, technique, foot patterns, inside-out position and so forth, we want them all to be on the same page. They are all athletic. They are all competitors and they are all coachable.” (HSB)
About their WRs, WR coach Ron Lee said:
“We’re an experienced corps with all the returnees we have. Right now we’re working on the second unit. Thus far, Aaron Bain, Malcolm Lane and C.J. Hawthorne are doing an excellent job. Greg Salas is looking good. They’re getting better but we got a lot of experience with Davone, Ryan and Rivers so we’re going to be OK. We are working hard on not being complacent.” (HSB)
About their OL, OL coach Dennis McKnight said:
“John Estes and Herc (Satele) the two starters that do return, to me, are all-conference players. They’re dominant, they’re smart, they’re tough, they’re physical. We’re going to be OK (on the rest of the line) but we’ve got a lot of work to do. But they’re fighters, they’re scrappers, and I like what I see so far.” (HSB)
About their DL, DL coach Jeff Reinbold said:
“We have high expectation levels across the board. We humbly believe that we’re ready to make a statement. And our guys know they have a responsibility to live up to a legacy of great players here.” (HSB)
About their LBs, LB coach Cal Lee said:
“I’m happy with the entire group; starters, second, overall. Their enthusiasm is great, as it is for everyone about this team. But when you get players excited and enthused, you’ve really got something to work with.” (HSB)
About their secondary, secondary coach Rich Miano said:
“Three of our starters are back, and they came back ready to perform. That’s a good starting point. It’s been a dead heat at the open safety spot between Desmond and Keao. We also have Dane Porlas, who is experienced, and some exciting newcomers.” (HSB)
About their special teams, special teams coordinator Dennis McKnight said:
“Jeff and Rich and I will be working together. We need to improve special teams. In my opinion it cost us two games last year. Our job is for it to not cost us games. Special teams need to win games for us or at least hold our own.” (HSB)
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Quotes about Sopoaga
HSB Note: "Despite his imposing size -- 332 pounds spread over a thick 6-foot-2 frame -- Sopoaga has made only sporadic contributions during the past two seasons, when he started only three games. That convinced the 49ers to bring in Franklin during the offseason and make him the starting anchor in the team's conversion from a standard 4-3 defensive set. But that seemed to light a fire underneath Sopoaga, who has been carrying out his assignments with discipline while also displaying some play-making ability."
About his improvement this season, Sopoaga said:
"There's more improvement in my game because I'm reading the offense now. I'm at another level of learning the other team's offense and their game plan on the field. That's the biggest thing I needed to work on. I've been working hard doing the things that need to be done in order to help our football team win." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As the 49ers prepare for their preseason finale tomorrow at San Diego, Sopoaga appears to be battling for a starting job. He leads all San Francisco defensive linemen with nine preseason tackles."
Praising Sopoaga, Bryant Young said:
"We all knew what Isaac was capable of doing. It was just a matter of him really going out there and making his mind up to do it. You can tell he's really putting forth the effort and playing with a lot of confidence, and now he's putting it together on a consistent basis. He's making the plays that everybody thought he'd be making." (HSB)
About his improvement this season, Sopoaga said:
"There's more improvement in my game because I'm reading the offense now. I'm at another level of learning the other team's offense and their game plan on the field. That's the biggest thing I needed to work on. I've been working hard doing the things that need to be done in order to help our football team win." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As the 49ers prepare for their preseason finale tomorrow at San Diego, Sopoaga appears to be battling for a starting job. He leads all San Francisco defensive linemen with nine preseason tackles."
Praising Sopoaga, Bryant Young said:
"We all knew what Isaac was capable of doing. It was just a matter of him really going out there and making his mind up to do it. You can tell he's really putting forth the effort and playing with a lot of confidence, and now he's putting it together on a consistent basis. He's making the plays that everybody thought he'd be making." (HSB)
Quotes about Estes
About how important football is to his mother's side of the family, Estes said:
"Every male pretty much on my mom's side played football. I didn't really think about much else." (HSB)
HSB Note: "His uncle, Rockne Freitas, spent 10 years in the NFL as an offensive linemen for the Indianapolis Colts and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His cousins, Makoa and Makai Freitas, also played in the NFL, and cousin Kahai LaCount completed his eligibility last season for Hawaii."
About how his brother Patrick (who now plays for Nevada) inspired him, Estes said:
"All through high school it was him. I'd go to his games when I could and he taught me a lot. That's where I got the passion from." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As a senior at St. Mary's High School in Stockton, Calif., when Estes wasn't snapping the ball to current Arizona quarterback Willie Tuitama, he was being recruited hard by the Wolf Pack. His brother would drop hints when he saw him about playing in Reno, Nev., but he was easily the minority.
His extended family on his mother's side all wanted him to go to Hawaii. When LaCount started earning some playing time, Estes took note and watched Hawaii games late at night. He immediately noticed the new mean-looking black jerseys. He watched a team that liked to fly to the football and hit people with reckless abandon. It was such a wild atmosphere and he loved it."
About how he loved watching UH play, Estes said:
"I'd see all the crazy black jerseys flying around and guys with long hair coming out of their helmets, it was nuts. I knew I wanted to play there." (HSB)
About how their OL is still figuring things out right now, Estes said:
"Right now, we're just focused on knowing where we are going to be at all times." (HSB)
Contrasting his high school QB (now the QB at Arizona) and Colt, Estes said:
"Willie would always make fun of me and my big (butt). I don't get much of that from Colt." (HSB)
Happy with the progress the OL has made since Estes was healthy enough to practice again, McKnight said:
"We needed to get them playing together and you're seeing the improvements in practice. It's not about physical talent and ability, because they have got it. They just need to get the work in together." (HSB)
"Every male pretty much on my mom's side played football. I didn't really think about much else." (HSB)
HSB Note: "His uncle, Rockne Freitas, spent 10 years in the NFL as an offensive linemen for the Indianapolis Colts and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His cousins, Makoa and Makai Freitas, also played in the NFL, and cousin Kahai LaCount completed his eligibility last season for Hawaii."
About how his brother Patrick (who now plays for Nevada) inspired him, Estes said:
"All through high school it was him. I'd go to his games when I could and he taught me a lot. That's where I got the passion from." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As a senior at St. Mary's High School in Stockton, Calif., when Estes wasn't snapping the ball to current Arizona quarterback Willie Tuitama, he was being recruited hard by the Wolf Pack. His brother would drop hints when he saw him about playing in Reno, Nev., but he was easily the minority.
His extended family on his mother's side all wanted him to go to Hawaii. When LaCount started earning some playing time, Estes took note and watched Hawaii games late at night. He immediately noticed the new mean-looking black jerseys. He watched a team that liked to fly to the football and hit people with reckless abandon. It was such a wild atmosphere and he loved it."
About how he loved watching UH play, Estes said:
"I'd see all the crazy black jerseys flying around and guys with long hair coming out of their helmets, it was nuts. I knew I wanted to play there." (HSB)
About how their OL is still figuring things out right now, Estes said:
"Right now, we're just focused on knowing where we are going to be at all times." (HSB)
Contrasting his high school QB (now the QB at Arizona) and Colt, Estes said:
"Willie would always make fun of me and my big (butt). I don't get much of that from Colt." (HSB)
Happy with the progress the OL has made since Estes was healthy enough to practice again, McKnight said:
"We needed to get them playing together and you're seeing the improvements in practice. It's not about physical talent and ability, because they have got it. They just need to get the work in together." (HSB)
Quote from Sol
About being back at practice after missing several because of a strained hamstring, Sol Eliminian said:
"I'm still trying to take it easy. I don't want to get hurt further." (HA)
HA Note: "After stepping in to intercept a Colt Brennan pass during yesterday's 11-on-11 drills, linebacker Solomon Elimimian was greeted with chants of: "Welcome back, Solly." "
HA Note: "He had spent the offseason trying to improve his speed. With UH shifting from a 3-4 to 4-3 defense, the middle linebacker will need to cover more FieldTurf. Elimimian, who is 6 feet, lost five pounds and now weighs 225. This summer, he worked on distance runs in the morning and speed drills in the afternoon."
"I'm still trying to take it easy. I don't want to get hurt further." (HA)
HA Note: "After stepping in to intercept a Colt Brennan pass during yesterday's 11-on-11 drills, linebacker Solomon Elimimian was greeted with chants of: "Welcome back, Solly." "
HA Note: "He had spent the offseason trying to improve his speed. With UH shifting from a 3-4 to 4-3 defense, the middle linebacker will need to cover more FieldTurf. Elimimian, who is 6 feet, lost five pounds and now weighs 225. This summer, he worked on distance runs in the morning and speed drills in the afternoon."
Quote about Colt's insurance policy
About how he took out a loan for $28k to buy a $4 mil insurance plan from James D. Edgeworth and Assoc. that would protect him if a football-related injury was "detrimental to my draft position", Colt said:
"My dad looked into a lot of things and got the best deal for me. It was based on a projection from last year. I didn't want to have to be focused on it during the season." (HA)
HA Note: "The plan covers only the upcoming football season and post-season. While the value of Brennan's projected first-round contract is more than double the value of the insurance plan, Brennan said coverage of up to $9 million would have cost too much."
Asked how much he'd appraise Bess' value for insurance, Colt said:
"I'd put a lot of money down on those hands. Maybe $2 million." (HA)
"I think all my receivers are worth a couple of million each. They're worth it. As far as what we do, there is no one in the country who can match us. I honestly feel they're the best receiving corps in the nation." (HA)
"My dad looked into a lot of things and got the best deal for me. It was based on a projection from last year. I didn't want to have to be focused on it during the season." (HA)
HA Note: "The plan covers only the upcoming football season and post-season. While the value of Brennan's projected first-round contract is more than double the value of the insurance plan, Brennan said coverage of up to $9 million would have cost too much."
Asked how much he'd appraise Bess' value for insurance, Colt said:
"I'd put a lot of money down on those hands. Maybe $2 million." (HA)
"I think all my receivers are worth a couple of million each. They're worth it. As far as what we do, there is no one in the country who can match us. I honestly feel they're the best receiving corps in the nation." (HA)
Quotes about Farmer getting a scholarship
After walk-on Farmer got a scholarship, JJ said:
"He's very deserving." (HA)
About receiving an emotional boost when Rudy spoke to the team, Farmer said:
"That Rudy guy came here last week, and he said a lot of things about attitude. I've had the attitude. Why change? For me, the only thing that mattered was playing here. If you're doing it just for the scholarship, you're not on the team for the right reasons.
I've got more important things to take care of, like winning a championship and helping us become the best team we can. If you're playing for the scholarship, for yourself, that's an individual goal. It's a waste of a scholarship. There are plenty of kids out there who are team-oriented. That's the difference between a champion and what's not. It's the attitude." (HA)
About how Farmer will play at RB and is a member of ALL 6 of their special teams, JJ said:
"He's our best blocking back. He does a heck of a job. And he never complains. He just works hard." (HA)
HA Note: "Jones said he had planned to award the scholarship in January, but learned that one was available."
About how he fights for his position on a team, Farmer said:
"When I was in high school, I was an offensive lineman. I wanted to play fullback. My coach laughed at me. I moved, and was the fourth-string fullback. I worked my way to No. 1 fullback one summer on my varsity team. We ended up winning a championship. My whole career I've been fighting. I think if I were on top, I wouldn't know how to perform. I wouldn't have that drive, that want-to. When they put a guy in front of me, rather than being discouraged, it encourages me. I kind of like challenges." (HA)
About the 2 training-table meals each day and the stipend he'll be getting, Farmer said:
"Now I can pay for my school books." (HA)
"It's a happy day." (HSB)
About how he was close to getting a scholarship for a long time, Farmer said:
"(Coaches) told me I was close the last two years. I never got discouraged. I love all these kids." (HSB)
"He's very deserving." (HA)
About receiving an emotional boost when Rudy spoke to the team, Farmer said:
"That Rudy guy came here last week, and he said a lot of things about attitude. I've had the attitude. Why change? For me, the only thing that mattered was playing here. If you're doing it just for the scholarship, you're not on the team for the right reasons.
I've got more important things to take care of, like winning a championship and helping us become the best team we can. If you're playing for the scholarship, for yourself, that's an individual goal. It's a waste of a scholarship. There are plenty of kids out there who are team-oriented. That's the difference between a champion and what's not. It's the attitude." (HA)
About how Farmer will play at RB and is a member of ALL 6 of their special teams, JJ said:
"He's our best blocking back. He does a heck of a job. And he never complains. He just works hard." (HA)
HA Note: "Jones said he had planned to award the scholarship in January, but learned that one was available."
About how he fights for his position on a team, Farmer said:
"When I was in high school, I was an offensive lineman. I wanted to play fullback. My coach laughed at me. I moved, and was the fourth-string fullback. I worked my way to No. 1 fullback one summer on my varsity team. We ended up winning a championship. My whole career I've been fighting. I think if I were on top, I wouldn't know how to perform. I wouldn't have that drive, that want-to. When they put a guy in front of me, rather than being discouraged, it encourages me. I kind of like challenges." (HA)
About the 2 training-table meals each day and the stipend he'll be getting, Farmer said:
"Now I can pay for my school books." (HA)
"It's a happy day." (HSB)
About how he was close to getting a scholarship for a long time, Farmer said:
"(Coaches) told me I was close the last two years. I never got discouraged. I love all these kids." (HSB)
Quotes about Blaze's injury
Unsure if his left hamstring injury will allow him to play vs UNC, Blaze said:
"That's the big question. I don't know yet." (HA)
"I'd like to be out there with my boys, but I cannot. The shoulder is great, I had a great rehab. I don't know what it is with the hamstring. I hydrate good, stretch day and night. I don't have that burst now." (HSB)
About how he believes he got injured when he landed awkwardly during last Friday's drills, Blaze said:
"It was a freak accident." (HA)
About how he missed time last year with a pulled left hamstring, Blaze said:
"It's kind of the same thing, but I don't think it's as bad as it was last year. It's all knotted up." (HA)
About how JJ said he'd bench Blaze if his injury could have long-term implications, Blaze said:
"I didn't train all summer to sit on the side and watch everybody else play. I worked hard to play. I want to be safe and cautious, but not too cautious." (HA)
About how he reports for treatment every day, since he also has a history of hamstring injuries, Kalilimoku said:
"I'm trying to take care of my hamstring." (HA)
"That's the big question. I don't know yet." (HA)
"I'd like to be out there with my boys, but I cannot. The shoulder is great, I had a great rehab. I don't know what it is with the hamstring. I hydrate good, stretch day and night. I don't have that burst now." (HSB)
About how he believes he got injured when he landed awkwardly during last Friday's drills, Blaze said:
"It was a freak accident." (HA)
About how he missed time last year with a pulled left hamstring, Blaze said:
"It's kind of the same thing, but I don't think it's as bad as it was last year. It's all knotted up." (HA)
About how JJ said he'd bench Blaze if his injury could have long-term implications, Blaze said:
"I didn't train all summer to sit on the side and watch everybody else play. I worked hard to play. I want to be safe and cautious, but not too cautious." (HA)
About how he reports for treatment every day, since he also has a history of hamstring injuries, Kalilimoku said:
"I'm trying to take care of my hamstring." (HA)
Quotes from John McNamara
Confident that UH's attendance will grow this season, UH associate AD John McNamara said:
"I feel good about the fact that the fans are going to be there in one way, shape or form. Maybe we do have a percentage of (fans) that are, maybe, a little wait-and-see, in terms of how the season goes, but I think once they see the product on the field and, I think, as the season goes along, it is gonna build to a crescendo and we're going to have the type of following that we had the end of last year. Hopefully, that type of excitement will (be) reached a lot earlier than it (was) last season." (HA)
HA Note: "UH averaged 45,491 for its final two regular season home games of 2006 after averaging 27,749 through its first six home games. With the Warriors' first preseason national ranking (23rd in the Associated Press poll) and the return of Heisman Trophy candidate Colt Brennan, ticket officials were projecting to have 34,000 tickets distributed through sales and promotions and possibly 30,000 fans in Aloha Stadium Saturday."
Hoping that more people will come to the CSU game, McNamara said:
"I think (this year's) fans are pretty typical in terms of wanting to evaluate the product and I think the ones that do come out to the stadium on Saturday are going to be treated to a wonderful time both before the game and during. Hopefully, that word of mouth will get out and we'll have a better crowd for the next home game (Sept. 22 against Charleston Southern) and that will continue to build." (HA)
HA Note: "Pay-per-view season subscription sales are running slightly ahead of this point last year, according to John Fink, vice president and general manager of KFVE, which produces the games. Last year, 6,646 season packages were sold, resulting in about $2.7 million in revenue divided among KFVE ($1,325,000), Oceanic ($965,000) and UH ($410,000)."
HA Note: "Under its new medical policy, UH said it will restrict information about injuries to athletes in one of three categories — probable, questionable or doubtful — unless the player signs a waiver form for each instance. Probable will mean "likely to return to game or practice," questionable is "possible they might return but further evaluation is needed," and doubtful is considered "unlikely they will return to game/practice."
Citing federal laws, last year UH inaugurated a policy of not disclosing the medical condition of athletes other than to say whether the player was cleared to play unless a waiver was signed beforehand."
About the 2008 schedule, McNamara said about HF:
"I know he wants to get that completed as quickly as possible. I would anticipate some sort of announcement soon." (HA)
About their promotions to try to get more students to go to the football games, McNamara said:
"We've really made that a priority this year. I think the (student) response for football is going to be tremendous, probably the best we've ever seen. We want to make sure that translates into our other sports as well." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As of Monday, the school had sold 660 student season tickets for football, up from 514 last year, and 117 all-sports passes good for any 10 UH sporting events."
About how it is hard to get students to go to the games, McNamara said:
"It's tough when you have 3,000 residential students. Those challenges have been in place for a long time and we're trying to address the feedback we hear from students and structure a package for them." (HSB)
HSB Note: "UH students had accounted for 1,100 of the 28,800 tickets distributed for the Warriors' season opener against Northern Colorado -- which has been dubbed "Student Night" -- with a free ticket within the student sections promotion ongoing.
Students with a valid ID can pick up a free ticket at the Stan Sheriff Center box office through Friday. McNamara said the UH-Manoa chancellor's office is also sponsoring six buses which can transport 300 students each from the campus to Aloha Stadium for the Warriors' seven home games."
About how they are trying to get students to go to the UNC game so that they want to go all season, McNamara said:
"The whole goal is to get the students out early, show them how important they are to the electricity and excitement of the event. We want to do everything we can to entice the students to come on out." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Overall, UH has sold about 22,300 season tickets, up from 18,125 last year, and McNamara said the department is projecting to issue around 34,000 tickets for Saturday's game."
About how they might issue more than the projected 34,000 tickets, McNamara said:
"I think with everything we're doing over the next four days we might be a little north of that number." (HSB)
About how UH officials have met several times about Ian Sample's claims, McNamara said:
"They want to be expeditious but they also want to be thorough. They want to make sure they talk to all the necessary parties and make sure everything is evaluated and addressed." (HSB)
About why the NCAA hasn't contacted them yet, McNamara said:
"Typically, they let the institutions do their own review and see what they discover and if they feel it's necessary, then they'll step in as well." (HSB)
"I feel good about the fact that the fans are going to be there in one way, shape or form. Maybe we do have a percentage of (fans) that are, maybe, a little wait-and-see, in terms of how the season goes, but I think once they see the product on the field and, I think, as the season goes along, it is gonna build to a crescendo and we're going to have the type of following that we had the end of last year. Hopefully, that type of excitement will (be) reached a lot earlier than it (was) last season." (HA)
HA Note: "UH averaged 45,491 for its final two regular season home games of 2006 after averaging 27,749 through its first six home games. With the Warriors' first preseason national ranking (23rd in the Associated Press poll) and the return of Heisman Trophy candidate Colt Brennan, ticket officials were projecting to have 34,000 tickets distributed through sales and promotions and possibly 30,000 fans in Aloha Stadium Saturday."
Hoping that more people will come to the CSU game, McNamara said:
"I think (this year's) fans are pretty typical in terms of wanting to evaluate the product and I think the ones that do come out to the stadium on Saturday are going to be treated to a wonderful time both before the game and during. Hopefully, that word of mouth will get out and we'll have a better crowd for the next home game (Sept. 22 against Charleston Southern) and that will continue to build." (HA)
HA Note: "Pay-per-view season subscription sales are running slightly ahead of this point last year, according to John Fink, vice president and general manager of KFVE, which produces the games. Last year, 6,646 season packages were sold, resulting in about $2.7 million in revenue divided among KFVE ($1,325,000), Oceanic ($965,000) and UH ($410,000)."
HA Note: "Under its new medical policy, UH said it will restrict information about injuries to athletes in one of three categories — probable, questionable or doubtful — unless the player signs a waiver form for each instance. Probable will mean "likely to return to game or practice," questionable is "possible they might return but further evaluation is needed," and doubtful is considered "unlikely they will return to game/practice."
Citing federal laws, last year UH inaugurated a policy of not disclosing the medical condition of athletes other than to say whether the player was cleared to play unless a waiver was signed beforehand."
About the 2008 schedule, McNamara said about HF:
"I know he wants to get that completed as quickly as possible. I would anticipate some sort of announcement soon." (HA)
About their promotions to try to get more students to go to the football games, McNamara said:
"We've really made that a priority this year. I think the (student) response for football is going to be tremendous, probably the best we've ever seen. We want to make sure that translates into our other sports as well." (HSB)
HSB Note: "As of Monday, the school had sold 660 student season tickets for football, up from 514 last year, and 117 all-sports passes good for any 10 UH sporting events."
About how it is hard to get students to go to the games, McNamara said:
"It's tough when you have 3,000 residential students. Those challenges have been in place for a long time and we're trying to address the feedback we hear from students and structure a package for them." (HSB)
HSB Note: "UH students had accounted for 1,100 of the 28,800 tickets distributed for the Warriors' season opener against Northern Colorado -- which has been dubbed "Student Night" -- with a free ticket within the student sections promotion ongoing.
Students with a valid ID can pick up a free ticket at the Stan Sheriff Center box office through Friday. McNamara said the UH-Manoa chancellor's office is also sponsoring six buses which can transport 300 students each from the campus to Aloha Stadium for the Warriors' seven home games."
About how they are trying to get students to go to the UNC game so that they want to go all season, McNamara said:
"The whole goal is to get the students out early, show them how important they are to the electricity and excitement of the event. We want to do everything we can to entice the students to come on out." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Overall, UH has sold about 22,300 season tickets, up from 18,125 last year, and McNamara said the department is projecting to issue around 34,000 tickets for Saturday's game."
About how they might issue more than the projected 34,000 tickets, McNamara said:
"I think with everything we're doing over the next four days we might be a little north of that number." (HSB)
About how UH officials have met several times about Ian Sample's claims, McNamara said:
"They want to be expeditious but they also want to be thorough. They want to make sure they talk to all the necessary parties and make sure everything is evaluated and addressed." (HSB)
About why the NCAA hasn't contacted them yet, McNamara said:
"Typically, they let the institutions do their own review and see what they discover and if they feel it's necessary, then they'll step in as well." (HSB)
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Quotes about Sopoaga's improved play
About how Sopoaga was inspired for the last game when he praised him, coach Nolan said:
“I’m going to try to inspire him again this week. I heard him say when I said that about him, he has had some better games since he has been here. So it inspired him to play well. So the other day I told him he has another game in a row. Hopefully it will inspire him again. I said to him if I need to tell him he played well to inspire him, that’s what we do.” (49ers.com)
Praising Sopoaga's improved play, Nolan said:
“He is playing stronger at the line of scrimmage. He’s also keeping guys off the linebackers. And at the same time every once in a while, when they turn him loose, he’s made plays in the backfield a couple of times. Isaac is a very athletic, very strong, a powerful man and when he plays that way you’ve got something good."
"He’s a better player then he was last year right now and hopefully that continues. We’ve been here two years with Isaac and I’m just being hopeful that he continues to stay on track like he has.” (49ers.com)
About his improved play after their first preseason game, Sopoaga said:
“From my first game against Denver, I’ve learned something. I didn’t have the effort I needed to go out there with, but in the last two weeks I’ve got an idea of how I need to play. Coach Tomsula has really helped me a lot and over the last few months I’ve picked up on a lot of tools. He’s letting me loose out there and I am really enjoying that.” (49ers.com)
“I’m going to try to inspire him again this week. I heard him say when I said that about him, he has had some better games since he has been here. So it inspired him to play well. So the other day I told him he has another game in a row. Hopefully it will inspire him again. I said to him if I need to tell him he played well to inspire him, that’s what we do.” (49ers.com)
Praising Sopoaga's improved play, Nolan said:
“He is playing stronger at the line of scrimmage. He’s also keeping guys off the linebackers. And at the same time every once in a while, when they turn him loose, he’s made plays in the backfield a couple of times. Isaac is a very athletic, very strong, a powerful man and when he plays that way you’ve got something good."
"He’s a better player then he was last year right now and hopefully that continues. We’ve been here two years with Isaac and I’m just being hopeful that he continues to stay on track like he has.” (49ers.com)
About his improved play after their first preseason game, Sopoaga said:
“From my first game against Denver, I’ve learned something. I didn’t have the effort I needed to go out there with, but in the last two weeks I’ve got an idea of how I need to play. Coach Tomsula has really helped me a lot and over the last few months I’ve picked up on a lot of tools. He’s letting me loose out there and I am really enjoying that.” (49ers.com)
Quotes about the UNC game
About playing UH, UNC QB Dominic Breazeale said:
"It's football and anything can happen. I have the mentality that I am going to go in and win the game. I am going to play to the best of my ability, and I hope everybody else does too. And we just have a great outcome." (Greely Tribune)
About trying to keep UH's offense off the field. Breazeale said:
"Controlling the ball is going to take a lot of effort from out of the running game and the line and everything in general." (Greely Tribune)
About how their 6'2" and 6'3" WRs might be able to take advantage of UH's short CBs, Breazeale said:
"But they are quick, which is one thing that is not good for an offense. Their quickness is pretty amazing." (Greely Tribune)
Looking forward to facing Colt, UNC senior safety D. J. Craft said:
"This is one of the best opportunities you can have at this level, to be able to go and play a player of that caliber (Brennan) or a team of that caliber. We are about to get tested out and see what we are made of." (Greely Tribune)
About scheduling UNC, JJ said:
"We were looking for games, and Northern Colorado wanted to play, so that is how they are there." (Greely Tribune)
About how playing 2 FCS opponents won't hurt his Heisman candidacy, Colt said:
"I think there are a lot of great football teams out there that take on (FCS) opponents. This is also a great opportunity for (FCS) opponents to come and compete and get a shot at what that (FBS) atmosphere tastes like. So I don't think it is looked down upon." (Greely Tribune)
"It's football and anything can happen. I have the mentality that I am going to go in and win the game. I am going to play to the best of my ability, and I hope everybody else does too. And we just have a great outcome." (Greely Tribune)
About trying to keep UH's offense off the field. Breazeale said:
"Controlling the ball is going to take a lot of effort from out of the running game and the line and everything in general." (Greely Tribune)
About how their 6'2" and 6'3" WRs might be able to take advantage of UH's short CBs, Breazeale said:
"But they are quick, which is one thing that is not good for an offense. Their quickness is pretty amazing." (Greely Tribune)
Looking forward to facing Colt, UNC senior safety D. J. Craft said:
"This is one of the best opportunities you can have at this level, to be able to go and play a player of that caliber (Brennan) or a team of that caliber. We are about to get tested out and see what we are made of." (Greely Tribune)
About scheduling UNC, JJ said:
"We were looking for games, and Northern Colorado wanted to play, so that is how they are there." (Greely Tribune)
About how playing 2 FCS opponents won't hurt his Heisman candidacy, Colt said:
"I think there are a lot of great football teams out there that take on (FCS) opponents. This is also a great opportunity for (FCS) opponents to come and compete and get a shot at what that (FBS) atmosphere tastes like. So I don't think it is looked down upon." (Greely Tribune)
Quotes about Mouton and Newberry
About welcoming Mouton and Erik Robinson when they got to UH, starting CB Newberry said:
"I hosted Ryan and Erik (Robinson, who plays safety) when they came in. They told me they were pumped to just go up and meet early (before fall camp). It was pretty tight." (HSB)
HSB Note: "It helped that much of the UH secondary has common roots in the Texas junior college ranks -- Newberry and his fellow starting corner Gerard Lewis are former opponents at Trinity Valley and Tyler junior colleges -- and are now roommates. The warm welcome for Mouton was no indication that Newberry and Lewis, both 5-foot-9, were complacent in defense of their roles from last year. They had to earn the right to remain where they were, and secondary coach Rich Miano believes they did just that."
HSB Note: "For Newberry, it was a matter of getting comfortable in the system and increasing his ball awareness. Lewis needed to work on his technique. Miano rated them good, but not great, before they both hit the weight room hard over the summer, and worked on basics such as footwork."
About Newberry and Lewis, DB coach Rich Miano said:
"They have that small man's complex. They're very competitive, they want to succeed, they want to excel, be good football players and help us. I thought they raised their level before (Mouton's arrival) because they know he, and other guys, were coming in." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Holdover corners A.J. Martinez (injury), C.J. Hawthorne (switched to receiver) and Ryan Keomaka (awaiting academic clearance) are not factors, but returnee JoPierre Davis and junior college transfer Calvin Roberts, in addition to Mouton, had to be fended off.
About Newberry and Lewis, who weren't guaranteed to keep their starting spots in his new system, GM said:
"I feel very strongly about both of them. We've given them a lot of fundamental time to the positions, so they have really improved themselves as defensive corners." (HSB)
About the increased competition to keep his job, Lewis said:
"Somebody goes down, the next person, they will do the job. Only thing I was thinking was, do your job, and everything else pays off." (HSB)
Not worrying about the increased competition, Newberry said:
"I just try not to think about it. Other people coming behind me, I just play my game, and let it go from there. Me and Gerard had a lot of experience. We just keep getting better every day. We worked hard in the offseason, kept working, and when you keep working, it adds up." (HSB)
About how Mouton is basically their 3rd starting CB, Rich Miano said:
"Ryan will be a third starter for us, probably as soon as (Northern Colorado) is over. He'll play as much probably as the other two guys in this game, and we'll evaluate and see who the starting two are for next week." (HSB)
"I hosted Ryan and Erik (Robinson, who plays safety) when they came in. They told me they were pumped to just go up and meet early (before fall camp). It was pretty tight." (HSB)
HSB Note: "It helped that much of the UH secondary has common roots in the Texas junior college ranks -- Newberry and his fellow starting corner Gerard Lewis are former opponents at Trinity Valley and Tyler junior colleges -- and are now roommates. The warm welcome for Mouton was no indication that Newberry and Lewis, both 5-foot-9, were complacent in defense of their roles from last year. They had to earn the right to remain where they were, and secondary coach Rich Miano believes they did just that."
HSB Note: "For Newberry, it was a matter of getting comfortable in the system and increasing his ball awareness. Lewis needed to work on his technique. Miano rated them good, but not great, before they both hit the weight room hard over the summer, and worked on basics such as footwork."
About Newberry and Lewis, DB coach Rich Miano said:
"They have that small man's complex. They're very competitive, they want to succeed, they want to excel, be good football players and help us. I thought they raised their level before (Mouton's arrival) because they know he, and other guys, were coming in." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Holdover corners A.J. Martinez (injury), C.J. Hawthorne (switched to receiver) and Ryan Keomaka (awaiting academic clearance) are not factors, but returnee JoPierre Davis and junior college transfer Calvin Roberts, in addition to Mouton, had to be fended off.
About Newberry and Lewis, who weren't guaranteed to keep their starting spots in his new system, GM said:
"I feel very strongly about both of them. We've given them a lot of fundamental time to the positions, so they have really improved themselves as defensive corners." (HSB)
About the increased competition to keep his job, Lewis said:
"Somebody goes down, the next person, they will do the job. Only thing I was thinking was, do your job, and everything else pays off." (HSB)
Not worrying about the increased competition, Newberry said:
"I just try not to think about it. Other people coming behind me, I just play my game, and let it go from there. Me and Gerard had a lot of experience. We just keep getting better every day. We worked hard in the offseason, kept working, and when you keep working, it adds up." (HSB)
About how Mouton is basically their 3rd starting CB, Rich Miano said:
"Ryan will be a third starter for us, probably as soon as (Northern Colorado) is over. He'll play as much probably as the other two guys in this game, and we'll evaluate and see who the starting two are for next week." (HSB)
Blaze might miss the UNC game
About how Blaze's injured hamstring might cause him to miss the UNC game, JJ said:
"If he's not ready to go, I'm just going to hold him (from the game). We've got a tough couple of road games after this one, and we've got to have everybody available." (HA)
HA Note: "If Soares is unavailable to play this week, Brad Kalilimoku will start at strongside linebacker. UH's base defense employs three linebackers. But defensive coordinator Greg McMackin said the Warriors have four No. 1 linebackers — Soares, middle linebacker Solomon Elimimian, weakside linebacker Adam Leonard, and Kalilimoku."
About whether or not Blaze will play in the UNC game, GM said:
"If it's close, we're not going to play (Soares). I don't know that he's ruled out, we'll know more (today). If a guy doesn't practice ... We don't want to hurt him for the season. You always miss a guy like Blaze, but we've got a lot of guys, we've rolled those guys since spring as four starters. We're blessed with some good guys behind them." (HSB)
About Kalilimoku stepping in for Blaze, GM said:
"If one guy is out, the next guy will step up. That's the way we are. That's the name of the game." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin praised Kalilimoku, who has played all three linebacker positions and strong safety during his UH career."
Praising Kalilimoku, GM said:
"Kalilimoku is outstanding. (Linebacker coach) Cal Lee has done a great job with him. Kalilimoku is an outstanding hitter who can run. He gives you speed, and he'll hit you. He's a smart player." (HA)
"If he's not ready to go, I'm just going to hold him (from the game). We've got a tough couple of road games after this one, and we've got to have everybody available." (HA)
HA Note: "If Soares is unavailable to play this week, Brad Kalilimoku will start at strongside linebacker. UH's base defense employs three linebackers. But defensive coordinator Greg McMackin said the Warriors have four No. 1 linebackers — Soares, middle linebacker Solomon Elimimian, weakside linebacker Adam Leonard, and Kalilimoku."
About whether or not Blaze will play in the UNC game, GM said:
"If it's close, we're not going to play (Soares). I don't know that he's ruled out, we'll know more (today). If a guy doesn't practice ... We don't want to hurt him for the season. You always miss a guy like Blaze, but we've got a lot of guys, we've rolled those guys since spring as four starters. We're blessed with some good guys behind them." (HSB)
About Kalilimoku stepping in for Blaze, GM said:
"If one guy is out, the next guy will step up. That's the way we are. That's the name of the game." (HA)
HA Note: "McMackin praised Kalilimoku, who has played all three linebacker positions and strong safety during his UH career."
Praising Kalilimoku, GM said:
"Kalilimoku is outstanding. (Linebacker coach) Cal Lee has done a great job with him. Kalilimoku is an outstanding hitter who can run. He gives you speed, and he'll hit you. He's a smart player." (HA)
Random Warrior Quotes
Naming Tim Grasso their starting punter, JJ said:
"He's the best of what we have. I think he's an athlete. He's a gamer." (HA)
Told that JJ named him the starter, Grasso said:
"That's a first for me. It's awesome. It's something I've been working for. I worked my butt off all summer long for that moment to be named." (HA)
HA Note: "Grasso focused on two areas: his catch-to-kick time and the hang time of his punts. When punting in the end zone or near the goal line, the catch-to-kick goal is 1.6 seconds. He is permitted up to two seconds in other situations. For hang times, the recommended formula is a tenth of a second per yard. A 42-yard punt should have a hang time of 4.2 seconds."
About the hang time that UH wants, Grasso said:
"They want me to have a real high punt that goes 40 yards and gets fair caught every time than probably one that goes 50 yards but is not very high. I'm feeling my hang time is getting better. When we're focusing on hang time, a lot more punts are getting fair caught." (HA)
About Grasso, Dennis McKnight (who is in charge of the punters) said:
"I like him best because he doesn't look like your prototypical punter. He's a thick guy. He kind of reminds me of (former UH punter) Chad Shrout, and I loved Chad. (Grasso) is quick and compact. It's one, two, and the ball is out of there." (HA)
HA Note: "McKnight, who coaches the offensive line, said Brysen Ginlack, Clarence "Lafu" Tuioti-Mariner and Laupepa Letuli are the primary backups. McKnight said Ginlack can play both tackle positions. Tuitoti-Mariner is the top reserve at center and right guard. Letuli is the main backup at left guard. McKnight also said Aaron Kia is in the mix."
About how Ginlack has gone from the nickname "Bulla" to "Chewbacca", McKnight said:
"He looks like Chewbacca." (HA)
McKnight nicknamed Letuli:
"Wolfman. His hair is flying everywhere. He's wild and crazy, like a wolf." (HA)
HA Note: "Every day, it seems, starting right slotback Ryan Grice-Mullins is making a fashion statement. Last week, he had the bumblebee look, dressed dreadlock to shoes in black and gold."
About his fashion sense, RGM said:
"I got it from my mom." (HA)
HA Note: "It all begins with the shoes. He owns about 25 pairs of Jordans, Nikes and DCs in Hawai'i."
About how he matches his clothes to his shoes, RGM said:
"I look into my box. I tap a pair of shoes, and whatever color comes out, I go from there. I get a (matching) shirt and hat, and keep it going." (HA)
"He's the best of what we have. I think he's an athlete. He's a gamer." (HA)
Told that JJ named him the starter, Grasso said:
"That's a first for me. It's awesome. It's something I've been working for. I worked my butt off all summer long for that moment to be named." (HA)
HA Note: "Grasso focused on two areas: his catch-to-kick time and the hang time of his punts. When punting in the end zone or near the goal line, the catch-to-kick goal is 1.6 seconds. He is permitted up to two seconds in other situations. For hang times, the recommended formula is a tenth of a second per yard. A 42-yard punt should have a hang time of 4.2 seconds."
About the hang time that UH wants, Grasso said:
"They want me to have a real high punt that goes 40 yards and gets fair caught every time than probably one that goes 50 yards but is not very high. I'm feeling my hang time is getting better. When we're focusing on hang time, a lot more punts are getting fair caught." (HA)
About Grasso, Dennis McKnight (who is in charge of the punters) said:
"I like him best because he doesn't look like your prototypical punter. He's a thick guy. He kind of reminds me of (former UH punter) Chad Shrout, and I loved Chad. (Grasso) is quick and compact. It's one, two, and the ball is out of there." (HA)
HA Note: "McKnight, who coaches the offensive line, said Brysen Ginlack, Clarence "Lafu" Tuioti-Mariner and Laupepa Letuli are the primary backups. McKnight said Ginlack can play both tackle positions. Tuitoti-Mariner is the top reserve at center and right guard. Letuli is the main backup at left guard. McKnight also said Aaron Kia is in the mix."
About how Ginlack has gone from the nickname "Bulla" to "Chewbacca", McKnight said:
"He looks like Chewbacca." (HA)
McKnight nicknamed Letuli:
"Wolfman. His hair is flying everywhere. He's wild and crazy, like a wolf." (HA)
HA Note: "Every day, it seems, starting right slotback Ryan Grice-Mullins is making a fashion statement. Last week, he had the bumblebee look, dressed dreadlock to shoes in black and gold."
About his fashion sense, RGM said:
"I got it from my mom." (HA)
HA Note: "It all begins with the shoes. He owns about 25 pairs of Jordans, Nikes and DCs in Hawai'i."
About how he matches his clothes to his shoes, RGM said:
"I look into my box. I tap a pair of shoes, and whatever color comes out, I go from there. I get a (matching) shirt and hat, and keep it going." (HA)
Monday, August 27, 2007
Quotes about Sopoaga
Asked if he had seen enough from Isaac to make him feel confident that if it were needed, he could back up Aubrayo in a game, coach Nolan said:
“He’s a better player then he was last year right now and hopefully that continues. We’ve
been here two years with Isaac and I’m just being hopeful that he continues to stay on track like he has.” (SF49ers.com)
Asked what makes Sopoaga a better player now than he was last year, coach Nolan said:
“He is playing stronger at the line of scrimmage. He’s also keeping guys off the linebackers. And at the same time every once in a while, when they turn him loose, he’s made plays in the backfield a couple of times. Isaac is a very athletic, very strong, a powerful man and when he plays that way you’ve got something good.” (SF49ers.com)
Asked if there has ever been a thought of playing him at one of the DE positions, Nolan said:
“Right now, no. But it’s not like you couldn’t because our three guys are kind of interchangeable. As athletic as he is, you’d actually want him inside. He pops out there time and time again at practice and there’s been a time or two where he’s had to go out for an injury. But he’s more of an interior guy.” (SF49ers.com)
Not worried about the glamour of his job, Sopoaga said:
"I'm just working hard to help the team." (insideBayArea.com)
Planning to rotate Sopoaga and Franklin during the season, Nolan said:
"You always want to rotate your linemen. It's a wrestling match in there." (insideBayArea.com)
“He’s a better player then he was last year right now and hopefully that continues. We’ve
been here two years with Isaac and I’m just being hopeful that he continues to stay on track like he has.” (SF49ers.com)
Asked what makes Sopoaga a better player now than he was last year, coach Nolan said:
“He is playing stronger at the line of scrimmage. He’s also keeping guys off the linebackers. And at the same time every once in a while, when they turn him loose, he’s made plays in the backfield a couple of times. Isaac is a very athletic, very strong, a powerful man and when he plays that way you’ve got something good.” (SF49ers.com)
Asked if there has ever been a thought of playing him at one of the DE positions, Nolan said:
“Right now, no. But it’s not like you couldn’t because our three guys are kind of interchangeable. As athletic as he is, you’d actually want him inside. He pops out there time and time again at practice and there’s been a time or two where he’s had to go out for an injury. But he’s more of an interior guy.” (SF49ers.com)
Not worried about the glamour of his job, Sopoaga said:
"I'm just working hard to help the team." (insideBayArea.com)
Planning to rotate Sopoaga and Franklin during the season, Nolan said:
"You always want to rotate your linemen. It's a wrestling match in there." (insideBayArea.com)
Cameron talks about having a rookie starter at center
About starting a rookie center, Cameron said:
“It has its challenges, but every guy is different. For some guys it’s really hard, for some guys it’s not. I had started with a rookie four years ago and turned around and started with a rookie the next year. We went from rookie to rookie basically, and here we are again. We were able to maintain a high level of offensive play, so I think it depends on the guy. So when you’re choosing a potential guy who could start for you at center you better have a bright guy. You better have a guy that’s smart, you better have a guy that’s tough, you have to have a guy that wants to lead. It’s like you hear me say about the quarterback position, [center] is a leadership position. If a guy puts his hand on that ball and he’s not a leader, you’re in trouble. So those are things we’re looking for. But it has its challenges, especially in a division that covers the center. In some divisions it’s not as big a deal. When you’re uncovered it’s different. In our division, and in our practices, Keith Traylor is sitting right there. Training camp will be a good test for him.” (MiamiDolphins.com)
“It has its challenges, but every guy is different. For some guys it’s really hard, for some guys it’s not. I had started with a rookie four years ago and turned around and started with a rookie the next year. We went from rookie to rookie basically, and here we are again. We were able to maintain a high level of offensive play, so I think it depends on the guy. So when you’re choosing a potential guy who could start for you at center you better have a bright guy. You better have a guy that’s smart, you better have a guy that’s tough, you have to have a guy that wants to lead. It’s like you hear me say about the quarterback position, [center] is a leadership position. If a guy puts his hand on that ball and he’s not a leader, you’re in trouble. So those are things we’re looking for. But it has its challenges, especially in a division that covers the center. In some divisions it’s not as big a deal. When you’re uncovered it’s different. In our division, and in our practices, Keith Traylor is sitting right there. Training camp will be a good test for him.” (MiamiDolphins.com)
Quotes from Ikaika
Feeling more comfortable with each preseason game, Ikaika said:
“It seems like every game you get a little more comfortable. You get a little more confidence in your technique and everything, the more repetitions you get. It’s just the whole mentality. I thought I played okay – still, like I always say, you’re going to make mistakes.
But the key is to learn from those mistakes and get better. My first sack came – it is a thrill when you get one but I don’t want to stop there. I want some more – I want that feeling again over and over and over. That’s the plan, so I’m just going to keep working and work for those.
I am looking to improve in this last preseason game. Just improve from last week and improve every day. That’s my main goal, so that when I look back on this film I can be like, ‘I did this a lot better.’ If I come out even one percent better I’m improving. So I’m just going to work at that, stay focused, keep listening to the game plan, the coaches and just soak it all in. Hopefully I'll get some more sacks and make some more plays." (DetroitLions.com)
About how he'll play at DT in their last preseason game, Ikaika said:
“(I think I am going to get some snaps at tackle) – I think that’s the plan. It’s exciting; they see something in me at tackle and at end, so whatever they want me to do – if they want me to play quarterback I’ll try to play quarterback if that’s what they really want me to do. I won’t be a very good one but I’ll try." (DetroitLions.com)
Excited about the upcoming start of the season, Ikaika said:
“You’ve got to be excited (for the regular season) – you really do. I’m excited for these preseason games; I really am, but the regular season is coming up and that’s when it really counts. That’s when you’ve got to go full tilt and it’s going to be exciting because the team is looking really good; everybody’s coming along really well and it just seems like everybody’s clicking.” (DetroitLions.com)
“It seems like every game you get a little more comfortable. You get a little more confidence in your technique and everything, the more repetitions you get. It’s just the whole mentality. I thought I played okay – still, like I always say, you’re going to make mistakes.
But the key is to learn from those mistakes and get better. My first sack came – it is a thrill when you get one but I don’t want to stop there. I want some more – I want that feeling again over and over and over. That’s the plan, so I’m just going to keep working and work for those.
I am looking to improve in this last preseason game. Just improve from last week and improve every day. That’s my main goal, so that when I look back on this film I can be like, ‘I did this a lot better.’ If I come out even one percent better I’m improving. So I’m just going to work at that, stay focused, keep listening to the game plan, the coaches and just soak it all in. Hopefully I'll get some more sacks and make some more plays." (DetroitLions.com)
About how he'll play at DT in their last preseason game, Ikaika said:
“(I think I am going to get some snaps at tackle) – I think that’s the plan. It’s exciting; they see something in me at tackle and at end, so whatever they want me to do – if they want me to play quarterback I’ll try to play quarterback if that’s what they really want me to do. I won’t be a very good one but I’ll try." (DetroitLions.com)
Excited about the upcoming start of the season, Ikaika said:
“You’ve got to be excited (for the regular season) – you really do. I’m excited for these preseason games; I really am, but the regular season is coming up and that’s when it really counts. That’s when you’ve got to go full tilt and it’s going to be exciting because the team is looking really good; everybody’s coming along really well and it just seems like everybody’s clicking.” (DetroitLions.com)
Quotes about Le'Marcus Gibson
About how he could make their road trip roster and play in front of family and friends, Gibson said:
"I've been told that's a strong possibility." (HSB)
Note: From what I understand, Gibson could play in the UNC and La Tech games and STILL redshirt, so he could play in front of his family and friends, get some experience, and still redshirt.
About how Gibson is a smart player with a lot of talent, DB coach Rich Miano said:
"He got into Vanderbilt, which means he's smart. He's very conscientious and rarely comes back the next day and makes the same mistake if you correct him. Athletically, he reminds me of (former UH safety) Dee Miller, who was also from Mississippi." (HSB)
About how he noticed one of UH's starting safeties was a senior when he played the NCAA Football 2007 football game last year and then got interested in UH, Gibson said:
"I sent them a highlight tape, almost as a joke. I never thought I'd hear from them. Then I got a call." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Warriors defensive line coach Jeff Reinebold was relentless, while Gibson's home-state schools were lukewarm at best -- despite Gibson's 142 tackles last year at Harrison High School in Gulfport. Gibson had also played high school ball in Starkville, and done well."
About how he didn't receive recruiting attention from Mississippi State, Gibson said:
"But Mississippi State doesn't recruit Starkville. They don't recruit in their own backyard." (HSB)
HSB Note: "The Bulldogs, as well as Ole Miss, told the 6-foot, 195-pound Gibson to wait it out, that maybe something would become available. They also suggested he go to a junior college and maybe they'd scholarship him in two years. Gibson, a full academic qualifier, didn't find that choice appealing. He did get offers from Vanderbilt and Tulsa, but chose Hawaii."
About being at UH, Gibson said:
"I never thought I'd be here, but I'm glad I came." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Gibson has drawn rave reviews all the way up the coaching chain, so that helps, too. The safety position is crowded, but Gibson has shown enough aptitude to play this season as a true freshman. He's also on the No. 2 kickoff and kickoff-return teams and will likely see a good share of playing time Saturday as the No. 23 Warriors open against Northern Colorado."
About how he'd prefer to have limited playing time over redshirting, Gibson said:
"I was pretty confident coming in. They told me there was an open spot, so that was good motivation. I'd rather play a little here and there than redshirt. I'm not ready to sit down yet. If I have to, I'll take it as a good team member and learn the most I can." (HSB)
Asked what he needs to improve on, Gibson said:
"Alignment and assignment. Do that, and play fast and play hard." (HSB)
"I've been told that's a strong possibility." (HSB)
Note: From what I understand, Gibson could play in the UNC and La Tech games and STILL redshirt, so he could play in front of his family and friends, get some experience, and still redshirt.
About how Gibson is a smart player with a lot of talent, DB coach Rich Miano said:
"He got into Vanderbilt, which means he's smart. He's very conscientious and rarely comes back the next day and makes the same mistake if you correct him. Athletically, he reminds me of (former UH safety) Dee Miller, who was also from Mississippi." (HSB)
About how he noticed one of UH's starting safeties was a senior when he played the NCAA Football 2007 football game last year and then got interested in UH, Gibson said:
"I sent them a highlight tape, almost as a joke. I never thought I'd hear from them. Then I got a call." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Warriors defensive line coach Jeff Reinebold was relentless, while Gibson's home-state schools were lukewarm at best -- despite Gibson's 142 tackles last year at Harrison High School in Gulfport. Gibson had also played high school ball in Starkville, and done well."
About how he didn't receive recruiting attention from Mississippi State, Gibson said:
"But Mississippi State doesn't recruit Starkville. They don't recruit in their own backyard." (HSB)
HSB Note: "The Bulldogs, as well as Ole Miss, told the 6-foot, 195-pound Gibson to wait it out, that maybe something would become available. They also suggested he go to a junior college and maybe they'd scholarship him in two years. Gibson, a full academic qualifier, didn't find that choice appealing. He did get offers from Vanderbilt and Tulsa, but chose Hawaii."
About being at UH, Gibson said:
"I never thought I'd be here, but I'm glad I came." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Gibson has drawn rave reviews all the way up the coaching chain, so that helps, too. The safety position is crowded, but Gibson has shown enough aptitude to play this season as a true freshman. He's also on the No. 2 kickoff and kickoff-return teams and will likely see a good share of playing time Saturday as the No. 23 Warriors open against Northern Colorado."
About how he'd prefer to have limited playing time over redshirting, Gibson said:
"I was pretty confident coming in. They told me there was an open spot, so that was good motivation. I'd rather play a little here and there than redshirt. I'm not ready to sit down yet. If I have to, I'll take it as a good team member and learn the most I can." (HSB)
Asked what he needs to improve on, Gibson said:
"Alignment and assignment. Do that, and play fast and play hard." (HSB)
Quotes about Estes and Hercules Satele
Upset when he heard that a UH backed, not starting C John Estes, was named to the updated watch list for the Rimington Award as the best college football center in the US, OL coach Dennis McKnight said:
"In my opinion, right now, John Estes is the best offensive lineman in the country, bar none ... even with one arm." (HA)
HA Note: "Indeed, Estes is not whole, having suffered from a sprained left elbow since Aug. 6. It is an ailment that has kept Estes from practicing regularly."
About Estes' injured elbow, McKnight said:
"It's something he's going to have to deal with. He's going to have to be mentally tough and suck it up. It's going to be sore the whole year." (HA)
HA Note: "Except for a setback in the middle of last week, Estes has made progress since suffering the injury when he landed awkwardly during a drill. The concern is UH's most basic blocking technique — the punch, a two-handed jab to a defender's jersey number — requires full extension of both arms. Estes said he receives daily treatment on his left elbow. He also has changed his weight-lifting routine."
About how he lifts weights differently now, Estes said:
"Mostly I do shoulders. You can't really do any pressing. I'm trying to do low weights, high reps." (HA)
About limiting Estes' punches due to his injured elbow, McKnight said:
"We want him to save most of his punches for game night. He knows what he can and can't do to protect himself. He's like a baseball pitcher. He's not on a pitch count. He's on a punch count. I'm going to allow him about 30 punches a week (in practice). Team blitz (drill), that has to be live and full go. We do that three times a week. The rest of it is to protect yourself, and on Saturday night, 'let's go.' " (HA)
McKnight was an OL in the NFL and said that Estes can play at that level too:
"He has phenomenal leverage and balance. He's football smart and savvy. He understands positions of guys — where to take them, where to grab them, where to keep them in regards to him and the quarterback." (HA)
About serving as an unofficial assistant coach, Hercules Satele said:
"Coach McKnight has two jobs — O-line coach and special teams coach. I'm trying to help out the coach while he's helping out special teams. Hopefully, I'll take a little load off of him." (HA)
HA Note: "During blocking drills, when McKnight is working with the tackles, Satele will tutor the guards and centers."
About how Hercules has been teaching the guards and centets, McKnight said:
"Herc knows what we have to do as a group to get better. I trust Herc with my life. To have him take the centers and guards to work on something, that doesn't worry me at all." (HA)
About how Hercules led the OL during their summer workouts, McKnight said:
"He spent all summer organizing and leading these guys on his own." (HA)
About leading the OL, Hercules said:
"I don't mind. It's almost second nature." (HA)
"In my opinion, right now, John Estes is the best offensive lineman in the country, bar none ... even with one arm." (HA)
HA Note: "Indeed, Estes is not whole, having suffered from a sprained left elbow since Aug. 6. It is an ailment that has kept Estes from practicing regularly."
About Estes' injured elbow, McKnight said:
"It's something he's going to have to deal with. He's going to have to be mentally tough and suck it up. It's going to be sore the whole year." (HA)
HA Note: "Except for a setback in the middle of last week, Estes has made progress since suffering the injury when he landed awkwardly during a drill. The concern is UH's most basic blocking technique — the punch, a two-handed jab to a defender's jersey number — requires full extension of both arms. Estes said he receives daily treatment on his left elbow. He also has changed his weight-lifting routine."
About how he lifts weights differently now, Estes said:
"Mostly I do shoulders. You can't really do any pressing. I'm trying to do low weights, high reps." (HA)
About limiting Estes' punches due to his injured elbow, McKnight said:
"We want him to save most of his punches for game night. He knows what he can and can't do to protect himself. He's like a baseball pitcher. He's not on a pitch count. He's on a punch count. I'm going to allow him about 30 punches a week (in practice). Team blitz (drill), that has to be live and full go. We do that three times a week. The rest of it is to protect yourself, and on Saturday night, 'let's go.' " (HA)
McKnight was an OL in the NFL and said that Estes can play at that level too:
"He has phenomenal leverage and balance. He's football smart and savvy. He understands positions of guys — where to take them, where to grab them, where to keep them in regards to him and the quarterback." (HA)
About serving as an unofficial assistant coach, Hercules Satele said:
"Coach McKnight has two jobs — O-line coach and special teams coach. I'm trying to help out the coach while he's helping out special teams. Hopefully, I'll take a little load off of him." (HA)
HA Note: "During blocking drills, when McKnight is working with the tackles, Satele will tutor the guards and centers."
About how Hercules has been teaching the guards and centets, McKnight said:
"Herc knows what we have to do as a group to get better. I trust Herc with my life. To have him take the centers and guards to work on something, that doesn't worry me at all." (HA)
About how Hercules led the OL during their summer workouts, McKnight said:
"He spent all summer organizing and leading these guys on his own." (HA)
About leading the OL, Hercules said:
"I don't mind. It's almost second nature." (HA)
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Quotes about Ikaika's first NFL (preseason) sack
After getting his first NFL (preseason) sack, Ikaika said:
"That's what you're looking for, the first sack. When you get it, you want more." (Detroit News)
"That's what you're looking for, the first sack. When you get it, you want more." (Detroit News)
Quote from Samson about cut day coming
About the bond between their 24 rookies, Samson said:
"We're the only people that talk to each other. You can't talk to the vets yet. When we're out on the field, we're not friends. When we come back in here (the locker room), it's all cool." (Palm Beach Post)
"We're the only people that talk to each other. You can't talk to the vets yet. When we're out on the field, we're not friends. When we come back in here (the locker room), it's all cool." (Palm Beach Post)
Quote from Samson about run blocking
About how he's getting to be better at blocking for the run after not run blocking much at UH, Samson said:
“I’m learning how much I don’t know. But I think it’s going to come around.” (MiamiDolphins.com)
“I’m learning how much I don’t know. But I think it’s going to come around.” (MiamiDolphins.com)
Quotes about Colt's strive for perfection
About how he strives for perfection with his passes, Colt said:
"If I do that, everything will take care of itself. The wins, the statistics, the records, the accolades." (HA)
HA Note: "For all the numbers that surround Brennan — and he set 18 NCAA records last season — there are only two statistics he admits to checking: wins and completion percentage. The two go hand in hand for the Warriors, as Brennan's nation-leading 72.6 percentage in the 11-3 season of 2006 illustrate.
But if winning is the bottom line for Brennan, then completion percentage is what he figures will drive the No. 23-ranked Warriors there. Indeed, it is what he has hitched his career to and made his trademark."
About his accuracy, Colt said:
"It is what I pride myself on." (HA)
About striving for perfection, Colt said:
"When I'm out there on the practice field, unless the ball is completely perfect, then it is my bad. That's how I throw the football, and that's how I look at it. I just realized that if I could be a really accurate passer, that's my chance to keep on playing." (HA)
HA Note: "It has kept him playing, all right: a 68 percent completion rate as a senior in high school; 70 percent in junior college; 68 percent in his first year at UH.
They have kept him dreaming, too. The thought of a perfect game — no incompletions — teases him. Difficult to be sure for someone who has authored, on average, 41 passes per UH appearance. The closest he's come is a 32-of-39 (82 percent) showing in a 68-37 bombardment at Fresno State."
Hoping to throw the perfect game, Colt said:
"To go a whole game and not have an incomplete, well, that would be awesome. That would be so sweet." (HA)
About how Colt's accuracy is even better now, QB coach Dan Morrison said:
"he's more accurate. More accurate deep, too. He's always been accurate middle to short, but this year he is even more accurate deep." (HA)
About working all offseason on his deep passes, Colt said:
"I worked on it in the spring and all summer. I think it will show." (HA)
About the season, Coach Morrison said:
"He's ready." (HA)
"If I do that, everything will take care of itself. The wins, the statistics, the records, the accolades." (HA)
HA Note: "For all the numbers that surround Brennan — and he set 18 NCAA records last season — there are only two statistics he admits to checking: wins and completion percentage. The two go hand in hand for the Warriors, as Brennan's nation-leading 72.6 percentage in the 11-3 season of 2006 illustrate.
But if winning is the bottom line for Brennan, then completion percentage is what he figures will drive the No. 23-ranked Warriors there. Indeed, it is what he has hitched his career to and made his trademark."
About his accuracy, Colt said:
"It is what I pride myself on." (HA)
About striving for perfection, Colt said:
"When I'm out there on the practice field, unless the ball is completely perfect, then it is my bad. That's how I throw the football, and that's how I look at it. I just realized that if I could be a really accurate passer, that's my chance to keep on playing." (HA)
HA Note: "It has kept him playing, all right: a 68 percent completion rate as a senior in high school; 70 percent in junior college; 68 percent in his first year at UH.
They have kept him dreaming, too. The thought of a perfect game — no incompletions — teases him. Difficult to be sure for someone who has authored, on average, 41 passes per UH appearance. The closest he's come is a 32-of-39 (82 percent) showing in a 68-37 bombardment at Fresno State."
Hoping to throw the perfect game, Colt said:
"To go a whole game and not have an incomplete, well, that would be awesome. That would be so sweet." (HA)
About how Colt's accuracy is even better now, QB coach Dan Morrison said:
"he's more accurate. More accurate deep, too. He's always been accurate middle to short, but this year he is even more accurate deep." (HA)
About working all offseason on his deep passes, Colt said:
"I worked on it in the spring and all summer. I think it will show." (HA)
About the season, Coach Morrison said:
"He's ready." (HA)
Quotes about yesterday's live scrimmage
About their 20-play full-contact scrimmage between non-starting players, GM said:
"There was some good hittin' and a lot of fun." (HA)
HA Note: "Jones' usual rule is that his quarterbacks are not allowed to be hit or breathed upon heavily during practices. But with the top three quarterbacks — Colt Brennan, Tyler Graunke and Inoke Funaki — in the safety zone behind the sidelines, the no-contact restriction was lifted."
Freshman QB Shane Austin said about the scrimmage:
"I definitely got welcomed to college football." (HA)
HA Note: "In a cringe-inducing sequence, Austin fielded a high shotgun snap and, before he could set up to pass, was KO'd by the perfect storm of linebackers Po'okela Ahmad and R.J. Kiesel-Kauhane. On the over-load blitz, defensive end Elliott Purcell bracketed an offensive tackle long enough to give Ahmad an unobstructed path to Austin. Kiesel-Kauhane arrived at the same time."
About Austin, Kiesel-Kauhane said:
"I thought he wasn't going to get up." (HA)
About the big hit, Austin said:
"I don't remember the hit. I remember being on the ground. I heard everyone screaming, but I didn't really feel it. I'm sure I'll feel it tomorrow." (HA)
HA Note: "Later, Austin released a pass a nano-second before being floored by defensive end Antwan "Tua" Mahaley. Safety Erik Pedersen dropped a sure interception."
About his big hit on Austin, Tua Mahaley said:
"I didn't want to take it too easy. I want to get on the field this year. I had to show coach Jones what I could do. I'm tired of sitting on the bench." (HA)
HA Note: "Indeed, besides serving as entertainment for the fun-run participants invited to practice, the scrimmage was a last-chance audition for fringe players to break into the two-deep rotation.
The Warriors are off today. But starting tomorrow, the practice work will be divided this way: two-thirds of the reps will go to the starters, the remaining third to the second-string players."
About giving players down in the depth chart a chance to earn playing time, JJ said:
"We wanted to give some guys one last shot to prove they can play. We'll look at the tape (of the scrimmage), and maybe a couple of guys will earn their way on to special teams or some position." (HA)
HA Note: "Josh Leonard was a surprising choice to participate in the scrimmage. Starters Michael Lafaele and Fale Laeli and backups Keala Watson and Siave Seti have been told they will rotate at the two defensive tackle positions. But Leonard, who moved from defensive end two weeks ago, was expected to receive significant playing time. Leonard's stock improved dramatically on one play during the scrimmage when he sped past the guard and center to sack Jake Santos."
About how he's adjusting to the DT position, Josh Leonard said:
"I'm learning a lot. To be a good d-tackle, you've got to be physical for the first couple of steps, and then you work your secondary move to come free. I'm getting a lot of good coaching." (HA)
HA Note: "Leonard also is training to be a "coach." His girlfriend, Christa Sariaba, is expecting the couple's first child in September. They started Lamaze classes Wednesday."
About helping his girlfriend through her delivery, Josh Leonard said:
"I'll just try to comfort her, and do whatever I can." (HA)
HA Note: "Running backs Jason Laumoli and Mario Cox also are trying to ascend the depth chart. Laumoli, who is 5 feet 10 and 280 pounds, knocked down linebacker Micah Lau at the end of an 8-yard run. Two plays later, he caught a screen pass and snow-plowed his way for 14 yards. Cox, who is 5-11 and 230 pounds, took a handoff to the right, pirouetted to his left and headed straight for fellow NorCal resident JoPierre Davis."
About his collision with JoPierre Davis, Mario Cox said:
"J.P. talks a lot. He says he has all of these dreams of what he'll do if he gets a shot. I'm like, 'the next time you get a shot, I want to see you hit somebody.' He was like, 'all right.' When I was running, I pointed to him to make sure he knew I was coming. He didn't back down." (HA)
About how Davis used an ankle tackle to bring him down, Cox said:
"He showed a lot of courage. I respect that." (HA)
About how he tried to throw a block on Cox's run, 6' 183-pound Austin said:
"I lost my footing on that one. I wanted to get in there and get a little hit." (HA)
About the speed and hitting during their scrimmage, Austin said:
"This was my first time live in college, and it's a lot faster. I've got to get used to the speed. I never really got hit like that (in high school)." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Austin smiled through the blood, mud and other crud on his face after he got bounced around by second- and third-string UH defenders. He showed grit by coming back from the hard knocks to make a few plays, operating behind a patchwork offensive line of non-starters. And it's obvious he knows the first rule of quarterbacking -- never blame the blocking -- or the lack of it."
About the protection by their backup OL, Austin said:
"We're all new. Once we get some experience we'll be fine." (HSB)
About the hits that Austin took, JJ said:
"I heard he took a couple of shots. His time will come this spring, he'll get a chance to throw a lot of balls. Jake (Santos) looks like he'll stand in there, too." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Santos, a junior-college transfer, looked a little more comfortable in the crumbling pocket. But on many plays there was little the QBs could do but duck and chuck. Freshman linebacker Po'okela Ahmad pounded Austin the hardest on a blitz, and later made a nice play in coverage. The Kapolei grad keeps showing up large in practice. With many of the veteran linebackers gimpy, he could see some significant action in Saturday's opener against Northern Colorado."
Ahmad, who might have been the only player who got to go "live" twice, including last week's scrimmage at Aloha Stadium, said about yesterday's scrimmage:
"Coach wanted to look again and see if we're ready to play the game at this level. I need to stay consistent during practices and remember the coverages. I'm getting back into the groove of football." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Others earned VIP cards to the Katoosh Klub, including freshman safety Le'Marcus Gibson, for getting low enough to give as much as he got from 280-pound running back Jason Laumoli."
About bringing down Laumoli, Gibson said:
"I saw big 45 and knew I had to get the legs." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Junior defensive tackle Josh Leonard can claim the rarity of rarities after bagging Santos -- a real-live sack of a UH quarterback in practice. Freshman Kenny Estes picked off an Austin pass, and linebacker R.J. Kiesel-Kauhane, safety Erik Robinson and corners Ryan Perry and JoPierre Davis turned in noisy hits while the starters hooted from the sidelines."
About the live scrimmage, Ryan Perry said:
"This was for some of us guys who didn't have the opportunity to show what we could do during camp." (HSB)
About how Bess will be their #1 punt returner and Rivers will be their #1 kick returner vs. UNC, JJ said:
"We'll let them do it the first game and see how it goes. We won't do it every game." (HSB)
HSb Note: "Cornerback Ryan Mouton worked with Rivers yesterday as the second deep man on kickoffs."
"There was some good hittin' and a lot of fun." (HA)
HA Note: "Jones' usual rule is that his quarterbacks are not allowed to be hit or breathed upon heavily during practices. But with the top three quarterbacks — Colt Brennan, Tyler Graunke and Inoke Funaki — in the safety zone behind the sidelines, the no-contact restriction was lifted."
Freshman QB Shane Austin said about the scrimmage:
"I definitely got welcomed to college football." (HA)
HA Note: "In a cringe-inducing sequence, Austin fielded a high shotgun snap and, before he could set up to pass, was KO'd by the perfect storm of linebackers Po'okela Ahmad and R.J. Kiesel-Kauhane. On the over-load blitz, defensive end Elliott Purcell bracketed an offensive tackle long enough to give Ahmad an unobstructed path to Austin. Kiesel-Kauhane arrived at the same time."
About Austin, Kiesel-Kauhane said:
"I thought he wasn't going to get up." (HA)
About the big hit, Austin said:
"I don't remember the hit. I remember being on the ground. I heard everyone screaming, but I didn't really feel it. I'm sure I'll feel it tomorrow." (HA)
HA Note: "Later, Austin released a pass a nano-second before being floored by defensive end Antwan "Tua" Mahaley. Safety Erik Pedersen dropped a sure interception."
About his big hit on Austin, Tua Mahaley said:
"I didn't want to take it too easy. I want to get on the field this year. I had to show coach Jones what I could do. I'm tired of sitting on the bench." (HA)
HA Note: "Indeed, besides serving as entertainment for the fun-run participants invited to practice, the scrimmage was a last-chance audition for fringe players to break into the two-deep rotation.
The Warriors are off today. But starting tomorrow, the practice work will be divided this way: two-thirds of the reps will go to the starters, the remaining third to the second-string players."
About giving players down in the depth chart a chance to earn playing time, JJ said:
"We wanted to give some guys one last shot to prove they can play. We'll look at the tape (of the scrimmage), and maybe a couple of guys will earn their way on to special teams or some position." (HA)
HA Note: "Josh Leonard was a surprising choice to participate in the scrimmage. Starters Michael Lafaele and Fale Laeli and backups Keala Watson and Siave Seti have been told they will rotate at the two defensive tackle positions. But Leonard, who moved from defensive end two weeks ago, was expected to receive significant playing time. Leonard's stock improved dramatically on one play during the scrimmage when he sped past the guard and center to sack Jake Santos."
About how he's adjusting to the DT position, Josh Leonard said:
"I'm learning a lot. To be a good d-tackle, you've got to be physical for the first couple of steps, and then you work your secondary move to come free. I'm getting a lot of good coaching." (HA)
HA Note: "Leonard also is training to be a "coach." His girlfriend, Christa Sariaba, is expecting the couple's first child in September. They started Lamaze classes Wednesday."
About helping his girlfriend through her delivery, Josh Leonard said:
"I'll just try to comfort her, and do whatever I can." (HA)
HA Note: "Running backs Jason Laumoli and Mario Cox also are trying to ascend the depth chart. Laumoli, who is 5 feet 10 and 280 pounds, knocked down linebacker Micah Lau at the end of an 8-yard run. Two plays later, he caught a screen pass and snow-plowed his way for 14 yards. Cox, who is 5-11 and 230 pounds, took a handoff to the right, pirouetted to his left and headed straight for fellow NorCal resident JoPierre Davis."
About his collision with JoPierre Davis, Mario Cox said:
"J.P. talks a lot. He says he has all of these dreams of what he'll do if he gets a shot. I'm like, 'the next time you get a shot, I want to see you hit somebody.' He was like, 'all right.' When I was running, I pointed to him to make sure he knew I was coming. He didn't back down." (HA)
About how Davis used an ankle tackle to bring him down, Cox said:
"He showed a lot of courage. I respect that." (HA)
About how he tried to throw a block on Cox's run, 6' 183-pound Austin said:
"I lost my footing on that one. I wanted to get in there and get a little hit." (HA)
About the speed and hitting during their scrimmage, Austin said:
"This was my first time live in college, and it's a lot faster. I've got to get used to the speed. I never really got hit like that (in high school)." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Austin smiled through the blood, mud and other crud on his face after he got bounced around by second- and third-string UH defenders. He showed grit by coming back from the hard knocks to make a few plays, operating behind a patchwork offensive line of non-starters. And it's obvious he knows the first rule of quarterbacking -- never blame the blocking -- or the lack of it."
About the protection by their backup OL, Austin said:
"We're all new. Once we get some experience we'll be fine." (HSB)
About the hits that Austin took, JJ said:
"I heard he took a couple of shots. His time will come this spring, he'll get a chance to throw a lot of balls. Jake (Santos) looks like he'll stand in there, too." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Santos, a junior-college transfer, looked a little more comfortable in the crumbling pocket. But on many plays there was little the QBs could do but duck and chuck. Freshman linebacker Po'okela Ahmad pounded Austin the hardest on a blitz, and later made a nice play in coverage. The Kapolei grad keeps showing up large in practice. With many of the veteran linebackers gimpy, he could see some significant action in Saturday's opener against Northern Colorado."
Ahmad, who might have been the only player who got to go "live" twice, including last week's scrimmage at Aloha Stadium, said about yesterday's scrimmage:
"Coach wanted to look again and see if we're ready to play the game at this level. I need to stay consistent during practices and remember the coverages. I'm getting back into the groove of football." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Others earned VIP cards to the Katoosh Klub, including freshman safety Le'Marcus Gibson, for getting low enough to give as much as he got from 280-pound running back Jason Laumoli."
About bringing down Laumoli, Gibson said:
"I saw big 45 and knew I had to get the legs." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Junior defensive tackle Josh Leonard can claim the rarity of rarities after bagging Santos -- a real-live sack of a UH quarterback in practice. Freshman Kenny Estes picked off an Austin pass, and linebacker R.J. Kiesel-Kauhane, safety Erik Robinson and corners Ryan Perry and JoPierre Davis turned in noisy hits while the starters hooted from the sidelines."
About the live scrimmage, Ryan Perry said:
"This was for some of us guys who didn't have the opportunity to show what we could do during camp." (HSB)
About how Bess will be their #1 punt returner and Rivers will be their #1 kick returner vs. UNC, JJ said:
"We'll let them do it the first game and see how it goes. We won't do it every game." (HSB)
HSb Note: "Cornerback Ryan Mouton worked with Rivers yesterday as the second deep man on kickoffs."
Mouton moves up the depth chart, Keahi Watson quote
About moving up the depth chart quickly, Ryan Mouton said:
"I'm trying to get in there and keep working. You have to compete for the job." (HA)
HA Note: "Mouton is used to competition. Blinn holds up to four football tryouts each year, drawing about 75 players each session."
About the fierce competition at Blinn, Mouton said:
"There were a lot of people fighting to get on the team." (HA)
About how a lot of schools didn't recruit him because they worried he wouldn't earn enough credits to be eligible, Mouton said:
"There were a lot of schools that doubted me. Hawai'i stuck with me. I told them I'd make it. I said it, and I believed it. I was kind of lazy before. You know how that first year of college is. You get behind because you have so much freedom. I pulled it together." (HA)
About being cleared to practice, DT Keahi Watson said:
"All of the paperwork is done." (HA)
About how he was told he neededto do the club-technique drill perfectly before the DL could get water and he nailed the technique, Keahi said:
"It's all in fun." (HA)
"I'm trying to get in there and keep working. You have to compete for the job." (HA)
HA Note: "Mouton is used to competition. Blinn holds up to four football tryouts each year, drawing about 75 players each session."
About the fierce competition at Blinn, Mouton said:
"There were a lot of people fighting to get on the team." (HA)
About how a lot of schools didn't recruit him because they worried he wouldn't earn enough credits to be eligible, Mouton said:
"There were a lot of schools that doubted me. Hawai'i stuck with me. I told them I'd make it. I said it, and I believed it. I was kind of lazy before. You know how that first year of college is. You get behind because you have so much freedom. I pulled it together." (HA)
About being cleared to practice, DT Keahi Watson said:
"All of the paperwork is done." (HA)
About how he was told he neededto do the club-technique drill perfectly before the DL could get water and he nailed the technique, Keahi said:
"It's all in fun." (HA)
Quotes from Jason Rivers
About how JJ is always adjusting their offense, Jason Rivers said:
"Coach (June) Jones is always tweaking it here and there, putting little things in, taking little things out. So I'm constantly learning." (HSB)
About how he's grown as a person and player over the past 2 years, Rivers said:
"Before, when I was younger, things like that, the spotlight, tended to get to your head and you forget why you play or why you love the game so much. Last year and the year I lost, I started to remember that." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Rivers enters the season sixth on the school's all-time receiving-yardage list with 2,745 and needs 597 more to jump past Ashley Lelie into first. His 200 career receptions put him 40 away from breaking Chad Owens' career record."
Not concerned about setting records at UH, Rivers said:
"The more special thing to me is being a part of this team, not so much the records. The records are good to have, but the time shared, the time spent with teammates is something I'll remember more than the records." (HSB)
HSB Note: "During his sophomore season in 2004, Rivers latched onto a 7-yard touchdown pass against Louisiana Tech that made Chang the NCAA's all-time passing-yardage leader. A little more than two years later, Rivers' first score in the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl against Arizona State gave Brennan a tie for the NCAA single-season touchdown mark. The final connection between the duo in a 41-24 win set the new standard at 58."
About Rivers' year away from football due to academics and a broken ankle, JJ said:
"When he went through the difficulties a couple of years ago and wasn't able to play, it was like a wake-up call for him. In life, in general, when you get those second opportunities you'd better take advantage of them, and Jason has fully done that." (HSB)
About how the year off from football changed him, Rivers said:
"It helped me to appreciate being here. Coach Jones talks all the time about it being a privilege being here and I took it for granted. Losing that year, not playing, that was probably the best thing that could have happened to me. Once I lost it, that's when I figured out how much it meant to me. I wasn't going to give up, I was going to try my hardest to get back." (HSB)
About how Rivers gives their offense that crucial outside threat, Colt said:
"I had heard a lot about him and I watched him on film and realized how much we would benefit if he got out here. He took our outside threat to a new level, and with all the attention Ryan (Grice-Mullins) and Davone (Bess) get on the inside, when everybody tries to shut them down, they leave him with one-on-one coverage." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Rivers and Brennan took advantage of Arizona State's decision to follow that strategy in the Hawaii Bowl when they connected 14 times for 308 yards, an NCAA bowl game and UH single-game record for receiving yards. Following the game, Rivers said he gave a "brief thought" to jumping to the NFL, but decided to return to finish his UH career."
About coming back for his senior season, Rivers said:
"Once you're gone, you're gone. You can't come back. It was worth it to come back to experience the same thing I had last year." (HSB)
About how Rivers' physical style will serve him well in the NFL, JJ said about Rivers:
"he can make you miss like a little guy, but if he wants to run over you, he'll run over you." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Along with the yards and scores, one of Rivers' 2006 highlights was plowing over a defensive back to lead Ian Sample into the end zone for the winning touchdown against Purdue."
About how making a big block that leads to a TD feels just as good as scoring the TD, Rivers said:
"Oh my goodness, let me tell you, that felt just as good as scoring the touchdown. I'm sure everyone feels that way, because if everybody doesn't contribute on that single play we might not have won that game." (HSB)
About how Rivers is on track to get his political science degree, JJ said:
"His freshman and sophomore years you wouldn't have guessed that would even be in the picture. But he's committed himself, he's going to get his degree and he's playing football at a really high level right now." (HSB)
"Coach (June) Jones is always tweaking it here and there, putting little things in, taking little things out. So I'm constantly learning." (HSB)
About how he's grown as a person and player over the past 2 years, Rivers said:
"Before, when I was younger, things like that, the spotlight, tended to get to your head and you forget why you play or why you love the game so much. Last year and the year I lost, I started to remember that." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Rivers enters the season sixth on the school's all-time receiving-yardage list with 2,745 and needs 597 more to jump past Ashley Lelie into first. His 200 career receptions put him 40 away from breaking Chad Owens' career record."
Not concerned about setting records at UH, Rivers said:
"The more special thing to me is being a part of this team, not so much the records. The records are good to have, but the time shared, the time spent with teammates is something I'll remember more than the records." (HSB)
HSB Note: "During his sophomore season in 2004, Rivers latched onto a 7-yard touchdown pass against Louisiana Tech that made Chang the NCAA's all-time passing-yardage leader. A little more than two years later, Rivers' first score in the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl against Arizona State gave Brennan a tie for the NCAA single-season touchdown mark. The final connection between the duo in a 41-24 win set the new standard at 58."
About Rivers' year away from football due to academics and a broken ankle, JJ said:
"When he went through the difficulties a couple of years ago and wasn't able to play, it was like a wake-up call for him. In life, in general, when you get those second opportunities you'd better take advantage of them, and Jason has fully done that." (HSB)
About how the year off from football changed him, Rivers said:
"It helped me to appreciate being here. Coach Jones talks all the time about it being a privilege being here and I took it for granted. Losing that year, not playing, that was probably the best thing that could have happened to me. Once I lost it, that's when I figured out how much it meant to me. I wasn't going to give up, I was going to try my hardest to get back." (HSB)
About how Rivers gives their offense that crucial outside threat, Colt said:
"I had heard a lot about him and I watched him on film and realized how much we would benefit if he got out here. He took our outside threat to a new level, and with all the attention Ryan (Grice-Mullins) and Davone (Bess) get on the inside, when everybody tries to shut them down, they leave him with one-on-one coverage." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Rivers and Brennan took advantage of Arizona State's decision to follow that strategy in the Hawaii Bowl when they connected 14 times for 308 yards, an NCAA bowl game and UH single-game record for receiving yards. Following the game, Rivers said he gave a "brief thought" to jumping to the NFL, but decided to return to finish his UH career."
About coming back for his senior season, Rivers said:
"Once you're gone, you're gone. You can't come back. It was worth it to come back to experience the same thing I had last year." (HSB)
About how Rivers' physical style will serve him well in the NFL, JJ said about Rivers:
"he can make you miss like a little guy, but if he wants to run over you, he'll run over you." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Along with the yards and scores, one of Rivers' 2006 highlights was plowing over a defensive back to lead Ian Sample into the end zone for the winning touchdown against Purdue."
About how making a big block that leads to a TD feels just as good as scoring the TD, Rivers said:
"Oh my goodness, let me tell you, that felt just as good as scoring the touchdown. I'm sure everyone feels that way, because if everybody doesn't contribute on that single play we might not have won that game." (HSB)
About how Rivers is on track to get his political science degree, JJ said:
"His freshman and sophomore years you wouldn't have guessed that would even be in the picture. But he's committed himself, he's going to get his degree and he's playing football at a really high level right now." (HSB)
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Quotes about Colt's NFL chances
Thank you to Tombo for prividing the link!
http://thequad.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/08/25/can-brennan-make-the-leap-from-hawaii-to-the-nfl/
Feeling that Colt would have been the best QB in the most recent NFL draft, JJ said:
“His accuracy is second-to–none. That’s the difference with N.F.L. quarterbacks, it’s accuracy. All of them can throw, but he’s got all the intangibles. Those guys might, too, but they’re not accurate.” (NY Times)
NYT Note: "Brennan completed more than 72 percent of his passes last season, led the nation in passing efficiency and had 58 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. When Jones went over the Hawaii game film last year, he said that he counted 54 drops, which would have elevated Brennan’s completion percentage to 82 percent."
About their dropped passes, JJ said:
“Those weren’t dropped balls that were hard to catch, either. They were right in the receivers’ hands. I played five years in the N.F.L. and one in Canada. I can’t go out there against air with a receiver and hit 80 of 100 passes. He did it in a real game with defenses chasing him. That just blows my mind.” (NYT)
About what he told Colt when Colt was deciding whether or not to enter the draft, Matt Leinart said:
“I told him, ‘Listen, man, whatever you do they’re going to criticize you as a product of the system. They’re going to criticize that your release is short. That’s not a knock, it’s what they do. Even if you come back they’re always going to say something. Man, if you go back to school, enjoy it and have fun and set records. You have a chance to win the Heisman Trophy and to live the life of a college kid. Just don’t second-guess yourself, they’re always going to say something.’” (NYT)
NYT Note: "The early indicators on Brennan’s draft status from the N.F.L. are good. When he queried the N.F.L.’s notoriously conservative draft projectors to see where he would be projected as a pick, the results came back that he would have gone early in the second round last season.
One of the biggest obstacles he will have to overcome in the eyes of both Heisman voters and N.F.L. personnel is to prove that he is better than the former Hawaii quarterback Timmy Chang. In his four years as a starter at Hawaii, Chang became the N.C.A.A.’s all-time passing leader. But he is now a backup in the Canadian Football League, which is why the age-old question of whether Brennan is a product of Hawaii’s run-and-shoot system will arise."
About the difference between Timmy Chang and Colt, draft analyst and former Dallas exec Gil Brandt said:
“The difference is that I don’t thing that Timmy Chang had the ability or the arm strength that Brennan has. He was right around 6-foot, and this guy measures at 6-2 and three-quarters. I think this guy is better than Timmy Chang was. This guy is better in every facet of the game.” (NYT)
About how the NFL teams will question Colt's incident in Colorado, Brandt said:
“From everyone that I’ve talked to, people that know his parents, the parents are solid people and the kid is a solid guy. It was something that happened that took place that shouldn’t have.” (NYT)
NYT Note: "Jones and the Hawaii coaches vehemently defend Brennan’s character, pointing to the volunteer work he does and his affable nature when dealing with people in the community."
Another variation of the right foot off the ground quote from JJ:
“I’ve watched thousands of quarterbacks and only seen three, Jeff George, Dan Marino and Colt, that actually when they’re in the pocket and they decide to let the ball go, their right foot is off the ground before the ball leaves their hand. They have such a quick release that when they fire their left side, the whip of their body takes their right foot off the ground before the ball leaves their hand. It’s kind of mind boggling.” (NYT)
About how the wins are what matters this season, Colt said:
“I could throw 70 touchdowns, but if we go 5-7 no one is going to care. If I throw 30 touchdowns and go 12-0, then I think people may say that I have a shot. All I care about is winning the football games.” (NYT)
Note: This reminds me of a note in today's Austin American-Statesman: "Brown likes to quote coach Darrell Royal when talking about the makeup of his team. The freshmen want to play, he says. The sophomores desire to be stars. The juniors want to win. And the seniors will do anything to make the victories happen."
http://thequad.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/08/25/can-brennan-make-the-leap-from-hawaii-to-the-nfl/
Feeling that Colt would have been the best QB in the most recent NFL draft, JJ said:
“His accuracy is second-to–none. That’s the difference with N.F.L. quarterbacks, it’s accuracy. All of them can throw, but he’s got all the intangibles. Those guys might, too, but they’re not accurate.” (NY Times)
NYT Note: "Brennan completed more than 72 percent of his passes last season, led the nation in passing efficiency and had 58 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. When Jones went over the Hawaii game film last year, he said that he counted 54 drops, which would have elevated Brennan’s completion percentage to 82 percent."
About their dropped passes, JJ said:
“Those weren’t dropped balls that were hard to catch, either. They were right in the receivers’ hands. I played five years in the N.F.L. and one in Canada. I can’t go out there against air with a receiver and hit 80 of 100 passes. He did it in a real game with defenses chasing him. That just blows my mind.” (NYT)
About what he told Colt when Colt was deciding whether or not to enter the draft, Matt Leinart said:
“I told him, ‘Listen, man, whatever you do they’re going to criticize you as a product of the system. They’re going to criticize that your release is short. That’s not a knock, it’s what they do. Even if you come back they’re always going to say something. Man, if you go back to school, enjoy it and have fun and set records. You have a chance to win the Heisman Trophy and to live the life of a college kid. Just don’t second-guess yourself, they’re always going to say something.’” (NYT)
NYT Note: "The early indicators on Brennan’s draft status from the N.F.L. are good. When he queried the N.F.L.’s notoriously conservative draft projectors to see where he would be projected as a pick, the results came back that he would have gone early in the second round last season.
One of the biggest obstacles he will have to overcome in the eyes of both Heisman voters and N.F.L. personnel is to prove that he is better than the former Hawaii quarterback Timmy Chang. In his four years as a starter at Hawaii, Chang became the N.C.A.A.’s all-time passing leader. But he is now a backup in the Canadian Football League, which is why the age-old question of whether Brennan is a product of Hawaii’s run-and-shoot system will arise."
About the difference between Timmy Chang and Colt, draft analyst and former Dallas exec Gil Brandt said:
“The difference is that I don’t thing that Timmy Chang had the ability or the arm strength that Brennan has. He was right around 6-foot, and this guy measures at 6-2 and three-quarters. I think this guy is better than Timmy Chang was. This guy is better in every facet of the game.” (NYT)
About how the NFL teams will question Colt's incident in Colorado, Brandt said:
“From everyone that I’ve talked to, people that know his parents, the parents are solid people and the kid is a solid guy. It was something that happened that took place that shouldn’t have.” (NYT)
NYT Note: "Jones and the Hawaii coaches vehemently defend Brennan’s character, pointing to the volunteer work he does and his affable nature when dealing with people in the community."
Another variation of the right foot off the ground quote from JJ:
“I’ve watched thousands of quarterbacks and only seen three, Jeff George, Dan Marino and Colt, that actually when they’re in the pocket and they decide to let the ball go, their right foot is off the ground before the ball leaves their hand. They have such a quick release that when they fire their left side, the whip of their body takes their right foot off the ground before the ball leaves their hand. It’s kind of mind boggling.” (NYT)
About how the wins are what matters this season, Colt said:
“I could throw 70 touchdowns, but if we go 5-7 no one is going to care. If I throw 30 touchdowns and go 12-0, then I think people may say that I have a shot. All I care about is winning the football games.” (NYT)
Note: This reminds me of a note in today's Austin American-Statesman: "Brown likes to quote coach Darrell Royal when talking about the makeup of his team. The freshmen want to play, he says. The sophomores desire to be stars. The juniors want to win. And the seniors will do anything to make the victories happen."
Quotes from a season preview article from the AP
Saying that he's going to operate their offense "full throttle", Colt said:
"Last year, we knew we were going to be good, but we didn't know how good. This year, we know we're good. We know we have the opportunity to win every football game and it's up to us to take advantage of that." (AP)
Hoping for an undefeated season, JJ said:
"There's always a chance to go undefeated. You always strive for that until you lose your first one. But we're undefeated now and that's the way it will be hopefully at the end." (AP)
About how they have set high goals (WAC title, BCS game), Adam Leonard said:
"We want to be WAC champs and we want to get to a BCS game, and anything below that, we feel would be a disappointment. So we're going to put the pressure on ourselves to go out and perform." (AP)
About wanting to beat BSU this year, Colt said:
"Obviously I would've loved to beat Boise last year and taken the WAC, but that's what this year is all about and that's what we're fighting for." (AP)
About how Colt understands their system better now, QB coach Dan Morrison said:
"Colt is at the point now where he can teach the system. He sees things that he didn't see before and has a great understanding of the system." (AP)
Happy with his greater understanding of their offense, Colt said:
"I feel like a veteran and it's an awesome feeling." (AP)
AP Note: "But Brennan will have a difficult time matching last year's record numbers. The Warriors, who led the nation in scoring and passing, play one less game and have several opponents that they should be able to blow out early."
Contrasting GM and Glanville, Michael Lafaele said:
"On the field, he's not like coach Glanville who's always in your face. He's real soft-spoken, so whenever he talks, everybody really listens." (AP)
About the showdown with BSU this season, Lafaele said:
"It's always in the back of our minds. We know when that day comes, we have to play extra hard." (AP)
"Last year, we knew we were going to be good, but we didn't know how good. This year, we know we're good. We know we have the opportunity to win every football game and it's up to us to take advantage of that." (AP)
Hoping for an undefeated season, JJ said:
"There's always a chance to go undefeated. You always strive for that until you lose your first one. But we're undefeated now and that's the way it will be hopefully at the end." (AP)
About how they have set high goals (WAC title, BCS game), Adam Leonard said:
"We want to be WAC champs and we want to get to a BCS game, and anything below that, we feel would be a disappointment. So we're going to put the pressure on ourselves to go out and perform." (AP)
About wanting to beat BSU this year, Colt said:
"Obviously I would've loved to beat Boise last year and taken the WAC, but that's what this year is all about and that's what we're fighting for." (AP)
About how Colt understands their system better now, QB coach Dan Morrison said:
"Colt is at the point now where he can teach the system. He sees things that he didn't see before and has a great understanding of the system." (AP)
Happy with his greater understanding of their offense, Colt said:
"I feel like a veteran and it's an awesome feeling." (AP)
AP Note: "But Brennan will have a difficult time matching last year's record numbers. The Warriors, who led the nation in scoring and passing, play one less game and have several opponents that they should be able to blow out early."
Contrasting GM and Glanville, Michael Lafaele said:
"On the field, he's not like coach Glanville who's always in your face. He's real soft-spoken, so whenever he talks, everybody really listens." (AP)
About the showdown with BSU this season, Lafaele said:
"It's always in the back of our minds. We know when that day comes, we have to play extra hard." (AP)
More responses to Ian's myspace claims
Taking Ian's claims seriously, HF said:
"I've already had three or four meetings as it relates to the alleged things said by Mr. Sample. We will make sure we leave no stone unturned as we try to figure this out." (KHNL)
About Ian's claim that UH chooses who to drug test and doesn't test star players, HF said:
"There was some miscalculations as to it relates to some of it, especially the drug testing part. The NCAA does that so i know there's no staff person involved in how that's done." (KHNL)
Disappointed in Ian, JJ said:
"We have the greatest kids in the world at this campus and its just a shame that someone kind of threw them under the bus." (KHNL)
About how he interviewed several of his teammates for his book, Ian said:
"I've talked to a certain number of my teammates because i know there's a lot of controversy on what's out there. But i'm happy inside because i have their blessings so i'm good with myself." (KHNL)
About Ian's claims, HF said:
"We're reacting to something that's on the internet. There's all sorts of things on the internet and we can only go by what's factual." (KHNL)
"I've already had three or four meetings as it relates to the alleged things said by Mr. Sample. We will make sure we leave no stone unturned as we try to figure this out." (KHNL)
About Ian's claim that UH chooses who to drug test and doesn't test star players, HF said:
"There was some miscalculations as to it relates to some of it, especially the drug testing part. The NCAA does that so i know there's no staff person involved in how that's done." (KHNL)
Disappointed in Ian, JJ said:
"We have the greatest kids in the world at this campus and its just a shame that someone kind of threw them under the bus." (KHNL)
About how he interviewed several of his teammates for his book, Ian said:
"I've talked to a certain number of my teammates because i know there's a lot of controversy on what's out there. But i'm happy inside because i have their blessings so i'm good with myself." (KHNL)
About Ian's claims, HF said:
"We're reacting to something that's on the internet. There's all sorts of things on the internet and we can only go by what's factual." (KHNL)
Random Warrior Quotes
About Bess earning the starting punt returner spot despite only being a junior, JJ said:
"Davone is the most natural punt returner I've seen. I'm going to let him do that." (HA)
HA Note: "Bess was allowed to return punts in UH's final two games last season. He returned five for an average of 16.6 yards, which would have led the Western Athletic Conference if he had met the minimum number of attempts."
Happy to be able to return punts all season, Bess said:
"I'm happy for the chance. I'm excited. I've been working hard the past couple of years to prove to the coach and team I'm capable of handling the job. (Jones) has a lot of confidence in me. I want to make him proud, and not let him second guess giving me the spot." (HA)
About how Rivers will return kicks this year, his first year returning kicks, JJ said:
"He has a future in the NFL. He can return kicks. He's a real strong guy. I want to give him an opportunity to get on film doing that." (HA)
Happy to be a starting kick returner, Rivers said:
"That's something I've always enjoyed doing. I haven't had the opportunity to do it in college. Before I was a receiver (in high school), I played running back. Kick returning makes me feel the same way. When I played running back, one little crease is what I needed to bust through." (HA)
About how other teams defer the kickoff return until the 2nd half but UH always takes the ball to start the game, Rivers said:
"That's the No. 1 motivation for me — to be on the first play of the season. If we win the toss, it's our kick return. That's our first offensive possession. I'd love nothing more than to take it to the house, get us started on the right foot." (HA)
HA Note: "Jones said three members of the 2007 recruiting class — center Sila Lefiti, left tackle Ray Hisatake and defensive tackle Chris Leatigaga — will redshirt this season. Lefiti, a 2007 graduate of Mater Dei High School in California, will not practice to focus on school work. Hisatake and Leatigaga will continue to practice. They will redshirt provided they are not needed for emergency situations."
About redshirting, Hisatake said:
"That's fine with me." (HA)
HA Note: "Hisatake did not play football in high school. He was a defensive lineman at San Mateo. He first played on the offensive line during UH's spring training in April."
About how Hisatake has a lot of potential but never played offense before spring training, JJ said:
"He's a great kid, and he's going to be a great player. He just hasn't had much experience on offense." (HA)
About his inexperience on OL, Hisatake said:
"I'm really new to this position. A year off to learn everything would be great. I know I've come a long way already. To get better and hone a new skill is better for me and the team." (HA)
About redshirting, Leatigaga (who moved from DE to DT and missed several practices for summer school) said:
"I want to redshirt so I can get stronger and faster. Going from end to tackle is a big difference. It's a whole other ballgame playing in the middle." (HA)
Happy that he won't redshirt, freshman LB Po'okela Ahmad (backup strongside LB and a member of 3 of the 6 special teams) said:
"I'm happy now that I get to play." (HA)
"I'm back in the game." (HA)
"I have all of these jitters about getting back onto the field." (HA)
"Davone is the most natural punt returner I've seen. I'm going to let him do that." (HA)
HA Note: "Bess was allowed to return punts in UH's final two games last season. He returned five for an average of 16.6 yards, which would have led the Western Athletic Conference if he had met the minimum number of attempts."
Happy to be able to return punts all season, Bess said:
"I'm happy for the chance. I'm excited. I've been working hard the past couple of years to prove to the coach and team I'm capable of handling the job. (Jones) has a lot of confidence in me. I want to make him proud, and not let him second guess giving me the spot." (HA)
About how Rivers will return kicks this year, his first year returning kicks, JJ said:
"He has a future in the NFL. He can return kicks. He's a real strong guy. I want to give him an opportunity to get on film doing that." (HA)
Happy to be a starting kick returner, Rivers said:
"That's something I've always enjoyed doing. I haven't had the opportunity to do it in college. Before I was a receiver (in high school), I played running back. Kick returning makes me feel the same way. When I played running back, one little crease is what I needed to bust through." (HA)
About how other teams defer the kickoff return until the 2nd half but UH always takes the ball to start the game, Rivers said:
"That's the No. 1 motivation for me — to be on the first play of the season. If we win the toss, it's our kick return. That's our first offensive possession. I'd love nothing more than to take it to the house, get us started on the right foot." (HA)
HA Note: "Jones said three members of the 2007 recruiting class — center Sila Lefiti, left tackle Ray Hisatake and defensive tackle Chris Leatigaga — will redshirt this season. Lefiti, a 2007 graduate of Mater Dei High School in California, will not practice to focus on school work. Hisatake and Leatigaga will continue to practice. They will redshirt provided they are not needed for emergency situations."
About redshirting, Hisatake said:
"That's fine with me." (HA)
HA Note: "Hisatake did not play football in high school. He was a defensive lineman at San Mateo. He first played on the offensive line during UH's spring training in April."
About how Hisatake has a lot of potential but never played offense before spring training, JJ said:
"He's a great kid, and he's going to be a great player. He just hasn't had much experience on offense." (HA)
About his inexperience on OL, Hisatake said:
"I'm really new to this position. A year off to learn everything would be great. I know I've come a long way already. To get better and hone a new skill is better for me and the team." (HA)
About redshirting, Leatigaga (who moved from DE to DT and missed several practices for summer school) said:
"I want to redshirt so I can get stronger and faster. Going from end to tackle is a big difference. It's a whole other ballgame playing in the middle." (HA)
Happy that he won't redshirt, freshman LB Po'okela Ahmad (backup strongside LB and a member of 3 of the 6 special teams) said:
"I'm happy now that I get to play." (HA)
"I'm back in the game." (HA)
"I have all of these jitters about getting back onto the field." (HA)
Quotes about UH being loaded at DL
About their depth at DL, JJ said:
"It's the deepest we've ever had. We've got eight to 10 guys who would've started other years. When we go on the road, especially to Reno, it's going to help a lot because we can rotate guys in. For the first time we can really battle that fatigue on the road." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Defensive coordinator Greg McMackin's schemes call for versatile, tough, smart players. The more of these specialty roles you can fill, the more you get to play. Josh Leonard and David Veikune aren't listed as starters, but chances are their numbers will be called several times every Saturday night starting with next week's opener against Northern Colorado. Defensive line coach Jeff Reinebold said the two juniors are symbolic of the entire unit's attention to detail and competitive spirit."
About their DL, JR said:
"This may be the most conscientious group I've been around. There was only one day during camp when they didn't come to practice sharp. That's amazing when you consider how hard camp is, all the stresses on them. There comes a point in camp you get to where you just have to go and play someone else. We're at that point." (HSB)
About Veikune, JR said:
"David showed us last year that he has the physical tools to play a variety of spots and the mental capacity to fill multiple roles. His role will expand." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Veikune is listed at 6-foot-3 and 252 pounds, but plays bigger, allowing him to fill in at tackle in both three- and four-man fronts. His quickness makes him an asset as a pass rusher from either end; his primary job is subbing for starters Amani Purcell and Karl Noa."
About his versatility, Veikune said:
"It's just like last year. I know all the positions. With our Okie package we still go back to the old stuff, with some new stuff added. I like defensive end because you get the most flexibility, you can rush the quarterback. It reminds me of high school, when it was just get to the ball. Of course it's a more complex game at the college level." (HSB)
About how it is nice to be playing on a ranked team, Veikune said:
"I came home strictly because I was homesick and wanted to be with my family. This just makes it better." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Leonard -- a highly-decorated defensive end at Sierra College (Calif.) -- could have gone to Nevada, Boise State, Wyoming or Washington and had a better chance of moving right into a starting spot. He elected to join what he knew to be a crowded defensive line at UH."
About coming to UH to compete for a spot, Josh Leonard said:
"I was expecting it. I knew Hawaii had great athletes. I chose to come here for the competition. I wasn't going to get it anywhere else." (HSB)
About playing DT and DE, Josh Leonard said:
"I like it if it gets me more playing time." (HSB)
Asked if he preferred to play DT over DE, Josh said:
"Yeah." (HSB)
Happy to get a lot of reps yesterday with the first team, Jason Laumoli (who was on the scout team the previous day) said:
"I didn't mind helping out to get our defense ready, but it's good to have another opportunity. One of the things I like about this system is everyone gets looked at, more than once. It all takes time." (HSB)
Motivated by Reagan's success, Laumoli said:
"That motivates me a lot. He made his dream happen, and that really motivates me to push hard." (HSB)
"It's the deepest we've ever had. We've got eight to 10 guys who would've started other years. When we go on the road, especially to Reno, it's going to help a lot because we can rotate guys in. For the first time we can really battle that fatigue on the road." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Defensive coordinator Greg McMackin's schemes call for versatile, tough, smart players. The more of these specialty roles you can fill, the more you get to play. Josh Leonard and David Veikune aren't listed as starters, but chances are their numbers will be called several times every Saturday night starting with next week's opener against Northern Colorado. Defensive line coach Jeff Reinebold said the two juniors are symbolic of the entire unit's attention to detail and competitive spirit."
About their DL, JR said:
"This may be the most conscientious group I've been around. There was only one day during camp when they didn't come to practice sharp. That's amazing when you consider how hard camp is, all the stresses on them. There comes a point in camp you get to where you just have to go and play someone else. We're at that point." (HSB)
About Veikune, JR said:
"David showed us last year that he has the physical tools to play a variety of spots and the mental capacity to fill multiple roles. His role will expand." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Veikune is listed at 6-foot-3 and 252 pounds, but plays bigger, allowing him to fill in at tackle in both three- and four-man fronts. His quickness makes him an asset as a pass rusher from either end; his primary job is subbing for starters Amani Purcell and Karl Noa."
About his versatility, Veikune said:
"It's just like last year. I know all the positions. With our Okie package we still go back to the old stuff, with some new stuff added. I like defensive end because you get the most flexibility, you can rush the quarterback. It reminds me of high school, when it was just get to the ball. Of course it's a more complex game at the college level." (HSB)
About how it is nice to be playing on a ranked team, Veikune said:
"I came home strictly because I was homesick and wanted to be with my family. This just makes it better." (HSB)
HSB Note: "Leonard -- a highly-decorated defensive end at Sierra College (Calif.) -- could have gone to Nevada, Boise State, Wyoming or Washington and had a better chance of moving right into a starting spot. He elected to join what he knew to be a crowded defensive line at UH."
About coming to UH to compete for a spot, Josh Leonard said:
"I was expecting it. I knew Hawaii had great athletes. I chose to come here for the competition. I wasn't going to get it anywhere else." (HSB)
About playing DT and DE, Josh Leonard said:
"I like it if it gets me more playing time." (HSB)
Asked if he preferred to play DT over DE, Josh said:
"Yeah." (HSB)
Happy to get a lot of reps yesterday with the first team, Jason Laumoli (who was on the scout team the previous day) said:
"I didn't mind helping out to get our defense ready, but it's good to have another opportunity. One of the things I like about this system is everyone gets looked at, more than once. It all takes time." (HSB)
Motivated by Reagan's success, Laumoli said:
"That motivates me a lot. He made his dream happen, and that really motivates me to push hard." (HSB)
Friday, August 24, 2007
Quotes about Colt from the LA Times
http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-colt25aug25,1,6560524,full.story?coll=la-headlines-sports
About going to Hawaii to play for UH, Colt said:
"If football didn't work out I was going to find a nice little hut and chill out for the rest of my life. But then football worked out." (LAT)
About his situation now and when his incident occurred in Colorado, Colt said:
"When I was going through a lot of the rough times, it was a very surreal moment for me. And now going through all the good times, it's a surreal moment for me. It's kind of hard to fathom. Right now, you're taking it for what it's worth and trying to do it right and not mess it up." (LAT)
About how the Colorado incident will come up again when he's up for the draft, Colt said:
"Once the season's over it will probably resurface and I'll have to deal with it." (LAT)
About how he tried to copy Matt Leinart's style after getting the starting job at Mater Dei, Colt said:
"And it was horrible, because that's not me. I'm not Matt Leinart." (LAT)
About how his situation from Colorado made Hawaii a good choice for him, Colt said:
"I was embarrassed. I wanted to get away. . . . Hawaii seemed like just the place to do it." (LAT)
LAT Note: "Brennan still has a year and half left on the four-year probation he received stemming from his unlawfully entering a coed's dorm room at Colorado. He pleaded guilty to charges of burglary and trespassing but another charge, unwanted sexual contact, was vacated for lack of evidence."
About his character, Colt said:
"I've got nothing to hide. There's no doubt what happened and what I did and the position I put myself in. I got no one to blame but myself." (LAT)
Bothered by some media reports that got the facts wrong about his case, Colt said:
"I really got dragged through the mud by the media . . . The initial articles that came out after I got sentenced were just galaxies away from what I actually got charged with and what actually I got found guilty of." (LAT)
About his Colorado problems, Colt said:
"It can't get any worse than that. I think that walking away from that, you can't embarrass me, you can't really humiliate me anymore. I'm just a kid that just wants to play football and enjoy himself and that's it." (LAT)
About the dreadlocks that he still had during the interview, Colt said:
"I can't wait to cut it off, to be honest." (LAT)
About calling plays in Samoan, Colt said:
"For the guys on the other side of the ball, they are like, 'What the hell are they saying?' " (LAT)
Pointing to QB successes with his system, JJ said:
"Jim Kelly played in our deal, Warren Moon played in our deal. Bobby Hebert went to his only Pro Bowl, Jeff George went to his only Pro Bowl, Chris Miller went to his only Pro Bowl. Obviously, average quarterbacks or guys in the middle of the range get better and the great ones are great no matter what they do. If Joe Montana was in our system, he'd figure it out." (LAT)
Having no doubt about Colt's potential, JJ said:
"Jeff George, Dan Marino and Colt are only guys I've seen when they release the ball their right foot is off the ground. I don't know what it means, but I'm going to start looking for it in high school." (LAT)
LAT said: Jones calls Brennan the most accurate passer he has coached since George."
About how he speaks to lots of at-risk youths, Colt said:
"I'll give them my real kind of shock story, and hopefully make sure that none of those kids put themselves in the position I put myself in." (LAT)
About going to Hawaii to play for UH, Colt said:
"If football didn't work out I was going to find a nice little hut and chill out for the rest of my life. But then football worked out." (LAT)
About his situation now and when his incident occurred in Colorado, Colt said:
"When I was going through a lot of the rough times, it was a very surreal moment for me. And now going through all the good times, it's a surreal moment for me. It's kind of hard to fathom. Right now, you're taking it for what it's worth and trying to do it right and not mess it up." (LAT)
About how the Colorado incident will come up again when he's up for the draft, Colt said:
"Once the season's over it will probably resurface and I'll have to deal with it." (LAT)
About how he tried to copy Matt Leinart's style after getting the starting job at Mater Dei, Colt said:
"And it was horrible, because that's not me. I'm not Matt Leinart." (LAT)
About how his situation from Colorado made Hawaii a good choice for him, Colt said:
"I was embarrassed. I wanted to get away. . . . Hawaii seemed like just the place to do it." (LAT)
LAT Note: "Brennan still has a year and half left on the four-year probation he received stemming from his unlawfully entering a coed's dorm room at Colorado. He pleaded guilty to charges of burglary and trespassing but another charge, unwanted sexual contact, was vacated for lack of evidence."
About his character, Colt said:
"I've got nothing to hide. There's no doubt what happened and what I did and the position I put myself in. I got no one to blame but myself." (LAT)
Bothered by some media reports that got the facts wrong about his case, Colt said:
"I really got dragged through the mud by the media . . . The initial articles that came out after I got sentenced were just galaxies away from what I actually got charged with and what actually I got found guilty of." (LAT)
About his Colorado problems, Colt said:
"It can't get any worse than that. I think that walking away from that, you can't embarrass me, you can't really humiliate me anymore. I'm just a kid that just wants to play football and enjoy himself and that's it." (LAT)
About the dreadlocks that he still had during the interview, Colt said:
"I can't wait to cut it off, to be honest." (LAT)
About calling plays in Samoan, Colt said:
"For the guys on the other side of the ball, they are like, 'What the hell are they saying?' " (LAT)
Pointing to QB successes with his system, JJ said:
"Jim Kelly played in our deal, Warren Moon played in our deal. Bobby Hebert went to his only Pro Bowl, Jeff George went to his only Pro Bowl, Chris Miller went to his only Pro Bowl. Obviously, average quarterbacks or guys in the middle of the range get better and the great ones are great no matter what they do. If Joe Montana was in our system, he'd figure it out." (LAT)
Having no doubt about Colt's potential, JJ said:
"Jeff George, Dan Marino and Colt are only guys I've seen when they release the ball their right foot is off the ground. I don't know what it means, but I'm going to start looking for it in high school." (LAT)
LAT said: Jones calls Brennan the most accurate passer he has coached since George."
About how he speaks to lots of at-risk youths, Colt said:
"I'll give them my real kind of shock story, and hopefully make sure that none of those kids put themselves in the position I put myself in." (LAT)
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