They say that pre-season training camp sets the tempo for the rest of the season. If that is the case then the sacrifices that were made by the UB FOOTBALL student athletes in the off season may have been the reason that this was such a strong pre-season training camp. The UB BULLS hit the ground running and lifting and jumping and what ever else Strength Coach, Zach Duval had them doing over the summer. There has been a buzz of energy and anticipation at the beginning of every practice. Coaches are enthusiastic. Players are focused and in shape. Lead by the veteran leadership on Offense and Defense, young recruits develop quicker in a higher tempo and increased expectation for immediate excellence. The goals and hopes are high. If the effort given during the dog days of doubles are any indicator of the rewards ahead, 2010 may turn into a season to remember.
Just an observation. One of many that the 2010 UB BULLS will generate.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Friday, August 6, 2010
FIRST OFFICIAL DAY OF CAMP QUINN!
The UB Football team took to the field today for the first time since the end of Spring practices. While today was the first official practice for Coach Quinn and his staff, the effort that went into the first day of actual football was built during voluntary summer conditioning programs attended by nearly every member of the active roster. Strength Coach Zach Duval and his staff have fostered a culture of training to win in a very short period of time. While summer workouts were not mandatory, this UB observer has never witnessed the level of team dedication that occurred this summer. This team dedication will pay dividends.
We will provide a daily summary of observations made at the end of each practice day during camp.
GO BULLS!
We will provide a daily summary of observations made at the end of each practice day during camp.
GO BULLS!
Friday, June 18, 2010
TWO DEEP: THE RB'S
This week we will be looking at the UB BULL BACKFIELD. The BULLS have great depth and will display a mixture of veteran leadership and young legs that will most certainly provide the spark to take the BULLS new offense into the next era of UB FOOTBALL. The RB's are coached by Mike Daniels. Coach Daniels brings a new energy to the room. A former RB himself in this style of offense, Coach Daniels will help to mold one of the deepest groups in the MAC into one of the most productive groups in the MAC. If the sky is the limit for the RB's on the roster, then the discovery of new worlds is in our near future with the arrival of 2010 recruit James Potts from American Heritage HS (FLA). James Potts was listed on www.rivals.com as the number 24 ranked all purpose RB in the country and will have an opportunity to compete out of the gate. But before anyone steps on the field each of these UB BULL BACKS are working like never before to be in the best shape of the lives for this upcoming season.
RB 27 – Brandon Thermilus (Sr., 511, 224) - "Therm" is a great mixture of power and deceptive speed coming out of the back field. Brandon has fought through injury and is in the best shape of his career. He is poised to be a feature back in this offense and with his dedication and leadership will provide the necessary experience to be a go to guy.
or 36 – Ike Nduka (Sr., 511 217) - "Ike" has shown the ability to be a dependable back with moments of brilliant capability. With this being his last season, Ike is working harder to be the Number 1 guy than ever before.
21 – Jeffvon Gill (So., 511, 211) - Jeffvon had several breakout games in his freshman season and lived up to the expectations coming out of high school. Jeffvon is the perfect mixture of grace and power. Gill has tremendous vision for the hole and cutback lanes as many of his long runs last season came about due to his no quit attitude. He is one to watch.
or 32 – Branden Oliver (RFr., 58,196) - Of all the backs coming into this season "Bo" has the most excitement around him. Though he did not see the field last season, "Bo" is an electrical runner. He has great power in his frame and can cut on a dime. One of his greatest attributes is his ability to hit the hole quickly.
The RB's will be vital to the success of the 2010 UB BULLS FOOTBALL PROGRAM. They are one of the hardest working groups on the field and they have great pride in running the football and taking many trips into the end zone.
NEXT: LB'S
RB 27 – Brandon Thermilus (Sr., 511, 224) - "Therm" is a great mixture of power and deceptive speed coming out of the back field. Brandon has fought through injury and is in the best shape of his career. He is poised to be a feature back in this offense and with his dedication and leadership will provide the necessary experience to be a go to guy.
or 36 – Ike Nduka (Sr., 511 217) - "Ike" has shown the ability to be a dependable back with moments of brilliant capability. With this being his last season, Ike is working harder to be the Number 1 guy than ever before.
21 – Jeffvon Gill (So., 511, 211) - Jeffvon had several breakout games in his freshman season and lived up to the expectations coming out of high school. Jeffvon is the perfect mixture of grace and power. Gill has tremendous vision for the hole and cutback lanes as many of his long runs last season came about due to his no quit attitude. He is one to watch.
or 32 – Branden Oliver (RFr., 58,196) - Of all the backs coming into this season "Bo" has the most excitement around him. Though he did not see the field last season, "Bo" is an electrical runner. He has great power in his frame and can cut on a dime. One of his greatest attributes is his ability to hit the hole quickly.
The RB's will be vital to the success of the 2010 UB BULLS FOOTBALL PROGRAM. They are one of the hardest working groups on the field and they have great pride in running the football and taking many trips into the end zone.
NEXT: LB'S
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
COACHES ANSWER QUESTIONS - FROM THE TRUE BLUE
FROM THE UB TRUE BLUE! - Fans ask questions about the UB FOOTBALL TEAM
QUESTION #1
Other than the obvious (Ohio and Michigan) what do you feel are the other states that the staff has good ties with recruiting?
ANSWER TO QUESTON #1
Recruiting is so much more than where a coach is from and where he has been. So much of recruiting is what has a coach accomplished with players from all over the country, what kind of guy is he and how will this coaching staff take care of a student athlete. We focus on many states but the state of New York is a major focus of our coaching staff. The UB Staff wants to go out and get the best student athletes that want to be a part of the University at Buffalo. Coaches constantly build relationships with coaches and players. That's what our recruiting is about, building relationships.
QUESTION #2
Coach Quinn - What do the players call you?
ANSWER TO QUESTION #2
I hope they just call me Coach.
QUESTION #3
Coach Quinn - What is something about Buffalo, whether it is the city itself or the university, that has surprised you?
ANSWER TO QUESTION #3
I love fishing and one of the things that I like best about Western New York is how many places there are to launch a boat.
The people in Buffalo are very much like the people I grew up around near Chicago. They are hard working and passionate people.
AS WE GET MORE QUESTIONS FROM THE TRUE BLUE WE WILL HAVE THEM ANSWERED.
QUESTION #1
Other than the obvious (Ohio and Michigan) what do you feel are the other states that the staff has good ties with recruiting?
ANSWER TO QUESTON #1
Recruiting is so much more than where a coach is from and where he has been. So much of recruiting is what has a coach accomplished with players from all over the country, what kind of guy is he and how will this coaching staff take care of a student athlete. We focus on many states but the state of New York is a major focus of our coaching staff. The UB Staff wants to go out and get the best student athletes that want to be a part of the University at Buffalo. Coaches constantly build relationships with coaches and players. That's what our recruiting is about, building relationships.
QUESTION #2
Coach Quinn - What do the players call you?
ANSWER TO QUESTION #2
I hope they just call me Coach.
QUESTION #3
Coach Quinn - What is something about Buffalo, whether it is the city itself or the university, that has surprised you?
ANSWER TO QUESTION #3
I love fishing and one of the things that I like best about Western New York is how many places there are to launch a boat.
The people in Buffalo are very much like the people I grew up around near Chicago. They are hard working and passionate people.
AS WE GET MORE QUESTIONS FROM THE TRUE BLUE WE WILL HAVE THEM ANSWERED.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
THE O-LINE TWO DEEP
THE OLINE - TWO DEEP - COACHED BY ADAM SHORTER
Adam Shorter will coach the Bulls offensive linemen after serving in the same position at Delaware State last season. He spent 2008 at Alcorn State, where he was in charge of the offensive line and tight ends. While with the Braves, Shorter was instrumental in the success of 2008 All-Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) offensive lineman Bronson Carvalho. Shorter began his coaching career as a graduate assistant with the University of Cincinnati (2005-2007). Shorter was a four-year letterman at Cincinnati, where he was the team’s starting center. He was the recipient of the John Pease Award as the Bearcats most outstanding offensive lineman as a senior. Shorter appeared in three of Cincinnati’s four bowl appearances during his tenure. He earned a bachelor’s degree in integrated social studies in secondary education in 2004.
Shorter, who serves as UB's equipment room liaison, acknowledges the contributions to both Mark Dantonio’s and Brian Kelly’s staff at Cincinnati as the program developed into a perennial top 20 team as his proudest accomplishment of his professional life. As well as his role in the development of his players character and competitive greatness which he hopes carries through out their lives. . His hobbies are enjoying the outdoors, movies and spending time with family. He and his wife Michelle are expecting their first child.
THE OLINE:
LT 77 – Jordan Jerrold - Brings veteran savvy to the left tackle position. Jordan has proven to be a very steady player over the years. Big Number 77 started as a true FR. and has added great length and athleticism as he stands at 6ft 7 inches. The offense will look to depend on his quiet leadership on the field.
69 – Olujimi Awoliyi - "Jimi" as he is called by his fellow players has shown great improvement from his first walk on season last year. He has good size and showed improvement through spring camp. "Jimi" will continue to gain experience under the watchful eye of Coach Shorter.
LG 73 – Peter Bittner - Is a stand out at left guard. Peter has been a starter for the last four years and is a team leader. He leads by example and is one of the strongest athletes on the field. For a big man, Peter is extremely quick to get to his blocks and to the second level. Pete should have the greatest season of his career.
64 – Solomon Richberg - Solomon has played both defensive and now offensive line. Solomon is a huge human being and moves very well for his size. He showed a good understanding of the newly installed offense and could compete for playing time this season. His dedication and his hussle are his strengths.
C 75 – Josh Violanti - Josh is a very cerebral player and has very quick feet. Josh is a returning starter from last season and will continue this season stronger and faster.
68 – Brian Kelly - Brian is another senior that will add great depth to the offensive line. Brian is the starting long snapper on punt, fg and extra points. Brian has shown the ability to play tackle, guard and now adds center to his list.
or
55 – Graham Whinery - Graham will challenge at both the center and guard position for playing time. Whinery is a very smart player and is extremely physical. Graham provides the oline with depth on the inside.
RG 79 – Gokhan Ozkan - In keeping with the versatility of the UB oline, "Geo" as he is known by his fellow teammates is one of the most athletic players for his size on the field. "Geo" has shown the ability to play both guard and tackle.
71 – Jose Cortes - Coming off of shoulder surgery last season, Jose is powerful and is a very smart player. Jose not only adds to the depth of the offensive line but if he continues to improve could challenge for a starting position in the fall.
RT 78 – Matt Ostrowski - Matt has played both left tackle and right tackle. Matt has very quick feet and great technique. Matt has gotten much stronger in the weight room and looks to improve where he left off last season.
70 – Pat Wilson - Pat has all the potential any one could ask for physically. While Pat may be a very young player, he has shown that he has all the skill that it takes to be a starter one day. Pat is very athletic and can play either guard or tackle.
The offensive line is one of the most dedicated groups on the field. As the school year may have ended, the dedication of the offensive line is already being seen as reports are coming back that not only do they lift together in their summer work out programs but are running and practicing many of the techniques they learned during the spring football season. This is going to be a very important group for the success of the UB BULLS this season and they will not let the true blue fans down.
Adam Shorter will coach the Bulls offensive linemen after serving in the same position at Delaware State last season. He spent 2008 at Alcorn State, where he was in charge of the offensive line and tight ends. While with the Braves, Shorter was instrumental in the success of 2008 All-Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) offensive lineman Bronson Carvalho. Shorter began his coaching career as a graduate assistant with the University of Cincinnati (2005-2007). Shorter was a four-year letterman at Cincinnati, where he was the team’s starting center. He was the recipient of the John Pease Award as the Bearcats most outstanding offensive lineman as a senior. Shorter appeared in three of Cincinnati’s four bowl appearances during his tenure. He earned a bachelor’s degree in integrated social studies in secondary education in 2004.
Shorter, who serves as UB's equipment room liaison, acknowledges the contributions to both Mark Dantonio’s and Brian Kelly’s staff at Cincinnati as the program developed into a perennial top 20 team as his proudest accomplishment of his professional life. As well as his role in the development of his players character and competitive greatness which he hopes carries through out their lives. . His hobbies are enjoying the outdoors, movies and spending time with family. He and his wife Michelle are expecting their first child.
THE OLINE:
LT 77 – Jordan Jerrold - Brings veteran savvy to the left tackle position. Jordan has proven to be a very steady player over the years. Big Number 77 started as a true FR. and has added great length and athleticism as he stands at 6ft 7 inches. The offense will look to depend on his quiet leadership on the field.
69 – Olujimi Awoliyi - "Jimi" as he is called by his fellow players has shown great improvement from his first walk on season last year. He has good size and showed improvement through spring camp. "Jimi" will continue to gain experience under the watchful eye of Coach Shorter.
LG 73 – Peter Bittner - Is a stand out at left guard. Peter has been a starter for the last four years and is a team leader. He leads by example and is one of the strongest athletes on the field. For a big man, Peter is extremely quick to get to his blocks and to the second level. Pete should have the greatest season of his career.
64 – Solomon Richberg - Solomon has played both defensive and now offensive line. Solomon is a huge human being and moves very well for his size. He showed a good understanding of the newly installed offense and could compete for playing time this season. His dedication and his hussle are his strengths.
C 75 – Josh Violanti - Josh is a very cerebral player and has very quick feet. Josh is a returning starter from last season and will continue this season stronger and faster.
68 – Brian Kelly - Brian is another senior that will add great depth to the offensive line. Brian is the starting long snapper on punt, fg and extra points. Brian has shown the ability to play tackle, guard and now adds center to his list.
or
55 – Graham Whinery - Graham will challenge at both the center and guard position for playing time. Whinery is a very smart player and is extremely physical. Graham provides the oline with depth on the inside.
RG 79 – Gokhan Ozkan - In keeping with the versatility of the UB oline, "Geo" as he is known by his fellow teammates is one of the most athletic players for his size on the field. "Geo" has shown the ability to play both guard and tackle.
71 – Jose Cortes - Coming off of shoulder surgery last season, Jose is powerful and is a very smart player. Jose not only adds to the depth of the offensive line but if he continues to improve could challenge for a starting position in the fall.
RT 78 – Matt Ostrowski - Matt has played both left tackle and right tackle. Matt has very quick feet and great technique. Matt has gotten much stronger in the weight room and looks to improve where he left off last season.
70 – Pat Wilson - Pat has all the potential any one could ask for physically. While Pat may be a very young player, he has shown that he has all the skill that it takes to be a starter one day. Pat is very athletic and can play either guard or tackle.
The offensive line is one of the most dedicated groups on the field. As the school year may have ended, the dedication of the offensive line is already being seen as reports are coming back that not only do they lift together in their summer work out programs but are running and practicing many of the techniques they learned during the spring football season. This is going to be a very important group for the success of the UB BULLS this season and they will not let the true blue fans down.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
WR (TWO DEEP) PLAYER FOCUS - SUMMER
As the summer is rapidly approaching and the UB BULLS gear up for another season, we will be focusing on each of the positions listed in our two deep summer roster. The first group that we will focus on is the WR core, coached by Coach Juan Taylor. Coach Taylor is one of the most talented WR coaches in the country. He has helped develop the likes of Naaman Roosevelt (Buffalo Bills), Ernest Jackson and Brett Hamlin. UB is very talented at the WR position and should do very well this fall with current talent on the roster and an infusion of very talented freshman in the 2010 class. The two deep features a mixture of speed and size that will help the UB pass game in the spread offense. The following are the characteristics of each player on the two deep and how they have improved through the spring and into the fall.
5 – Terrell Jackson (Jr., 511, 183) - Terrell is a great mixture of size, speed and strength. He is a natural team leader and will be looked to heavily as an on the field coach and mentor to the incoming freshman. Terrell has gained size to go with his great burst. Terrell will follow in the mold of Naaman Roosevelt and Brett Hamlin as a primary go to WR. Over the summer Terrell will continue to work on his size and speed. As he is a very physical player, Terrell will also be a great blocking WR come this fall.
10 - Ed Young (Jr., 511,192) - Ed brings a great mixture of speed and versatility. Ed is an athlete in the truest sense. He is a very smooth and reliable athlete that can do many things to challenge a defense. As Ed Young develops and gains more experience the Offensive Staff looks to Ed's "big play" ability. Ed will concentrate on speed and size in the off season. We expect big things from this guy.
2 – Marcus Rivers (Jr., 64, 207) - Marcus is the fastest WR and has developed during the spring into a very reliable go to guy. As this is his first opportunity to be a featured WR, Marcus has stepped up to the challenge and should have the best year of his career. He has matured into a team leader. Marcus had a very productive spring camp and is looking better than ever. While the coaching staff expects great things out of Marcus Rivers, it is Marcus Rivers that expects great things out of himself. Marcus has great size and his speed has translated into tighter routes and great ability to come back for the football.
83 – Alex Neutz (RFr.,63,200) - Alex took a major step toward becoming the player that he was recruited to be. Alex is a very physical receiver and shows to have the ability of being a bigger version of Brett Hamlin. Alex has the ability to go over the middle as well as make amazing catches on the side lines as was seen in the spring game. Expectations are high and this young player should do well in the spread concept. His intelligence and hard work will continue to serve him well as he prepares for his first season as a main player in the offense.
80 – Fred Lee (RFr., 61,193) - Fred has great potential. He has good size and speed and his technique is very advanced for such a young player. Very few on the field out work Fred Lee. His conditioning is one of his top qualities along with his instinctive football sense. Fred is the kind of the player that wants the ball every chance he gets but is not a selfish player. Fred epitomizes the term "team player."
16 - Saron Hood (So., 62,180) - Saron has shown great progress through the spring. He has added size and is proving to be a player with potential. In a very talented WR core, Saron has stepped up his game and looks to gain more playing time as the season progresses. Saron's top quality is his dedication to the refinement of his game. As Saron continues to strive to achieve his goals as a player, his hard work will most certainly payoff on the field.
Our next focus group will be on the Offensive Line - Coached by Coach Adam Shorter.
5 – Terrell Jackson (Jr., 511, 183) - Terrell is a great mixture of size, speed and strength. He is a natural team leader and will be looked to heavily as an on the field coach and mentor to the incoming freshman. Terrell has gained size to go with his great burst. Terrell will follow in the mold of Naaman Roosevelt and Brett Hamlin as a primary go to WR. Over the summer Terrell will continue to work on his size and speed. As he is a very physical player, Terrell will also be a great blocking WR come this fall.
10 - Ed Young (Jr., 511,192) - Ed brings a great mixture of speed and versatility. Ed is an athlete in the truest sense. He is a very smooth and reliable athlete that can do many things to challenge a defense. As Ed Young develops and gains more experience the Offensive Staff looks to Ed's "big play" ability. Ed will concentrate on speed and size in the off season. We expect big things from this guy.
2 – Marcus Rivers (Jr., 64, 207) - Marcus is the fastest WR and has developed during the spring into a very reliable go to guy. As this is his first opportunity to be a featured WR, Marcus has stepped up to the challenge and should have the best year of his career. He has matured into a team leader. Marcus had a very productive spring camp and is looking better than ever. While the coaching staff expects great things out of Marcus Rivers, it is Marcus Rivers that expects great things out of himself. Marcus has great size and his speed has translated into tighter routes and great ability to come back for the football.
83 – Alex Neutz (RFr.,63,200) - Alex took a major step toward becoming the player that he was recruited to be. Alex is a very physical receiver and shows to have the ability of being a bigger version of Brett Hamlin. Alex has the ability to go over the middle as well as make amazing catches on the side lines as was seen in the spring game. Expectations are high and this young player should do well in the spread concept. His intelligence and hard work will continue to serve him well as he prepares for his first season as a main player in the offense.
80 – Fred Lee (RFr., 61,193) - Fred has great potential. He has good size and speed and his technique is very advanced for such a young player. Very few on the field out work Fred Lee. His conditioning is one of his top qualities along with his instinctive football sense. Fred is the kind of the player that wants the ball every chance he gets but is not a selfish player. Fred epitomizes the term "team player."
16 - Saron Hood (So., 62,180) - Saron has shown great progress through the spring. He has added size and is proving to be a player with potential. In a very talented WR core, Saron has stepped up his game and looks to gain more playing time as the season progresses. Saron's top quality is his dedication to the refinement of his game. As Saron continues to strive to achieve his goals as a player, his hard work will most certainly payoff on the field.
Our next focus group will be on the Offensive Line - Coached by Coach Adam Shorter.
Monday, April 5, 2010
BULL BALL - With OC Greg Forest
Coach Greg Forest brings with him years of experience in the new UB Offensive System. Described as a spread offense, the BULLS make the transition from a pro style offense that featured many two back sets into a system where UB's talented Wide Receiver core will have an opportunity to shine. While the Quarterbacks continue to compete and gain experience in the system, Coach Forest and his wealth of information is a consummate professional that constantly coaches and communicates with his future field generals. As the OC, Greg Forest is focused on building the same potent attack that had flourished over the past two seasons at the University at Cincinnati.
GREG FOREST - HIS VIEW OF THE GAME
When asked about his style of coaching, Coach Forest responded that each player in this offense plays a vital role and that once every aspect of this offense begins to click it will be very hard to defend in the Mid American Conference.
He continued to say that he believes in great focus from every player and coach while in the classroom and on the field. To observe him on the field one understands the fire that Coach Forest brings to the offense. While you may hear him coaching from the stands, it is when he has his offense around him that you truly get an idea of the wisdom that he brings to the game.
As there are only two weeks left before the Spring Game (April, 24th) the UB offense has already installed the better part of its playbook. With every meeting and every practice this new version of BULL BALL is forging ahead and showing signs of future greatness. With the wealth of talent on the offensive side of the ball and the incoming 2010 class, the new spread offensive scheme will have a depth of weapons that will make for great competition in the off season and in the season ahead.
GREG FOREST - HIS VIEW OF THE GAME
When asked about his style of coaching, Coach Forest responded that each player in this offense plays a vital role and that once every aspect of this offense begins to click it will be very hard to defend in the Mid American Conference.
He continued to say that he believes in great focus from every player and coach while in the classroom and on the field. To observe him on the field one understands the fire that Coach Forest brings to the offense. While you may hear him coaching from the stands, it is when he has his offense around him that you truly get an idea of the wisdom that he brings to the game.
As there are only two weeks left before the Spring Game (April, 24th) the UB offense has already installed the better part of its playbook. With every meeting and every practice this new version of BULL BALL is forging ahead and showing signs of future greatness. With the wealth of talent on the offensive side of the ball and the incoming 2010 class, the new spread offensive scheme will have a depth of weapons that will make for great competition in the off season and in the season ahead.
OUR NEXT BLOG WILL FOCUS ON THE BULL DEFENSE!
GO BULLS!
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