Here we go:
What kind of team will UL field this year? What are the expected strengths and weaknesses?
Strengths: We have at least 3 wide receivers that could be playing for anyone, including one who will probably play on Sunday in 2004. He is super fast and is very elusive in open field. Injuries could be devastating on the Wide receiver corps though, because after number 4 it the talent thins out somewhat. This should not be a problem when we play you guys though. Wide receivers s to watch for: Stamps*****, Sampy***, Lewis***, Another good fill in guy in Bartel, (a Coaches son) What he lacks in god given talent, he make up in displace.
Linebacker: Really good one coming back off a medical red-shirt (Ross Brewbacher). He went down in the 3rd game last year, but was leading tackler on the team. He comes from good stock, as his dad was a great Texas A & M Aggie and Chicago Bears player.
Weaknesses: Inexperience on the offensive line, but I think these guys are maturing very rapidly.
The secondary could be our Achilles heel this year. We have lost 2 really good ones this season to graduation. (They are both currently on NFL rosters)
How many games will UL win this season?
My heart say 6, my head says 4-5
Who are the star players to watch for on offense?
Defense?
Stamps, Brewbacker,
Who coordinates those units? What sort of schemes do you run offensively and defensively?
I think our offense will be more run oriented this year, especially if we play the red shirt frosh at QB.
See "prospectus" mentioned in next answer.
How many starters and lettermen graduated? How many return?
This is a very young team. The official Ragin Cajun web-site has a "Prospective" that is very good in breaking down the team and players. I would invite you to go over to that site and print this PDF document. It provides a breakdown on every position. There are very few players (I think 19) from the previous coaching staff.
How is team size and team speed?
Stamps is super fast. Running back corps is quick, but no real speed burners. (IMO) The quarterback situation is still up in the air at this time, but it may be a red shirt freshman that is 6' 4" and pretty mobile. He can scramble out of the pocket and get some yardage. If he is in the game, expect some design running plays. The other possibility is a big senior who was a JC transfer last year. He is fairly mobile (Not as fast as the frosh though) and has a rocket launcher for an arm. He is a good team leader also and the team rallies around him.
Who is UL's most hated opponent?
Our traditional rival is Louisiana Tech, even though I would call it a love-hate relationship. Of course we do not play LSU this year.
Who is your head coach, how long has he been on the job, and how do y'all feel about him?
Rickey Bustle in his second year. He was previously Offensive Coordinator for Virginia Tech for the previous 9- 10 years. He has created a lot of excitement but he really took over a team that needed a big influx of talent. He has really only had one full recruiting class to work with.
How has UL done versus SEC teams historically?
Not good.
Had you ever heard of the Gamecocks prior to playing us in the baseball postseason?
Of course!
What do you think of the University of South Carolina and of our Fighting Gamecocks?
We will love any team that will beat the snot out of LSU A&M Baton Rouge
Do you think USC belongs in the SEC?
Why Not?
How will UL fare versus LSU this season?
We do not play them this year. The next scheduled game with the purple _____cats is in 2005 I believe.
How does USC compare to LSU as a football program?
NO comment.
Can USC beat LSU this year?
Not sure...
Which team presents a greater challenge: USC or LSU? We do not play the Tigers this year.