A few brief thoughts in the aftermath of the UK vs. Southern Miss game and the unusual day that went with it.
* It’s a bit difficult to provide a lot of meaningful insight on a day when the game is delayed for 2 hours and then ended early in the 2nd half. Not sure what we learned and didn’t learn from a game that was a bit unconventional. I think we have to wait until next week to learn more about what this team is made of.
* Offensively, we almost seemed to be playing the game in practice sequences. We started off with a series of QB runs that were effective but left you with the feeling that our QB is going to get injured. Then we ran a bunch of WR sweeps where we tried to get speed on the edge. Then we ran a bunch of RB runs that seemed to work fairly well. Then in the 2nd half we ran a bunch of deep passes that was a mixed bag. It was like we were practicing certain sets at a time.
At the time, wasn’t sure what to make of our offense. What did seem apparent, it was a first game offense … with the usual first game mistakes and first game hopes. The good, our play was faster. That was refreshing. Our play at QB and RB showed signs of both good and bad - Brock made some good throws and some bad throws, his throwing motion is what it is, our RB’s rely more on quickness than power … but, it was fairly effective. albeit some questions remain.
* Defensively, we are long, athletic, with speed. If our defensive line can get pressure on the QB, you get the sense that the backend of our defense is capable of making some plays. We had some assignment errors that must be corrected …. our 3rd and long defense is still a problem and a mystery. But, there is much to be hopeful for.
* Special teams - looks like we are in good hands. Our kickoff man has a strong leg.
* Up Next: At the end of the day …it was an incomplete effort in an incomplete day that left us hopeful yet unfulfilled. Now we take on the Gamecocks next Saturday afternoon on ABC in a game that the Cats must play better and must win. Every game is magnified now in the expanded SEC.
