College Football Nation: DeAndre Brown
Getting closer to the big day for lots of former college football players. Still wondering whether Andy Dalton is going to go in first round. We have two more days to wait. Now on to some links:
Chadd Cripe of the Idaho Statesman checks in with Austin Pettis, Titus Young and Jeron Johnson as they prepare for the NFL draft.
Here is Part 2 in The Deseret News' look at BYU: Cougars hoping changes pay dividends.
Southern Miss receiver DeAndre Brown has been sworn to secrecy when it comes to the teams that have worked him out before the draft.
TCU speedster Jeremy Kerley worked out for 11 teams.
New Mexico State cornerback Davon House could go in the second round.
A vote on Sun Belt expansion is growing less likely.
UNLV coach Bobby Hauck has to compete for local talent with BCS schools.
Chuck Landon of the Herald-Dispatch calls Marshall's spring "the most insignificant spring practice I've ever witnessed."
Chadd Cripe of the Idaho Statesman checks in with Austin Pettis, Titus Young and Jeron Johnson as they prepare for the NFL draft.
Here is Part 2 in The Deseret News' look at BYU: Cougars hoping changes pay dividends.
Southern Miss receiver DeAndre Brown has been sworn to secrecy when it comes to the teams that have worked him out before the draft.
TCU speedster Jeremy Kerley worked out for 11 teams.
New Mexico State cornerback Davon House could go in the second round.
A vote on Sun Belt expansion is growing less likely.
UNLV coach Bobby Hauck has to compete for local talent with BCS schools.
Chuck Landon of the Herald-Dispatch calls Marshall's spring "the most insignificant spring practice I've ever witnessed."
The NFL on Tuesday released its official list of underclassmen who have declared for the draft, and it is a doozy -- a record 56 players have decided to leave school early to turn pro.
There are always several head-scratchers every year. In 2010, for example, Ole Miss quarterback Jevan Snead went undrafted; SMU running back Shawnbrey McNeal went undrafted; and Central Michigan receiver Antonio Brown went in the sixth round to Pittsburgh (No. 331 overall).
This season is no different, especially among players in the non-AQ conferences. First: the official list of all the non-AQ players who have declared themselves for the NFL draft:
As I explained in a video last week, it seems Burton is the one most likely to go in the late first to second round. It also appears Siliga and Brown made questionable moves. Brown has had injury problems and character issues he is going to have to address, while Siliga was nowhere to be found on any pre-draft evaluation boards of top underclassmen. As for Hamler, his decision also raises some questions.
This past season he had 54 catches for 812 yards and six touchdowns. He does have good size at 6-foot-2, 195 pounds, but it is safe to say his decision is a stunner. He is not listed as one of the elite receivers in the country and has hardly been mentioned as someone with top draft potential.
With any of these players, all you can do is wish them luck and hope they made the right decisions for their future.
There are always several head-scratchers every year. In 2010, for example, Ole Miss quarterback Jevan Snead went undrafted; SMU running back Shawnbrey McNeal went undrafted; and Central Michigan receiver Antonio Brown went in the sixth round to Pittsburgh (No. 331 overall).
This season is no different, especially among players in the non-AQ conferences. First: the official list of all the non-AQ players who have declared themselves for the NFL draft:
- DeAndre Brown, WR, Southern Miss
- Brandon Burton, CB, Utah
- Jamel Hamler, WR, Fresno State
- Sealver Siliga, DT, Utah
- Muhammad Wilkerson, DT, Temple
As I explained in a video last week, it seems Burton is the one most likely to go in the late first to second round. It also appears Siliga and Brown made questionable moves. Brown has had injury problems and character issues he is going to have to address, while Siliga was nowhere to be found on any pre-draft evaluation boards of top underclassmen. As for Hamler, his decision also raises some questions.
This past season he had 54 catches for 812 yards and six touchdowns. He does have good size at 6-foot-2, 195 pounds, but it is safe to say his decision is a stunner. He is not listed as one of the elite receivers in the country and has hardly been mentioned as someone with top draft potential.
With any of these players, all you can do is wish them luck and hope they made the right decisions for their future.
Ready for some football? Go watch Army and SMU in the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl, starting now! And don't forget to join me for a live chat later today at 4 p.m. Send in your questions now.
On to some links:
Southern Miss receiver DeAndre Brown has decided to enter the NFL Draft, ESPN.com's Joe Schad reports.
It was a nightmare finish for East Carolina.
June Jones' name will keep coming up during coaching searches.
Jeremy Kerley can do it all for TCU.
For TCU quarterback Andy Dalton, it's the biggest game of all.
Nevada has its own theme song.
It's easy to laugh now, but Air Force's lost falcon caused some pretty tense moments.
It's size vs. speed in the GoDaddy.com bowl between Middle Tennessee and Miami (Ohio).
The Miami (Ohio) defense has blossomed.
UCF's senior class hopes to cap its successful run with a bowl win.
Hawaii RB Alex Green has accepted an invitation to play in the Texas vs. The Nation All-Star game.
New Northern Illinois coach Dave Doeren is performing double duty.
On to some links:
Southern Miss receiver DeAndre Brown has decided to enter the NFL Draft, ESPN.com's Joe Schad reports.
It was a nightmare finish for East Carolina.
June Jones' name will keep coming up during coaching searches.
Jeremy Kerley can do it all for TCU.
For TCU quarterback Andy Dalton, it's the biggest game of all.
Nevada has its own theme song.
It's easy to laugh now, but Air Force's lost falcon caused some pretty tense moments.
It's size vs. speed in the GoDaddy.com bowl between Middle Tennessee and Miami (Ohio).
The Miami (Ohio) defense has blossomed.
UCF's senior class hopes to cap its successful run with a bowl win.
Hawaii RB Alex Green has accepted an invitation to play in the Texas vs. The Nation All-Star game.
New Northern Illinois coach Dave Doeren is performing double duty.
Instant Analysis: Louisville 31, Southern Miss 28
December, 21, 2010
12/21/10
11:34
PM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
Louisville beat Southern Miss 31-28 in the Beef 'O' Brady's Bowl in St. Petersburg, Fla., on Tuesday night. Here is a quick instant analysis:
How the game was won: Louisville was better on special teams, plain and simple. Southern Miss made too many mistakes that ended up costing it the game. Danny Hrapmann, a finalist for the Lou Groza Award, had a 29-yard field goal blocked in the third quarter. Then after Southern Miss took a 28-21 lead early in the fourth quarter, Louisville returner Jeremy Wright took the ensuing kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown to tie the game. Southern Miss also had a bad snap on a punt early in the game, but Louisville did not take advantage of the miscue.
Southern Miss also had one other critical error: Johdrick Morris fumbled late in the second quarter following a reception, and Louisville ended up scoring a touchdown off that mistake, too, to tie the game. Each time Southern Miss took a lead in this game, Louisville found a way to come back. The Golden Eagles had leads of 14-0 and 21-7 but could not control the outcome.
Turning point: With the score tied at 28, Louisville got a much-needed break. Bilal Powell appeared to have fumbled at his own 20-yard line, but the ruling on the field was no fumble. Video replays showed his knee never touched the ground, but the no fumble call was upheld on review. Louisville ended up driving for a 36-yard field goal from Chris Philpott to go up 31-28. For those wondering, Sun Belt officials worked the game.
Player of the game: Louisville cornerback Johnny Patrick. He was all over the place, with a forced fumble and blocked field goal -- two plays that ended up making the difference in the game.
Best call: Highlight of the night had to have been the reverse pass from Southern Miss receiver Quentin Pierce to quarterback Austin Davis in the second quarter. Davis made a stunning one-handed catch with his right hand extended in the air. He grabbed it, stumbled, kept his legs and got into the end zone for a 17-yard touchdown reception.
What it means: Southern Miss has had plenty of offensive fireworks this season, and definitely has something to build on for next season with the return of Davis, DeAndre Brown, Kelvin Bolden, Kendrick Hardy and company. But Southern Miss has got to get more disciplined. The special teams breakdowns were costly, and the Golden Eagles also had too many penalties once again. They also need more of a killer instinct. Southern Miss lost four of its five games this season by six points or less. Until the Golden Eagles can pull out the close games, they are going to have trouble winning championships.
Record performance: Davis set the school record for career touchdown passes, breaking the record of 52 held by Brett Favre (1987-90) and Lee Roberts (1995-1998).
How the game was won: Louisville was better on special teams, plain and simple. Southern Miss made too many mistakes that ended up costing it the game. Danny Hrapmann, a finalist for the Lou Groza Award, had a 29-yard field goal blocked in the third quarter. Then after Southern Miss took a 28-21 lead early in the fourth quarter, Louisville returner Jeremy Wright took the ensuing kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown to tie the game. Southern Miss also had a bad snap on a punt early in the game, but Louisville did not take advantage of the miscue.
Southern Miss also had one other critical error: Johdrick Morris fumbled late in the second quarter following a reception, and Louisville ended up scoring a touchdown off that mistake, too, to tie the game. Each time Southern Miss took a lead in this game, Louisville found a way to come back. The Golden Eagles had leads of 14-0 and 21-7 but could not control the outcome.
Turning point: With the score tied at 28, Louisville got a much-needed break. Bilal Powell appeared to have fumbled at his own 20-yard line, but the ruling on the field was no fumble. Video replays showed his knee never touched the ground, but the no fumble call was upheld on review. Louisville ended up driving for a 36-yard field goal from Chris Philpott to go up 31-28. For those wondering, Sun Belt officials worked the game.
Player of the game: Louisville cornerback Johnny Patrick. He was all over the place, with a forced fumble and blocked field goal -- two plays that ended up making the difference in the game.
Best call: Highlight of the night had to have been the reverse pass from Southern Miss receiver Quentin Pierce to quarterback Austin Davis in the second quarter. Davis made a stunning one-handed catch with his right hand extended in the air. He grabbed it, stumbled, kept his legs and got into the end zone for a 17-yard touchdown reception.
What it means: Southern Miss has had plenty of offensive fireworks this season, and definitely has something to build on for next season with the return of Davis, DeAndre Brown, Kelvin Bolden, Kendrick Hardy and company. But Southern Miss has got to get more disciplined. The special teams breakdowns were costly, and the Golden Eagles also had too many penalties once again. They also need more of a killer instinct. Southern Miss lost four of its five games this season by six points or less. Until the Golden Eagles can pull out the close games, they are going to have trouble winning championships.
Record performance: Davis set the school record for career touchdown passes, breaking the record of 52 held by Brett Favre (1987-90) and Lee Roberts (1995-1998).
Southern Miss QB Davis thrives after injury
December, 20, 2010
12/20/10
9:00
AM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
The questions were only natural. How would Southern Miss quarterback Austin Davis respond after missing the majority of 2009 and all of spring practice with a foot injury?
Slowly at first. But now Davis is playing his best ball of the season, and it is coming at the right time, with the Beef 'O' Brady’s Bowl against Louisville set for Tuesday in St. Petersburg, Fla.
“Everyone played better toward the end of the year,” Davis said in a phone interview. “I’m more comfortable with the guys. You play more games, you get better. You can’t substitute game experience.”
Davis has had plenty of that, even though he missed the final eight games of last season with a ligament tear. In 2008, he became the first freshman to start in his first game since 1991 and is very close to breaking the school career records for passing yards, passing touchdowns, 200-yard passing games and rushing touchdowns by a quarterback.
He needs two more passing touchdowns to pass Lee Robert and Brett Favre into first place on the career touchdowns list with 53.
Davis was able to stay healthy this season despite some foot pain, but many of his teammates were not, and that accounted for some of the early struggles. Top receiver DeAndre Brown was hampered all season, and only played in five games. The running backs were also banged up. Kendrick Hardy, Tracy Lampley and V.J. Floyd all got starts this season. The offensive line also had to break in four new starters, so it took a while for everyone to find a rhythm.
“I think Austin played himself back into being comfortable,” offensive coordinator Blake Anderson said. “You don’t know how the guy is going to respond. Initially early maybe he was trying to do too much.
“Some of that had to do with some of the injuries we had earlier. You’re dealing with different skill players every week, so there wasn’t continuity with him and those guys. The timing was not always as good. We found the comfort zone offensively in what we liked and what we had confidence in and gradually our guys got better.”
Indeed, Southern Miss scored 40-plus points in seven of its last eight games. But two of those were critical one-point losses to East Carolina and UAB. Because Southern Miss beat eventual East Division champion UCF, wins in those games would have gotten the Golden Eagles into the C-USA title game.
The UAB loss in double overtime was particularly galling because the Blazers ended the season 4-8. Davis has had a hard time of letting go of those losses, knowing how much they ended up costing Southern Miss.
“There were a couple of plays in those games that I know I made mistakes that keep me up at night,” Davis said. “I feel if I could have done something different, we might have won that game and ended up playing in the championship. You never know what play is going to make a difference. We just have to learn, come out focused and ready to play with intensity in every game. Once we mature to the point we can do that, we’ll find ourselves in the conference championships.”
Despite the disappointment of those two games, Southern Miss is in a bowl game for the ninth straight season and has won eight games for the first time since 2006.
Davis was selected to the C-USA second-team and needs just 102 yards to go over 3,000 yards this season. He will be the only Southern Miss quarterback to go over 3,000 yards passing in a season. Plus, he is also a threat to run, ranking third on the team in rushing with 436 yards on 132 carries and 10 touchdowns.
With many of the skill players returning in 2011, this bowl game could be a big momentum booster. And it will all start with Davis.
“For us to win 10, 11, 12 games a year from now, we’ve got to start out the season with him playing like he’s playing now,” Anderson said. “That is not easy to do. His focus level and preparation over spring and summer is going to be tailored toward that.”
[+] Enlarge
Chuck Cook/US PresswireAustin Davis is on pace to break many of the school's quarterback records.
Chuck Cook/US PresswireAustin Davis is on pace to break many of the school's quarterback records.“Everyone played better toward the end of the year,” Davis said in a phone interview. “I’m more comfortable with the guys. You play more games, you get better. You can’t substitute game experience.”
Davis has had plenty of that, even though he missed the final eight games of last season with a ligament tear. In 2008, he became the first freshman to start in his first game since 1991 and is very close to breaking the school career records for passing yards, passing touchdowns, 200-yard passing games and rushing touchdowns by a quarterback.
He needs two more passing touchdowns to pass Lee Robert and Brett Favre into first place on the career touchdowns list with 53.
Davis was able to stay healthy this season despite some foot pain, but many of his teammates were not, and that accounted for some of the early struggles. Top receiver DeAndre Brown was hampered all season, and only played in five games. The running backs were also banged up. Kendrick Hardy, Tracy Lampley and V.J. Floyd all got starts this season. The offensive line also had to break in four new starters, so it took a while for everyone to find a rhythm.
“I think Austin played himself back into being comfortable,” offensive coordinator Blake Anderson said. “You don’t know how the guy is going to respond. Initially early maybe he was trying to do too much.
“Some of that had to do with some of the injuries we had earlier. You’re dealing with different skill players every week, so there wasn’t continuity with him and those guys. The timing was not always as good. We found the comfort zone offensively in what we liked and what we had confidence in and gradually our guys got better.”
Indeed, Southern Miss scored 40-plus points in seven of its last eight games. But two of those were critical one-point losses to East Carolina and UAB. Because Southern Miss beat eventual East Division champion UCF, wins in those games would have gotten the Golden Eagles into the C-USA title game.
The UAB loss in double overtime was particularly galling because the Blazers ended the season 4-8. Davis has had a hard time of letting go of those losses, knowing how much they ended up costing Southern Miss.
“There were a couple of plays in those games that I know I made mistakes that keep me up at night,” Davis said. “I feel if I could have done something different, we might have won that game and ended up playing in the championship. You never know what play is going to make a difference. We just have to learn, come out focused and ready to play with intensity in every game. Once we mature to the point we can do that, we’ll find ourselves in the conference championships.”
Despite the disappointment of those two games, Southern Miss is in a bowl game for the ninth straight season and has won eight games for the first time since 2006.
Davis was selected to the C-USA second-team and needs just 102 yards to go over 3,000 yards this season. He will be the only Southern Miss quarterback to go over 3,000 yards passing in a season. Plus, he is also a threat to run, ranking third on the team in rushing with 436 yards on 132 carries and 10 touchdowns.
With many of the skill players returning in 2011, this bowl game could be a big momentum booster. And it will all start with Davis.
“For us to win 10, 11, 12 games a year from now, we’ve got to start out the season with him playing like he’s playing now,” Anderson said. “That is not easy to do. His focus level and preparation over spring and summer is going to be tailored toward that.”
Southern Miss to honor wounded teammates
November, 18, 2010
11/18/10
5:00
PM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
Three Southern Miss football players will honor the teammates who were shot and injured following a fight at a club by wearing their respective jerseys against Houston on Saturday.
Receiver DeAndre Brown will wear No. 43 honoring Tim Green, defensive lineman John Henderson will wear No. 32 to honor Martez Smith and defensive lineman Cordarro Law will wear No. 91 to honor Deddrick Jones. The number switches have been approved by the Conference USA office and Houston coach Kevin Sumlin.
Coach Larry Fedora said Brown came up with the idea. Defensive line coach Deke Adams spoke to a few of his players, and Henderson and Law jumped at the opportunity.
“It is a tremendous honor for them, because they are going to have to honor those guys and that is obviously a lot of responsibility,” Fedora said.
The team will also wear a decal on their helmets: a gold heart with their respective numbers in black. The heart symbolizes a quote that Fedora first addressed to the team after the shooting, and that the three players are in their hearts.
The decals will also be handed out to fans before the game.
Smith is paralyzed from the waist down, while Green cannot talk. Jones was reportedly shot in the chest. All three were with several teammates at a club in Hattiesburg following a 31-21 win over UCF last weekend. A fight inside spilled into the parking lot, where they were shot.
Two people have been arrested in connection with the shooting, and a third suspect is being sought.
Receiver DeAndre Brown will wear No. 43 honoring Tim Green, defensive lineman John Henderson will wear No. 32 to honor Martez Smith and defensive lineman Cordarro Law will wear No. 91 to honor Deddrick Jones. The number switches have been approved by the Conference USA office and Houston coach Kevin Sumlin.
Coach Larry Fedora said Brown came up with the idea. Defensive line coach Deke Adams spoke to a few of his players, and Henderson and Law jumped at the opportunity.
“It is a tremendous honor for them, because they are going to have to honor those guys and that is obviously a lot of responsibility,” Fedora said.
The team will also wear a decal on their helmets: a gold heart with their respective numbers in black. The heart symbolizes a quote that Fedora first addressed to the team after the shooting, and that the three players are in their hearts.
The decals will also be handed out to fans before the game.
Smith is paralyzed from the waist down, while Green cannot talk. Jones was reportedly shot in the chest. All three were with several teammates at a club in Hattiesburg following a 31-21 win over UCF last weekend. A fight inside spilled into the parking lot, where they were shot.
Two people have been arrested in connection with the shooting, and a third suspect is being sought.
More midweek MAC football coming up. Tonight: Miami (Ohio) at Bowling Green. I will take Miami, 24-20.
Now on to some links:
Boise State's defensive line has been key this season.
Gary Patterson is in demand, and that's good for TCU.
Utah linebacker J.J. Williams finally makes his return from a lingering foot injury.
Nevada wide receiver Rishard Matthews is hitting his stride.
There is a chance Southern Miss wide receiver DeAndre Brown could play against UCF.
Is running the football the best option for UAB against East Carolina?
Houston linebacker Matt Nicholson suffered another knee injury, ending his season and career.
The WAC could add Texas-San Antonio, Texas State and Denver as early as today.
Air Force coach Troy Calhoun deflected talk about the Colorado opening.
FAU is not proud of its poor offensive production.
Injuries have hit Middle Tennessee -- both starting cornerbacks could be out Saturday.
Now on to some links:
Boise State's defensive line has been key this season.
Gary Patterson is in demand, and that's good for TCU.
Utah linebacker J.J. Williams finally makes his return from a lingering foot injury.
Nevada wide receiver Rishard Matthews is hitting his stride.
There is a chance Southern Miss wide receiver DeAndre Brown could play against UCF.
Is running the football the best option for UAB against East Carolina?
Houston linebacker Matt Nicholson suffered another knee injury, ending his season and career.
The WAC could add Texas-San Antonio, Texas State and Denver as early as today.
Air Force coach Troy Calhoun deflected talk about the Colorado opening.
FAU is not proud of its poor offensive production.
Injuries have hit Middle Tennessee -- both starting cornerbacks could be out Saturday.
Injuries aplenty to discuss ...
North Texas quarterback Nathan Tune could be out for the year after dislocating his hip against Rice last week.
BYU is already at a crossroads, writes Kurt Kragthorpe of the Salt Lake Tribune.
Utah has to adjust because of injuries.
Rice will start Nick Fanuzzi at quarterback against Northwestern. Starter Taylor McHargue is out with a separated shoulder.
Fresno State running back Robbie Rouse is out for Saturday's game against Utah State with ankle and shoulder injuries.
Southern Miss WR DeAndre Brown quieted his critics with a big game last week.
Boise State hopes to redshirt WR Kirby Moore, brother of quarterback Kellen Moore.
The injury bug has hit San Jose State, and the Spartans are just trying to get healthy.
Air Force fullback Jared Tew may have a broken bone in his hand.
Colorado State coach Steve Fairchild vows, "We'll get this thing turned around," after another blowout loss.
Sun Belt teams missed on upset opportunities.
Other conference links:
ACC
Big 12
Big East
Big Ten
SEC
North Texas quarterback Nathan Tune could be out for the year after dislocating his hip against Rice last week.
BYU is already at a crossroads, writes Kurt Kragthorpe of the Salt Lake Tribune.
Utah has to adjust because of injuries.
Rice will start Nick Fanuzzi at quarterback against Northwestern. Starter Taylor McHargue is out with a separated shoulder.
Fresno State running back Robbie Rouse is out for Saturday's game against Utah State with ankle and shoulder injuries.
Southern Miss WR DeAndre Brown quieted his critics with a big game last week.
Boise State hopes to redshirt WR Kirby Moore, brother of quarterback Kellen Moore.
The injury bug has hit San Jose State, and the Spartans are just trying to get healthy.
Air Force fullback Jared Tew may have a broken bone in his hand.
Colorado State coach Steve Fairchild vows, "We'll get this thing turned around," after another blowout loss.
Sun Belt teams missed on upset opportunities.
Other conference links:
ACC
Big 12
Big East
Big Ten
SEC
Let's get over hump day with some tasty links ...
Utah quarterback Jordan Wynn says he might not know until Saturday whether he will be able to play against UNLV with a sprained thumb on his throwing hand.
If Wynn can't play, the Utes would turn to one-time starter Terrance Cain, who has showed big improvements.
Boise State may have just won big, but the Broncos are far from perfect.
Southern Miss receiver DeAndre Brown says he has to play better, a day after his coaches criticized him for a lack of effort.
Gary Patterson got his first paying job as a coach at Tennessee Tech, the team the Horned Frogs are playing on Saturday.
Wyoming returned to the practice field, trying to establish normalcy after the death of linebacker Ruben Narcisse. His father told the Casper Star-Tribune, "He was excited about Wyoming. He was crazy about it."
Nevada is working on its play on both lines as it prepares for Colorado State.
Houston coach Kevin Sumlin wouldn't be where he is today without Mike Price.
Toledo has to get WR Eric Page more involved in the offense.
Kent State feels it has a fighting chance against Boston College.
Other conference links:
ACC
Big 12
Big East
Big Ten
SEC
Utah quarterback Jordan Wynn says he might not know until Saturday whether he will be able to play against UNLV with a sprained thumb on his throwing hand.
If Wynn can't play, the Utes would turn to one-time starter Terrance Cain, who has showed big improvements.
Boise State may have just won big, but the Broncos are far from perfect.
Southern Miss receiver DeAndre Brown says he has to play better, a day after his coaches criticized him for a lack of effort.
Gary Patterson got his first paying job as a coach at Tennessee Tech, the team the Horned Frogs are playing on Saturday.
Wyoming returned to the practice field, trying to establish normalcy after the death of linebacker Ruben Narcisse. His father told the Casper Star-Tribune, "He was excited about Wyoming. He was crazy about it."
Nevada is working on its play on both lines as it prepares for Colorado State.
Houston coach Kevin Sumlin wouldn't be where he is today without Mike Price.
Toledo has to get WR Eric Page more involved in the offense.
Kent State feels it has a fighting chance against Boston College.
Other conference links:
ACC
Big 12
Big East
Big Ten
SEC
Lunchtime Links: So. Miss WR Brown apologizes
August, 3, 2010
8/03/10
12:00
PM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
Southern Miss WR DeAndre Brown apologized for his offseason arrest on a disorderly conduct charge. Teammates Martez Smith and Johdrick Morris were also arrested and face internal discipline from coach Larry Fedora.
Check out this great feature on Fresno State coach Pat Hill in the Fresno Bee. Matt James explains how this season will be different from all the rest for the veteran coach.
Army opened practice Monday with high expectations for a bowl season.
Backup Air Force RB Savier Stephens isn't expected to play this season, coach Troy Calhoun said after the first day of practice Monday.
North Texas signee D'Andre Wood didn't qualify academically and is no longer a part of the team's plans. The CB out of New Mexico Military Institute was one of the top-rated recruits in North Texas' class.
Troy opened fall practice Monday with a big question -- who will replace Levi Brown at quarterback?
UAB made some noise on the first day of practice Monday.
OL Leon Hill will enroll at Joliet Junior College with the hopes of attending Northern Illinois in 2011.
Check out this great feature on Fresno State coach Pat Hill in the Fresno Bee. Matt James explains how this season will be different from all the rest for the veteran coach.
Army opened practice Monday with high expectations for a bowl season.
Backup Air Force RB Savier Stephens isn't expected to play this season, coach Troy Calhoun said after the first day of practice Monday.
North Texas signee D'Andre Wood didn't qualify academically and is no longer a part of the team's plans. The CB out of New Mexico Military Institute was one of the top-rated recruits in North Texas' class.
Troy opened fall practice Monday with a big question -- who will replace Levi Brown at quarterback?
UAB made some noise on the first day of practice Monday.
OL Leon Hill will enroll at Joliet Junior College with the hopes of attending Northern Illinois in 2011.
Here is the first in a series of camp previews for selected non-AQ schools.
Opening camp: Southern Miss
Schedule: Practice starts today. The first day in full pads is Friday.
What’s new: Record-setting running back Damion Fletcher is gone, along with his 5,032 career yards. A mainstay in the backfield for four seasons, Southern Miss is going to have to make do without him. V.J. Floyd is a top candidate to start, but watch out for Tracey Lampley and freshman Kendrick Hardy.
Sidelined: Quarterback Austin Davis was cleared to practice in June and should be 100 percent for practice after injuring his foot last season. Still, coach Larry Fedora expects good competition between Davis and Martevious Young during fall camp. Wide receiver DeAndre Brown should also be healthy after a hamstring injury slowed him in the spring.
Key battle: Four starters are gone on the offensive line, leaving some major battles going into camp. The two biggest could be at tackle. On the left side, the race is between sophomore Darius Barnes and junior college transfer Lamar Holmes; at right tackle it is between Jason Weaver and Thomas Edenfield.
New on the scene: Hardy came in as a highly touted freshman and redshirted in 2009. But he had a great spring and could have a great season.
Breaking out: Let’s give this to the entire defense, which is going to have to break out for Southern Miss to do better than 7-6. With nine starters returning, the pressure is on this unit to show it can stop opponents on a consistent basis. The talent is there, with defensive end Cordarro Law along with the best linebacking corps in C-USA of Korey Williams, Martez Smith and Ronnie Thornton.
Don’t forget about: Defensive end Roshaad Byrd. He missed the second half of last season with an ankle injury and is confident he will be healthy. He could be a good complement for Law.
All eyes on: The secondary. The front seven is just fine for the Golden Eagles. But two starters are gone and so is Alabama transfer Alonzo Lawrence, leaving this unit with question marks.
Quoting: “We are expecting a breakout year. We’re going into our third year. We’ve upgraded our talent level and I’ve got the pieces of the puzzle in place. We’ll be a major player in this league.” -- Southern Miss coach Larry Fedora
Opening camp: Southern Miss
Schedule: Practice starts today. The first day in full pads is Friday.
What’s new: Record-setting running back Damion Fletcher is gone, along with his 5,032 career yards. A mainstay in the backfield for four seasons, Southern Miss is going to have to make do without him. V.J. Floyd is a top candidate to start, but watch out for Tracey Lampley and freshman Kendrick Hardy.
[+] Enlarge
John Rieger/US PresswireAustin Davis threw for 1,165 yards in five games last season.
John Rieger/US PresswireAustin Davis threw for 1,165 yards in five games last season.Key battle: Four starters are gone on the offensive line, leaving some major battles going into camp. The two biggest could be at tackle. On the left side, the race is between sophomore Darius Barnes and junior college transfer Lamar Holmes; at right tackle it is between Jason Weaver and Thomas Edenfield.
New on the scene: Hardy came in as a highly touted freshman and redshirted in 2009. But he had a great spring and could have a great season.
Breaking out: Let’s give this to the entire defense, which is going to have to break out for Southern Miss to do better than 7-6. With nine starters returning, the pressure is on this unit to show it can stop opponents on a consistent basis. The talent is there, with defensive end Cordarro Law along with the best linebacking corps in C-USA of Korey Williams, Martez Smith and Ronnie Thornton.
Don’t forget about: Defensive end Roshaad Byrd. He missed the second half of last season with an ankle injury and is confident he will be healthy. He could be a good complement for Law.
All eyes on: The secondary. The front seven is just fine for the Golden Eagles. But two starters are gone and so is Alabama transfer Alonzo Lawrence, leaving this unit with question marks.
Quoting: “We are expecting a breakout year. We’re going into our third year. We’ve upgraded our talent level and I’ve got the pieces of the puzzle in place. We’ll be a major player in this league.” -- Southern Miss coach Larry Fedora
Southern Miss has been practicing for more than a week and is due to have its first public scrimmage on Friday.
Last season, the Golden Eagles were one game away from winning Conference USA East and playing for the conference title. This spring is dedicated to making sure that the mistakes that led to the loss against East Carolina don’t happen again.
Here’s a look at the strongest and weakest positions for the Golden Eagles this spring:
Strongest position: Wide receiver
Key returners: Junior DeAndre Brown (47 catches, 785 yards, nine touchdowns), sophomore Quentin Pierce (25 catches, 242 yards, two touchdowns), senior Johdrick Morris (eight catches, 131 yards, one touchdown), senior Jonathan Massey (seven catch, 62 yards, two touchdowns)
Key departures: Gerald Baptiste (38 catches, 558 yards, five touchdowns), Freddie Parham (26 catches, 328 yards, two touchdowns), Leroy Banks (29 catches, 375 yards, three touchdowns)
The skinny: Despite losing four of the team’s top five leading receivers (running back Damion Fletcher included), coach Larry Fedora said this might be the deepest wide receiving corps during his tenure. Brown returns and should be healthier than he was in 2009, when he was recovering from a broken leg, and Pierce could emerge as a top receiver this year. The Golden Eagles also add junior college transfer Kelvin Bolden to add to the depth.
Weakest position: Offensive line
Key returners: Center Cameron Zipp
Key departures: Left tackle Kyle Burkhart, left guard Micah Brown, right guard Ryan Hebert, right tackle Brennan Houston.
The skinny: I could have easily said the kicking game here, but I went with the offensive line since there is so much to replace and little experience heading into this spring. Zipp is the only starter returning from the offensive line, which prompted Fedora to bring in two junior college offensive linemen this spring in Lamar Holmes and Jason Weaver. All of the backup players return, though most are young. This spring is going to be critical in developing the line, especially with a new corps of running backs taking the reins in the spring.
Last season, the Golden Eagles were one game away from winning Conference USA East and playing for the conference title. This spring is dedicated to making sure that the mistakes that led to the loss against East Carolina don’t happen again.
Here’s a look at the strongest and weakest positions for the Golden Eagles this spring:
Strongest position: Wide receiver
Key returners: Junior DeAndre Brown (47 catches, 785 yards, nine touchdowns), sophomore Quentin Pierce (25 catches, 242 yards, two touchdowns), senior Johdrick Morris (eight catches, 131 yards, one touchdown), senior Jonathan Massey (seven catch, 62 yards, two touchdowns)
Key departures: Gerald Baptiste (38 catches, 558 yards, five touchdowns), Freddie Parham (26 catches, 328 yards, two touchdowns), Leroy Banks (29 catches, 375 yards, three touchdowns)
The skinny: Despite losing four of the team’s top five leading receivers (running back Damion Fletcher included), coach Larry Fedora said this might be the deepest wide receiving corps during his tenure. Brown returns and should be healthier than he was in 2009, when he was recovering from a broken leg, and Pierce could emerge as a top receiver this year. The Golden Eagles also add junior college transfer Kelvin Bolden to add to the depth.
Weakest position: Offensive line
Key returners: Center Cameron Zipp
Key departures: Left tackle Kyle Burkhart, left guard Micah Brown, right guard Ryan Hebert, right tackle Brennan Houston.
The skinny: I could have easily said the kicking game here, but I went with the offensive line since there is so much to replace and little experience heading into this spring. Zipp is the only starter returning from the offensive line, which prompted Fedora to bring in two junior college offensive linemen this spring in Lamar Holmes and Jason Weaver. All of the backup players return, though most are young. This spring is going to be critical in developing the line, especially with a new corps of running backs taking the reins in the spring.
Posted by ESPN.com’s Graham Watson
During the past couple of weeks, Southern Miss has started to see its leading receiver from a year ago re-emerge.
Sophomore DeAndre Brown, who has spent most of the season recovering from a broken leg he suffered during last year’s bowl game and a shoulder injury he suffered against Kansas on Sept. 26, is finally starting feel like his old self.
“I’d say it’s just been the past two weeks that I’ve really been able to get back to myself,” Brown said. “My body isn’t hurting like it was at the beginning of the season. After some games I wouldn’t even be able to walk. Now, I’m coming out for these next practices and able to run sprints pretty good. There’s not too much pain at all.”
Brown has nine catches for 124 yards and three touchdowns the past two weeks. He said the time he spent rehabbing allowed him to gain 15 extra pounds, which has helped him shed tacklers now that he has some strength back in his leg.
Coach Larry Fedora said the process of Brown coming back has been tough on the entire Southern Miss team since they were all hoping to see the player who had more than 1,000 yards receiving his freshman season automatically emerge at the beginning of the year.
“He was frustrated, the coaches were frustrated, his teammates were frustrated because everybody wanted him to be back just like he was,” Fedora said. “I just don’t think it works that way. It’s taken him some time.”
But Brown said he knew as he started to get back into playing shape that he wouldn’t immediately be the dynamic player he was a year ago. He knew that he’d have to learn other ways to contribute to the offense until he got back into game shape. There were flashes of some of his receiving prowess throughout the season, but there wasn’t consistency.
In Brown’s first game back against Central Florida, he had seven catches for 75 yards. The following week, he had two catches for 7 yards. The week after against Kansas, he caught four balls for 85 yards. Only in the past few weeks has Brown been able to put together a string of consistent games.
“When I came back, I pretty well knew that I wasn’t going to be able to do things that I was able to do before,” Brown said. “So, I knew what I could do and what I couldn’t do. What I could do, I just kind of worked at it and got my body into shape to be able to do things that I did last year or early on in the summer.”
That consistency couldn’t have come at a better time as the Golden Eagles face Houston this week in one of the most anticipated games on the Conference USA schedule.
Brown thinks this game might be a chance to reintroduce himself to the rest of the country. Brown was the nation’s leading freshman receiver a year ago. This year, he’s ranked 74th nationally in receiving yards per game.
“Myself and the receiver corps here are coming out with a little bit of a chip on our shoulder, and [we want to] show those guys up and show them that we can play with the best of them, too,” Brown said. “To me, this game is much anticipated and I can’t wait to get out there and showcase my talents.”
During the past couple of weeks, Southern Miss has started to see its leading receiver from a year ago re-emerge.
Sophomore DeAndre Brown, who has spent most of the season recovering from a broken leg he suffered during last year’s bowl game and a shoulder injury he suffered against Kansas on Sept. 26, is finally starting feel like his old self.
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| John Korduner/Icon SMI | |
| DeAndre Brown (5) is starting to return to his form from last season. |
“I’d say it’s just been the past two weeks that I’ve really been able to get back to myself,” Brown said. “My body isn’t hurting like it was at the beginning of the season. After some games I wouldn’t even be able to walk. Now, I’m coming out for these next practices and able to run sprints pretty good. There’s not too much pain at all.”
Brown has nine catches for 124 yards and three touchdowns the past two weeks. He said the time he spent rehabbing allowed him to gain 15 extra pounds, which has helped him shed tacklers now that he has some strength back in his leg.
Coach Larry Fedora said the process of Brown coming back has been tough on the entire Southern Miss team since they were all hoping to see the player who had more than 1,000 yards receiving his freshman season automatically emerge at the beginning of the year.
“He was frustrated, the coaches were frustrated, his teammates were frustrated because everybody wanted him to be back just like he was,” Fedora said. “I just don’t think it works that way. It’s taken him some time.”
But Brown said he knew as he started to get back into playing shape that he wouldn’t immediately be the dynamic player he was a year ago. He knew that he’d have to learn other ways to contribute to the offense until he got back into game shape. There were flashes of some of his receiving prowess throughout the season, but there wasn’t consistency.
In Brown’s first game back against Central Florida, he had seven catches for 75 yards. The following week, he had two catches for 7 yards. The week after against Kansas, he caught four balls for 85 yards. Only in the past few weeks has Brown been able to put together a string of consistent games.
“When I came back, I pretty well knew that I wasn’t going to be able to do things that I was able to do before,” Brown said. “So, I knew what I could do and what I couldn’t do. What I could do, I just kind of worked at it and got my body into shape to be able to do things that I did last year or early on in the summer.”
That consistency couldn’t have come at a better time as the Golden Eagles face Houston this week in one of the most anticipated games on the Conference USA schedule.
Brown thinks this game might be a chance to reintroduce himself to the rest of the country. Brown was the nation’s leading freshman receiver a year ago. This year, he’s ranked 74th nationally in receiving yards per game.
“Myself and the receiver corps here are coming out with a little bit of a chip on our shoulder, and [we want to] show those guys up and show them that we can play with the best of them, too,” Brown said. “To me, this game is much anticipated and I can’t wait to get out there and showcase my talents.”
Posted by ESPN.com’s Graham Watson
Southern Miss will be without three of its top players when it heads to Birmingham to face UAB in a pivotal Conference USA tilt.
Coach Larry Fedora announced after Tuesday’s practice that receivers DeAndre Brown and Johdrick Morris, and running back Damion Fletcher would all stay home to nurse various injuries.
Brown suffered a shoulder injury during last week’s game against Kansas and Fletcher suffered a groin strain the same game. Both players missed the final three series of the game.
Morris is still recovering from a concussion he suffered against Virginia on Sept. 19. He did not play against Kansas.
“We went through the entire spring without DeAndre and Fletch, so all the guys who will be playing got reps all through spring and a lot during [fall] camp,” Fedora said. “Quentin Pierce will step up and make plays like he did this past spring and we are looking to Tory [Harrison], along with V.J. Floyd and Tracey Lampley at tailback.”
Southern Miss is 3-1 this season a 1-0 in conference play with a win over Central Florida. UAB is 1-3 and 1-1 in conference play. After winning its opening game against Rice, the Blazers have lost three straight.
Southern Miss will be without three of its top players when it heads to Birmingham to face UAB in a pivotal Conference USA tilt.
Coach Larry Fedora announced after Tuesday’s practice that receivers DeAndre Brown and Johdrick Morris, and running back Damion Fletcher would all stay home to nurse various injuries.
Brown suffered a shoulder injury during last week’s game against Kansas and Fletcher suffered a groin strain the same game. Both players missed the final three series of the game.
Morris is still recovering from a concussion he suffered against Virginia on Sept. 19. He did not play against Kansas.
“We went through the entire spring without DeAndre and Fletch, so all the guys who will be playing got reps all through spring and a lot during [fall] camp,” Fedora said. “Quentin Pierce will step up and make plays like he did this past spring and we are looking to Tory [Harrison], along with V.J. Floyd and Tracey Lampley at tailback.”
Southern Miss is 3-1 this season a 1-0 in conference play with a win over Central Florida. UAB is 1-3 and 1-1 in conference play. After winning its opening game against Rice, the Blazers have lost three straight.
Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin
Here’s a spectator’s guide for this weekend’s games. A ranking of four stars indicates must-see football. Three-star games are definitely worth an extensive investment in time. Two-star games bear a quick glimpse or two for occasional score updates, but little more. And one-star games mean you might be better off watching your kids’ soccer games or taking care of some yardwork than hunkering down in front of the television.
Check out this list and plan your Saturday schedules accordingly. All times are for Saturday games unless otherwise noted.
Four-star games
Texas Tech at Houston (ESPN2, 9:15 p.m. ET): Stay up late for this offensive battle between underrated Case Keenum of Houston and Texas Tech’s Taylor Potts, who showed much moxie last week in his national coming-out party against Texas. The Cougars lead the nation in scoring and rank fourth in passing. Texas Tech leads the nation in passing.
Three-star games
Southern Mississippi at Kansas (noon): The streaking Jayhawks will be tested against Southern Mississippi, whose eight-game winning streak is tied with Mississippi behind only Florida’s 13-game streak. The Golden Eagles bring a lot of firepower with Damion Fletcher (11th nationally in rushing) and 6-foot-6 wide receiver DeAndre Brown, who Kansas coach Mark Mangino says will be the toughest receiver his team will face this season. Kansas will hope to continue building with a balanced offense that is the only team nationally to rank among the top 16 in rushing, scoring, passing offense and total offense.
Missouri at Nevada (ESPN, 9 p.m. Friday): The Tigers will face their first road challenge of the season against the 0-2 Wolf Pack, who have been an early disappointment after losing at Notre Dame and Colorado State. Sophomore quarterback Blaine Gabbert leads the Big 12 in passing efficiency, but will be challenged to match multitalented Nevada quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Nevada will try to dictate tempo with Vai Taua, who is tied for 21st nationally in rushing.
Two-star games
UTEP at Texas (3:30 p.m.): Emerging Longhorns should receive a break this week against the Miners, who lost twice at home before winning last week at New Mexico State. Texas should dictate the game against a UTEP offense that ranks 97th or worst in scoring offense, total offense and rushing and tied for 101st in sacks allowed. The Longhorns have won all three previous games in the series by a combined 92-13 margin.
Army at Iowa State (7 p.m.): Iowa State’s confidence will be tested by Army’s option-based ground attack which ranks seventh nationally with an average of 257.7 rushing yards per game. Iowa State will counter with Alexander Robinson, who ranks 15th nationally and has rushed for back-to-back 100-yard games. One item to watch will be Iowa State’s short defensive backs against 6-foot-10, 285-pound Army wide receiver Ali Villanueva, who is tied for his team's lead in receiving.
Louisiana-Lafayette at Nebraska (7 p.m.): This will be a celebration of all things Nebraska football as the Cornhuskers’ program celebrates its 300th consecutive sellout in a streak that dates to 1962. The Cornhuskers will wear throwback uniforms as they hope to rebound from last week’s disappointing loss at Virginia Tech. The Ragin’ Cajuns will be gunning for their second victory over a Big 12 school in three weeks with an offense that has not allowed a sack this season.
UAB at Texas A&M (7 p.m.): The Aggies should have another breather after easy victories over New Mexico and Utah State. Aggie linebacker Von Miller leads the nation in sacks and Jerrod Johnson is third in total offense. The Aggies shouldn’t be challenged by a Blazers team that has lost two straight and ranks 110th in total defense and 118th in pass defense.
One-star games
Tennessee Tech at Kansas State (1 p.m.): Kansas State hopes to stem a two-game losing streak against the Golden Eagles, coached by Watson Brown, older brother of Texas coach Mack Brown. Tennessee Tech created three turnovers and blocked a kick last week against Eastern Kentucky. But they’ll be challenged by the Wildcats, who will be facing their second FCS challenge after beating Massachusetts in the opener. Kansas State ranks among the bottom five teams nationally in sacks (118th) and tackles for losses (116th).
Northwestern State at Baylor (7 p.m.): Coach Art Briles’ team was shaken after the upset home loss against Connecticut last week. Robert Griffin is coming off his worst college game after producing a career-low 139 total yards against Connecticut. Northwestern State has lost its first three games, including a home loss to North Dakota last week. The Demons have struggled defensively, allowing 40 points per game. And Quentin Castille, formerly of Nebraska, is averaging 51.3 yards rushing per game.
Grambling State at Oklahoma State (7 p.m.): Oklahoma State hopes for more continuity in its final nonconference game. Their struggling pass defense (108th nationally) will be challenged by Grambling State quarterback Greg Dillon. Grambling has won two straight games but will be facing its only FBS challenge of the season in this game.
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