The 2015 Hobart College Statesmen will check in for preseason training camp this Saturday, August 15th in Geneva, NY. Expectations are high but some pollsters can't ignore the fact that the Class of 2015 graduated some of the best players in Hobart and D3 football history.
The Statesmen will have some big shoes to fill but the goal of another Liberty League title and NCAA Championship run is still the same. A few "stories" that come to mind for me as a fan and alum are listed below:
1. The Drach / David Era Begins - While player graduations certainly are at the top of everyone's mind, the 2015 Hobart season can also be defined by how newly minted Offensive and Defensive Coordinators Jon Drach and Kory David assume their roles and put their stamps on the Statesmen program. Coach Drach is certainly not "new", having coached on the staff for 8 seasons, but this is a great opportunity for the former Western Michigan QB to take over the reigns from Coach Kevin DeWall '00 who will be back in Geneva on September 13, but this time as the HC of the Endicott College Gulls (MA).
Some fans may expect Coach Drach's offensive style to be more pass than run oriented but WMU ran a similar offensive system as Coach DeWall's. Still, with a loaded QB roster and talented, young WRs and TEs, it will be tempting for Hobart to "air it out" especially as a retooled offensive line comes together.
I'm particularly interested to see how players like SO WR Brandon Shed, JR WR Jack Pfohl and SO TEs Chris Cyr and Zach Withers evolve into potential starters, if not top offensive weapons.
On defense, Coach David inherits a more veteran unit that includes arguably the best inside and outside LB corps in the nation. SR LB Trayvon Toney has been overlooked for All-American honors in my opinion and is poised for a big season.
The one question I have on defense is how the line will fare. Although I don't anticipate changes to the Statesmen's 4x4 front, it would be interesting if Coach implemented strategies like 3-5-3 given the LB strength of this team. The 3-5-3 doesn't necessarily make sense for Hobart during conference play given the large number of option teams in the Liberty League. Outside of LL play however, this scheme could be very useful against playoff caliber teams like Wesley who like to spread the field.
Regardless of whether Coach David keeps the status quo or implements new strategies, SR DL and Co-Captain Tucker Gumkowski will be looked at to lead the way for Hobart on the defensive front.
2. The Trenches - A big reason for Statesmen's recent run of success has a lot to do with the fact that it seems like every year Hobart has at least one All-American OL player (or more). The ability of Hobart to line up and dictate the run game (and barely allow any sacks or TFL) to their opponents is a big reason the Statesmen have won 41 of their last 46 contests.
While there are a couple of experienced players returning, there will be at least three open jobs going into preseason camp the OL men will be competing to earn. The success of this group will be a big indicator on the chances of the same for Hobart's season.
3. Staying Dry - a new, no tolerance policy will be implemented this fall per Coach Cragg and the adoption and discipline required to maintain it will be critical. I have faith in the Captains and team but this is a lot of ask 18-22 year old student athletes. While I don't think it'll be an issue, time will tell how certain players adapt and accept this rule. It's certainly a bold step in the commitment and dedication required to push Hobart to the next level in pursuit of a National Championship.
I plan to release a more detailed look at the roster in the coming weeks and there are plans for an eighth season of "In The HuddLLe" (www.inthehuddlle.com). Our preseason special, including an interview with a Hobart SR captain, will likely air on or around September 1st.
In the meantime, thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
I see an item #4. I'd title it 'Keeping them fresh'. Over the past several seasons our offensive backfield talent parlayed well mentally and physically. Maximizing the array of talent kept (and will keep) the legs fresh! It takes high-caliber character and total team commitment to share the snap. The 'O' and 'D' substitution methodology will remain strategically key throughout the season. Obvious benefits involve injury percentages, player development and keeping the opposition on their heels through effective rotation of plays and unique player talent. I remember saying...gee, no tandem Steve Webb and Bobby Dougherty, I could say, gee no Dom Ellis to beat down the LBs. I will say our offensive balance potential is a 2015 characteristic, the desire is there, the leadership is there. As for the defense, I am comfortable. Yes there are obvious anchors but Coach's recent play development in other areas will shine. To your point #3, yes the discipline element is intriguing. I'd put the word GOAL right out front! G-great; O-opportunities; A-are; L-limited. This season's opportunity is significant. Bring it on. Go Bart!
ReplyDeleteThoughts (trying to get use to this side of things)?