With fall practice beginning this afternoon, here are a few things I'm looking for in the days leading up to the Okie State game (Image: AJC.com):1. Tailback - Can anyone differentiate themselves enough to claim the starting role definitively? Right now, my guess is that we'll be using three backs, King, Samuel, and Thomas, on a rotating basis. I'd really love for someone to take over and become a feature back. All are good, but none have shown up big yet. Don't forget Washaun, either. It is always iffy to depend on a freshman (with some noted exceptions) for carries, but Ealey could come in and get some immediate playing time if his high school film was any indication of his abilities.
2. Health - About a practice or two into 2008, Trinton Sturdivant went down with a huge knee injury that altered the course of last season. But it didn't stop there, as you'll recall. Lord, please keep our players fully functional and structurally sound.
3. Orson Charles - At 6'2" and 232, Charles is big enough to block, but it's his speed and quickness that are so intriguing. He can create mismatches with safeties and outside linebackers in a way we haven't seen since Leonard Pope's height and hands created similar matchup problems for opposing defenses. He's the type of tight end we haven't enjoyed in recent seasons. The coaches seem really excited about him, so it will be fun to watch him develop. I just hope it happens soon.
4. Battle and Dobbs - With Justin Houston out for the first two games. Someone obviously must step up at end. We don't necessarily need them to be beastly bullchargers, but we need those guys to be competent and to make a few plays. We've got to have the threat of a competent pass rush this year. Without it, Zac Robinson will have too much time and our secondary will get torched by OSU. Those guys must play some good ball this fall.
What are your keys to fall camp?
Quinton
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