Clawson Comments Following Scrimmage

The team had their second scrimmage of the season today, and it was certainly far from a success.  Coach Clawson made a few interesting points...

First, and most notably, Matt Schilz is almost certain to start at QB against Troy.  Coach said it would take "something drastic" for him not to be the starter.  Further, he is getting most of the reps now as he learns the Tennessee mind-bender offense, and that will just cement it further.  Coach said that he doesn't make mistakes, which is the first step for a young QB--not making it harder to win.  So, the QB competition appears to be largely over.

Second, we did not practice well today.  We have been practicing well, but apparently made a large number of mental errors today.  The offense had to "condition" after practice because they were making mistakes.  These are the dog days of camp, but it is also "when a team decides to be good," in the words of Coach Clawson.

Shaun Joplin made a big play in the scrimmage and continues to tantalize everyone, but Coach says he does not know the offense well enough to start this year.  He may play some special teams, but if everyone is healthy will see few snaps at WR.  However, Coach is pleased with his progress and expects him to be a good player in the future.

The battle for backup RB is between Hopgood and Geiger, both of whom played hurt today.  John Pettigrew, who was a back up much of last season, is now #4.