Luke Johnson's News & Notes from Wednesday

[cajun4ever]

There is a lot for media

He was talking bout Nixon.

[CrazyCajun]

He was talking bout Nixon.

Ah, I was joking anyway

[CajunRage]

IMO, I would not have McGuire returning kicks at all. To valuable in the run game behind Zo or split with Zo.

I like it. McGuire can change a game with a punt return. Should something happen, Alonzo can shoulder the load. We still have Pierce and Reed too. Field position will play a big part in whether we beat Ole Miss or Boise St. and a punt return could flip the field in our favor.

[CajunJack55]

I like it. McGuire can change a game with a punt return. Should something happen, Alonzo can shoulder the load. We still have Pierce and Reed too. Field position will play a big part in whether we beat Ole Miss or Boise St. and a punt return could flip the field in our favor.

I agree. Him being back there can be a game changer vs Boise and Ole Miss.

[Just1More]

IMO, I would not have McGuire returning kicks at all. To valuable in the run game behind Zo or split with Zo.

I've scratched myself about this too. But, being you have to have an experienced ball handler taking punts, it's a terrible shift in fortune to muff or fumble, and it is an outstanding opportunity to get fantastic field position, or even take it to the house... I'm stoked about Elijah returning punts (and Montrel returning KOs).

Many will kick it either high and shallow for coverage, or they may avoid Elijah altogether and angle toward the sidelines... where he doesn't even take a hit. Either way, he becomes a fantastic special teams weapon. I feel pretty good about Zo taking the pill and delivering some ground and pound... having Elijah installed for a variety of double back sets, slide to the slot, etc options. But again, you can seriously change games with special teams... and I like Elijah returning punts.

[Just1More]

I like it. McGuire can change a game with a punt return. Should something happen, Alonzo can shoulder the load. We still have Pierce and Reed too. Field position will play a big part in whether we beat Ole Miss or Boise St. and a punt return could flip the field in our favor.

Nailed it.

[CrappDaddy]

I like it. McGuire can change a game with a punt return. Should something happen, Alonzo can shoulder the load. We still have Pierce and Reed too. Field position will play a big part in whether we beat Ole Miss or Boise St. and a punt return could flip the field in our favor.

Disagree. There is no replacement for McG at running back. We lose him and our running game takes a huge hit.
He will be an exciting return man though!

[CrazyCajun]

I could be remembering wrong but wasn't Montreal Carter a stud returner in high school?

[CrappDaddy]

I could be remembering wrong but wasn't Montreal Carter a stud returner in high school?

Yep, was lights out fast. I assume he still is but he did have ACL surgery.

[Just1More]

Disagree. There is no replacement for McG at running back. We lose him and our running game takes a huge hit.
He will be an exciting return man though!

Zo is a lot better RB than some are thinking. He can both take and deliver a pounding... while stacking up yards. Elijah is special, no doubt, but Zo AND Elijah are great great RBs. We need a special player returning punts. It is a VERY important role. I see more RBs coming out due to injury than punt returners. Many punt returners are wiry WRs (often the best on the top teams) and they make it all the way through the season at both positions. Elijah has some mass to go with the elusive moves and quickness. There's no more reason to worry about him returning punts than blocking for TB. It all has to get done.