Last week the Hobart College Statesmen landed the seventh position in the preseason D3football.com poll. Hobart had been tabbed as twelfth and thirteenth by the Sporting News and Lindy’s Sports Awards College Football polls, respectively, earlier in the summer. To be fair I thought the SN and LSAC rankings were perfect in the sense that they recognized Hobart’s 12 win season (a feat only four other teams in the 240+ team Division accomplished), who the Statesmen had graduated (two year, playoff experienced, starting QB and backup, not to mention a 19 TD scoring RB), and how a new QB would be taking over the offense.
I am guessing what the D3football.com pollsters focused on was the fact that Hobart has a proven formula – depth and size on the OL, a 1,000+ yard four year starting RB Steven Webb in in an I-back / run first type of offense and a defense with two All-American players (Worthington and Coleman) that ranked fifth in the nation (total defense) that didn’t lose a lot of pieces from 2012. Still, the relatively low number of points for the seventh position (381, which divided by 25 averages out to 15.24 points per vote, so there were probably some pollsters who had the Statesmen in the high teens), shows that there was some disagreement on where Hobart belonged in the polls. To be fair, the poll overall shows a relatively “wide open” results (e.g. three teams getting a good portion of first place votes) this year, so that's something to consider as well.
Not that I am complaining about the national profile Hobart is getting coming in at #7, but there are some pitfalls to starting off so high in a preseason poll. Namely, just being ranked in the Top 10 implies that you should cruise through your regular season schedule without much difficulty. Until last year, the Statesmen hadn’t run the table in the Liberty League (LL) since 2004, and it had been 57 years since a prior undefeated regular season. The pollsters will not only expect wins but also lopsided ones and the team could start to feel pressure from not winning “by enough” depending on how the season unfolds.
Both Springfield and Union College bring back very strong teams and I guarantee have their games with Hobart (10/12 for the Pride and 11/2 for the Dutchmen) circled on their calendars. Both games are away games for the Statesmen and barring a few surprises, its likely both teams will be undefeated when they face off against Hobart in these match ups.
In spite of the above, I am fairly certain the focus will be on playing Dickinson on September 7th. Head Coach Mike Cragg did a masterful job keeping the team in check week in and out, and although in conversations the players admitted to wanting to go undefeated, they also fully subscribed to the one game at a time philosophy espoused by the coaching staff.
Needless to say, it won’t be for a few weeks until we really know whether or not the preseason ranking(s) bear any merit. It’s definitely an exciting time for the program. I know I am already counting down to kickoff!
Go ‘Bart!
Monday, July 22, 2013
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Hobart Comes in at #7 in D3football.com Preseason Poll
The Hobart Statesmen's historic 2012 season has raised the bar considerably and the pollsters at D3football.com confirmed that today placing Hobart seventh in their 2013 preseason poll. This is the highest position the Statesmen have ever had from D3football.com and suggests they would run the table in 2013.
A link to the poll is http://www.d3football.com/top25/2013/preseason
More thoughts on this high ranking in a bit. Still processing....
A link to the poll is http://www.d3football.com/top25/2013/preseason
More thoughts on this high ranking in a bit. Still processing....
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Recruiting Round Up
I hope everyone is having a great summer. There are about 55 days until the kickoff of the 2013 season. Players will report to camp in less than five weeks.
Although the football roster on www.hwsathletics.com has yet to be updated (other than class years), and probably won't be until mid-to-late August, we know around half of the incoming FY class of recruits based on prior years' tallies (usually around 30+ student athletes). While I was a little concerned seeing the lack of depth on the defensive line (DL) on the roster, after some inquiries have been convinced that a combination of incoming talent and moves made during spring camp by the coaching staff has it addressed.
Although I would have hoped to uncovered a few more recruits, here's the Class of 2017 (so far), positions listed below as a "best guess" on my part:
Cragg – DB/ST
Cunningham – WR
Erickson – OL
Gesualdi -WR
Harper – FS/DB
Hedger – DE
John – QB
Kirsche – PK
Miller – PK
Russo – QB
Skinner – OL
Smith – WR
Thornton – LB
Wagner – WR/ST
More to come in the month of August barring any "breaking news".
Go 'Bart!
Although the football roster on www.hwsathletics.com has yet to be updated (other than class years), and probably won't be until mid-to-late August, we know around half of the incoming FY class of recruits based on prior years' tallies (usually around 30+ student athletes). While I was a little concerned seeing the lack of depth on the defensive line (DL) on the roster, after some inquiries have been convinced that a combination of incoming talent and moves made during spring camp by the coaching staff has it addressed.
Although I would have hoped to uncovered a few more recruits, here's the Class of 2017 (so far), positions listed below as a "best guess" on my part:
Cragg – DB/ST
Cunningham – WR
Erickson – OL
Gesualdi -WR
Harper – FS/DB
Hedger – DE
John – QB
Kirsche – PK
Miller – PK
Russo – QB
Skinner – OL
Smith – WR
Thornton – LB
Wagner – WR/ST
More to come in the month of August barring any "breaking news".
Go 'Bart!
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Aquinas' Hedger is Heading to Hobart
The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle's "Varsity Voices" blog reports that Aquinas Institute (Rochester, NY) SR DE/OL James Hedger has committed to come to Hobart. Hedger, 6' 2" 240 lbs, helped lead the Little Irish to 17 wins over the past two seasons. In 2012 he served as Co-Captain and was named to the All Greater Rochester First Team in his final HS season. Aquinas is considered a dynasty in NY state given it's 82-27 record and two state titles, the last earned in 2010, over the past 10 seasons.
The Statesmen know the Aquinas program very well as SR OLB and Co-Captain Devin Worthington was a four year varsity letter-man and three time All-State selection for the Irish.
While Hedger also played guard, it appears as though he'll specialize on the defensive side of the ball in college. As a DE for the Irish he tallied 40 tackles, five sacks and two interceptions - one which was returned for a TD - and a 54 yard fumble recovery in 2012.
Check out his highlight reel here. I was impressed. This kid makes plays.
Please join me in welcoming James to the Statesmen Football Family.
Go 'Bart!
PS - 72 days until kickoff....
The Statesmen know the Aquinas program very well as SR OLB and Co-Captain Devin Worthington was a four year varsity letter-man and three time All-State selection for the Irish.
While Hedger also played guard, it appears as though he'll specialize on the defensive side of the ball in college. As a DE for the Irish he tallied 40 tackles, five sacks and two interceptions - one which was returned for a TD - and a 54 yard fumble recovery in 2012.
Check out his highlight reel here. I was impressed. This kid makes plays.
Please join me in welcoming James to the Statesmen Football Family.
Go 'Bart!
PS - 72 days until kickoff....
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Lindy's Ranks Hobart #13, Names 3 Statesmen to Preseason All-DIII Teams
The Hobart Statesmen received additional preseason praise from Lindy's Sports Awards, landing a #13 ranking and having JR OL Ali Marpet and JR DE Tyre Coleman recognized on their All-DIII first offensive and defensive teams, respectively. SR OLB/SS Devin Worthington also merited a second All-DIII defensive team mention as well.
SR RB Steven Webb received a "call out" in the Top 25 ranking as "giv[ing the] Statesmen another shot to match record-setting 2012."
A link to the ranking and preview can be found here.
While the Statesmen appreciate the preseason praise, the coaching staff is keeping things in perspective. Offensive Coordinator Kevin DeWall told "Comin Atcha" that "preseason ranking[s] will go largely off how we finished last season, which is a nice start, but we all know that means nothing to how we and play and finish this year."
I think this is the right way to look at these rankings. At the end of the day, when the Dickinson College Red Devils come to Geneva on Saturday, September 7th, both teams will be 0-0.
That's it for now. Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
SR RB Steven Webb received a "call out" in the Top 25 ranking as "giv[ing the] Statesmen another shot to match record-setting 2012."
A link to the ranking and preview can be found here.
While the Statesmen appreciate the preseason praise, the coaching staff is keeping things in perspective. Offensive Coordinator Kevin DeWall told "Comin Atcha" that "preseason ranking[s] will go largely off how we finished last season, which is a nice start, but we all know that means nothing to how we and play and finish this year."
I think this is the right way to look at these rankings. At the end of the day, when the Dickinson College Red Devils come to Geneva on Saturday, September 7th, both teams will be 0-0.
That's it for now. Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Hobart Tabbed #12 in Sporting News CFB Preseason Poll
The Sporting News College Football 2013 Preview hit newsstands recently, previewing all levels of NCAA College Football. If you flip to page 192 you'll find the Division III preview written by Mike Goens of the Florence Times Daily (AL).
Hobart was ranked 12th in the DIII preseason poll with JR DE Tyre Coleman receiving a spot on the preseason All-America team.
The top 25 preseason rankings (with 2012's W/L records) were as follows:
1. Linfield (11-1)
2. Mount Union (15-0)
3. Wisconsin-Whitewater (7-3)
4. St. Thomas (14-1)
5. Mary Hardin-Baylor (13-1)
6. Wesley (10-2)
7. Wittenburg (10-2)
8. Wisconsin-Osh Kosh (13-1)
9. Johns Hopkins (10-2)
10. North Central (9-3)
11. Pacific Lutheran (7-3)
12. HOBART (12-1)
13. Bethel (9-3)
14. Cal Lutheran (8-2)
15. Widener (11-1)
16. Wheaton (8-2)
17. St. John Fisher (8-3)
18. Ohio Wesleyan (9-1)
19. Washington & Jefferson (8-3)
20. Coe (10-1)
21. Hardin-Simmons (6-4)
22. Waynesburg (10-1)
23. Rowan (7-3)
24. Wisconsin-Platteville (8-2)
25. SUNY Cortland (9-2)
This preview will be available until August 26th. Pick yours up today!
Hobart was ranked 12th in the DIII preseason poll with JR DE Tyre Coleman receiving a spot on the preseason All-America team.
The top 25 preseason rankings (with 2012's W/L records) were as follows:
1. Linfield (11-1)
2. Mount Union (15-0)
3. Wisconsin-Whitewater (7-3)
4. St. Thomas (14-1)
5. Mary Hardin-Baylor (13-1)
6. Wesley (10-2)
7. Wittenburg (10-2)
8. Wisconsin-Osh Kosh (13-1)
9. Johns Hopkins (10-2)
10. North Central (9-3)
11. Pacific Lutheran (7-3)
12. HOBART (12-1)
13. Bethel (9-3)
14. Cal Lutheran (8-2)
15. Widener (11-1)
16. Wheaton (8-2)
17. St. John Fisher (8-3)
18. Ohio Wesleyan (9-1)
19. Washington & Jefferson (8-3)
20. Coe (10-1)
21. Hardin-Simmons (6-4)
22. Waynesburg (10-1)
23. Rowan (7-3)
24. Wisconsin-Platteville (8-2)
25. SUNY Cortland (9-2)
This preview will be available until August 26th. Pick yours up today!
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Olney Joins Teammate in Germany
Former Hobart QB Kelly Olney '13 has teamed up with his Statesman team and classmate Andrew Klindera '13 on the Fursty Razorbacks in Germany. Kelly can be seen here about to fire a pass in a game from last weekend against the Ingolstadt Dukes. We caught up with Kelly to ask him about his experiences overseas, and here is what he had to say:
Did Klindera tell you about the GFL? Or was it the other way around? Tell us about your journey to Germany:
Andrew told me about the GFL during his recruiting process. Not long before he left for Germany he mentioned that the Razorbacks needed a QB and after seeing the little film that I had, they wanted me to join the team. It took me a little time to figure out my plans but after speaking with my parents, before I knew it I was on a flight to Germany just a few weeks before graduation. I had no idea what I was getting myself into but I'm glad I took this opportunity because it has been a blast so far.
What's life been like living and playing football abroad?
Living with Andrew has made the transition much easier for me in terms of living abroad. The people have been great, very welcoming and happy to have us. We have made many friends already and have absorbed the culture gracefully. I learn something new about German culture everyday which makes the experience a two for one deal.
Because I wasn't familiar with American football being played abroad, I had no idea what to expect. But after getting settled in and playing a few games it's no different from the game we play in the states, they just don't start at a young age like we do, which sets them back fundamentally.
You've changed your #9 to #19. How many QBs are on the Fursty roster? Where are they from?
Because I was essentially late to camp, the last available number was 19 and I've stuck with it, (Johnny Unitas style) I'd prefer 9 but it was already taken by another quarterback who is actually the only other quarterback on the team and comes from Germany.
How do the offensive playbooks of the GFL compare to the system run by Coach DeWall?
Well coming here the playbook was very simple because they were strictly a running team. But the coaches have been working with me to open it up and become more versatile. Coach DeWall's offense is much bigger and complex.
Do you plan to stay in Europe after football season?
Interestingly enough after my time here in Munich is done with I will head home for about a month only to head back to Europe to for a semester abroad. I will be studying in Rome, Italy and finishing up my bachelors degree there through Hobart's great study abroad program.
Lastly, is that an a Hobart Football wrist band (the ones handed out at the Belhurst at the Football Banquet) on your wrist in the picture above?
Yes, that is the Hobart band we received at the dinner. I thought I'd represent Hobart FB while playing abroad.
Thanks to Kelly and good luck the rest of the Fursty season!
Have any news regarding incoming recruits, former players, Hobart Football in general? Drop us a line.
Go 'Bart!
Did Klindera tell you about the GFL? Or was it the other way around? Tell us about your journey to Germany:
Andrew told me about the GFL during his recruiting process. Not long before he left for Germany he mentioned that the Razorbacks needed a QB and after seeing the little film that I had, they wanted me to join the team. It took me a little time to figure out my plans but after speaking with my parents, before I knew it I was on a flight to Germany just a few weeks before graduation. I had no idea what I was getting myself into but I'm glad I took this opportunity because it has been a blast so far.
What's life been like living and playing football abroad?
Living with Andrew has made the transition much easier for me in terms of living abroad. The people have been great, very welcoming and happy to have us. We have made many friends already and have absorbed the culture gracefully. I learn something new about German culture everyday which makes the experience a two for one deal.
Because I wasn't familiar with American football being played abroad, I had no idea what to expect. But after getting settled in and playing a few games it's no different from the game we play in the states, they just don't start at a young age like we do, which sets them back fundamentally.
You've changed your #9 to #19. How many QBs are on the Fursty roster? Where are they from?
Because I was essentially late to camp, the last available number was 19 and I've stuck with it, (Johnny Unitas style) I'd prefer 9 but it was already taken by another quarterback who is actually the only other quarterback on the team and comes from Germany.
How do the offensive playbooks of the GFL compare to the system run by Coach DeWall?
Well coming here the playbook was very simple because they were strictly a running team. But the coaches have been working with me to open it up and become more versatile. Coach DeWall's offense is much bigger and complex.
Do you plan to stay in Europe after football season?
Interestingly enough after my time here in Munich is done with I will head home for about a month only to head back to Europe to for a semester abroad. I will be studying in Rome, Italy and finishing up my bachelors degree there through Hobart's great study abroad program.
Lastly, is that an a Hobart Football wrist band (the ones handed out at the Belhurst at the Football Banquet) on your wrist in the picture above?
Yes, that is the Hobart band we received at the dinner. I thought I'd represent Hobart FB while playing abroad.
Thanks to Kelly and good luck the rest of the Fursty season!
Have any news regarding incoming recruits, former players, Hobart Football in general? Drop us a line.
Go 'Bart!
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