Marginal improvement from the young linemen during these extended practices. Running game may be strong against the K State defense used to defending mostly spread teams.
I saw Malik McDowell play in person this season vs a pretty good clarkston offensive line, pretty good, not elite. He has almost no motor, plays extremely high, and lacks elite pass rushing moves. He was a non factor in a strong Wolves performance.
His frame and upside are undeniable, but I'd rather have someone with a better motor and plays with better leverage. Fwiw, I was impressed by Marshall. He'll be a good one.
I wouldn't be heartbroken if McDowell chose elsewhere.
I would understand your disposition if it were Thomas Rawls or Justice Hayes that Jon From Cincinnati were praising over Green, but the two (Smith and Green) have BOTH worked their way into meaningful snaps, so to claim "backup QB syndrome" really doesn't carry much merit. Also, once players put on the winged helmet is doesn't matter what type of competition you had in high school. Players play, and it's clear that while Green may have a higher ceiling, Smith is a more physical runner with a much more apparent nastiness in him. So pump the breaks on your "loathing" of speculation on which freshman back is currently better.
While the jury may still be out on the young backs, a few things are apparent. Derrick Green's style of running is not suited for a 235lb body. I expect him to be about 225/220 next season. He's much more of a slasher, jump cut type back then a power runner. Smith on the other hand, could probably benefit from weight gain (not that he needs to). His balance is what stands out to me, he's very hard to get on the ground. And while his top end speed isn't great, his vision and fluidity between the tackles is impressive. Regarding nose tackle, considering Pee Wee's injury, Bryan Mone will be an immediate factor, has the size and strength to play now. Is he enrolling early?
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His frame and upside are undeniable, but I'd rather have someone with a better motor and plays with better leverage. Fwiw, I was impressed by Marshall. He'll be a good one.
I wouldn't be heartbroken if McDowell chose elsewhere.
I would understand your disposition if it were Thomas Rawls or Justice Hayes that Jon From Cincinnati were praising over Green, but the two (Smith and Green) have BOTH worked their way into meaningful snaps, so to claim "backup QB syndrome" really doesn't carry much merit. Also, once players put on the winged helmet is doesn't matter what type of competition you had in high school. Players play, and it's clear that while Green may have a higher ceiling, Smith is a more physical runner with a much more apparent nastiness in him. So pump the breaks on your "loathing" of speculation on which freshman back is currently better.
While the jury may still be out on the young backs, a few things are apparent. Derrick Green's style of running is not suited for a 235lb body. I expect him to be about 225/220 next season. He's much more of a slasher, jump cut type back then a power runner. Smith on the other hand, could probably benefit from weight gain (not that he needs to). His balance is what stands out to me, he's very hard to get on the ground. And while his top end speed isn't great, his vision and fluidity between the tackles is impressive. Regarding nose tackle, considering Pee Wee's injury, Bryan Mone will be an immediate factor, has the size and strength to play now. Is he enrolling early?