Goodbye Brandon Smith
I know it has been certain for some time, but it is still disappointing seeing that he is not enrolled this semester. He did not have elite speed, but he seemed to have a nose for the ball, especially on special teams. Smith could also certainly bring the wood. Does anyone know his likely destination? Are there any specific reasons that have come to light as to why he decided to leave (other than limited playing time)? Too bad he will lose a year of eligibility because of already redshirting with us. I bet we will be hearing his name in the future, I just hope not from the opposing sideline.
Good luck Brandon.
January 14th, 2010 at 7:19 AM ^
I would guess that it's somewhere closer to home, but not Rutgers. Perhaps someplace like Syracuse? Pure speculation.
January 14th, 2010 at 8:42 AM ^
Smith could also certainly bring the wood.That's what she said
January 14th, 2010 at 8:43 AM ^
He wanted to be a safety. Coaches wanted him to be a linebacker. I guess it just didn't work out. Hope he finds a place to make him happy.
January 14th, 2010 at 8:57 AM ^
Too bad it didn't work out for him. I wish him the best wherever he ends up.
January 14th, 2010 at 9:37 AM ^
Pine State
January 14th, 2010 at 9:42 AM ^
it disturbing that people continue to rationalize the mass exodus of players on our team... this was long coming, but this program is on the brink.
January 14th, 2010 at 9:43 AM ^
Maybe Slippery Rock?
January 14th, 2010 at 10:25 AM ^
You say this program is on the brink because they refuse to allow a player to dictate where they are going to play? Let me get this straight.....you think OUR program is "on the brink" because of recruits who didn't pan out are leaving??? They have been fed with silver spoons their entire football careers....they are used to being told how great they are, how much better they are than the "other guys," and when they hit big time competition, they fold. You should expect to see MORE of this...especially at schools with high levels of talent......these kids want to play, and if they don't, they'll probably leave. Thats NOT the programs fault....thats just Football in Division 1.
January 14th, 2010 at 11:07 AM ^
I wouldn't characterize the program as "on the brink" but we're certainly in unchartered waters with a lot of questions to be answered. I don't agree whole-heartedly with 504 s5th but I'd be lying if I didn't (at one time or another) share his concern.
The 2008 class was the transition class and I've been trying to keep notes on each recruit from that class. I don't know what other schools have experienced during THEIR transitions, but of the 26 players from our class, 8 (if my notes are accurate) are gone. Again, I don't know what's considered "normal attrition", but 30% departure makes me raise an eyebrow.
January 14th, 2010 at 11:33 AM ^
Temple, as they have a rising football program and the Illadelph is close to Jersey, just speculation.
January 14th, 2010 at 11:39 AM ^
8 of the 24 commits from our 2008 recruiting class are no longer on the team. That was the class that signed less than two months after RichRod was hired, so it seems natural that there would be turnover, but still...1/3 of the class?
I think it's safe to say this has been about as rough a transition as you can have in college football. Two full years later and things are still not stabilized.
January 14th, 2010 at 11:48 AM ^
Don't let the door hit you on the ass.