Pre Spring 2013 Team Outlook

[JohnboyND7]

They only won one more game first year out of the transition and didn't have near the schedule we did. Compair this years ndsu team to our team in 4 years.

While that may be comforting to compare your team to NDSU's situation(I would do it to), NDSU also did something very weird that I wouldn't really bank on.

As I have stated before and will state again,

Run the ball. Stop the run. Win games. Or to get even simpler, and from what I have gathered definitely pertains to UND's struggles, "football is blocking and tackling."

[UND-FB-FAN]

Compair this years ndsu team to our team in 4 years.

Umm, I want nothing but for UND to have a playoff team and be a more successful team than NDSU, but NO - that won't happen at this pace.

I’m afraid this assumption is just pretentiously over-optimistic.

[geaux_sioux]

Umm, I want nothing but for UND to have a playoff team and be a more successful team than NDSU, but NO - that won't happen at this pace.

I’m afraid this assumption is just pretentiously over-optimistic.

That wasn't a prediction its just the only way to get a fair comparison of how we are relative to years coming out of the transition. In 4 years we will have a full roster of players recruited when we were not transitioning.

[UND1983]

That wasn't a prediction its just the only way to get a fair comparison of how we are relative to years coming out of the transition. In 4 years we will have a full roster of players recruited when we were not transitioning.

So Muss should get nine years to show if he is a good coach or not?

[jodcon]

That wasn't a prediction its just the only way to get a fair comparison of how we are relative to years coming out of the transition. In 4 years we will have a full roster of players recruited when we were not transitioning.

That's something we have to remember, only the freshman class this year will have playoff eligibility all 4 years of their career, the kids who have been here are only going to have 1-3, and that may have cost UND a few recruits each year.

As I said before, this transition won't be truly done until 2015.

BUT, I still think next year will be the sink-or-swim year for the current coaching staff, with 7 home games anything less than a FCS berth will be considered a failure by most.

[UND-FB-FAN]

That wasn't a prediction its just the only way to get a fair comparison of how we are relative to years coming out of the transition. In 4 years we will have a full roster of players recruited when we were not transitioning.

I realize the transition was tough on the program, but it really is nothing more than an excuse for inept coaching and mediocre talent. I mean, if the transition from DII to DI is so tough on teams, how was NDSU able to put together a 10-1 season during their transition?

If you can develop talent and demonstrate quality leadership, in terms of the entire coaching staff, you should still be able to compete at a high level. UND didn't do that during their transition and this year's team certainly didn't compete at a high level either.

[geaux_sioux]

So Muss should get nine years to show if he is a good coach or not?

Yup thats exactly what I said. Did you copy and paste that from my post?

[geaux_sioux]

I realize the transition was tough on the program, but it really is nothing more than an excuse for inept coaching and mediocre talent. I mean, if the transition from DII to DI is so tough on teams, how was NDSU able to put together a 10-1 season during their transition?

If you can develop talent and demonstrate quality leadership, in terms of the entire coaching staff, you should still be able to compete at a high level. UND didn't do that during their transition and this year's team certainly didn't compete at a high level either.

Ndsu didn't have the ncaa up their ass about their nickname and also didn't have huge questions surrounding a controversy of that scale directly determining conference affiliation as their conference was in the process of folding.

[UND-FB-FAN]

Ndsu didn't have the ncaa up their ass about their nickname and also didn't have huge questions surrounding a controversy of that scale directly determining conference affiliation as their conference was in the process of folding.

Well if conference affiliation is the difference between winning and losing, we should see a quality product on the field next season; unfortunately, I'm not holding my breath.

[UND1983]

Yup thats exactly what I said. Did you copy and paste that from my post?

I didn't realize you were serious. You really have a hard-on for this coaching staff, like you have a vested interest somehow.

[geaux_sioux]

I didn't realize you were serious. You really have a hard-on for this coaching staff, like you have a vested interest somehow.

Having a hard on for the coaching staff and knowing how to make valid comparisons are very different.

[geaux_sioux]

Well if conference affiliation is the difference between winning and losing, we should see a quality product on the field next season; unfortunately, I'm not holding my breath.

The coaches were basically recruiting with one hand tied behind their back before the nickname being voted away and getting into the big sky if you think about it.

[UND-FB-FAN]

Having a hard on for the coaching staff and knowing how to make valid comparisons are very different.

You're right, comparing Chris Mussman and Craig Bohl is not a valid comparison

[homer]

I realize the transition was tough on the program, but it really is nothing more than an excuse for inept coaching and mediocre talent. I mean, if the transition from DII to DI is so tough on teams, how was NDSU able to put together a 10-1 season during their transition?

If you can develop talent and demonstrate quality leadership, in terms of the entire coaching staff, you should still be able to compete at a high level. UND didn't do that during their transition and this year's team certainly didn't compete at a high level either.

You hit it on the head with leadership. Both at the player and coach level. FU had some internal issues at the player level during their 6-5 and 3-8 seasons. Senior leadership worked to correct those issues and you had yourself a playoff team with probably less talent than previous years. I really feel leadership is whats lacking on this team and I'm not talking from a coaching level. We need some players to take control of this, force each other to stick around for a summer and challenge each other to get better. Coaches can only do so much. Look at the Kill incident and the Gophers.

[geaux_sioux]

You hit it on the head with leadership. Both at the player and coach level. FU had some internal issues at the player level during their 6-5 and 3-8 seasons. Senior leadership worked to correct those issues and you had yourself a playoff team with probably less talent than previous years. I really feel leadership is whats lacking on this team and I'm not talking from a coaching level. We need some players to take control of this, force each other to stick around for a summer and challenge each other to get better. Coaches can only do so much. Look at the Kill incident and the Gophers.

Can't disagree with that. Never once saw a player take charge on the sideline this year and start demanding better from their teammates. When things went wrong the year before you saw guys like Dan Hendrickson get really pissed off with his teammates. Leading by example is great, but every team needs a couple generals that aren't afraid to call people out and demand excellence.

[Irish]

So Muss should get nine years to show if he is a good coach or not?

Add about 4 years to pull the program out of the hole he dug, and you have way over a lost decade. I have seen nothing from Muss to indicate he's the guy we need and plenty to show he is not. How many years do we want this program to go dark?

[geaux_sioux]

WR:

Easily the best group of WRs that have ever been at UND. This next season will bring unmatched depth and experience at the position. The group losses not a single major contributor. Whoever plays QB next year is inheriting a dream scenario with playmakers all over the field that get open every play.

Key Loss: RJ McGill's ACL

Key Returners: Greg Hardin RJ McGill Jameer Jackson Kenny Golladay Blair Townsend Romon Bridges Anthony Fletcher Zach Oliver Casey Young

Greg Hardin (Sr 5-11 167)is coming off of the second most prolific season in UND history. His stats this year were amazing, in 5 games. He was completely average for the other 6 games. He also had way too many drops this year that cost the team at least 4 TDs and multiple first downs. He was outstanding this year but was entirely too inconsistent. Had he been in every game and concentrated on every ball thrown to him his numbers would have been astronomical, possibly 1600 yards and 19 TDs. Don't get me wrong, his numbers were still fantastic this year and he opened up opportunities for all of his teammates just by being on the field. This winter he needs to get alot bigger and stronger. If he gets up around 180-185 he will be unstoppable. Imagine Hardin with enough strength to break more tackles and have one extra step to blow past defenders. Mentally he needs to find a way to stay sharp and focused on the easy catches just as he does on the spectacular ones. He has a chance to be better than Dressler, which is something most people thought wouldn't happen at UND for many more year. But that will only happen if he is hungry this off season and focuses on the little things.

RJ McGill (Sr. 5-10 170) suffered a torn ACL against Cal Poly. I firmly believe that we win that game if he hadn't been injured. He was on fire and the go to guy in that game up to that point. Without him the offense sputtered. Anytime UND needed a big 3rd down conversion it seemed like RJ was wide open in the middle of the field for the first down. He was more consistent this year than last year even. He needs to get his knee healthy this winter and add some more strength. I hope he can regain all of his quickness and speed for next year.

Jameer Jackson (So. 6-3 240) is the biggest receiver I have ever seen at UND. His strength and size are matchup nightmares against every DB. I was impressed with his maturation over the year as he became a very nice #2 WR and when Hardin didn't produce he stepped up and led the team with some big games. He, like Hardin, had too many drops this year. His numbers were good enough to be named for the Rice Award but they should have been much better. He is one of the only guys on the team that shouldn't gain any weight. He should get a little leaner but most of all get more flexible and quicker and faster. If you put a couple steps of quickness and a step of speed on this kid you are gonna have yourself a freak. He should have an absolute monster year next year if he focuses on every catch.

Kenny Golladay (So 6-4 183) is another unprecedented WR in UND history. Just watch his catch against Poly or the blown TD call against Montana and you will see Chris Cater type ball skills. He is obviously frail and needs to hit the weights with Jake Miller and get up near 200 lbs. He also needs to get faster, which will happen with added strength. He seems to have adequate quickness and run decent routes for an 18 year old. As he continues to mature he will turn into the type of WR that we always hoped was at UND. He has special written all over him.

Blair Townsend (Sr. 6-3 220) is another guy with great hands. Unfortunately he is slow as molasses. Part of that has to be due to the devastating ankle injury he suffered as a redshirt freshman. Hopefully he can get alot faster this winter because he has great size and strength and is an excellent possession receiver. He didn't get alot of opportunity this year but look at what he did in the Montana game. All you can say about that game is wow. He would start for most teams and is a big part of the ridiculous depth that we are currently blessed with at WR. With more speed and quickness he could have a much larger role more often next season.

Romon Bridges (So 5-8 154) is a little waterbug type of slot receiver. He is probably the quickest player on UNDs team and possesses surprising strength as the reigning 'Beef Master'. Perhaps he will step in to RJ's role as RJ rehabs his knee. Romon is a converted RB and needs to keep improving his hands and route running. He has a great upside that we may not see until RJ and Hardin graduate and open up more room in the rotation.

Anthony Fletcher (Fr 6-3 195) is a beast. Thats what I've heard when I've asked about him. He possesses nice height and great ball skills. He needs to get faster and quicker this winter while he continues to build his body. He was highly recruited out of high school and could force the coaches to put him on the field with his work ethic and undeniable talent. It will be scary to see what he becomes over the course of his career.

Zach Oliver (Fr 6-3 190) is a classic possession receiver. He has great height and an amazing pair of mitts. With his size and body control he will be able to make plays without separation. He needs to get alot stronger and faster. Lots of potential, it will be up to him to make something of it.

Casey Young (So 6-1 200) made an impact this year on special teams. He has yet to play as a WR but has proven valuable on KO coverage and punt coverage. Was highly recruited out of high school but has found himself surrounded by better players and is not yet in the rotation. I wouldn't sleep on his career as a WR yet. I feel that he will make a contribution later in his career after players like Hardin and McGill and Townsend graduate.

Next up will be the QBs

[UND Fan]

WR:

Easily the best group of WRs that have ever been at UND. This next season will bring unmatched depth and experience at the position. The group losses not a single major contributor. Whoever plays QB next year is inheriting a dream scenario with playmakers all over the field that get open every play.

****

While I agree that this group of WRs has the best potential that I have seen in my many years of watching UND FB, there are many different receiving corps that had better seasons than this year's. Maybe not necessarily in yards or TDs but making great plays at crucial times, seldom dropping a pass, blocking well, etc. That said, I certainly hope these guys will end up being our best group ever.

[geaux_sioux]

QB

No other position group is a bigger question going into next season. This group loses two very good QBs that produced at a record level this year. It was extremely fun to watch both Hendrickson and Hanson tear it up this year. Many people will think about what could have been had Braden Hanson not been injured in the first game of the year. From Braden's tragedy came Marcus' opportunity, and he ran with it to the tune of a 6 TD performance in his first career start and followed that by nearly single handedly leading UND to their first FBS win at SDSU. Both guys had spectacular performances in their final college seasons and should be extremely proud of the way they carried the team this year.

Key Losses: Braden Hanson, Marcus Hendrickson

Key Returners: Joe Mollberg, Ryan Bartels

Joe Mollberg (Fr 6-2 214) will have the tall task of living up to outlandish expectations that will be thrown his way as perhaps the most celebrated recruit in the past 20 years. Everyone seems to have already anointed him as the program savior and sure fire starter for next season. That said, he is a very impressive looking young man. He's built like a Mac Truck already and looks like he could easily play LB. I was lucky enough to get to see him in action a little this fall camp and I must say I came away impressed. He has a very quick and compact release and really spins the ball out of his hand. You don't notice his arm strength because he has nice soft touch on short throws. But when he uncorks it it is a sight to be seen. In a skelly session this August I saw him calmly survey the field and then flick the ball 60 yards down field to Greg Hardin. There were a few times where he made the type of throw that made practice stop for a brief moment as defenders and offensive teammates alike looked on in awe. It will be interesting to see how good of a runner he is next spring as he had a reputation to be a very effective runner in high school before he had his ankle injury. I would not be surprised if he was around 230 lbs by next fall but his main focus should be chemistry with his receivers and knowing the playbook like the back of his hand.

Ryan Bartels (6-4 220) is the 'other guy' to most fans. DO NOT SLEEP ON MR. BARTELS. He also came in as a very accomplished QB and a highly rated recruit. He is a big kid and has 'prototypical' pocket passer height. He's not overly mobile but defiantly doesn't have stone feet and runs much better than Braden Hanson (before the leg). He has some serious arm strength and a very strong sturdy looking base. He doesn't seem quite as polished and poised to this point as Mollberg but that doesn't mean things can't change over the course of the winter and spring as he continues to gain comfort and respect from his teammates. His release isn't as quick as Mollberg's is but it is good and high and the ball comes out of his hand with good velocity and spin. With all of the pressure on Mr. Mollberg don't be surprised when Bartels at the very least pushes him to his limits for the starting job. This winter he will continue to mature and get stronger and quicker.

The program appears to be in very good hands with these two youngsters. This will be a very entertaining QB battle in the spring and fall camp. I for one cannot wait to see what these guys can do on the field next year.

Next DE/DT

[Wilbur]

I think someone already said it. Leadership. Who was the leader of this team? Who was the guy that got the group ready to go? I'd like to see someone step up next year as the leader of this team. Whether it be Mollberg as the freshman starting QB or Hardin as one of the best players at the FCS level next year.

On the QB front I'm on the Mollberg bandwagon. He's got all the tools to be great.

[UND-FB-FAN]

If I had to do a quick rundown of the team going into spring ball and how each position matches up with how the team looked this season, it would be something like this:

Quarterback:

Only two players return (dismissing Jake Hanson) from this season in Ryan Bartels and Joe Mollberg. One of those redshirt freshman will likely be the starter next season, with the best chance going to Mollberg. As we saw this year, going into a season with only two viable quarterbacks is without question dangerous. I expect a JUCO to be brought in.

Overall: Downgrade from 2012

Halfback:

Jake Miller and Jer Garmin will be the experienced backs coming back, but in my opinion, they aren’t Big Sky caliber runningbacks – at least not every down backs. If PJ Sparks can get some d*mn support from the coaching staff, he might see the field too. I would expect a JUCO or FBS dropdown for sure, because given the rookie QB situation, UND will need to run the ball effectively. I expect at least one addition that will service the team immediately.

Overall: Upgrade due to experience

Fullback:

Team looks to be set here; Zach Adler and Kevin Bayer are both high-potential players. Bayer could, and likely will, be the starting fullback as a redshirt freshman. Losing Ethan Magstadt will be tough since he’s a senior, but Bayer looks and has sounded impressive.

Overall: Upgrade

Wide Receiver:

This group was stacked this year and not a single player graduates. Overall, the group will be better than ever, but whether that is suggested statistically will be dependent on the quarterback play. Starters will be Greg Hardin, Jameer Jackson, and Kenny Golladay. RJ McGill could replace Golladay in the starting lineup if he can recover fully from his injury, but I don’t see Golladay getting surpassed. Other possible contributors include Blair Townsend, and possibly one of the two redshirt freshman: Anthony Fletcher or Zach Oliver. Casey Young and Romon Bridges were primarily special team players this year and I don’t expect that to change much.

Overall: Upgrade

Tight End:

The team will lose both Seth Nichols and Seth Wisthoff and Taylor Grant looks like he isn’t going to be the big-time contributor a lot expected/hoped for. Luke Mathewson and Nordby Tucker will contribute some, and I expect either one of them or Zach Adler to start. It really is a tossup between those three, but advantage Adler.

Overall: Downgrade

Offensive Line:

Three crucial starters will be gone in Caleb Gillson, Emmett Lynch, and Ian McGurran. Fortunately, four capable players, whom all have game experience, will be returning. Brandon Anderson will likely start at a guard spot, Darren Deneui will play tackle, and Shea Walker will play center. Joe Kleason will pick up either a guard or a tackle spot, probably depending on what position the 5^th unknown starter is most effective playing. I’m not entirely sure who will take the fifth spot and depth is an unknown. At least four guys who have shown to be effective are coming back.

Overall: neutral to downgrade, due to loss of senior leadership

Defensive Line:

As good as the group was this year; next year’s crew could be quite impressive also. If the team sticks to a 3-4, which I expect they will if the defensive coaches stay intact, the starters will likely be DE Spencer Cummings, NT Ben Henson, and DE Seth Stanchick. I see two redshirt freshman largely contributing next year as backups: NT Mike Edwards and DE Alec Carrothers. Edwards would likely have gotten his redshirt pulled this year if the depth had not been there, so he could even end up being the starter depending on how much love Mannausau gives to his upper classmen. Carrothers came from the same high school as Ross Brenneman and we all know how he turned out. I’ve been hearing good things about him too, so expect instant contribution from him also.

Overall: Although this group is talented, it’s hard to say they will be better than three seniors; downgrade

Linebackers:

I’ll say it right now; it’s hard for this group to get much worse so expect improvement. But from a different sense, all four starters will be returning: ILB Garrison Goodman, ILB Ben Peters, OLB Dominique Bennett, and OLB Cordero Finley. Many quality backups also will exist in OLB Damon Andrews, ILB Derrick Goard, OLB Myles Jablonski, OLB Alex Hickel, ILB Brian Otto, and ILB Will Ratelle. Although the LBs played poor this year, the injury bug had hit the group and they were largely inexperienced. I expect this group to improve; however, the amount they improve really will be the difference between a good or poor season -I really do put that much stock into this returning group.

Overall: Upgrade, now just how much?

Defensive Backs

Due to simply experience, and possibly additions, I would think this group improves. Theoretically, the whole group returns. Clordion Kennedy will start at one safety with Baylee Carr and Will Lewis fighting out for the other spot. Corners will again be Daryl Brown and Chavon Mackey (maybe). I do expect JUCO or FBS dropdowns will be brought into this group. UND saw firsthand this season how much passing the Big Sky entails, and they will upgrade their secondary play with additions that can help immediately.

Overall: Upgrade

Specialists:

Zeb Miller will be the kicker – pretty straight forward; now let’s just hope Mussman remembers he’s on the team and uses him next season. The punter spot will likely be filled by true freshman P/K Mitchell Meindel.

Overall: Due to Brett Cameron’s mediocre-at-best season, Upgrade

Although I didn't exactly specify, any position on the defense could possibly see additions from JUCO transfers or FBS drop-downs. Mussman has made it known that the defense needs to get bigger, faster, and stronger through additions so I expect to see that. Of course, it's fairly obvious that changes need to be made on the defense- the group just plain stunk it up this season.

Basically the upgrades and downgrades are based on returning players. Some areas with newcomers may still produce upgrades, but I treated the unknown itself as a downgrade. If the upgrades and downgrades are tallied, you get:

6 upgrades & 4 downgrades (+2 net)

Hopefully this translates to a successful 2013, but its way too early to tell ultimately. The QB position and the running game will make or break the offense, and the defense will be dictated by the improvement of the linebacker corps. Hopefully, Mollberg is a surprise, a new stud RB is picked up, and the linebackers surprise everyone and turn into tackling machines. This is quite optimistic, but if it does happen, 2013 could be a turnaround year.

[YoHo]

If I had to do a quick rundown of the team going into spring ball and how each position matches up with how the team looked this season, it would be something like this:

Quarterback:

Only two players return (dismissing Jake Hanson) from this season in Ryan Bartels and Joe Mollberg. One of those redshirt freshman will likely be the starter next season, with the best chance going to Mollberg. As we saw this year, going into a season with only two viable quarterbacks is without question dangerous. I expect a JUCO to be brought in.

Overall: Downgrade from 2012

Halfback:

Jake Miller and Jer Garmin will be the experienced backs coming back, but in my opinion, they aren’t Big Sky caliber runningbacks – at least not every down backs. If PJ Sparks can get some d*mn support from the coaching staff, he might see the field too. I would expect a JUCO or FBS dropdown for sure, because given the rookie QB situation, UND will need to run the ball effectively. I expect at least one addition that will service the team immediately.

Overall: Upgrade due to experience

Fullback:

Team looks to be set here; Zach Adler and Kevin Bayer are both high-potential players. Bayer could, and likely will, be the starting fullback as a redshirt freshman. Losing Ethan Magstadt will be tough since he’s a senior, but Bayer looks and has sounded impressive.

Overall: Upgrade

Wide Receiver:

This group was stacked this year and not a single player graduates. Overall, the group will be better than ever, but whether that is suggested statistically will be dependent on the quarterback play. Starters will be Greg Hardin, Jameer Jackson, and Kenny Golladay. RJ McGill could replace Golladay in the starting lineup if he can recover fully from his injury, but I don’t see Golladay getting surpassed. Other possible contributors include Blair Townsend, and possibly one of the two redshirt freshman: Anthony Fletcher or Zach Oliver. Casey Young and Romon Bridges were primarily special team players this year and I don’t expect that to change much.

Overall: Upgrade

Tight End:

The team will lose both Seth Nichols and Seth Wisthoff and Taylor Grant looks like he isn’t going to be the big-time contributor a lot expected/hoped for. Luke Mathewson and Nordby Tucker will contribute some, and I expect either one of them or Zach Adler to start. It really is a tossup between those three, but advantage Adler.

Overall: Downgrade

Offensive Line:

Three crucial starters will be gone in Caleb Gillson, Emmett Lynch, and Ian McGurran. Fortunately, four capable players, whom all have game experience, will be returning. Brandon Anderson will likely start at a guard spot, Darren Deneui will play tackle, and Shea Walker will play center. Joe Kleason will pick up either a guard or a tackle spot, probably depending on what position the 5^th unknown starter is most effective playing. I’m not entirely sure who will take the fifth spot and depth is an unknown. At least four guys who have shown to be effective are coming back.

Overall: neutral to downgrade, due to loss of senior leadership

Defensive Line:

As good as the group was this year; next year’s crew could be quite impressive also. If the team sticks to a 3-4, which I expect they will if the defensive coaches stay intact, the starters will likely be DE Spencer Cummings, NT Ben Henson, and DE Seth Stanchick. I see two redshirt freshman largely contributing next year as backups: NT Mike Edwards and DE Alec Carrothers. Edwards would likely have gotten his redshirt pulled this year if the depth had not been there, so he could even end up being the starter depending on how much love Mannausau gives to his upper classmen. Carrothers came from the same high school as Ross Brenneman and we all know how he turned out. I’ve been hearing good things about him too, so expect instant contribution from him also.

Overall: Although this group is talented, it’s hard to say they will be better than three seniors; downgrade

Linebackers:

I’ll say it right now; it’s hard for this group to get much worse so expect improvement. But from a different sense, all four starters will be returning: ILB Garrison Goodman, ILB Ben Peters, OLB Dominique Bennett, and OLB Cordero Finley. Many quality backups also will exist in OLB Damon Andrews, ILB Derrick Goard, OLB Myles Jablonski, OLB Alex Hickel, ILB Brian Otto, and ILB Will Ratelle. Although the LBs played poor this year, the injury bug had hit the group and they were largely inexperienced. I expect this group to improve; however, the amount they improve really will be the difference between a good or poor season -I really do put that much stock into this returning group.

Overall: Upgrade, now just how much?

Defensive Backs

Due to simply experience, and possibly additions, I would think this group improves. Theoretically, the whole group returns. Clordion Kennedy will start at one safety with Baylee Carr and Will Lewis fighting out for the other spot. Corners will again be Daryl Brown and Chavon Mackey (maybe). I do expect JUCO or FBS dropdowns will be brought into this group. UND saw firsthand this season how much passing the Big Sky entails, and they will upgrade their secondary play with additions that can help immediately.

Overall: Upgrade

Specialists:

Zeb Miller will be the kicker – pretty straight forward; now let’s just hope Mussman remembers he’s on the team and uses him next season. The punter spot will likely be filled by true freshman P/K Mitchell Meindel.

Overall: Due to Brett Cameron’s mediocre-at-best season, Upgrade

Although I didn't exactly specify, any position on the defense could possibly see additions from JUCO transfers or FBS drop-downs. Mussman has made it known that the defense needs to get bigger, faster, and stronger through additions so I expect to see that. Of course, it's fairly obvious that changes need to be made on the defense- the group just plain stunk it up this season.

Basically the upgrades and downgrades are based on returning players. Some areas with newcomers may still produce upgrades, but I treated the unknown itself as a downgrade. If the upgrades and downgrades are tallied, you get:

6 upgrades & 4 downgrades (+2 net)

Hopefully this translates to a successful 2013, but its way too early to tell ultimately. The QB position and the running game will make or break the offense, and the defense will be dictated by the improvement of the linebacker corps. Hopefully, Mollberg is a surprise, a new stud RB is picked up, and the linebackers surprise everyone and turn into tackling machines. This is quite optimistic, but if it does happen, 2013 could be a turnaround year.

Pretty accurate analysis, As for the RB situation, as many have said, it all starts with the OL. You can bring in half dozen RBs and if the OL doesn't open somewhat of a hole. not much for RB's to motate. Didn't Miller make some 3 td's? How many more do you want? In the first half. So,

think he blows your "not Big Sky calliber" stuff to the wind. As for Jer, let's just wait and see what haps next year, you and all of us may be

pleasntly surprised, hope so. Then too as others have mentioned, do you use a slot-back, up the Middle, with 12 men on field, stacked boxed-in?

The player should be used to best advantage for his size, etc. Miller and Jer are "open-field" experts, no one should exect them to bull-doze

through some 250-300 brick walls, at least most don't expect them to, maybe you do?

[jdub27]

Specialists:

Zeb Miller will be the kicker – pretty straight forward; now let’s just hope Mussman remembers he’s on the team and uses him next season. The punter spot will likely be filled by true freshman P/K Mitchell Meindel.

Overall: Due to Brett Cameron’s mediocre-at-best season, Upgrade

I agree with the majority of your post and think your analysis is spot on in most places, but this stuck out to me. I think Cameron was underrated due to the rugby style of kicking he used most of the time. UND was 16th in the nation in Net Punting yards, mainly due to teams not having a chance to return punts. Take out his shank against SDSoM and UND slips into the top 10. It wasn't pretty to watch most of the time but it didn't give the other teams a chance to return the kicks and he only had 3 touchbacks on the year out of 50+ punts. I think he had the leg for some boomers, but sacrificed personal numbers for the team.

You very well could be right that Meindel will be an upgrade, but I think calling Cameron's season mediocre at best is inaccurate.

[geaux_sioux]

DE/DT

This group came into this past season as a perceived strength of the team. As it turned out they could not stop the run or get to the passer consistently as we had all expected. The three starters were all seniors who have had great careers and been very productive while leading this program through the transition. That said, they did not live up to expectations and did not get the job done. That goes for the entire group of d-linemen. They were consistently pushed around and sealed by opposing offensive lines. The returning players need to get a hell of a lot stronger and tougher and bigger. We need a DT to step up and be a force. We also need DEs that get around the edge but also stuff the run. The LB group took most of the heat this year but in a 3-4 the d-line is responsible for giving them the ability to meet RBs and QBs in the backfield without having to deal with getting off of blocks. With some young talent coming in this group could actually be better next year.

Key Losses: Ross Brenneman Jay Nelson Devin Benjamin

Key Returners: EJ Welch Spencer Cummings Kyle Woodsmall Ben Henson Mike Edwards Alec Carrothers Devon Hall Seth Stanchik

EJ Welch (Sr 6-3 309) came in as a JUCO transfer this past year and did not get alot of playing time. When he was in he looked pretty good and pretty strong. He never got thrown around in the tranches like some other guys but didn't get enough playing time to really know what he can do. This winter he needs to get stronger but more importantly quicker. It will be very interesting to see where he sits in the depth chart after this spring since there is now decent depth at the DT position.

Spencer Cummings (Jr 6-4 283) has an enormous frame. Unfortunately he hasn't filled his frame out yet as he should easily be a lean 290. If he trims down this winter and adds alot of good muscle and quickness he could be an absolute beast next year. He has the size of a prototypical NFL 3-4 DE but doesn't seem to play fast/physical enough on a down to down basis. One play he blows up a run in the backfield. The next he's nowhere to be found. If he can get a better motor and more tenacity he can do some great things.

Kyle Woodsmall (So 6-3 240) is another one of the BIG young DEs that UND has on the roster. He has a good frame and should be around 260 next spring. He has not seen enough game action to this point to have shown what he can do in a game but I would not be surprised to see him make an unexpected impact next season.

Ben Henson (Jr 6-1 298) was the #2 DT this season behind Devin Benjamin this past season. He seemed to get manhandled a little bit in the trenches. Wether it was injuries or just not being strong enough I don't know. He needs to get alot stronger and just plain better and taking on blockers. He was not effective enough this year and alot of his tackles came from behind a RB which is not a good thing. He should be tackling ball carriers for losses and short gains instead of 7 yard gains. This winter he needs to make alot happen in order to be able to fill gaps effectively and be a good player in this 3-4.

Mike Edwards (Fr 6-2 290) could end up being the best DT at UND since Scott Schultz. I realize that is high praise for a player who has yet to see the field but I feel it is absolutely appropriate. This young man is BIG. But he is also as quick as anyone I've seen at his size. He possesses great feet and hands which are of massive importance. At a fall camp practice this August I witnessed him, going against the 1st team offense, throw Sr C Ian McGurran out of his way and swallow the RB in the backfield. He was absolutely immovable. Coach Mussman called him 'a load inside' in an interview and was considering pulling his red shirt which speaks to his talent considering the 3 DTs already on the depth chart. If he's hungry this winter and dead set on being great there is nothing that can stand in his way. He is waht this defense has been missing in the middle. I'm extremely excited to see what he does next year and wouldn't be the least bit surprised if he is a starter from day 1.

Alec Carrothers (Fr 6-4 240) will make an impact next season. He seems to be cut from the same cloth as Ross Brenneman in terms of character but is more talented. This winter he will get bigger and stonger and be ready to step on the field right away. Pair him with Mike Edwards and the future is bright on the D-line at UND. This kid is going to be special.

Devon Hall (Fr 6-3 245) is another good looking FR prospect on the D-line. He already has nice size and strength for a true freshman. This next season we may not see him but he Carrothers and Edwards could end up being a three headed monster in a couple of years.

Seth Stanchik (Sr 6-4 265) is a very under rated player. He was playing alot of quality minutes as a FR before breaking his leg. His Soph year he was still not 100%. This past year he regained his form and had nice games when Brenneman was injured. He has good size and decent strength but needs to continue to get stronger but more importantly quicker. He is a smart pick to be a starter going into fall camp.

Next season the defense hangs on the quality of this group.

Next LBs

[UND-FB-FAN]

Pretty accurate analysis, As for the RB situation, as many have said, it all starts with the OL. You can bring in half dozen RBs and if the OL doesn't open somewhat of a hole. not much for RB's to motate. Didn't Miller make some 3 td's? How many more do you want? In the first half. So,

think he blows your "not Big Sky calliber" stuff to the wind. As for Jer, let's just wait and see what haps next year, you and all of us may be

pleasntly surprised, hope so. Then too as others have mentioned, do you use a slot-back, up the Middle, with 12 men on field, stacked boxed-in?

The player should be used to best advantage for his size, etc. Miller and Jer are "open-field" experts, no one should exect them to bull-doze

through some 250-300 brick walls, at least most don't expect them to, maybe you do?

I certainly agree when it comes to the OL - it all starts up front in the running game. With that said, let’s do a quick rundown of some of next year's Big Sky RBs versus what Jake Miller brings to the table (considering he is the best RB on the team next season):

Eastern Washington

– Demitrius Bronson (Sr. in 2013) 5-10 225;

(Transfer from University of Washington)

Montana State

– Cody Kirk (Sr. in 2013) 5-10 213

Cal Poly –

Cole Stanford 6-2 225 (Sr. in 2013)

Northern Arizona –

Zach Bauman (Sr. in 2013) 5-10 200

Sacramento State –

Ezeikel Graham (Sr. in 2013) 5-9 170

Northern Colorado –

Tromaine Dennis (Sr. in 2013) 6-1 210

Montana –

Jordan Canada (Jr. in 2013) 5-9 172

Portland State –

DJ Adams (Sr. in 2013) 5-10 210

(Transfer from University of Maryland)

As we look at these running backs, their size and speed combination sticks out at me. After all, a few from this list are nearly NFL-caliber RBs, especially Bauman from NAU.

A lot of people were upset at UND’s tackling this season, but could any of that be attributed to the tougher talent they were facing for the first time every single week in conference play? If UND was playing small Jake Miller-type backs, they wouldn’t miss that many tackles (at least not as many). It really is hard for the defense to prepare for Big Sky talent when they are tackling either a slow Sutton or a skinny Jake Miller every day in practice.

Jake Miller has speed, but a lot of athletes have speed including non-football athletes. I really doubt Miller can be an effective every down back (5-11 167) in the Big Sky. He doesn’t possess the strength or durability necessary. Most to all of the backs mentioned above are capable of running up the middle for a few tough yards or bouncing it outside for big gains - and more importantly, they all can handle 20+ carries a game. Miller won’t be effective at 20+ carries unless he breaks a long run.

UND needs to bring in a tough, every down back like mentioned above. There are plenty available at the JUCO level and at the FBS level; hopefully they can pick up one. Otherwise, a player like Miller will put only extra unnecessary pressure on the OL because he can’t create for himself. Also, like mentioned before, I doubt he can make it through an entire Big Sky season as the starter.

(Example: If the team needs a yard or two and there's a free unblocked linebacker sitting in the hole, a back like Bauman, Adams, Bronson, or Kirk more times than not can drive themselves forward 1 on 1 for those crucial 2 - 3 yards; in the case of Miller, he will get blown backwards for a loss and may even have to leave the game like we saw in Northern Colorado last weekend.)