Connecticut Blog

December 19, 2011

Connecticut – 27
Cincinnati – 35
Cincinnati, Ohio

By Marc Zirolli

Well, for the first time in four years, the UConn Huskies will not play holiday season football. During the first half of last Saturday’s game in the season finale, it seemed as if the Huskies took the season for granted. They knew that they were a win away from bowl eligibility, but they simply looked defeated and unwilling to play a very important football game.

The Bearcats seemingly put the game away early, and very early. During UConn’s first series with the ball, the lackluster Johnny McEntee failed to elude a pass rush in his own end zone and while he tried to throw the ball away, it was actually ripped from his possession by Walter Stewart and voila – touchdown Cincinnati, not even five minutes into the game. Later in the first quarter, McEntee, again deep in his own end, telegraphed a pass right into the arms of Drew Brey and 15 yards later, the Bearcats leaped to a 14-0 advantage.

UConn’s offense never really worked, until it was too late. Down 28-6 at the half, the Huskies were left for dead even before the opening kickoff. It seemed the coaching staff never really prepared this team for what was really their biggest game of the year. It was a chance for UConn to earn its fifth straight bowl appearance, but there was no urgency; there was no aggression. It was a team who played in this game like it didn’t matter and to many, it leaves a sour taste.

The star of the game for UConn was probably Dave Teggart. He went 4-for-4 on field goals from 35, 46, 53, and 43 yards. Thanks to Teggart, UConn had points on the board. And though it took McEntee three quarters to show up, he finished the game with one of his better performances, going 20-for-40 for 252 yards and 2 touchdown passes. The Huskies scored twice in five minutes in the fourth quarter; the first was a 3-yard pass to Mark Hinkley and the other was a 35-yard pass to Ryan Griffin. Seniors Isiah Moore and Kashif Moore were accountable for nine receptions and 117 yards. UConn’s running game was near non-existent. Lyle McCombs rushed for only 42 yards on 21 carries.

So the Huskies finish the 2011 with a 5-7 overall record, and 3-4 in the Big East Conference good for sixth out of eight teams. Probably the biggest disappointment was their home and away records. Finishing 4-3 at home, UConn was a dismal 1-4 on the road. Their lone victory away from Rentschler Field was a 17-3 win over Buffalo, hardly qualifying for a “quality” win. UConn’s passing game was inconsistent and frustrating, at times, to watch. They finished 84th among FBS schools in passing offense, while they finished 114th on passing defense. These numbers add up to being, oh, not so good.

The bright spots you ask? Well, for starters, freshman Lyle McCombs rushed for 1,150 yards. Defensive tackle Kendall Reyes is likely headed for the NFL with 46 tackles this season, 13 of which were for losses, and four sacks. Fellow battery mate Twyon Martin, like Reyes, will also be lost to graduation. So expect to see recruiting emphasis in the defensive tackle department for 2012 and beyond.

Recruiting

2011 Big East 1st Team

2011 Big East 2nd Team

UConn Team Awards

Yahoo! Sports Freshmen All-American Teams

UConn’s quarterbacks coach, Joe Moorhead

December 2, 2011

Rutgers – 22
Connecticut – 40
East Hartford, Conn.

By Marc Zirolli

On a day that consisted of 40 points and 64 plays, the UConn Huskies still only earned 290 total yards. But thanks to the Huskies converting for six scores in seven red-zone attempts, they were to over power a favored Rutgers team and eliminate them from BCS contention.

The Scarlet Knights finished the regular season with an 8-4 record, 4-3 in the Big East and will for sure head to a bowl game. But the debilitating loss to the Huskies put a halt to the possibility of sharing the Big East Conference title. UConn on the other hand, saved their season – for now. Though a six-win season doesn’t necessarily guarantee an invitation to a bowl game, six wins gets you eligible. And that’s what UConn can do in their regular season finale on Saturday at Cincinnati.

The Huskies had a great day. Dual-threat quarterback Scott McCummings had a stellar game, scoring two rushing touchdowns. His second score came early in the third that virtually put the game away, giving UConn a 37-10 advantage. The score, however, meant the end of Dave Teggart’s 126-consecutive extra point conversions, as the PAT failed.

Freshman runningback Lyle McCombs also contributed for two touchdowns. He rushed for 99 yards rushing on 20 carries. McCummings rushed for 47 yards and senior runningback Jonathan Jean-Louis, here on senior day, rushed for 42 yards on 10 carries. This game easily could have been even more of a blowout, but two late touchdowns by Rutgers closed the gap from 30 to 18. UConn also allowed back-up quarterback Gary Nova to throw for nearly 300 yards in the fourth quarter alone. It wasn’t a pretty finish, but it was a great win on senior day in front of almost 38,000 fans.

So the Huskies, 5-6 (3-3) have a chance to earn bowl eligibility this week against the Bearcats. On the flip side, Cincinnati could earn a BCS berth coupled with a West Virginia loss on Dec. 1 at South Florida. The Huskies know what they have to do. Coach Pasqualoni knows what has to be done. Last season, UConn smoked the Bearcats 38-17. But Nippert Stadium has not been kind to UConn as they have never won on the road at Cincinnati. The season finale to decide post-season fates for both teams kicks off Saturday, Dec. 3 at noon on ESPN.

Connecticut’s 13 Seniors

 

November 22, 2011

Louisville – 34
Connecticut – 20
East Hartford, Conn.

By Marc Zirolli

What’s worse going into a bye week after a loss? Losing after the bye week, of course. Well, that’s what the UConn Huskies did last weekend, losing to visiting Louisville 34-20. The win gave the Cardinals their sixth win and bowl eligibility. They also keep their chances alive for a share of the Big East title. The loss gives UConn no chance of sharing the Big East title and their backs up against the wall. Now at 4-6 (2-3), the Huskies must win their final two games of the season to earn bowl eligibility status.

But after this game against Louisville, any UConn fan can make the hypothesis that this scenario will not happen; not this year. The Huskies, many will argue, played their worst game all season and quite possibly, their worst game in a long, long time. Even the 48-20 blowout in last year’s Fiesta Bowl against Oklahoma was a better showing.

There were three things in this game that killed the Huskies which all but eliminated the team moral to come from behind to win. Here they are:

To make matters worse, the running game for UConn was also just about non existent. Lyle McCombs, though surmounting over 1,000 yards on the season, he only rushed for 33 yards on only 10 carries – both season lows. Quarterback Johnny McEntee, Pasqualoni’s best thing since sliced bread, was extremely inaccurate and looked extremely uncomfortable, after pledging he was going to work had and be more focused after a disappointing loss to Syracuse. McEntee completed on 18 passes on 43 attempts.

So now, UConn could certainly extend their season. It’s a two-game season that starts this Saturday against Rutgers. This is the last of seven home games for the Huskies this season, as they prepare to send off 13 seniors. The Scarlet Knights are, you could say, UConn’s arch rival in Big East football. They come into this game looking to close out the regular season on a high note, while also aiming to clinch at least a share of the Big East title. At 8-3 (4-2), Rutgers played themselves up the preseason charts gnawing at a major postseason berth.

Meanwhile, Cincinnati, who hosts UConn on Dec. 3 in the regular season finale for both clubs, seeks its first Big East title. But they will have to do it without starting quarterback Zach Collaros, who is out for the season.

UConn and Rutgers kicks off on Saturday at noon at Rentschler Field in East Hartford. The game will be televised on ESPN2.

 

November 19, 2011

 Syracuse – 21

Connecticut – 28

East Hartford, Conn. 

By Marc Zirolli

 

Well, as they say; it was the tale of two halves for the Connecticut Huskies. In what might have been the final game between the Huskies and Syracuse Orange in Big East Conference play, it was the Huskies – who for the time being are staying in the Big East – that came out with the last laugh to prevent the Orange from becoming bowl eligible.

 

Funny thing was in this game; there were a total of eight turnovers and five of those were by the Huskies – all of which came in the first half. Johnny McEntee threw two interceptions en route to an 8-for-14 day. UConn fumbled four times, and only recovered one of the four. Remarkably, Syracuse did not score any points off those turnovers. You can argue that was the story of the game. On the flip side, the Orange committed one fumble and two interceptions. But the biggest turnover of them all was the interception Syracuse quarterback Ryan Nassib committed midway thru the fourth as Sio Moore, who criticized himself after the Pittsburgh game, made the game-changing pick. That led to a Scott McCummings 7-yard run with just under five minutes to go that eventually clinched the game for UConn (4-5, 2-2).

 

Freshman runningback Lyle McCombs endured another stellar game, rushing for 152 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries. His touchdown tied the game in the third quarter at 14. UConn, though they were outgained again in yards in this game, scored all four touchdowns on offense, thanks in large part to McCummings and McCombs. Of the 27 plays UConn executed in the second half, 24 of those were run plays. Don’t count out the passing game, however. Isiah Moore led the team with four catches for 72 yards, but remember; UConn only threw the ball 14 times. Keep in mind that McEntee will be the starter on Nov. 19 when the Huskies host Louisville at noon. But look for McCummings to make an impact to open up the defense in a more balanced attack.

 

Kick return specialist Nick Williams has voiced his opinions on wanting to contribute more as a wide receiver. With Geremy Davis and Tebucky Jones, Jr. playing themselves out of the offensive scheme, Williams could help with his speedy, yet relatively short stature. With the Cardinals coming to town, the Huskies know it’s not a pushover game. Believe it or not, if the Huskies win their remaining three games, they clinch a share of the Big East Conference title – and stunningly enough, could even head to another BCS if the cards fall just right.

 

But first thing’s first – UConn needs to find a way to avenge last year’s dismal 26-0 shutout loss in Louisville next year and put on display their strong defense and do what works on offense. It’s still an experimental time. If something doesn’t work early, they need to try another scheme, such as playing McCummings more, even if it means to run more and play the option more. He and McCombs can help UConn put points on the board.

 

Ironically, last year’s loss to Louisville sparked a five-game winning streak to end the regular season. UConn next Saturday, will play the second of a three-game homestand. After a win over Syracuse, UConn could potentially find themselves tied for second place in the conference with a win over the Cardinals at Rentschler Field. Senior defensive tackle and team captain Kendall Reyes knows how big this game will be. He also is aware that Louisville will be, and always has been, a tough challenge. Look for Reyes to make another game-clinching play next week, just like he did against Syracuse when he batted down a Nassib 4^th-and-6 pass attempt with 45 seconds left to lead UConn to a much needed victory to keep their bowl eligibility alive.

 

Also, UConn has been without junior cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson, who injured his MCL during UConn’s 17-3 win at Buffalo on Sept. 24. He is questionable for the game against Louisville.

 

Lastly, Saturday’s home game against the Cards will also be a big game, not only on the field, but in the stands as well. Call it a Rentschler Field audition for the following 2012 commitments:

 

 

Others

 

 

October 27, 2011

Connecticut – 20
Pittsburgh – 35
Pittsburgh, Pa.

By Marc Zirolli

There were two things that went against the UConn Huskies on this unusual Big East match up on Wednesday night at Heinz Field. One was that they were on the road, and the second was that the defense allowed a whopping 529 total yards. That my friends, is not going to win you a game.

Tino Sunseri, the Pittsburgh quarterback, also earned a career high in yards with 419 through the air. He completed 29 of 42 passes and recorded three touchdowns, one of which was an 8-yard run five minutes into the game. When one plan of attack didn’t work, it was the other that did. Two plays into the game, the Panthers’ star runningback Ray Graham was lost for the season after tearing an ACL. Though they gained only 96 yards on the ground as a team, Sunseri’s aerial assault did the Huskies in.

This game, however, was almost a tale of two halves. With the Huskies down 21-3 at half, it seemed time for a change under center. But UConn’s first drive of the second half lasted only 1:47 as junior quarterback Johnny McEntee connected for 62 yards with Kashif Moore. Later, after a nice drive, the Huskies looked to Dave Teggart to make it a one-possession game. Concluding a six minute, 64-yard attack, Teggart nailed a 31-yard field goal to close the gap to 21-13.

The nice thing about UConn’s offense against Pittsburgh, especially in the second half, was their balanced attack. Lyle McCombs rushed for 124 yards on 25 carries. Compared to McEntee’s 193 passing yards, it was a solid game plan. But McEntee was sacked five times, a nightmarish carryover from the week before against South Florida.

And just when you thought UConn was back in this game, the Panthers marched 82 yards on only five plays, capped by a 27-yard pass from Sunseri to Mike Shanahan to extend the lead to 28-13 and essentially out of reach with just over a quarter to play. Pittsburgh would tally another touchdown in the fourth and with under a minute to play, the Huskies answered to make the final score a little more formidable. With a chance to climb the wide open Big East, UConn squandered an opportunity.

Junior linebacker Sio Moore has taken this loss very personal. He said he missed about five or six tackles against the Panthers and knows he has to have a better game next week against Syracuse, which starts a three-game homestand for UConn. Moore is joined by senior wideout Kashif Moore, who also expressed frustration eight games into the season. Kashif, through those games, leads the team in receptions (27) and yards (398). They know that a loss to the Orange (5-3, 1-2) would all but end their season.

UConn hosts Syracuse next Saturday, Nov. 5 at noon at Rentschler Field. A win for the Orange would make them bowl eligible while a win for UConn would put them a game below .500 and only two wins away from giving them post-season attention. The game isn’t only big for the players, but for head coach Paul Pasqualoni as well. This will be the first time he faces his former team, to which he coached for 14 years.

October 21, 2011

South Florida – 10
Connecticut – 16
East Hartford, Conn.

By Marc Zirolli

For the second weekend in a row, UConn scored 16 points – but this time, it was good enough to win. It was also, to no surprise, that the Huskies did not score an offensive touchdown. Lastly, for the first time in the history of the young series between the Huskies and South Florida Bulls, UConn marked a winning streak, now at two, against their Big East foe. Until last year, the home team won every game. See? Even with the Huskies, there are plenty of headlines.

South Florida has been a rollercoaster team this season. They defeated Notre Dame in South Bend earlier this season, and then went from 15th in the country to unranked after a blowout loss at the hands of Pittsburgh at Heinz Field. For UConn, it was just time to get their first quality win of the season. And at 2-4, it was a chance to save the season, close the gap and inch closer to getting bowl-eligible status.

The UConn defense quite frankly had a great game. They held dual-threat B.J. Daniels to 164 yards passing and other than a 32-yard rush toward the end of the game, it was the defense who won this game in front of a homecoming crowd that included former UConn quarterback, Tyler Lorenzen. Dave Teggart connected from 18, 46 and 28 yards and Byron Jones, who’s had a tremendous freshman year, recovered a fumble and returned it 10 yards for the touchdown. The defensive touchdown turned out to be the difference for UConn (3-4, 1-1).

Now to the offense…You could say Johnny McEntee had a decent game, converting 13 of 23 for 103 yards, but it was a combination of indecisiveness, lack of agility, and terrible pass coverage by the offensive line that told an ugly story on that side of the ball. McEntee was sacked seven times and coughed it up once, as the Bulls recovered a fumble during one of those sacks. The one bright spot on offense, you ask? It was Lyle McCombs, tallying 130 yards on 32 carries. This was the fourth game this season that he surpassed 100 yards on the ground.

Receiver Isaiah Moore had a great game, catching five balls for 48 yards. Ryan Griffin had a better game this week, connecting with McEntee three times for 38 yards while Kashif Moore caught two balls for 36.

This win also solidified Paul Pasqualoni as the all-time winningest coach in Big East Conference history with 63, one more than his age of 62. Pasqualoni previously coached at Syracuse. Byron Jones was named the conference’s defensive player of the week for the first time while McCombs earned honor roll status for having another stellar week on the ground.

With the upcoming weekend off, UConn will have extra time to prepare for their next game, a peculiar Wednesday night affair at Pittsburgh on Oct. 26. The game will kickoff at 8 p.m. on ESPN and will in all likelihood be the final game between UConn and Pittsburgh in the Big East, at Heinz Field. Junior Tino Sunseri is expected to start against the Huskies while UConn fans can expect to see McEntee under center. The Panthers have an identical record with the Huskies at 3-4, 1-1. It also expects to be a pretty equal game, at least on paper. Overall, through seven games, the Panthers have scored 21 more points than UConn, while the Huskies have given up 23 fewer points than Pittsburgh.

What a great way to break up the work week…it will be under the lights from Three Rivers.

October 10, 2011

       Connecticut – 16
#16 West Virginia – 43
       Morgantown, W.Va.

By Marc Zirolli

You know you’re not in Connecticut when college football fans wear anything possible that displays their favorite team’s colors. You know you’re in West Virginia when on Saturday, all you see is blue and gold, and not Steelers black and gold. You know you’re not in Connecticut when you go to a local Texas Roadhouse restaurant and the wait staff and bartenders are wearing West Virginia apparel – and that was on Friday night, the day BEFORE gameday. And finally, you know you’re not in Connecticut when the hospitality staff at the local hotel you’re staying at is wearing Mountaineers apparel on Sunday, the day AFTER the West Virginia college football game against the Huskies.

Advice for Connecticut fans on gameday: LEAVE YOUR NEW YORK AND BOSTON SPORTS APPAREL AT HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This, my friends, was a true – TRUE – college football weekend in Morgantown. The spirit, the atmosphere, and the PRIDE that was in the air this past weekend in the valleys of the Appalachian Mountains was unmatched by any fair-weather university. This display was on a different scale. We know this isn’t Michigan or at a college town in the SEC, but Milan Puskar Stadium and surrounding establishments was nothing short of electric. And of course, John Denver’s “Old Country Road” at the conclusion of the game sent chills down your spine. A handful of fans departed after the game blew out of proportion, in their favor of course, but for the several thousands who stayed and echoed the pride of West Virginia was a true display of West Virginia Mountaineer football. This place was unbelievable.

The best part, you ask? Well, it was the hospitality of the fans of West Virginia. They were welcoming, they were inclined to socialize, and they were happy to see people like me visit their small town to not only cheer on my team, but to see a football game.

Now, the UConn Huskies gave the Mountaineer faithful a scare. For 30 minutes, it was Geno Smith trying to solve UConn’s defense while the UConn offense, though solid at times, stalled deep in Mountaineer territory to settle for field goals – three to be exact. At halftime, UConn trailed 10-9. There was a chance UConn would upset West Virginia, and for the first time ever at Puskar Stadium.

But early in the third, Johnny McEntee, UConn’s starting quarterback – again – fumbled inside the redzone which would lead to a Mountaineer touchdown. That fumble was the game changer. The Mountaineers tallied 23 unanswered points to go up 33-9. UConn’s offense was dead; their defense was dead, and the game was over.

At 2-4 on the season, it wasn’t the way UConn wanted to open play in the Big East. And now people are beginning to wonder if head coach Paul Pasqualoni’s head will be on their Thanksgiving dining room table. UConn returns home next week to play South Florida, a team whom they beat a year ago to clinch a BCS berth. The Bulls dropped out of the Top 25 after a drudging a week earlier at the hands of Pittsburgh. But with BJ Daniels at quarterback, don’t count out a resurgence for the second half of the season by the commuter university from Tampa.

The game, which is also homecoming for Connecticut, kicks off at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday at Rentschler Field. Their last meeting at The Rent was two years ago in freezing rain and snow, when Dave Teggart won the game with a field goal as time expired for UConn, 29-27.

October 6, 2011

Western Michigan – 38
Connecticut – 31
East Hartford, Conn.

By Marc Zirolli

We knew during last week’s game that someone had to step up in order for the Huskies to pull away from Buffalo to escape a near upset on the road. While the running game was non-existent, quarterback Johnny McEntee finally stepped up and had a quality game, throwing for over 200 yards and two touchdowns.

Going into this week, the UConn defense was ranked 14th in the nation with 272 yards allowed per game. Remarkably, at 2-2, they were also ranked 12th in scoring defense, at only 13.5 points per game.

This week; that all changed. The offense, both passing and rushing, had quality games, but this week, it was the defense who kept the Broncos in the game. We also knew that Western Michigan was going to be no pushover, as they almost pulled off an upset of #24 Illinois a week ago. Ironically, the Broncos’ last win versus a BCS team came at the hands of Illinois in 2008. Though it was a seven point game, it was convincing for the Broncos and devastating for UConn, which fell to 2-3 on the season, with only conference play remaining. The Huskies also do not have a quality win, only defeating FCS Fordham in week one and MAC foe Buffalo, on the road, last week.

The Brocnos lit up the UConn defense for 490 yards, thanks in large part to quarterback Alex Carder, completing 37 of 51 passes for 479 yards and 5 touchdowns. The big quarter for the Broncos was the fourth, as they posted three touchdowns, with the clincher coming with only 28 seconds to play. This came only three minutes after UConn tied the score at 31, but the ensuing Chad Christen kickoff went out of bounds and Western Michigan was able to start from their own 40 yard line.

UConn’s last chance effort was a Ryan Griffin fumble after a catch made in the red zone. Who knows if the game would have gone to overtime, but this was inexcusable. Kashif Moore caught two of McEntee’s four touchdowns, while Nick Williams and Lyle McCombs grabbed the others. McCombs also had a great day on the ground, adding 136 yards on 24 carries.

The Huskies begin conference play this Saturday at noon at West Virginia – oh, and I will be there…at this point, I’d love to see an upset, but I see it as something not even a seasoned mountaineer could overcome. I’m heading to Milan Puskar Stadium; to Morgantown, for the experience and the atmosphere.

They are going to continue their season without senior runningback D.J. Shoemate, who is out for the season after dislocating his shoulder against Iowa State. UConn will attempt to redshirt him so he can have one more year for the Huskies. Meanwhile, junior tackle Jimmy Bennett is also lost for the season after an ACL injury sustained in practice last Thursday before the game against Western Michigan. Senior All-Big East tackle Mike Ryan will move back to the left side while Adam Masters will head to the right side.

The Huskies have seven games to go in their season to tighten up the basics and to finish games. They certainly could not close out any of their opponents in their three loses. UConn’s three defeats are by a combined 14 points. They’re that close to being 5-0 with possible Top 25 votes and one game away from being bowl eligible. But that’s why they play the game.

So long until my first visit to Morgantown.

September 28, 2011

Connecticut - 17
Buffalo - 3
Amherst, N.Y.

By Marc Zirolli

In another preparatory game for the UConn Huskies, there were three plays and a total of 4 players involved that made this stymied win possible for a group still – somewhat – looking for identity.

Forever, it seemed the game was scoreless. Approaching halftime, was this team really going to be tied – at no score, no less – to a team from the Mid-American Conference? There was actually one lead change in this game; it was UConn overcoming a 3-0 deficit.

With 2:34 remaining, Dave Teggart nailed a 47-yard field goal to tie the score. Then, late in the half, Nick Williams made one of his two huge receptions. This was a 64-yard pass a run reception only to end at the 4-yard-line as the Bulls’ Cortney Lester made the touchdown-saving tackle. But, on the next play, yes, your starting quarterback once again – Johnny McEntee – connected with Mark Hinkley to give UConn a 10-3 advantage at the half.

The second big play was on defense. Buffalo was marching down field late in the third and was working on capping an 80-yard drive when UConn DB Yawin Smallwood picked off a Chazz Anderson pass in the endzone. The turnover did not lead to points for the Huskies, but it prevented Buffalo from posting another field goal or even tying the score.

The third big play was another catch by Nick Williams late in the fourth quarter to put the game away. It was a 49-yard catch, SPIN-O-RAMA, and run for the score to give UConn a 17-3 lead, which would end up being the final score. After Williams made the grab, Najja Johnson attempted to bring Williams down, only for him to spin away from the tackle and dart to the endzone. It was a superb demonstration of strength, power, and athleticism.

The fourth player in this winning equation? Well, it was yours truly, Mr. McEntee. He threw for 12 of 21 for 213 yards and two touchdowns. Now that’s the kind of passing offense we need to start seeing on a weekly basis, especially on October 8 when the Huskies open Big East play at West Virginia.

Unfortunately, they didn’t have the best of both worlds. While the passing was sharp, the running game on this night was near non-existent. UConn only averaged 1.9 yards per carry (80 total rushing yards on 42 carries). Lyle McCombs was responsible for 61 of those 82 yards, but that came on 30 carries! D.J. Shoemate did not see action in this game. Both offensive committees need to work for UConn to succeed. But remember, this is more or less a young team with not a lot of experience.

UConn will certainly have their hands full this Saturday when they return home to play another MAC foe, the Western Michigan Broncos. They gave #24 Illinois a scare last weekend, only to lose 24-20. The game will kickoff at 3:30 p.m. at Rentschler Field.

Starting safety Jerome Junior was suspended by the team for the game against Buffalo due to a violation of team policy. He has returned to practice this week and will play against the Broncos.

UConn will be without starting cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson this week, however. He suffered an undisclosed knee injury against Buffalo and will not play against Western Michigan. There is no time table for his return.

 

September 23, 2011

Iowa State – 24
Connecticut – 20
East Hartford, Conn.

By Marc Zirolli

I feel like I should be talking about what everyone has been talking about over the last five days and that is the seismic shift in the college sports landscape – and right in the middle of it is none other than the 32-year-old Big East Conference.

One thing I will say and one thing I will assure you, is that you cannot…CANNOT “invite yourself” into something. I love UConn; I love the Big East Conference; I think it’s the best in the world. Connecticut has expressed their interest to join the Atlantic Coast Conference, and boy do they want in…but are they wanted?? At the same time, this is cutthroat. One thing they cannot afford, is to be left out and looking in. If the Big East continues to crumble, they need to find another major conference to call home. Their athletic footprint has become one of the biggest in all of college sports. For them to fade off of the national radar as a powerhouse would be a major blow to the state’s flagship, and only major, university.

I want the absolute best for UConn, no matter where that may be…but if you’re not wanted somewhere – at least, for now – take a step back and embrace what you currently, and will, have. The Big East still has West Virginia for football and Georgetown for basketball. Next year, Texas Christian will be full-fledged members in all sports (remember they beat Wisconsin of the B1G last year in the Rose Bowl)???

Once the dust settles, the Big East needs to aggressively take action if they want to survive. Losing Syracuse and Pittsburgh are detriments. Can they be replaced? I hope so, but only time, and money, will tell.

One thing the Big East currently doesn’t have? A new television contract. The current deal expires after this season. If the league wants to show any stability and commitment to keeping the league together, a long-term TV deal must commence, and fast. Stay tuned…

As for the UConn football team? Well, they are only 7 points…and about 7 turnovers from being 3-0 rather than 1-2. But at least they ended a three-game skid by not scoring an offensive touchdown against a FBS opponent. They did Friday night, but once again, it was the offense that let the team down. DJ Shoemate, playing in his first game of the season, coughed up the ball on a run in the third quarter, leading to a Cyclones field goal. Just prior to that, Isiah Moore, who had a super game, fumbled as he tried to gain additional yardage after a catch – that turnover led to a touchdown. Combine those mistakes with kicker Dave Teggart’s missed field goals from 41 and 43 yards, and UConn wins comfortably, 26-14.

Isiah Moore set career highs with his 8 receptions and 143 yards, but had little else to show for that superb effort. Scott McCummings ran in from 10 yards in the first quarter to score, while he connected with the other Moore – Kashif – for 39 yards in the fourth quarter, which gave UConn a 20-17 lead which they could not hold.

Inaccurate throws, particularly by Johnny McEntee (13-for-30, 188 yards and a pick), dropped balls and turnovers was the demise this week for UConn. The defense stood tall and forced three interceptions. Now it’s time for a win; a quality win against a FBS team albeit Buffalo this weekend. The Huskies travel to University at Buffalo Stadium in hopes to right the ship on offense this Saturday night at 6:00 p.m.

A starting quarterback has yet to be named.

September 14, 2011

Connecticut - 21
Vanderbilt - 24
Nashville, Tenn.
By Marc Zirolli

It was a handful of big plays that really was going to determine the outcome of Saturday’s game against the rebuilding Commodores. It was a battle between a first-year head coach who can’t decide which quarterback to use versus a coach trying to re-establish his team’s identity in the cutthroat SEC. In my opinion, when you play three quarterbacks in a game, what kind of consistency are you going to establish?

The opening drive was great. UConn started with the ball and of freshman runningback Lyle McCombs’ 118 rushing yards in the game, 75 of them came in the first quarter, the majority on the opening drive. The drive stalled abruptly and the Huskies had to settle for Dave Teggart’s 25-yard field goal. It was pretty much down hill from there.

This was the third game in a row, dating back to last season, where the Huskies offense had not scored an offensive touchdown against a FBS opponent. Junior quarterback Johnny McEntee started the game again, and besides – well, what seemed to be only minutes – he played the entire game, going 10-for-27 for 99 yards and a dismal three interceptions. Let’s face it – UConn will not win games with a QB throwing for under 100 yards – not in this league – not anywhere.

The other problem was the offensive line not giving McEntee time, and the other was the fact that the receivers didn’t seem to know where they were on the field. UConn went 3-for-15 on third down plays. Sure, get open – but get to the first down marker! There were a few completed passes that resulted in being shy of first down yardage. Those series resulted in a Cole Wagner punt.

The defense I thought played well, especially in the second half. After allowing 129 yards on the first 10 plays, they only gave up 130 for the remainder of the game. Overall, the UConn defense rendered seven sacks made two interceptions and scored two touchdowns. The highlight was the blocked punt by special teams midway through the third quarter. After UConn got a 28-yard field goal by Dave Teggart to cut the deficit to 14-6, Byron Jones sliced through the middle and blocked a punt and recovered it for a touchdown. The Huskies trailed 14-13.

The Huskies then took their second lead of the game early in the fourth when Yawin Smallwood recovered a fumble -- thanks to Sio Moore’s sack on quarterback Larry Smith – and returned it 64 yards for the score. Ryan Griffin caught a pass from McEntee for the 2-point conversion to give UConn a 21-14 lead. At that point, things were looking great. The defense was winning this game, until the offense gave it away again and could not sustain drives to run out the clock.

The loss was bad, in a sense as to how it happened, but it wasn’t crucial. UConn has three more games before league play, and they better figure out this QB situation. It’s time to play true freshman Michael Nebrich, who is a Michael Vick-style QB. Let him play the next game and see what happens. We know the defense will be solid. We know Lyle McCombs is the next Donald Brown. Now we need to identify a QB for the future. Let it be Nebrich.

Connecticut hosts Iowa State (2-0) on Friday night at Rentschler Field. The Cyclones are coming off a 44-41 triple overtime win against in-state rival and Big Ten foe Iowa, last weekend. UConn needs a quality FBS win, and they need to do it under the “Friday Night Lights.”

September 8, 2011

Fordham – 3
Connecticut – 35
East Hartford, Conn.

By Marc Zirolli

UConn’s home opener last week against Fordham was scheduled to kickoff under the lights on Thursday Sept. 1. But, thanks to Hurricane Irene and the Connecticut National Guard thinking they are invisible to what else is happening in the state, the game was pushed back to Saturday at noon in order to accommodate the National Guard’s use of The Rent as a hurricane relief command post.

As a result, I was not at the game, nor did I watch it (or DVR it for that matter. After all, it was only Fordham).

I was on my way to Toronto for a wedding this past weekend and was completely disengaged from UConn football…just terrible timing. Do not get married on a holiday weekend and NEVER get married during football season.

What I can tell you are some stunning numbers that I believe raised many eyebrows within UConn Country. They may not win the conference this year, but I think once again, they may surprise the pre-season polls and over achieve – by a lot.

Coach Paul Pasqualoni won his Connecticut coaching debut, this first to win his first game since 1923. He also tied Virginia Tech’s Frank Beamer for most wins by a Big East Coach with 108. Virginia Tech left the conference in 2004 for the ACC.

Freshman runningback Lyle McCombs was the hero, scoring four rushing touchdowns on 141 yards with only 24 carries. DJ Shoemate better keep working hard if he wants to see playing time after this performance by McCombs. But it should not surprise him if he doesn’t because that crucial fumble last season at Michigan may continue to resonate, even with the new coaching staff.

All three quarterbacks saw action – probably expected since nobody (Johnny McEntee, Scott McCummings and Mike Nebrich) had any college experience. However, McEntee started the ball game and looked impressive, connecting on eight of 12 passes for 113 yards. McCummings connected for 55 yards on his only pass attempt to Ryan Griffin for a touchdown to give the Huskies a 21-0 lead which they would take to the half.

Sophomore punter Cole Wagner also saw some action, punting away five balls, but only averaged 29.8 yards. However, expect to see his numbers be there with the country’s best, as he averaged 41.3 last season. New special teams coach Clayton White has put emphasis more on hang time rather than distance in order for the special teams unit can get down field for coverage. Big plays against the special teams unit this year are not options; anytime, anywhere.

The leading receiver from Saturday was Ryan Griffin, thanks in large part to his 55-yarder for a touchdown. He finished with 3 completions for 97 yards. Kashif Moore, who has high expectations this year to lead the receiving core, only made one grab for 25 yards. Once Coach P. settles on his quarterback situation, expect to see more of a balanced offense as on Saturday, UConn rushed the ball twice as many times as they did passing it (42 vs. 21).

The Huskies travel to SEC foe Vanderbilt on Saturday night for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff. This completes a two-year home and home series. Last year, Connecticut won a shootout, 40-21.

 

August 31, 2011

Week One Preparations Underway
By Marc Zirolli

There is one thing first-year head coach Paul Pasqualoni loves, and that’s defense, especially at the linebacker position. However, he has big holes to fill after the departures of Greg Lloyd, Scott Lutrus and Lawrence Wilson. The three of them at one point during their times at UConn were All-Big East. Now, to fill those voids, Coach P is calling on junior Sio Moore to anchor the position. He logged 110 tackles last season. Joining him will be freshman Yawin Smallwood and junior Jory Johnson. The remaining seven guys are young and have little experience. But Pasqualoni’s impact on development at this position will be seen and will improve as the season progresses.

Get ready to see some excitement, size, and experience on the defensive line. Kendall Reyes, one of this year’s captains, and Twyon Martin are the seniors and weigh in at 295 and 273 respectively. Juniors Trevardo Williams and Jesse Joseph also return with suitable experience. But, watch for sophomore Shamar Stephen, a 6-5, 315-pound giant to make an impact as a sub. Also second on the depth chart is junior Ryan Wirth (6-2, 268).

Remember last year on two separate occasions when sophomore Nick Williams returned two kickoffs for touchdowns? One was for 100 yards in a crippling loss to Rutgers, while the other was for 95 yards at home in a great win over Pittsburgh. Williams was the leading kickoff return man among FBS schools on return yards, averaging 35.3 per kickoff. Now, he’s on the radar for receiver as well, and that’s something not only he appreciates, but also something the team needs, considering the fallout at the receiver position over the last several weeks. Receivers Leon Kinnard, Gerrard Sheppard, and Malik Generett all transferred. Mike Smith, though still with the team is academically ineligible and Dwayne Difton, who saw more time as a sophomore last year, also transferred. Williams, now a junior from East Windsor, N.J., is 5 feet 10, 185 pounds. He expects to play receiver, in addition to being the primary kickoff return man, this season.

Still, with only a few days to go until their season opener this Thursday, Sept. 1, Coach P. has not yet announced his starting quarterback and probably won’t until pregame on Thursday. But, the transferring express hasn’t yet left Storrs all together as sophomore quarterback Mike Box has transferred. Last week, he was demoted to fourth on the depth chart to lead the scout team and as a result, all signs point to a battle between freshman Mike Nebrich and junior Johnny McEntee, both with dual-threat qualities. Redshirt freshman Scott McCummings, listed as No. 3 on the depth chart, might see some time. Box played in five games last season, completing 6 of 17 passes for 65 yards and an interception. In his only start last season, he went 4-for-12 for only 35 yards in a dismal road loss to Louisville.

Still, lots of questions need to be answered. We may not know who is starting at quarterback, but we do know the season opener is Thursday, at home at Rentschler Field against FCS, tri-state foe, Fordham. See you there!!

August 11, 2011

Let the Pasqualoni Era Begin!
By Marc Zirolli

Connecticut natives Paul Pasqualoni (head coach) and George DeLeone (offensive coordinator) are reunited as they begin a new chapter in their coaching career with the Connecticut Huskies, the defending Big East Conference champion.

Practice for the 2011 season officially began last Friday and the biggest question leading up to the season opener on Sept. 1 against FCS foe Fordham is: who will be the starting quarterback? Sophomore Michael Box is the only QB in practice with collegiate experience, though it was minimal. True freshman Michael Nebrich is a heavily touted dual-threat quarterback who has a chance to make some noise. Others fighting for the job are redshirt freshman Scott McCummings and junior Johnny McEntee. Quarterbacks coach Joe Moorhead will play an intricate role in determining the season-opening starter.

As of Wednesday, UConn has lost three wide receivers byway of transferring – two of which are headed to Towson (Leon Kinnard and Gerrard Sheppard) where former UConn assistant coach Rob Ambrose is Towson’s head man. Sophomore Malik Generett from York, Pa., just made his announcement Wednesday and is also considering a FCS program that is also closer to home. Mike Smith and junior Dwayne Difton, who both had high expectations from UConn Country for the upcoming season, were lost in the summer because they are academically ineligible. As a result, UConn receiving will be thin with senior Kashif Moore leading the way, along with fellow senior Isiah Moore. Expect redshirt freshmen Tebucky Jones, Jr. and Geremy Davis to see a nice chunk of playing time. Kashif Moore has caught 85 balls for 1,095 yards in three season while Isiah Moore caught 15 passes last season for 147 yards, by far his most productive in three seasons. But also keep an eye on junior Nick Williams, who can return kickoffs with the best of them, also is getting involved at receiver. Look for Williams to potentially be a threat, not only on special teams again this season, but also at receiver.

At runningback, DJ Shoemate enters his second season with UConn after transferring from Southern California. This is his job to lose, bar none. However, there are plenty of guys chomping at the bit, though there is essentially no collegiate experience among them. They are sophomores Martin Hyppolite and Jordan Huxtable, freshmen Deshon Foxx and Max DeLorenzo and redshirt freshman Lyle McCombs.

Expect to see an exciting bunch at the linebacker position. Junior Sio Moore will control one of the outside positions while junior Jerome Williams is expected to fill the middle, though he got hurt in the Spring. He is expected back soon. Redshirt freshman Yawin Smallwood will occupy the other outside slot. He is No. 1 on the depth chart and will add plenty of depth at the linebacker position. Senior defensive tackle Kendall Reyes and junior corner Blidi Wreh-Wilson will certainly add to the overall depth of the defensive core, especially in the secondary.

The suspect position is the offensive line. There are big holes to fill with the departures of Zach Hurd and Mathieu Olivier. Moe Petrus, a senior captain, anchors the line at center, but get to know senior Gary Bardzak and sophomore Steve Greene at left and right guards. This will certainly be interesting. Maybe with the inexperience on the front line, Coach P. will opt to go with dual-threat QB Nebrich so there is versatility to escape the pocket with a lower chance of being sacked in the backfield.

So overall, the Huskies have been picked to finish sixth in the pre-season Big East poll – nothing new for UConn…but finally, for the first time in a long time, it will be easier to track your favorite player because Pasqualoni will add players’ last names to their jerseys – Halleluiah!!

Casey Cochran, The 6-foot-1, 207-pound 2010 Gatorade Player of the Year in Connecticut (Masuk-Monroe) and defending Class L champion, has become the 15th player in UConn’s 2012 class and might be the most highly touted in-state player coming to UConn since Dan Orlovsky in 2000. Cochran threw for over 2,600 Yards and 36 touchdown passes a year ago and expects to have a successful senior season. Rentschler Field influenced Cochran’s decision, when he played there last year in the state finals. Other schools he considered were Boston College, Yale and Princeton.

But back to this year’s team. There’s no doubt receivers coach Matt Cersosimo will have his hands full in lieu of the recent changes on the wide receiver depth chart.

See you next week for a Week 2 update on your Connecticut Huskies!

April 5, 2011

Pasqualoni Making Huge Impression
By Marc Zirolli

The Connecticut Huskies officially started the defense of their Big East title on Tuesday, March 15 with a new head football coach and plenty of spots to fill. The quarterbacks position is wide open, though freshman Michael Nebrich has a distinct possibility of beating out sophomore Michael Box and freshman Scott McCummings.

Players were high on energy and came ready to play with first-year head coach, the 62-year-old Paul Pasqualoni. The coach acknowledged they have a long way to go, but indicated that he was pleased with their effort and energy. The 2011 Huskies will have a new look, both offensively and defensively, as players such as Zach Frazer, Jordan Todman and Scott Lutrus are gone.

Isiah Moore, the 6 foot 1, 190-pound senior wide receiver, became the second player to be suspended by Pasqualoni since being hired in January. Moore is said to have violated team policies and though he is still on the team, he has not been practicing this Spring inside the Shenkman Center and there is no timetable for his return. Freshman running back Lyle McCombs has been suspended indefinitely for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. There is also no set timetable for his return.

Meanwhile, Michael Smith and Kashif Moore will anchor the receiving core, while freshmen Geremy Davis and Tebucky Jones, Jr. will be competing for spots, as will Isiah Moore pending his return to the team. Kashif Moore, for his senior season, will be wearing No. 6, in memory of his friend and fallen teammate Jasper Howard, who was killed on the Storrs campus in October of 2009 after the Huskies defeated Louisville.

Just last week, Coach Pasqualoni hosted an open forum for UConn students inside the Student Union Theatre on campus. About 50 students attended and at the conclusion of the event, Pasqualoni stayed until the last student got in all their questions. Very quickly, he has become an icon on campus and has been respected among the student body. Questions from the contract against Notre Dame to restoring the annual rivalry with Boston College were key items. UConn hasn’t played the Eagles since 2004, which was Boston College’s final year in the Big East before leaving for the ACC. Pasqualoni said he fully supports an annual game against them, but with Texas Christian coming into the conference in 2012, it will be harder to schedule non-conference opponents, but that he wouldn’t rule out playing the Eagles completely.

Coach P. has made a splash with his players, the student body and from the atmosphere he created at signing day, the fans as well. The Blue-White game is scheduled for noon on Saturday, April 16 at Rentschler Field in East Hartford. That will conclude spring practice and the team will not practice again under coaching supervision until August.

February 6, 2011

2011 National Signing Day –
University of Connecticut Huskies
By Marc Zirolli

The Connecticut Huskies held their signing day festivities on Wednesday at the XL Center in Hartford, where new head coach Paul Pasqualoni introduced the majority of the coaching staff and the 16 players who will join the Huskies for the 2011 season. Here are some highlights and who they are:

 

Coaching Staff

HEAD COACH – Paul Pasqualoni
DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR – Don Brown (Hired Feb. 4 from Maryland)
OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR – George DeLeone
ASST. HEAD COACH & DEFENSIVE LINE – Hank Hughes
QUARTERBACKS – Joe Moorhead
OFFENSIVE LINE – Mike Foley
WIDE RECEIVERS – Matt Cersosimo
DEFENSIVE BACKS – Darrell Perkins
TIGHT ENDS – Jon Wholley
RUNNINGBACKS – TBA

See you in the Spring – Marc

January 27, 2011

HEAVY DONOR, ROBERT BURTON, WANTS MONEY BACK AND NAME OFF
 “THE BURTON FAMILY FOOTBALL COMPLEX”

By Marc Zirolli

Take a look at this!!!

And as many UConn supporters have said, and I agree, UConn should take the “Jim Calhoun Approach…NOT A DIME BACK!”

The Robert Burton letter to athletic director, Jeff Hathaway (Hartford Courant, January 2011):

http://www.courant.com/sports/uconn-football/hc-uconn-football-robert-burton-html,0,6324103.htmlpage  

January 27, 2011

PASQUALONI TO SUCCEED EDSALL AT CONNECTICUT

By Marc Zirolli

The Connecticut Huskies have hired their next football coach; a guy who has strong ties to the Nutmeg State. Paul Pasqualoni, 61, will be the Huskies’ 28th coach in program history and will succeed Randy Edsall, who bolted for his dream job at Maryland. Edsall finished with a record of 74-70 at UConn and is the program’s all-time winning coach.

Pasqualoni, a Cheshire (Conn.) High School graduate and former head coach at Western Connecticut State University, was also the head coach for 13 years at Big East foe, Syracuse, before being fired after the 2004 season. His head coaching record is a strong 141-76-1, including a 6-3 mark in bowl games, all with the Orange.

Most recently, Pasqualoni served as a defensive coach for the Dallas Cowboys and received high praise [for the UConn head job] from Jerry Jones and new Cowboys head coach, Jason Garrett. After 2 years with the Cowboys, he served as the defensive coordinator in 2008 with the Miami Dolphins before going back to Dallas in 2009. Going back to the academics controversy that is rumored to be the main reason why Edsall left UConn after 12 seasons, Pasqualoni strives on academic excellence. He, according to reports, was the only candidate who received a second interview with athletic director Jeff Hathaway. Pasqualoni was officially hired on Jan. 13 and an official introductory press conference was held at the UConn campus in Storrs the next day.

Pasqualoni, who said he feels like 51 and not 61, signed a 5-year deal and will receive $1.5 million in 2011 and will go up $100,000 dollars every year, capping at $1.9 million. And as the new head coach, he will start to put together his staff, beginning with new offensive coordinator George DeLeone. He replaces Joe Moorhead, who has interviewed for the head job at Division II Indiana (Pa.) University. If he is not the chosen one, he may return to the UConn football staff in another capacity. DeLeone, 62, was born in New Haven and went to UConn.

More shake-ups include longtime linebackers coach Todd Orlando. He will assume the same position at Florida International University. Special teams coach Lyndon Johnson has joined Randy Edsall at Maryland while running backs coach Terry Richardson left for Miami (FL) shortly after Edsall’s departure.

Meanwhile, in addition to highly touted quarterback Michael Nebrich, the 2011 recruiting class hasn’t lost a beat and jumped to 16 players as linebacker Jefferson Ashiru and offensive lineman Xavier Hemingway committed to Connecticut. They are teammates at McEachern High School in Powder Springs, Ga., and are considered to be three-star players by the recruiting services. Ashiru is 6 feet 2 and 215 pounds while Hemmingway is 6-4, 255.

National Signing Day is next Wednesday, February 2. The festivities for the Connecticut Huskies will begin at 7 p.m. at the XL Center in Hartford.

January 10, 2011

TOSTITOS FIESTA BOWL

#25 Connecticut – 20
#9 Oklahoma – 48
Glendale, Ariz.

By Marc Zirolli

UConn gave Oklahoma all it could handle – to an extent. And, for the second consecutive year, it seems as though the Huskies played their best, most complete game in the bowl game. You may remember last season in Birmingham when UConn stifled South Carolina 20-7. But as expected, the Sooners were just too much; and, too good.

Despite all the speculation of attendance, a whopping 67,232 came out to see Oklahoma dump 429 yards passing on the Huskies, but also saw junior star Jordan Todman rush for 128 yards and saw UConn’s defense keep DeMarco Murray under 100 yards on the ground; 93 to be exact. Over the last few years, the TV ratings for the Fiesta Bowl weren’t great, but this game between the Huskies and Sooners drew an incredible 6.7 rating, the highest of any broadcast or cable program during the night. There was some concern that the NHL’s Winter Classic would pull away from the bowl game, as that game between the Capitals and Penguins was moved from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. due to mild weather. Regardless, people watched UConn; people saw what they could do and what they are capable of doing in the coming years. UCONN DESERVED TO BE IN THAT GAME.

And to ALL THE CRITICS OUT THERE – the BIG EAST CONFERENCE DESERVES an automatic BCS bowl bid. Every conference has a down season. 2010 was our year – so what, it happens! The Big East will be back. And with open arms, we welcome Texas Christian in 2012. Please, if any critics who can’t stand the Big East want to continue to rant and rave over absolutely nothing for any reason at all, I welcome your comments. The Big East is the best conference in the nation.

And back to the game. Jordan Todman’s 128 yards on the ground gave him 1,574 yards for the year on 302 carries. He earned 14 touchdowns. Thanks to a big game despite an abbreviated season, senior QB Zach Frazer threw for 1,202 yards on 117 completions this season. He also connected with his receivers for 5 touchdowns. In the Fiesta Bowl, he went 19 of 39 for 223 yards and two interceptions.

UConn’s two touchdowns came on defense and on special teams. The Huskies cut Oklahoma’s 14-0 lead in half early in the second quarter when Dwayne Gratz picked off Landry Jones and rumbled 46 yards for the score. UConn later went into the half trailing 20-10. After a speedy start to the game by the Sooners, the Huskies settled down and gave themselves a chance with 30 minutes left to play. After back-to-back touchdowns in the second half, the Huskies would get no closer than within 14 points. UConn’s first score in the third quarter was after the Sooners took a 34-10 lead. On the ensuing kickoff, Robbie Frey returned it 95 yards for the touchdown to close the game to 17, then to 14 on a Dave Teggart 38-yard field goal to make it 34-20. Then the run was over. UConn did have a chance to erase their offensive touchdown drought with only seconds to go, but Todman was stopped. UConn last scored an offensive touchdown in the fourth quarter of their home finale; a win over Cincinnati on Nov. 27. A rollercoaster season has come to an end, but not before a five-game winning streak that propelled them to a Big East title and a BCS berth. Having only been a FBS (Division I-A) for nine years, UConn was the fastest to get to a BCS game. That speaks wonders for their program well into the future. It also speaks for the great conference to which they are members, and that is the BIG EAST CONFERENCE!

HEAD COACH RANDY EDSALL HIRED AT MARYLAND

Just hours after the Fiesta Bowl, the Huskies were on a plane headed back to Connecticut – without their head coach. It was later discovered that Edsall was on a flight to Maryland to interview for the Terrapins head coaching vacancy. The silver lining to this new development is that he kept it a secret until after the game. In between the end of the regular season and to the start of the bowl season, coaches lose their jobs and coaches get hired elsewhere, in some cases before their old team takes the field in their bowl. At least Edsall didn’t do that before UConn’s biggest game in their long history as a football program.

Edsall called the Maryland job his “Dream Job,” as College Park is 70 miles from his hometown in Pennsylvania and the fact that his first college football game as a kid was a Maryland Terrapins game. It has also been rumored that he will be making considerably less money at Maryland than what he made at UConn. His salary in Storrs for the 2010 season was $1.5 million.

One of the potential telling signs that maybe Edsall was on his way out was the university’s increased academic standards, particularly with incoming student athletes. Connecticut officials indicated that Randy Edsall would have no chance to “work with” the university on accepting recruits if their academics were sub par. At Maryland, he may have that opportunity to work with the department of academics. It has also been said that there are a number of football players on other Big East teams who probably wouldn’t have been accepted under this academic standard had they chose to come to UConn. The future and well being of this program lies in the hands of the new coach and his recruiting skills to bring in the best talent with acceptable academic marks.

Possible replacements include Assistant Head Coach for Defense Hank Hughes, who has said on multiple occasions that he wants this job. Others include Mike Leach, Eric Mangini, Tom Bradley of Penn State and just recently Garrick McGee, who is currently the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Arkansas. Ironically, he is a former QB at Oklahoma, but has proven himself on the recruiting trail.

K.C. Keeler, the head coach at FCS Delaware, was considered to be the favorite early last week, but has since declined the invitation to interview with AD Jeff Hathaway and will remain with the Blue Hens. Hathaway hopes to have a replacement by the end of this week.

UConn fans can exhale just a bit, as the Huskies’ top recruit for 2011 has said he is still coming to Storrs. Michael Nebrich, the dual-threat quarterback from Lake Braddock, Va., said he’s still coming and that he understands the landscape and business of college football. “Oh, no, I’m still locked in for Connecticut,” he said.

 

December 31, 2010

Only Thing Left to do is PLAY!
By Marc Zirolli

 

The Oklahoma Sooners football team is what stands in the way of the surging UConn Huskies, who come in on a five-game winning streak and reigning Big East Champions. The Sooners, at 11-2, defeated Nebraska in the Big XII championship game to earn their place in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. The 17-point favorites might be better on paper and quite possibly on the field, but UConn is taking that in stride. The most important thing is: they believe they can win.

The Sooners do have a three-headed monster in Landry Jones at quarterback, 1,000-yard rusher DeMarco Murray and 1,000-yard receiver Ryan Broyles. The dynamic receiver was second in the nation with 118 receptions and has 1,452 yards and 13 touchdowns this season. He also set nine school records in 2010. To make matters somewhat worse if you’re a Husky fan; Mike Lang, for the second consecutive bowl game, has been ruled ineligible due to academics and will not play in the Fiesta Bowl. As a result, Harris Agbor will start at free safety and Jerome Junior will be at strong safety. Agbor, ironically, started all five games of UConn’s five-game winning streak to end the regular season. Kijuan Dabney will backup Agbor while John Yurek will fill in for Junior. Oh and by the way, Landry, Oklahoma’s QB, threw for 4,289 yards and 35 touchdowns this year. UConn would like to see another 17-tackle performance for Sio Moore [against West Virginia] and to force turnovers. UConn has a positive turnover margin for the season, which played a role in their current winning streak. Turnovers against, especially against a dangerous team in Oklahoma, will prove to be costly.

On the other side of the ball, both programs know UConn’s game plan; it’s run, run, run. So, Connecticut’s receiver core of Michael Smith, Kashif Moore and Isiah Moore know what they have to do. Also look for pass plays to FB Anthony Sherman. Zach Frazer, the senior QB playing in his final game at UConn, is also aware of what’s at stake and the kind of game he needs to render in order for UConn to win this game. Frazer may not throw all that much, but when he does, he needs to connect. A balanced attack means Frazer throwing for 200 yards and Jordan Todman rushing for 120. Robbie Frey will also be a nice complement to Todman in the backfield.

Given the spread, I think UConn can cover it (17). Will they win? I won’t say. But if they do, they will shock the world and will pump more credibility into why the Big East Conference is big and why they deserve the automatic bid, regardless of record or standing. A team has to start somewhere. No one has ever qualified for a BCS game seven years after joining Div. I-A/FBS until this year: Connecticut. Every game is a story and quite frankly, I think it’s a damn good one. UConn can shock the world and put the critics to bed forever – how’s that for motivation??

Huskies in the East-West Shrine Game, Jan. 22, 2011, Orlando, Fla.

** - Zach Hurd will also participate in the NFLPA Texas vs. Nation game on Feb. 5 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

December 20, 2010

2010 Awards and 2011 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl Preparation
By Marc Zirolli

As the Connecticut football team tune up for arguably the program’s biggest game in their history, the Huskies cleaned up on some notable awards.

Junior running back Jordan Todman received the Big East offensive player of the year, thanks to 1,574 yards rushing and 14 rushing touchdowns on 302 carries. Head coach Randy Edsall was awarded co-coach of the year, along with first-year head coach at Louisville, Charlie Strong. The Cards, after a four year absence, returns to the bowl picture playing in the Beef O’Brady’s Bowl this week. UConn as a team also had many players make first and second team in the Big East.

BIG EAST FIRST TEAM OFFENSE SELECTIONS

BIG EAST FIRST TEAM DEFENSE SELECTIONS

BIG EAST SECOND TEAM OFFENSE SELECTIONS

BIG EAST SECOND TEAM DEFENSE SELECTIONS

2010 TEAM AWARDS

And let the awards keep coming, especially for RB Jordan Todman. You way remember he was shafted from the list of finalists for the Doak Walker Award earlier this season. That award goes to the nation’s top running back. However, just this week, Todman was named to the Associated Press second team All-America. The last UConn player to earn All-America honors was Donald Brown after the 2008 season. He was subsequently selected 27th overall in the NFL draft by the Indianapolis Colts. Todman finished second in the country this season with 143.1 yards per game.

On Friday, coach Randy Edsall was named Coach of the Year by the Gridiron Club of Greater Boston. This was the second time he received this award; the last being in 2007 when UConn was co-champs of the Big East Conference. That year, ironically, West Virginia won the tie breaker and eventually beat Oklahoma in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. Could fate repeat itself, but instead with UConn there to represent the Big East? Edsall in 12 seasons at UConn is 73-69 and 65-45 since joining the FBS in 2002.

 

December 13, 2010

Connecticut – 19
South Florida – 16
Tampa, Fla.

By Marc Zirolli

There were five separate occasions during the course of the season that were “firsts” for the University of Connecticut football program. However, at the end of the day, there was none more important than the Huskies suspenseful season-ending victory on Saturday; a 19-16 win over South Florida which gave them their first win in Tampa and propelled UConn to their first BCS berth in school history.

Two more were certainly instrumental in UConn’s path to their second Big East title in four seasons and a trip to one of the biggest stages in college football. Despite losing in their first-ever meeting against Michigan on Labor Day weekend, the Huskies were able to find themselves against a perennial powerhouse. They were able to see what worked and what didn’t work; who fit where and what combination of players could give the team the best chance to win – something Randy Edsall preaches all the time.

As the season progressed into Big East play, the Huskies still had major hurdles in front of them, especially after starting conference play 0-2 with back-to-back road losses at Rutgers and at Louisville. UConn needed to find a way to beat West Virginia for the first time. Under the Friday night lights, at home in October, they did just that – in overtime, thanks to current Big East player of the week, kicker Dave Teggart. The win over the Mountaineers put them at 1-2 in the conference, but still two games behind conference favorite, Pittsburgh, in the loss column.

After a week off in early November, the Huskies had a home date on Thursday night against the Panthers, a game they needed to win to stay in the conference title hunt. This game started the “one-game season” for UConn. It was simple: win and you have a chance. Behind Jordan Todman’s 222 yards and Edsall’s guts of steel, UConn won the game thanks to a dramatic 4th and 1 conversion from their own 19-yard line! As the season dwindled down to the final two weeks, UConn won at Syracuse and at home to Cincinnati while Pittsburgh lost at home in the Backyard Brawl against West Virginia. Miraculously, with one game to go, it was UConn’s season to lose; win at South Florida for the first time, and they’re in the BCS. Regardless of what West Virginia did against Rutgers, or what Pittsburgh did against Cincinnati; if UConn beat South Florida, they could represent the Big East in a BCS bowl – amazing!

The game against South Florida was unlike any game this season. There was a defensive touchdown, thanks to Lawrence Wilson’s 55-yard “Pick-Six” late in the second quarter to give UConn a 10-3 advantage. That turned out to be the only touchdown for UConn on the night. The 12 other points came courtesy of Dave Teggart, who without question, had the biggest game of his career, nailing four field goals, including the game winner from 52 yards, his new career long, with 17 seconds to play. Jordan Todman was held to 93 yards on the night, the second time all season he was held to under 100 yards rushing. Zach Frazer had a mediocre game, completing 13 of 29 passes for 112 yards. He knows, as well as every UConn fan, that this will not cut it in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl against Oklahoma. UConn’s passing game needs to come alive to spread out the Sooners’ defense to allow Todman to rush the ball. Players like Michael Smith and Kashif Moore need to make plays and they need to score. Zach Frazer needs to throw for over 200 yards and UConn needs to do what they’ve done very well all season long, and that is to hang on to the ball on offense and to force turnovers on defense.

The turning point of the game which jump started the Bulls was Jordan Todman’s fumble in the fourth quarter. That led to a Bobby Eveld 28-yard touchdown pass to Dontavia Bogan to cut UConn’s lead to 16-13. The Bulls would later tie the game at 16 on a Maikon Bonani 22-yard field goal with just over a minute to play.

And, for the first time this season, the Connecticut Huskies are ranked in the AP Top 25. At number 25, UConn will play the No. 9 Oklahoma Sooners in the Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium on New Year’s Day in Glendale, Ariz. And the way this team has been playing, don’t count out the Huskies just yet.

December 2, 2010

Cincinnati – 17
Connecticut – 38
East Hartford, Conn.
By Marc Zirolli

When the Huskies returned home after what seemed to be the nail in their coffin following a shutout loss to Louisville in October, Coach Edsall proclaimed that his club would be in playoff mode for the remainder of the season. He believed and his players believed that if they took it one game at a time, they might be able to turn their season around. They beat West Virginia, Pittsburgh, and Syracuse. They needed to beat the Bearcats on Saturday to keep their BCS hopes alive. Who would have thought Connecticut would go to a BCS? Only the Huskies and once again, they got the job done and extended their winning streak to four with a 38-17 victory over two-time defending conference champion Cincinnati in front of a sold out Rentschler Field.

You may remember from a few weeks ago, I noted how UConn seems to catch fire at the end of the season. They did last year, as well, winning five-straight, capped off by a PapaJohns.com Bowl victory over South Carolina. Unlike last year’s game against the Bearcats, the UConn defense stepped up and this time, Zach Collaros completed 50% of his passes (50 attempts) totaling 288 yards. He also accounted for both of Cincinnati’s touchdowns, throwing one to Armon Binns for 15 yards and rushing one for three yards. But at that point following the rushing TD, the game was over. But, those two touchdowns were also mixed in with four interceptions. The biggest of those four may have been the Kendall Reyes 79-yard return in the second quarter which kept the Huskies up by seven, but eventually set up a Jordan Todman 1-yard run to extend the lead to 24-10 just before halftime. That was without question, the turning point in the game that solidified UConn’s chances to potentially join college football’s elite during championship week in January.

It was just another day at the office for Todman, who is the second-best runningback in the nation performance-wise, behind Oregon’s LaMichael James. Todman rushed for 175 yards and logged three touchdowns on Saturday. He now averages 145.1 a game, with one game remaining this Saturday night at South Florida. UConn has never won in Tampa, and this may be the biggest game in their rich history. Win and they’re in, meaning not only will they will the Big East Conference and their first since 2007, but they will either make a trip to the Orange Bowl in Miami or the Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Ariz. This is the same team, which three months ago, was projected to finish fourth in the Big East.

The win on Saturday over the Bearcats was also a memorable one for many, including senior fullback Anthony Sherman. In his career, Sherman has caught 44 balls for 398 yards. He had rushed 17 times for 61 yards. But he never scored a touchdown – until Saturday. On a 16-yard pass from Zach Frazer, Sherman opened the scoring late in the first quarter to give UConn a 7-0 advantage. This was the icing on the cake for Sherman, who is part of a team that will now go to four straight bowl games.

Another nice stat for UConn, which fans were pleased to see, was their improved play on converting third downs. They went 9-for-16, compared to 2 of 12 a week ago at Syracuse. The Huskies also converted one fourth down play, which was Todman’s 1-yarder at the end of the first half. The Huskies on fourth down are now 11 of 16 on the season. Kicker Dave Teggart made all five PAT’s in UConn’s win on Saturday, giving him 97 consecutive extra points to start his career.

Thanks to UConn’s four interceptions and one fumble recovery, they are now ranked in the top 10 in the country for turnover margin, which they now stand at plus-11. Just a season ago, UConn was ranked 43rd with a margin of only plus-3. UConn finished the 2009 season at 8-5.

The win on Saturday also gave UConn their first top 25 votes since the pre-season. They received 16 votes for the AP top 25 and are technically 29th in the country. They did not get any votes in the ESPN/USA Today poll. The last time UConn was ranked in both polls was in September 2008. A win on Saturday might at the very least, get them into the AP Top 25.

If the Huskies win on Saturday, they could go to either the Orange or Fiesta bowls, as noted above. Geography and how well Huskies fans travel may influence Orange Bowl officials, as they get to select either the Big East champion or possibly Stanford, given they are ranked fourth in the BCS and will receive and automatic BCS bid. The Orange Bowl also gets to select before the Fiesta Bowl, who gets to pick the eighth and final BCS spot for this season.

If the Huskies lose to South Florida, UConn may have a return trip to Florida for a second-tier, conference-affiliated bowl game. Officials from the Champs Sports Bowl in Orlando, Fla. were in attendance at Saturday’s game and liked what they saw. This game will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 28 against an ACC team. Another possibility would be the inaugural New Era Pinstripe Bowl at the new Yankee Stadium to be held Friday Dec. 30 – outside – versus a Big XII club.

The big news this week is that the Big East Conference gained some traction in this “College Football Hurricane” of a conference shake-up by adding Texas Christian University (TCU) in all sports. TCU, from Dallas/Ft. Worth, will begin play in 2012-13 and puts the Big East Conference in yet another major market in the country. With Dallas, the conference will have schools in 10 of the nation’s 35 largest media markets.

The bigger news will be if Connecticut can earn their first BCS berth in program history. Destination: Tampa; Saturday, Dec. 4 at 8 p.m. on ESPN2 – Huskies…Bulls…

LET’S GO HUSKIES!!!

November 25, 2010

Connecticut – 23
Syracuse – 6
Syracuse, N.Y.

By Marc Zirolli

For the fourth straight year, the Connecticut Huskies became bowl eligible as they won a crucial Big East conference game Saturday night at Syracuse. The four-man defensive front sacked Orange QB, Ryan Nassib, four times for 33 yards en route to a 23-6 win.

After two dismal losses on the road at Rutgers and Louisville, it seemed that the Huskies’ season was over, especially with back-to-back games at home against Pittsburgh and West Virginia. But they quickly righted the ship and UConn (6-4, 3-2) are not only bowl eligible, they have a chance to win the conference and clinch their first BCS berth in program history.

It was just another day at the office for junior runningback Jordan Todman, who rushed for 130 yards on 27 carries and logged both UConn touchdowns on rushes of one and two yards. Kicker Dave Teggart added the other nine points with field goals of 35, 35 and 21. But the problem that UConn endured on Saturday, just they have been all season long is converting on third down plays. They’ve actually had more success on fourth down plays, most notably the gutsy call Edsall made on his own 19-yard line to secure a win over the Panthers two weeks ago. On Saturday, UConn was only 2-for-12 on third down plays. They are now 17-for-68 in Big East play and 40-for-121 on the season. That comes out to a 33% success rate. Miraculously, the Huskies are 10-for-15 on the season when attempting to convert a fourth down play. They logged two of those in their win against the Cuse.

The focus now shifts to the Huskies final home game of the season this Saturday against Cincinnati, who oh by the way posted 69 points against Rutgers last week. The question is; how will UConn contain shifty Bearcats quarterback, Zach Collaros? Last season in the Huskies 47-45 shootout loss in Cincinnati, Collaros threw for 480 yards and rushed for 75 more. In total, the Bearcats logged 711 yards against the Huskies, a school record. However, in UConn’s recent three-game winning streak, they have not allowed a 100-yard rusher. The Bearcats put up 650 yards last week against Rutgers, so logging hundreds of multi-purpose yards isn’t heard of, so UConn needs to stop Collaros, plain and simple. Cincinnati also has something to play for on Saturday. The Bearcats, who are two-time defending conference champions, needs wins against UConn and Pittsburgh to become bowl eligible. Saturday’s game is at noon and will be broadcasted on SNY.

SENIOR DAY

 

Lastly, Jasper Howard, who would have been a senior but was fatally stabbed on campus a year ago, will also be honored. His family from Miami will be at the game in Jasper’s honor.

November 19, 2010

Pittsburgh – 28
Connecticut – 30
East Hartford, Conn. 

By Marc Zirolli

 

Just when you thought the season was over after a dismantling at the hands of Louisville on Oct. 23, the UConn Huskies are alive and well. And with marquee wins over West Virginia, and most recently Pittsburgh, both at home, if they win their final three games combined with one more Panthers loss, the Huskies will be off to their first BCS berth in their young FBS history.

 

Last week’s see-saw battle against Pittsburgh showed resiliency. Against a stifling defense, Jordan Todman rushed for 222 yards on 37 carries. He is now second in the nation with yards per game at 147, second only to Oregon’s LaMichael James. But ironically, Todman did not make the Doak Walker list of 10 semifinalists for the best runningback in the country. For the time being, head coach Randy Edsall wasn’t pleased with the voting results, but anyone who is a UConn fan knows Edsall, and things such as these don’t matter much. It’s about who is best fit to hold their position on the field and who gives the team the best chance to win. That’s Edsall’s philosophy and it hasn’t changed.

 

Of Todman’s 222 yards, four came at a crucial time and at a time no one of the 35,000 fans in the stadium would have expected to take place. After being down 30-21 late in the fourth, the Panthers crept within two as Tino Sunseri connected for 20 yards with Jon Baldwin, which capped off a 5-play, 70 yard drive. This was shortly after UConn extended their lead to nine on a 14-yard catch by Isiah Moore which made the fans in Rentschler Field start to feel the upset. After Pittsburgh kicked off to UConn with a little over four minutes to play, there was still that funny feeling. With 2:33 to play, the Huskies all of a sudden found themselves starring at fourth-and-1 on their on 19 yard line. I knew, yes, your UConn blogger; I knew if UConn punted, the Panthers would win the game.

 

In Edsall’s 12 years as head coach, no play call was bigger than the one he would make following a timeout. He looked at the lineman in the face and told them to get the job done and he subsequently sent back the offense to get the first down and win the game. Fans didn’t know what to do; cheer; knowing if they got the first down they would win the game, or remain silent so the Huskies wouldn’t jump early. Well, there was a mix. I was quiet, but standing just like everyone else. The play was perfect and Todman ran up the right A-gap for four yards and for only the second time in their previous five meetings, the Huskies defeated the Panthers in a season-saving, must-win game. Oh and by the way, the Huskies are 6-0 when playing on Thursday night since joining the Big East Conference in football in 2004.

 

In another key play in UConn’s run to an upset, Nick Williams – following a Pittsburgh touchdown to give the Panthers a 21-13 lead – ran the ensuing kickoff back down their throats 95 yards for the score to cut the lead to one as time expired in the third quarter. It was also probably the smart play to kick the PAT rather than trying to tie the game. I yelled to go for it, but if they didn’t convert, only God would know if the momentum would shift back to Pittsburgh.

 

The Huskies (5-4, 2-2) travel to Syracuse (7-3, 4-2) on Saturday night at 7 p.m. on ESPNU. UConn is currently tied for fourth in the conference, but hold the tiebreaker over West Virginia. Pittsburgh travels to South Florida in the only other relevant game that could help UConn’s cause this weekend. The Huskies travel to Tampa on Dec. 4. If the Bulls knock off Pittsburgh and if UConn defeats Syracuse, UConn would all of a sudden be tied for first with Pittsburgh and South Florida, with a game at hand to the Bulls. UConn is heavily relying on their offensive line to stymie a suffocating Orange defense in hopes Todman rushes for another 200 yards. Left tackle Mike Ryan, Left guard Mathieu Olivier, center Moe Petrus, right guard Zach Hurd and right tackle Adam Masters have improved dramatically over the last month for UConn, who has been known for having one of the best offensive line units in the conference.

 

Look for Rentschler Field to be rockin’ next Saturday at noon as UConn hosts two-time conference defending champion Cincinnati. It will be rockin’ if UConn beats Syracuse. And it’s not the end of the world if Pittsburgh beats South Florida; they still have to get through the Backyard Brawl against West Virginia, to which they host this year at noon on Black Friday.

November 3, 2010

Connecticut – 0
Louisville – 26
Louisville, Ky.

West Virginia – 13
Connecticut – 16, F/OT
East Hartford, Conn.

By Marc Zirolli

If the Connecticut Huskies only played home games this season, they might be ranked in the top 15 and would be in first place in the Big East Conference. But, that would never be the case for any school in any season.

As a result, the Huskies, 4-4 (1-2) are undefeated at home and winless on the road. Two of those losses are against Big East opponents; a final-second heartbreaker to Rutgers and a dismal defeat in Louisville. In the loss to the Cards, runningback Jordan Todman was held to only 80 yards. Prior to that game, he was averaging almost twice as much on the season.

The mood coming off the loss to Louisville was frustrating. Fans expected this team to truly compete for the conference title and to likely play in the Orange Bowl in Miami. The Huskies were returning home to play West Virginia for the seventh time and in the national spotlight on ESPN. UConn had never beaten the Mountaineers and at halftime, trailing 10-3, Connecticut had gone eight quarters without scoring a touchdown. Additionally, the ailing saga seemed to continue for UConn, which started the game Friday night with three-straight three-and-outs totaling eight yards on those nine plays. Fans were uneasy and boos started to fill the sold-out Rent.

Though it was a low scoring game, the storyline to UConn’s monumental win over West Virginia in overtime was the turnover ratio. The Huskies won convincingly in that department, 4-0, thanks to the help of defensive player of the week, linebacker Sio Moore, who logged a career-high 17 tackles, two of which were sacks, and forced two fumbles. In all, West Virginia coughed up the ball seven times and lost four of them. For the first time in program history, UConn swept the three weekly Big East honors thanks to the win over West Virginia. In addition to Moore, Jordan Todman was offensive player of the week as he scored the tying touchdown in the third quarter, on his way to a total of 113 yards on 33 carries. Kicker Dave Teggart was the Special Teams player of the week. He tied the score at 13 in the fourth quarter on a 26-yard field goal and eventually kicked the game winner, a 27-yarder following a Ryan Clarke fumble on the 1-yard line on West Virginia’s first possession in overtime.

Todman had a solid game against the nation’s fourth-ranked defense. On the scoring drive that tied the game at 10 after West Virginia had to punt on the second half’s opening series, UConn marched 71 yards on 15 plays that chomped just over five minutes of game clock. Also having another solid game was number one receiver Michael Smith, catching 6 passes for 56 yards. In Zach Frazer’s return as starting QB – again – he completed 12 of 29 passes for 166 yards. Perhaps one of the biggest moral victories in the game for UConn, however, was limiting runningback Noel Devine, who single-handedly beat UConn in previous meetings. He ran for only 67 yards on 16 carries.

For a team that’s known for their defense, UConn once again gave up too many big plays. In the first half, West Virginia obtained 231 yards, 149 of which came on 10 running plays. In addition to Devine, quarterback Geno Smith and wide receiver Bradley Starks also rushed for considerable yardage in the first half. Thanks to the turnovers, the Huskies were fortunate to only be down 10-3 at the half.

Connecticut, currently tied for fourth in a log-jammed conference, is only two games out of first place. They host Pittsburgh on Veterans’ Day, next Thursday Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN. The Panthers, who are also idle this weekend, are in first place in the conference at 3-0. This is another crucial game for UConn, as a loss would all but eliminate them from winning the Big East Conference and a chance to play in the Orange Bowl.

October 22, 2010

Starting QB Endres’ Career Over at UConn;
Box to Start at Louisville
By Marc Zirolli

Just when expectations couldn’t be any lower, the Connecticut football team endured another blow as starting quarterback Cody Endres was unexpectedly suspended again from the football team for “violating university policies.” Head Coach Randy Edsall officially dismissed Endres from the program on Wednesday, just before the team was scheduled to depart for Louisville.

It couldn’t have come at a more trying time for the Huskies; they’ve been in the middle of a bye week in hopes to find a new identity for the second half of the season. Now, Michael Box, the freshman from Suwanee, Ga., will make his first career start for Connecticut as they take on the Louisville Cardinals at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. Box came into the second half of UConn’s 62-3 rout of Texas Southern and completed 2 of 5 passes for 30 yards.

Connecticut (3-3, 0-1) visits Louisville, also at 3-3, 0-1 on Saturday. The Huskies look to win their fourth straight game against Louisville and first-year head coach Charlie Strong. Last season at Rentschler Field, senior runningback Andre Dixon scored three touchdowns to help UConn defeat the Cards, 38-25, which was also the day before the tragic death of Jasper Howard.

October 15, 2010

Connecticut – 24
Rutgers – 27
Piscataway, N.J.

By Marc Zirolli

Sometimes in life, timing is everything. For the UConn Huskies football program, their first bye week this weekend couldn’t have come at a better time. Halfway through the season, the pre-season highly regarded Huskies are 3-3 and lately, look like the Detroit Lions on the road – winless.

I tried to digest the rest of my weekend. I was antsy last Friday at work and couldn’t wait to get home, pop open a beverage, and get comfortable in front of my TV for UConn’s first national audition for respect; not only for themselves, but for their conference. Well, it turned out that I had to keep myself occupied for a few days to forget a game they should have, and needed to, win.

The silver lining despite a conference-opening heartbreaker to Rutgers? The season isn’t dead yet. After a bye week this week, UConn travels to Louisville on Oct. 23 at 3:30 p.m. UConn has won the last two meetings, which includes a stunning and hard-fought victory in Kentucky two seasons ago. The big day which will undoubtedly determine UConn’s BCS hopes is Friday Oct. 29 when, on a short week, host West Virginia at Rentschler Field at 8 p.m. on ESPN. The Huskies have never beaten West Virginia. And in a season that’s been mediocre to say the least, this is a must win. You can’t look past your next opponent, but if the Huskies lose to the Mountaineers, they can kiss goodbye a chance to feast on plump, juicy oranges in January.

OK, OK, on to the recap in Piscataway that I’ve oh so been dreading for several days now. Probably the most intriguing stat that goes with a recurring storyline this season is trying to stop the big plays. On Friday night, UConn gave up 10 BIG plays, totaling 289 yards. That is astounding, especially for a program that’s been known for its defensive swag. On the flip side, how does a school produce the nation’s fourth-leading rusher and only be 3-3 on the season? The Huskies are tied for 49th in the country in overall scoring defense, holding – I mean allowing – opponents to score 22 points a game. That is way too much. Thankfully, UConn is 36th in the nation in scoring, averaging 32.3 points a game, but that is skewed just a bit when they put up 62 against Texas Southern. The problem was giving up 30 points to Michigan and Temple, and only putting up 10 and 16 respectively in those two games. There is no question UConn could be 5-1 on the season and maybe – just maybe – 6-0 if DJ Shoemate didn’t fumble on the Michigan 2-yard line late in the third quarter on Labor Day weekend that would have pulled the Huskies to within a touchdown in Ann Arbor.

Forget the stats against Rutgers. UConn lost the game and when it counted, late in the fourth, Rutgers earned it. True freshman quarterback Chas Dodd connected with Mark Harrison on a 52-yard pass with just under four minutes to go to tie the score at 24. Then, San San Te broke the tie with 13 seconds to play on a 34-yard field goal to clinch the game for the Scarlet Knights.

I’ve had it with this game. It’s on to Louisville in a must-win situation, but not before a much needed bye to get this train back on the right track.

SCHEDULING NOTES

October 7, 2010

Vanderbilt – 21
Connecticut – 40
East Hartford, Conn.

By Marc Zirolli

The UConn Huskies started off the month of October on the right foot, not only by defeating the SEC and gaining credibility for the heavily-scrutinized Big East, but also to springboard themselves into conference play in a quest to get to the BCS.

It started in the right direction, and on an abrupt note. Vanderbilt received the opening kickoff and ran it to their 24 yard line. On the first play from scrimmage, Larry Smith completed a pass to Jonathan Krause for 12 yards. Defensive back Mike Lang, who also returns kickoffs, forced a fumble which was recovered and ran to the Commodore 12 yard line by Blidi Wreh-Wilson. On three plays, Jordan Todman punched it in on a 1-yard rush to give the Huskies a 7-0 advantage having only played 90 seconds. Having scored two touchdowns in the game, Todman leaped to seventh all-time in touchdowns in Connecticut history with 24. His 190 yards rushing brought him to eighth in the UConn record books with a total of 2,117 and he is only a junior. But remember, Donald Brown only played three seasons and he is the all-time leader at 3,800.

As the Huskies prepare for their Big East opener at Rutgers on Friday night on ESPN at 7:30pm, UConn is ranked 25th in the nation with 209.4 rushing yards per game. Jordan Todman is the nation’s fourth-leading rusher at nearly 160 yards a game. The league opener will be no different however. The Huskies are looking to avenge back-to-back heartbreakers suffered at the hands of the Scarlet Knights, first in 2008 in Piscataway when they lost 12-10, then last year, losing 28-24 at home, their first home game since Jasper Howard’s death. The Huskies held a 24-21 advantage with under a minute to play, when on just one play for 81 yards, the world turned upside down. That game-clinching score was made by Tim Brown, who ironically grew up with Howard in Miami – talk about bittersweet. So Friday’s game is twofold; get revenge, but just win, baby because this is where it really counts. This could be the year Connecticut could taste oranges.

Back to the game against SEC-foe Vanderbilt. UConn led 14-0, and then in a flash, were down 21-14 in the second quarter. But just before half, Cody Endres connected with Kashif Moore on a 6-yard connection to tie the score at the half. It was a 9-play, 73-yard drive that took just over four minutes. Endres threw for 21 of 30 for 179 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. Sophomore receiver Dwayne Difton is also settling in, as he caught six balls for 58 yards.

In the second half, the defense took over and didn’t allow another point. In fact, Vanderbilt only obtained 73 total yards of offense in the second half which was their demise. Scott Lutrus returned, logging three tackles. Lawrence Wilson was the defensive star, earning nine tackles, four of which were unassisted. Among his six tackles, Jesse Joseph had two sacks.

Robbie Frey, who has been backing up Jordan Todman in the backfield and returning kickoffs, had arthroscopic surgery on Monday on his knee and will miss two to three weeks. If UConn can win Friday night at Rutgers, they will enter their first bye week of the year before heading to Louisville on Oct. 23. Frey could return in time for that game. He has rushed for 269 yards this season. In his absence, Nick Williams will return kickoffs. Jimmy Bennett, who has played left tackle, has also been lost for four to five weeks with a right knee injury and surgery to his hand, of which he injured in warm-ups prior to the game against Vanderbilt.

The intensity level has been there all week; actually, since the end of a great game against the Commodores. It’s a short week for UConn and Coach Edsall has not, and will not take anything for granted going into the Tri-state Tilt. Though Rutgers lost at home to Tulane on Saturday, no less, they will still look to improve to 3-2 on the year. The Huskies, at 3-2 entering Friday’s game, look to earn their first road win of the season.

September 29, 2010

Buffalo – 21
Connecticut – 45
East Hartford, Conn.

By Marc Zirolli

 

You could have been at the game, watched it on TV, or read the post-game reports. And by doing so, you could have identified several storylines that made up this 2009 International Bowl rematch between Buffalo and Connecticut.

It all started off great; just what the Huskies needed coming off a demoralizing loss to Temple just a week earlier. Less than a minute and a half into the game, Jerome Junior picked off Ed Young as the pass was tipped and ran it back 27 yards for the score to give UConn an early lead. The domination continued 10 minutes later when DJ Shoemate scored from four yards out on a 10-play, 80-yard drive that propelled the Huskies to a 14-0 lead in what seemed to be a breath of fresh air for UConn Country. Finally, this team has arrived…or not.

In the second quarter, it was Buffalo who responded with two touchdowns of their own, and after a nostalgic quarter for the Huskies who were only held to 117 yards on offense in the first half, the Bulls all of a sudden saw themselves tied at 14 and very much in this game.

When UConn returned the kickoff to open the third quarter, the crowd erupted in cheers to the public address, announcing that Cody Endres had relieved the up and down Zach Frazer at quarterback for UConn. The halftime uncharacteristic meltdown by Coach Edsall worked, and the team responded. After a 37-yard field goal by Dave Teggart early in the third, UConn would never look back. That was quickly followed up by an Endres bomb to Michael Smith on their ensuing drive, which only took one play; a 56-yarder to Smith to give UConn a 24-14 lead.

The tale of two halves looked something like this, courtesy of the Hartford Courant:

                                    1st Half             2nd Half

UConn yards                117                       282
Buffalo yards                234                       134
UConn pass yards        94                         139
UC Comp-Att-INT          7-14-1                    7-11-0
UC Pass TD's                 0                            2
Buffalo 3rd down          8-14                       2-10
UConn penalties          6-36 yards              2-30 yards

So, not only did UConn respond on offense, they also did on defense, especially with stellar performances from middle linebacker Lawrence Wilson and linebacker Sio Moore, whom registered 14 and 16 tackles respectively on Saturday. Moore also earned an interception as he played Wilson’s old position, weak-side linebacker.

The Huskies also showed some depth in the back field. With Jordan Todman sidelined with an elbow injury, DJ Shoemate and Robbie Frey stepped up and rushed for 172 yards between the two of them, each collecting a touchdown. However, it was Frey who was more fleet-footed and efficient, as he ran for 112 of those 172 yards on only 13 carries.

Last but not least, the receiver core finally showed some life. Their top three receivers, who are also the top three going into this weekend, are Michael Smith, Kashif Moore and Dwayne Difton. Smith once again was the star, grabbing 130 yards on only four receptions and a touchdown. But Difton’s 3-25 and Moore’s 5-70 also proved to be valuable in UConn’s aerial assault. The Huskies were able to open up Buffalo’s defense to allow Frey to rush for over 100 yards while turning the receiving game on in the second half. Though Isiah Moore played, he was not thrown to during this game. Moore could work his way back up the depth chart this week.

The Huskies remain home this Saturday at 12pm as they play host to the Vanderbilt Commodores out of the SEC. The Commodores are 1-2 entering Saturday and coming off a bye week. Their lone win was two weeks ago, a 28-14 victory at Mississippi. A win against Vanderbilt will not only give the Huskies a little credibility, but it will also help the ailing Big East Conference, which entering this week is only 1-10 against BCS conferences – West Virginia defeated Maryland out of the ACC earlier this season.

Saturday’s game at Rentschler Field will also be aired locally on SNY, the official network of UConn Football.

Lastly, UConn’s two non-conference home games have been released for 2011, as they will host Iowa State out of the Big XII and Fordham, their annual FCS challenge. The Huskies will return the favor and play Vanderbilt in Nashville and will travel to Buffalo to play the Bulls next season.

September 22, 2010

Connecticut – 16
Temple – 30
Philadelphia, Pa.

 By Marc Zirolli

 

At 1-2 to start the season, it’s clearly back to the drawing board for the Connecticut Huskies. Saturday’s loss at Temple stung, especially after two missed field goal attempts from 38 and 48 yards, and a fumble returned for a touchdown early in the fourth that gave the Owls a lead they would never relinquish.

In the two games against FBS teams this season, both on the road at Michigan and Temple this past weekend, Connecticut has only put up 26 points. For the season, the Huskies have only a small margin of points for vs. against at 88 to 63.

The only bright spot on both sides of the ball for UConn is junior runningback Jordan Todman. As the No. 12 leading rusher in the nation, he rushed for 192 yards on 26 carries and scored a touchdown on the second play from scrimmage to start the second half; a 59-yard scamper to give the Huskies a 13-7 advantage. After a Temple touchdown and a Dave Teggart 47-yard field goal, it was 16-14 UConn after three quarters. The play of the game occurred midway through the fourth.

With UConn trying to get out of their own end, in what seemed to be a seamless play, Jordan Todman was stripped of the football by Adrian Robinson, scooped up by Robinson and subsequently sprinted 24 yards for the score to give the Owls a 20-16 lead; they would need no more.

It was the start of a 16-point fourth quarter for the Owls and after two crushing defeats in 2007 and 2008, Temple came out and outplayed UConn to close out this three-game series. Coach Edsall identified the costly mistakes that have plagued this team to start the season. As a result, expect some changes in the depth chart as the Huskies return home this Saturday against FCS representative, Buffalo, a rematch of the 2009 International Bowl where despite 5 fumbles, UConn came out victorious.

Don’t be surprised to see redshirt junior quarterback Cody Endres to either start on Saturday or at the very least, see some time if Zach Frazer struggles, which could happen. Endres returns to the depth chart following a 30-day suspension after violating undisclosed university policies.

Freshman cornerback Taylor Mack has been named UConn’s primary punt receiver, with wide receiver Leon Leon Kinnard serving as his backup. Redshirt freshman Shamar Stephen will continue to start over Trevardo Williams at defensive end. Jesse Joseph at defensive end and tackle Twyon Martin will continue to start. Coach Edsall believes those players are the best four-man combination in this department and they will be ready to go on Saturday. And finally, at long-last, Dwayne Difton will make his first career start at receiver this weekend as he replaces Isiah Moore, though Moore will continue to play. Could this spark the end to dropped balls? Tune-in Saturday at noon on SNY, live from Rentschler.

I could barely watch last week and could barely write this blog; hopefully I can enjoy myself this week at The Rent.

September 15, 2010

Texas Southern – 3
Connecticut – 62
East Hartford, Conn.
By Marc Zirolli

 

In consecutive weeks to open the season, the UConn Huskies took on an opponent for the first time in school history. The first was a loss at Michigan on Labor Day weekend. The second; well, you could say it was a decisive victory at the very least for Connecticut, who hosted the FCS Texas Southern Tigers on Saturday.

Like any opponent, the Tigers weren’t taken lightly, especially when they have 17 players who at some point, transferred from national powers like Florida State and Notre Dame. Still, they were no match for UConn who had a chip on their shoulder and needed a win at home to get their season going before they get into league play. UConn’s 62-3 win tied the largest margin of victory for 12-year head coach Randy Edsall.

The game quickly got out of hand as the Huskies led 24-0 at the end of the first quarter and enjoyed a commanding 45-0 cushion at the half, thanks in large part to junior tailback Jordan Todman’s 151 yards rushing and 3 touchdowns, which gives him 21 for his career and is tied for 10^th on UConn’s all-time rushing touchdowns list.

Adding two more touchdowns was redshirt junior tailback Robbie Frey, who rendered a career-best 101 yards on the ground, including a 63-yard burst in the third quarter to give the Huskies a 52-0 lead. For the game, Connecticut out-gained Texas Southern on the ground 307-18, and that can be attributed to the defense. Linebacker Lawrence Wilson recorded seven tackles and sophomore linebacker Sio Moore had six tackles, two of which were for losses, and two sacks.

Going back to the offensive side of the ball, once the game was decided early in the second half, head coach Randy Edsall inserted redshirt freshman quarterback Michael Box for the first time. In his debut, he went 2 for 5 for 30 yards, one of which for 27-yards to sophomore Dwayne Difton in the third quarter. The Box-Difton tandem could be the wave of the future as they worked all summer together on passing and receiving. There were flaws, however. Box was dropped a few times for losses following a big play or good momentum during a drive. Edsall believes that through this learning experience, Box will get rid of the ball sooner to avoid these drive killers. On one play, he also tried to force one to Difton, while the play to Nick Williams was spoiled. Williams, by the way, was wide open. But, a work in progress nevertheless. If Box gets another opportunity before the return of Endres, don’t be surprised if Box takes the number two spot on the depth chart.

This Saturday, UConn heads to Lincoln Financial Field to take on the Temple Owls. Kickoff is slated for Noon and will be televised locally on Sportsnet New York (SNY). UConn has won the last three contests against Temple. Most notably, UConn survived a scare from Temple in 2007, winning 22-17. With only seconds to play, it looked as if Temple would win by a point, only to see their touchdown nullified after further review. In 2008, UConn won in overtime 12-9 on a Donald Brown 7-yard trot during Hurricane Hanna.

September 10, 2010

Connecticut – 10
Michigan – 30
Ann Arbor, Mich.

By Marc Zirolli

The first-ever meeting between the Huskies and Michigan Wolverines is probably one UConn fans would like to forget, except for the experience of being amongst the college football record 113,090 in attendance to witness the “re-dedication” of historic Michigan Stadium – I know that is something I won’t forget!

There was a lot of excitement in Storrs during pre-season. The team was riding a four-game winning streak dating to last season and a win against a Big Ten perennial to start the 2010 season would have caught the attention of the college football universe that UConn, and the Big East, was ready to go up against anyone.

The Huskies had two problems on Saturday. The first was on defense. Michigan sophomore quarterback Denard Robinson was the deal breaker, completing 19 of 22 passes for 186 yards and rushed for 197, a new Wolverine single-game rushing record by a quarterback. Robinson was a speedy, hard-cutting multi-purpose-style quarterback that UConn has had so many problems trying to contain. They experienced it for four years against West Virginia’s Pat White and went 0-for-White. Their only successes against this style quarterback came in 2008 and 2009 against Baylor.

The second problem? Well, it was an on-going factor last year; inconsistent passing and frustrating dropped passes. Coach Edsall counted seven in all after reviewing the film and the Huskies know, even Junior DT Kendall Reyes, that if they don’t get in a better week of practice, they will get beat, even if it’s FCS SWAC member Texas Southern. Zach Frazer only threw for 18 of 37 completions and no touchdowns. The only bright spot came just before halftime when junior running back Jordan Todman scored the only touchdown on a 2-yard rush. Michigan led 21-10 at the break and just like last year at Notre Dame, Husky fans thought that maybe another comeback was in the making.

That wasn’t the case this time. Late in the third on fourth down, Southern Cal transfer DJ Shoemate fumbled on the Michigan 3-yard line after collecting the first down. The ball was recovered by the Wolverines and they subsequently marched down field to score on 11 plays. So instead of a sure UConn touchdown to close the gap to 24-17 to start the fourth quarter, it was 30-10 to put the game out of reach for UConn. Without question, a costly mistake by Shoemate that was arguably the game changer.

Todman finished the game with 105 yards on the ground on 20 carries. Michael Smith was the star receiver, catching three passes for 87 yards, one of which was a circus-bobbling catch for 47 yards that eventually led to Todman’s touchdown.

It was a learning experience for all, but one to forget. Edsall on Thursday said the team had more intensity during practice this week, which will hopefully lead to a satisfying end result on Saturday, UConn’s home opener at Rentschler Field in East Hartford. The Huskies will be without captain and senior linebacker Scott Lutrus with an extremity injury. He sat out the second half last week in Ann Arbor. This could be speculated as a related injury to the Stinger he suffered much of last season, missing five games.

Game time on Saturday against Texas Southern is at noon. Zach Frazer is challenging UConn fans to be noisy while Coach Edsall just wants the fans in their seats prior to kickoff – quite frankly, that’s not too much to ask.

August 23, 2010

Huskies Poised to Meet High Expectations
By Marc Zirolli

The University of Connecticut Huskies began their pre-season with the thought of “this may just be the year” to get to South Florida for a BCS berth. It all began earlier this month in Newport, R.I. at the annual Big East Football Media Day when UConn obtained their first-ever pre-season first place vote. Overall, the Huskies are slated to finish fourth in the conference behind Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and West Virginia. But over the last few years, Coach Edsall has preached the skill level of his players rather then worrying about where the team is slated to finish. In 2009, UConn was picked to finish sixth; they finished the year in fifth capped off with an easy dismissal of Steve Spurrier’s South Carolina Game Cocks in the PapaJohns.com Bowl in Birmingham, Ala.

This year, Connecticut returns 17 starters, including senior starting quarterback, Zach Frazer. The Huskies, who play the three teams ahead of them in the pre-season standings at home this year, can put together a magical season and potentially could win the league outright, as in 2009, lost to Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and West Virginia by a combined nine points.

One other note from media day: The Big East has announced an NFL-style injury report, similar to the one baptized by the ACC just a year ago. The injury list will be released every Thursday during the season, so look for any and all updates from UConn’s camp throughout the year by checking out my blog!

As pre-season began, a recurring theme overflowed from last season into the Burton Football Complex; dropped passes. For those of you who followed UConn at all last season, this was the most frustrating part of their game. The idea of bringing in Joe Moorhead as offensive coordinator was to loosen up the defense by integrating more of a passing scheme into UConn’s offense. Well, it won’t be effective if the receivers can’t successfully receive. Coach Edsall, though early, feels confident in his receiving core. Look for Kashif Moore, Isiah Moore and Michael Smith to have large numbers. And also remember, there are sophomores Nick Williams and the highly-touted Florida recruit in Dwayne Difton. These are two guys that will need to step up when called upon in any situation. On the flip side, redshirt freshman Malik Generett is out due to academic issues, but is allowed to practice with the team. Gerrard Sheppard, also a sophomore, is trying to make an impact, but has endured a tough stretch trying to consistently catch balls. Lastly, tight end Ryan Griffin has been named to the 2010 watch list for the John Mackey Award, awarded to the nation’s top tight end.

On special teams, redshirt freshmen Chad Christen and Cole Wagner are vying to replace Desi Cullen in the punter/kickoff position. Both are practicing hard and have had their individual ups and downs, but look for Coach to make the right choice come September 4 at the Big House!

Many of you can recall the punishing blow Greg Lloyd made against Notre Dame last year, right? Well, unfortunately for the Huskies, after blowing out his knee, Lloyd continues to get back to full strength and has redshirted for this season and will move back to linebacker next season. Edsall isn’t sure if Lloyd will be making an appearance this season, even if other personnel go down with an injury.

To make matters worse on the defensive side of the ball, UConn received more bad news on Sunday Aug. 15 that junior defensive end Marcus Campbell, who missed all of 2009 due to academic issues, will be lost for this season as well after tearing his ACL in practice just the day before. In 23 games for the Huskies, he has 24 tackles and two sacks. Look for sophomores Jesse Joseph and Trevardo Williams, who both played the entire 2009 season, to fill the void. They battled for the No. 1 spot in spring ball. The other defensive ends rounding out the depth chart are redshirt sophomores A.J. Portee and Ted Jennings, as well as true freshman Jonathan Louis. Portee played in nine games last season while Jennings made an appearance at The Rent against Rhode Island.

Adding to the defense this year will be sophomore Mike Lang, who always played wide receiver, including in 2009 as a freshman with UConn; but not anymore. Ironically, the talented receiver from Largo, Fla. picked UConn over a handful of nationally recognized programs, including Cincinnati, Missouri, and South Florida. But during spring ball, he was asked to switch to free safety, a very important position for Edsall, and he agreed. More importantly, he was named starting FS on media day. Lang took on the new role with a grain of salt, got into it, and now loves the role so much, when Edsall asked him if he also wanted to play some receiver again this year, he declined. Mike Lang has found a new position and Coach Edsall has found a player that will hopefully hold on to this role for the next three years. But Lang has big shoes to fill, as UConn lost fellow battery mates Robert McClain and Robert Vaughn to graduation, which is not a bad scenario to have if you’re a football coach in a BCS conference.

At the strong safety position, junior Harris Agbor is No. 1 on the depth chart. Others at the SS slot are Jerome Junior and Kijuan Dabney. New Britain native Tebucky Jones, Jr., a true freshman, may not see too much action, if any at all this season at safety, but he might get in some punt returns where Coach Edsall deems appropriate.

Last Wednesday, it was announced that back-up junior quarterback Cody Endres and guard Erik Kuraczea have been suspended indefinitely for violating undisclosed university and athletic department policies. Endres, who played in seven games last season for the injured Frazer, went 98 of 154, compiling 1,354 yards and tallying six touchdowns. Kuraczea was going to be No. 2 on depth chart behind Mathieu Oliver for the second consecutive season at the “blind side” position. Last season, he played in 10 games, 5 of those being starts, especially after the Huskies’ crushing loss to Pittsburgh at Heinz Field last October.

These types of violations usually come with a 30-day suspension. If that’s the case, they will not be back until the third game of the season, a Sept. 18 date in Philadelphia against Temple. At quarterback, redshirt freshman Michael Box will take the back-up role to Zach Frazer. Sophomore walk-on Johnny McEntee and true freshmen Leon Kinnard and Scott McCummings will round out the quarterback depth chart. 

Wednesday was also the first day that Big East game officials arrived in Storrs to meet with coaches and staff to discuss rule changes and to answer any questions. They also worked the team practice.

In addition to the injuries, Connecticut must move on with the off-field distractions that of Cody Endres and Erik Kuraczea. Coach Edsall’s focus is working with the guys who are on the field; the guys who want to make this team better than last year. In 2009, Frazer went 116 of 218 for 1,461 yards, 10 touchdowns and nine interceptions in eight games. The expectations for this season are high, especially under center with Zach Frazer and junior runningback Jordan Todman. The land/air attack, combined with the always stellar defensive line, UConn can make a run at an outright Big East title, a BCS berth, and a place in college football’s up and coming elite programs. It starts on Sept. 4 in front of 109,000 fans in Ann Arbor, Mich. If The Huskies defeat the Wolverines at the rededication of the Big House, find a way to finally beat West Virginia, and upset Pittsburgh on home turf, UConn football will resonate in the minds of Husky fans and their toughest critics for years to come.

I’ll be live at Michigan! The game will kickoff at 3:30 p.m. on ABC on Sept. 4. My next blog will hopefully be recapping another historic win for the rich tradition of Husky football.

Oh and by the way, the final open practice for fans is on Tuesday Aug. 24 from 9:10 to 11:40 a.m.

April 8, 2010

Spring Positional Updates
By Marc Zirolli

Defensive Line

The strength of UConn football has certainly been on both sides of the ball, fielding one of the biggest offensive lines in the country and possessing an experienced, athletic defensive line, much needed in the gritty Big East.

Look for the following to contribute a great deal in the heavily anticipated upcoming season: Junior tackles Kendall Reyes and Twyon Martin, both of which started every game in 2009. Alex Polito, a 6-foot-6, 284-pound fifth-year senior tackle has high expectations and says he is healthier than ever. Ryan Wirth is a sophomore tackle, checking in at 6-2, 275. Look for sophomore Trevardo Williams and junior Marcus Campbell to bookend the line at defensive end. Jesse Joseph (shoulder) and Greg Lloyd (knee), two of UConn’s defensive anchors, will not be practicing this spring, but hope to be ready for the pre-season.

Wide Receivers

Not too much to report here, except that overall, they have put on a solid display as a unit, especially sophomore Nick Williams. Connecticut might also use him as a punt and kickoff return man this season.

Tight Ends

Depth is the word to describe this group. Sophomore Ryan Griffin was outstanding last season, catching 23 balls for 272 yards. Coach Edsall also likes the physical commitment put in by sophomore John Delahunt, who could compete for the starting role. Corey Manning also figures to be in the mix and Edsall believes the tight ends could see more action in the offensive scheme this season.

Linebackers

Senior Kijuan Dabney has moved from outside linebacker to safety, making room for freshman Andrew Opoku at OLB, who stands at 6-feet-4. Dabney, also 6-4, weighs in at 214 pounds and has experience as a defensive back and could pose as a threat to opposing wide receivers.

The backfield

Problems for junior running back Jordan Todman. He has not been allowed to practice this spring due to academic issues. Junior Kelmetrus Wylie has filled in nicely this spring in Todman’s absence. But Todman knows what he has to do in order to come back. Not having him in the backfield will be a huge loss for the Huskies, who saw JT run for 1,188 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2009.

Senior fullback Anthony Sherman has one thing on his mind: Winning the Big East title outright. Connecticut and West Virginia shared the championship in 2007, but the tiebreaker went to the Mountaineers, as they picked apart UConn 66-21 in Morgantown to clinch a BCS berth. Sherman is only 5-11, but at 242-pounds, he can block extremely well and wants to be more of an offensive threat in his final season. In 2009, he caught nine passes for 71 yards. But he said he will do anything coach Edsall asks him to do; he just wants to win the Big East title.

The Blue-White game takes place on Saturday, April 17 at Rentschler Field.

March 16, 2010

Frazer No. 1 to Start the Spring
By Marc Zirolli

It seems it was just yesterday that UConn waited until their bowl game against South Carolina to play their best, most complete game of the season. It seems that way because it’s March and it’s time for Spring ball; it’s time to find the identity of this football program post-Andre Dixon, post-Marcus Easley and post-Lindsey Witten.

We do know one thing is for sure. After leading the Huskies to four straight wins to finish the 2009-10, redshirt senior QB Zach Frazer is No. 1 on the depth chart and is quite frankly, his job to lose. During the team’s off-season workout program, Frazer gained 10 pounds and is up to 238. He also just recently ran a 4.8-second 40-yard dash.

The No. 2 quarterback on the depth chart is redshirt junior Cody Endres, who last season threw for 1,354 yards, six touchdowns and four picks in five games until his season-ending shoulder injury. Endres has been cleared to participate in spring ball. Frazer’s final numbers last season were 1,461 yards through the air, rendered 10 touchdown passes and nine interceptions. The other three quarterbacks to start the spring are redshirt freshman Michael Box, redshirt sophomore Johnny McEntee and true freshman Leon Kinnard.

Middle linebacker Greg Lloyd, who was supposed to move to defensive end this season, tore his left ACL and MCL Nov. 28 against Syracuse. He will miss all of spring and potentially the entire 2010 season as his rehabilitation has not been where the coaching staff expected it to be at this point in time. Also slated to miss spring ball are offensive tackles Mike Ryan (shoulder) and Jimmy Bennett (knee), cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson (shoulder), running back Robbie Frey (shoulder) and defensive end Jesse Joseph (shoulder).

The top three receivers to start the season will be Kashif Moore, Mike Smith and Isiah Moore. Sophomore star from Ft. Lauderdale, Dwayne Difton, will also be asked to make more of an impact this season at wide receiver.

Spring ball begins on March 16 at the Shenkman Training Center in Storrs.

February 20, 2010

Connecticut Signing Day Has Its Emotions
By Marc Zirolli

On February 3, 2010, the UConn Huskies had their annual signing day at the eerie and dormant Rentschler Field. This was the first time I had ever attended a signing day and I must say the hospitality and presentation throughout the entire evening was quite impressive. The night, however, was not all about the recruits. Coach Edsall took the podium to update UConn Country on the aftermath of Jasper Howard’s death and how his family has continued to cope.

In addition to Jasper and the incoming recruits, fans had the opportunity to mingle with fellow fans, athletic director Jeffrey Hathaway and some of the current players, such as Scott Lutrus and Moe Petrus. There was also a buffet, cash bar, door prizes and a Q & A with Randy Edsall. After the UConn coach addressed the fans, questions came in about signing another contract extension to the status of the Notre Dame contract. Coach Edsall said that both schools are working on finalizing the deal that would resume in 2011 with another trip to South Bend. But it appears adamant that both Edsall and Hathaway, along with the university and all its fans, that the only way this contract will become official is if Notre Dame comes to play in Hartford. That drew a loud cheer from the several hundred fans at the signing day festivities.

There has also been chatter about creating a “Huskies of Honor” at Rentschler Field, similar to what the men’s and women’s basketball teams adopted in 2007. Coach Edsall and Jeff Hathaway hope to have something implemented in the coming seasons.

During the Orange Bowl, Coach Edsall spent some time with Jasper’s family, particularly at his final resting place in Miami. He said the family has been doing well and cannot say enough about the outpouring of support they have received from the University of Connecticut. As you may recall, Jasper Howard would have been a senior for this upcoming season, so his locker will remain intact for the highly anticipated 2010 campaign.

As for the recruits – all position coaches took to the podium to discuss their respective incoming players. Each player had a video highlight reel that was displayed on projecting screens. For the last few seasons, UConn has fielded one of the largest offensive lines in the nation, and that will continue into 2010, most notably with Greg McKee, who made a great first impression with Husky fans with his unmatched physical ability he displayed in high school. He without question resembled Michael Oher, portrayed by Quinton Aaron in the 2009 movie, The Blind Side. McKee was bulldozing defensive linemen until the whistle blew in every highlight we saw from his senior season at Martin Luther King College Prep School in Chicago. It was comical to see, but at the same time, it was reassuring to know that UConn is recruiting players who they see will fit to make this program that best it can be. They didn’t have a top recruiting class, but over the last few years, Randy Edsall and his staff have proved the recruiting rankings wrong, dismissing the numbers as meaning absolutely nothing.

There are high expectations for Connecticut in 2010. This could be the season that permanently etches this program amongst the nation’s elite. See you in March during Spring Ball!

January 18, 2010

2010 Commitments – University of Connecticut Huskies
By Marc Zirolli

• Josh Alexander (6-3, 210 pounds) Linebacker, from Waldorf, Md.
• Ty-Meer Brown (6-1, 180) Safety from McKeesport, Pa.
• Gus Cruz (6-4, 260) Offensive Lineman from Meriden, N.H.
• Geremy Davis (6-1, 190) Wide Receiver from Norcross, Ga.
• Reuben Frank (6-2, 230) Defensive End from Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
• Byron Jones (6-0, 175) Cornerback from New Britain.
• Tebucky Jones, Jr. (6-1, 180) Wide Receiver from New Britain.
• Jonathan Louis (6-5, 240) Defensive End from Kingston, Pa.
• Taylor Mack (5-8, 160) Defensive Back from Atlanta.
• Scott McCummings (6-2, 218) Quarterback from Natick, Mass.
• Lyle McCombs (5-8, 180) Runningback from Staten Island, N.Y.
• Greg McKee (6-7, 295) Offensive Lineman from Chicago.
• Andrew Opoku (6-4, 209) Defensive Back from Fork Union (Va.)
• Bryan Paull (6-4, 290) Offensive Lineman from Parkland, Fla.
• Angelo Pruitt (6-3, 245) Linebacker from in Cincinnati.
• Jacob Ruby (6-8, 275) Offensive Lineman from Fork Union (Va.)
• Yawin Smallwood (6-4, 225) Linebacker from Worcester, Mass.
• Brandon Steg (6-3, 233) Linebacker from Coral Springs, Fla.
• Gilbert St. Louis (5-10, 175) Defensive Back from Plantation, Fla.

Connecticut’s signing day is Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at Rentschler Field.

See you in the Spring – Marc.

January 18, 2010

2010 Papajohns.com Bowl
Connecticut 20 South Carolina 7
By Marc Zirolli

It was probably the biggest win in school history, more so than the double OT thriller at Notre Dame. But, it was a bittersweet ending to a season that was a rollercoaster ride both on and off the field. And one can say that it was a fitting ending that didn’t involve sympathy from the opposition. The UConn Huskies fought hard and won, not letting the loss of Jasper Howard consume their on-field assignments.

Prior to entering the 2010 Papajohns.com Bowl, Connecticut was 2-1 all-time in bowls, but the two wins came at the hands of schools from the least competitive BCS conference in college football; the MAC. Their loss, you ask? A 24-10 defeat at the hands of Wake Forest from the ACC in the 2007 Meineke Car Care Bowl. So all season long, year in year out, how can this team receive any respect in the eyes of BCS critics if they can’t beat teams from other power conferences?

For the second consecutive season, they beat Baylor of the Big XII. Yeah, the Big XII is a powerhouse, but Baylor? Well, it’s good exposure for UConn, but the Bears have been at the bottom of that conference for years. Their only non-conference wins this year (besides independent Notre Dame) was on the road at Ohio and Baylor, and at home against Rhode Island – until the bowl game. South Carolina from the SEC was suffocated by UConn, as 11th-year head coach Randy Edsall outplayed and out-coached future hall of famer, Steve Spurrier. Yes, UConn has finally arrived on the national scene with huge expectations for 2010.

But in this game, it was all U-C-O-N-N, UConn, UConn, UConn. For the first time all year, there were no penalties accessed on the Huskies. Out of 60 minutes, they controlled the ball for over 35 minutes and for the second straight year, they rushed for over 2,000 yards, but this year, it was with two players. The first was sophomore standout Jordan Todman; and the other was Papajohns.com MVP, senior Andre Dixon who rushed for 126 yards on 33 carries and scored a touchdown, a 10-yard run early in the fourth to put the game out of reach.

Other stars? This was a no brainer and sometimes it only takes one play to make waves. And that’s what Kashif Moore did midway through the first quarter, making a spectacular grab to give UConn a lead they would never relinquish. It was a 37-yard snag that made the bowl season highlight reel. Unfortunately, the shutout disappeared with only a few minutes to go, but even Coach Spurrier said after the game they probably shouldn’t have scored at all. UConn, without question, played their most complete game of the year, and as we look ahead to 2010, they only graduate 17 players; however, that includes Dixon, fifth-year senior receiver Marcus Easley and corner Robert McClain. The 2010 UConn Huskies should be able to pick up where they left off, and hopefully can turn those five losses by a combined 15 points into five wins because in reality, it’s time for this program to take the next step, and that is to play in a BCS bowl game.

December 28, 2009

Connecticut Preparing for South Carolina
By Marc Zirolli

For the third straight year, The UConn Huskies will play in a bowl game. This time, it’s the Papajohns.com Bowl against the South Carolina Gamecocks, which will be the first-ever meeting between the two schools. What’s more, UConn will have a chance to build their resume by defeating one of the best coaches in college football history, Steve Spurrier.

The Gamecocks and Huskies both finished 7-5 for the season, but let’s remember South Carolina plays in the grueling SEC. Not to take away anything from the Big East, but folks will argue that the SEC is more competitive. And even though Carolina is 7-5, they finished third in the conference in defense – behind Alabama and Florida – and ranked 15th in the nation in that same category, similar to where UConn ranked up to last season.

The game, which will be held at Legion Field in Birmingham, Ala., will be almost a home game for South Carolina, as they have fulfilled their 10,000 ticket allotment and have asked for more. Conversely, the economy has hit some Husky fans and as a result, has only sold 3,500 of their tickets as of Christmas. The current spread goes to South Carolina by 4 ½ points. The game is scheduled to kickoff this Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010 at 1:00pm.

2009 Team Awards

 

The Connecticut Huskies also received the FedEx Orange Bowl FWAA Courage Award for displaying courage on or off the field, overcoming an injury physical handicap, preventing a disaster or living through hardship (Hartford Courant, Dec. 22, 2009). This was in large part to the tragic death of Jr. CB Jasper Howard on Oct. 18. The award will be presented during the Orange Bowl Coaches’ Luncheon on Jan. 4 and at the game on Jan. 5.

2010 Commitments

December 8, 2009

Connecticut 29 South Florida 27
By Marc Zirolli

The South Florida Bulls are now 0-4 all-time in the month of December, thanks to the heroics of kicker Dave Teggart as time expired on Saturday night in East Hartford, which turned out to be a Big East snow bowl.

The Bulls, since joining the Big East, have not had much luck in their two trips to Hartford. The first was a historic October night in East Hartford for the Connecticut Huskies. A late “pick six” by freshman LB Scott Lutrus sealed UConn’s first ever win over a ranked opponent. The Bulls at the time were ranked 11th in the nation.

This past Saturday night was similar, however, in that the Huskies needed a win over South Florida to finish above .500 for the third straight season, though they were already bowl eligible and headed to Birmingham with a win; and back to Toronto for the second consecutive year if they lost.

The spotlight, of course, was on the 16 graduating seniors from the UConn football team, most notably RB Andre Dixon and K/P Desi Cullen. Dixon needed only 83 yards to surpass 1,000 yards on the season. But that wasn’t the focus. The focus was finding a way to win the game as a team and to go into a bowl with their heads high. Though Dixon was not as productive running the ball (in the snow, no less), he still tallied two touchdowns, one for 12 yards and the other, a crucial one-yard run to give UConn a late lead in the fourth. All together, he carried the ball 13 times for 50 yards. His counterpart, sophomore Jordan Todman, led the way with 73 yards on 16 carries.

Perhaps the most exploited player to become a star this season was fifth-year senior WR Marcus Easley, who quickly became Cody Endres’ favorite target after Frazer went down, but when Frazer came back during the Rutgers game, Easley was still the go-to guy. On Saturday, Easley pulled in some great catches on his way to 122 yards on eight catches and one touchdown, which came just before halftime to give UConn a 13-7 lead at the break.

But late in the game, with UConn clasping to a 26-21 lead, the Bulls practically pulled a Rutgers on UConn, scoring with only 40 seconds to play and to take a two point lead. For most of the game in the bitterly cold conditions on the field, the place kicking was far from exceptional, and that showed on the ensuing kickoff. Jordan Todman, after a 47-yard kickoff, returned it 21 yards to the UConn 47 yard line and gave his team a chance to win the game. In the first quarter, UConn botched a PAT, and then later failed a two-point conversion, so UConn conceivably could have played it safe and gone into overtime tied at 28, but that wasn’t the case. They needed to get into field goal range; and quickly. With only 38 seconds to play, UConn’s drive consisted of nine plays, capped off by a Dave Teggart 42-yard field goal that split the uprights as time expired to give the Huskies an emotional win to close out 2009 at home, 29-27.

The season, however, continues. On Saturday, January 2, 2010, The Huskies will play in their third consecutive bowl game, taking on South Carolina in the PapaJohns.com Bowl in Birmingham, Ala. The Huskies and Gamecocks have never played each other in football.

A full report on UConn’s bowl game will be coming soon with personnel changes, injury updates, and when the team will be arriving at Legion Field.

December 3, 2009

Connecticut 56 Syracuse 31
By Marc Zirolli

Two for the price of one doesn’t come easy these days, especially trying to find deals in today’s economy. But if you’re UConn football, you found that deal in Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon, the respective sophomore and senior running backs for the Huskies who have closed in on 1,000 rushing yards for the season.

Todman actually surpassed that mark during Saturday’s Orange crush in East Hartford. Dixon, who only rushed for 73 yards on 15 carries, did earn three of UConn’s touchdowns. He now only needs 83 yards to also surpass 1,000 yards for the season, which between Todman and himself, could pass Donald Brown’s 2,083 from a season ago. However, one thing that was nice to see was scoring distribution for the run-minded Huskies; four runs, two pass TD’s, a kickoff return and a defensive fumble return for a score. You’re grand total? EIGHT touchdowns, which was part of the highest scoring output for UConn against a Big East opponent in school history.

It took the full first half to pull away from Syracuse, mostly due to the fact that they gave up 489 total yards in the game, tying their second-highest yards against this year (the other came in a devastating loss to Pittsburgh on Oct. 10). The only defensive highlight from the day was Lawrence Wilson’s 17 tackles. Wilson, a junior linebacker, is the first-ever recruit from the state of Alabama.

But it was a different game in the second half, especially in the fourth quarter, known to be the 15 minutes that UConn couldn’t put away this season. The 21-point output began with an Andre Dixon 45-yard dash that gave UConn a 42-24 advantage. Nine minutes later, Zach Frazer connected with Marcus Easley for a 28-yard pass to put the game out of reach at 49-31. And with 3:44 to go, they weren’t done! To cap a great day, which then led to the firing of three Syracuse assistant coaches, Dwayne Gratz recovered a fumble and lumbered 34 yards for the final score with only seconds remaining.

Other than the Orange eating up the UConn defense for nearly 500 yards, UConn took a blow when with only minutes to play, junior linebacker Greg Lloyd went down with a knee injury. It was later announced that he suffered a torn ACL and MCL in the left knee and that he would be lost for the final game of the season, as well as a possible bowl game (now that they became eligible for the third consecutive year after their win on Saturday). Lloyd is expected to have surgery this week at UConn Health Center and is optimistic he will be ready for his final year at Connecticut.

This Saturday, the 6-5 (2-4) Huskies host South Florida, 7-4 (3-3) at Rentschler Field to close out the regular season as they will honor 16 seniors (8 p.m., ESPN2). The Huskies are hoping to receive an invite to either the St. Petersburg Bowl on Dec. 19 or the PapaJohns.com Bowl on Jan. 2, 2010. A UConn win will mean they will exceed the pre-season projection of finishing sixth, and will end up in a tie for fifth with South Florida. A loss will put them in sixth alone. But losing Jazz, beating Notre Dame, and possibly playing in their third bowl game in as many years, this will not be a lost season. I’m sure many will agree.

November 25, 2009

Connecticut 33 Notre Dame 30 – F/2OT
By Marc Zirolli

Did they ever make a statement; did they ever succeed in auditioning to the world that this football team can play with the big boys; did they ever do this and finally win one for “Jazz”. Over the last month, the UConn Huskies played with heart, grit, and with unexpected and unfinished business. They lost by four to West Virginia, lost to Cincinnati in a shootout by two and lost to Rutgers in the closing seconds by four. And in what seemed to be a lost season was quickly turned around by a tidal wave of a win in their first ever visit to South Bend.

Sure, nerves played a factor in this game without question. Not everyone gets to see the Golden Dome at the University of Notre Dame (my first time will unfortunately have to wait until the next game in South Bend, slated for 2011 – my wife-to-be said there are “other” things to focus on this year, hint-hint). But for the Huskies, it was yet another chance to get a win for their fallen brother. UConn opened with a three-and-out and subsequently couldn’t stop the Irish on their ensuing drive, which consumed only 3:11 on nine plays, 69 yards, and culminated by a Golden Tate eight-yard TD pass from Heisman candidate Jimmy Clausen. The Irish lead early, 7-0, and quickly a short time later, 14-0. It happened before to UConn; they just needed to find a way.

Seriously, I could write about 10 pages on this game, but I’ll cut to the chase as those of you reading this have probably immersed yourselves in other media forms on the coverage of this game. But the turning point of this game was in the third quarter. After Notre Dame capped their opening drive of the second half with a 20-yard field goal to make it 17-10 Irish, it was off to the races for UConn sophomore Jordan Todman. Just twelve seconds later, the game was tied, thanks to his 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. Actually, Todman made the Notre Dame special teams look like UConn’s, as he charged for 156 yards on only four kickoff returns. Additionally, he ran for a career-high 130 yards on 26 carries and another touchdown. That one came in the second quarter, a 43-yard dash to cut Notre Dame’s lead to 14-7. And oh by the way, Andre Dixon ran for 114 yards on 20 carries with a touchdown – maybe the biggest of his entire football career.

I told my fiancé [this summer] that if UConn wins on a last second field goal and we aren’t there, I’m going to go crazy! We of course were not there, and my nightmare almost came true. Dave Teggart missed a 37-yarder as time expired that would have won the game for Connecticut. Instead, the game went to overtime. UConn scored and Notre Dame answered to tie it at 27 going into the second overtime. The Irish took over and kicked a 36-yard field goal to take the lead. Now it was UConn’s turn, and I’m sure Edsall was wondering where DJ Hernandez was when in that triple overtime thriller three years ago at Rentschler when he ran it in for the 2-point conversion to give the Huskies a win over Pittsburgh. Instead, Andre Dixon played Rudy, and scored from four yards out to clinch the game that will turn this program into national prominence forever. Zach Frazer, the transfer from South Bend, and the rest of the Blue and White, win in South Bend, 33-30. UConn leads the ALL-TIME series, 1-0.

Simply unbelievable. And from what I read, the Notre Dame fans were very gracious to the UConn contingent, and we thank you for that. But we ask for just one more favor, Notre Dame: convince your storied football program to play in East Hartford. That will make all UConn fans, very gracious.

November 18, 2009

Historic Road Game Audition to the World
By Marc Zirolli

“Play Like A Champion Today” reads a sign that hangs between the locker room and the playing surface at Notre Dame Stadium; of course, coming from the home locker room. This Saturday, UConn will play the Irish for the first time ever and their sign coming out of their locker room should read “Make A Statement.”

The Huskies, entering the game at 4-5 (1-4) have a chance to make a run at becoming bowl eligible for the third straight year. They would need to either beat Syracuse or South Florida at home to officially become eligible, but finishing at 7-5 would provide a good argument. But with a team that could be 9-0 on the season, losing their five games by a combined 15 points, UConn can theoretically save their season by playing a complete, 60-minute game on the biggest stage in college football and to earn respect amongst the toughest of FBS critics, even if Notre Dame isn’t truly playing like Notre Dame.

But it will take a good defense to stop the Irish, including quarterback Jimmy Clausen. Through nine games, the defense has been less than stellar, especially if you compare it from last year’s 9-4 team. The UConn pass defense is ranked 74th in the country, giving up 232.11 yards a game while the rushing defense ranks 55th, allowing 134 yards a game on the ground. To put a silver lining on things, their scoring defense falls in the top half of Division 1-A as they are ranked 56th out of 120 schools, surrendering 23.56 points per game.

Most importantly, in the most adverse of times for UConn football, they have displayed tremendous perseverance and togetherness, both on and off the field. The team is certainly on the young side and as they continue to learn from and build upon those tight losses this season that has probably kept them out of the Top 15 this year, they are displaying true talent.

This team is good; they’ve just been on the short end of the stick. But guys are making plays and have given this program a fighting chance in every game this season. Even Rudy would think so.

See you Saturday in South Bend!

November 10, 2009

(5) Cincinnati 47 Connecticut 45
By Marc Zirolli

Your new season tally for point differential in UConn’s now five losses this season is ONLY up to 15; that’s right, 15 – 15 points from being a perfect 9-0 and easily in the Top 15, maybe even higher than that. But what’s done is done and make no mistake that this team is talented, because they are. The problem this week was what should have been a solid defense again this year, was totally exploited by a powerful attack on Saturday by the Bearcats.

The game started off great for the Huskies, even though they lost the toss as the visiting team. Desi Cullen forced a touchback and for the first time in three weeks, there was not an opening return for a score. But it took less than three minutes and no third downs to put Cincy up first, scoring on a 1-yard run by Isaiah Pead. Connecticut, however, responded nicely. On an impressive 11 play, 79-yard drive, culminated by Jordan Todman’s first of four touchdowns, UConn answered, tied the score 7-7 on the road, and was ready to play. But with no third downs on either of the two drives to start the game, you could feel that this game might be a seesaw shootout.

But the simple cause of this loss was UConn’s defense not being able to solve the Bearcats’ attack, as Cincinnati led 30-10 at halftime. The Huskies’ defense tightened up in the second half, but it was too little, too late. Cincinnati, thanks largely in part to their back-up quarterback Zach Collaros, gained a school record 711 yards of total offense, which was also the most UConn had given up since joining Division I-A. Collaros, the nifty, hard-to-catch QB went 29 of 37 for 480 yards through the air and a touchdown, while adding 75 more on the ground on his way to two rushing scores. One of the other Bearcats who helped orchestrate several touchdowns, though not collecting one, was receiver Mardy Gilyard, who caught 12 passes for 172 yards.

For UConn, Zach Frazer made his second consecutive start as Cody Endres was lost for the season with a shoulder injury. His performance was pretty good, completing 19 of 32 passes for 261 yards and a touchdown to Marcus Easley occurring with only 13 seconds to play to make it a two point game. The star for UConn this time was Jordan Todman, scoring four times on 26 carries and 162 yards; certainly a career day for the sophomore prodigy. After failing to recover a poor onside kick by Dave Teggart, Cincinnati ran out the final seconds to improve to 9-0 and keep their BCS dreams alive.

UConn, now sub .500 at 4-5 (1-4), has a week off to think about what they did right and wrong, and to prepare for another game that is marked as a “statement” game, as for the first time ever, play at Notre Dame. This would be an opportunity for UConn to literally show the world who they are and how they play football. Though their season might not consist of a bowl as they are two wins away from becoming eligible with three to go, they can still go out and post a win against the most storied football program in the country and to not only do it for the Big East Conference, but for the Connecticut Huskies.

INJURIES

Andre Dixon (leg), Robert Vaughn (toe), Moe Petrus, Trevardo Williams and Blidi Wreh-Wilson all with ankle injuries, should be ready to go next Saturday, Nov. 21 at Notre Dame (2:30 p.m. on NBC).

FAST FACTS

November 5, 2009

Rutgers 28 Connecticut 24
By Marc Zirolli

For the second week in a row, the play that many can argue that decided the ball game took place on the opening kickoff. This time it wasn’t West Virginia’s Tavon Austin going 98-yards for a score. It was Rutgers’ Devon McCourty who gave the Knights a 7-0 lead on a 98-yard kickoff return to open the game and set the tone at an emotional Rentschler Field.

Had UConn not blown its coverage on those two plays that pretty much was the difference the last two weeks, they’d be 6-2 and 3-1 in the conference, sitting pretty with a HUGE game coming up this Saturday at #4 Cincinnati. Instead, the Huskies are playing for that silver lining to their season. They can still qualify to be bowl eligible, but they have yet to earn that “statement” win.

Before the bad news, there was bad news. In the first quarter, QB Cody Endres went down with a shoulder injury, which would later be determined to be season-ending. Then later, after a stellar special teams performance with 163 yards on five kickoff returns, including a 100-yard “kick-six” to cut Rutgers’ lead to 14-10 in the second, sophomore Robbie Frey tore his left labrum and is also done for the year.

But UConn hung in there. Zach Frazer returned under center and had a career game, going 21 of 46 for 333 yards and a touchdown pass to, yep, Marcus Easley for 32 yards to again, cut the Rutgers lead to four at 21-17 late in the fourth. And then the unthinkable; in a game UConn desperately needed to have for their moral and for the standing in the Big East Conference, it all disappeared in an 81-yard flash. After a Rutgers punt, UConn marched down the field with under a minute to go, and on fourth down, Jordan Todman punched it in to give UConn a 24-21 win with only :38 seconds to go. But wait; that wasn’t it. No, it wasn’t a kickoff return – actually UConn had great coverage on that ensuing kick to protect their lead. It would be an act of Jasper for Rutgers to win this game.

Rutgers freshman Tom Savage stepped up and connected with Tim Brown, as he eluded UConn’s Robert McClain, caught the pass and ran 81 yards for the winning score with only :22 seconds to go. Ironically, Tim Brown grew up in Miami with UConn’s slain teammate, Jasper Howard. Maybe he wanted everyone to win on that day.

Now, UConn must refocus to not let this season get too far out of control. They travel to Cincinnati this Saturday (8:00 p.m. on ABC) to take on the #4 Bearcats. A win here would prove to be that UConn is back. This team, without question, is extremely talented; they just cannot find ways to finish games, as our new tally for the point deficit in their four losses climbs only four more to a season total of 13, which could easily be 13 on the win column and UConn could be a ranked club at 8-0.

As we get closer to Saturday night, Cincy senior QB Tony Pike might return after having a plate repaired in his left forearm. Before missing the last two games, Pike was on a tear, completing 128 of 199 passes for 1,633 yards and 15 touchdowns. For UConn to win, they must play error-free football and must force turnovers, as Cincinnati has only turned the ball over four times this season. A win may also put UConn back on the bowl watch for the third consecutive year.

 

October 28, 2009

 

(22) West Virginia 28 Connecticut 24
By Marc Zirolli

 

The UConn Huskies probably played one of the best, most inspired football games all year. Given that the entire team spent countless hours all week leading up to the game at West Virginia praying and grieving and reminiscing on Jasper’s career and uplifting personality, they still had a game to play; they had a chance to do this and dedicate this to “Jazz.”

 I will start off by saying, and I could probably speak for the entire university, that the outpouring of support and class displayed by Morgantown, West Virginia on Saturday was undoubtedly a true and genuine display of humanity. “Today, We Are All Huskies” read an autographed-littered banner created by the Mountaineers and signed by West Virginia fans which was mounted on a wall just outside the UConn locker room. Then a moment of silence took place which was followed by a team handshake between the two teams prior to kickoff. This was something West Virginia head coach Bill Stewart wanted and the entire university delivered.

 Then to the game which started on the wrong foot for UConn; an opening 98-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Tavon Austin. But UConn settled down quickly and evened the score on a Jordan Todman 5-yard run. But this game was about passing, as neither Todman nor Andre Dixon surpassed 100 yards on the ground. UConn QB Cody Endres threw for a career-high 378 yards going 25-41 with two touchdowns and three interceptions. And it was 5^th-year senior Marcus Easley who caught the ball and ran once again, as he gained over 100 yards for the third straight game (5-157).

 Then late in the fourth quarter, after Kent Richardson intercepted an Endres pass, for about five seconds, we thought that was it; until Easley, with the help of Jasper, forced a fumble on the UConn 12-yard line and recovered – just how “Jazz” would have drawn it up. Three plays later, Endres connected with Easley and 88-yards later, put the Huskies in front 24-21 with only 3:50 to go. I thought we had it; I thought we did it for Jasper and I thought that we would actually have a shot to maybe win the Big East for the second time ever.

 But not having beaten West Virginia ever before, I had a funny feeling that it wasn’t over. And, unlike years past, it wasn’t Pat White or Steve Slaton that haunted UConn. This time, it was Noel Devine. The problem? Devine only ran for seven yards in the first half, and finished the game with 178. That was the problem, including his 56-yard, game-clinching touchdown run on the Mountaineers ensuing drive with only 1:40 remaining that would seal UConn’s fate and would fall to 0-6 all-time against West Virginia.

 Now the Huskies (4-3, 1-2), come home-sweet-home to host Rutgers on Halloween day. But this will be a day to have closure on the loss of Jasper in front of the home crowd, the family who embraced him in Storrs. “Number 6” will be remembered forever. And you can expect he will look down on every play call that’s made because if he helps the Huskies like he so spiritually did last week, you can expect many more wins. The loss to West Virginia was tough, but as Coach Edsall put it, his team played “outstanding.”

 

Thank you fans, thank you supporters; your thoughts have helped this team and this university climb the highest mountain of adversity. And last but not least, thank you again, West Virginia, from the bottom of our hearts.

 

October 21, 2009

 

Big East Conference Coming Together for UConn’s Jasper Howard

By Marc Zirolli

 

On the same day UConn CB Jasper Howard was stabbed to death early Sunday morning in the shadow of the Husky statue in the center of campus, each and every head football coach in the Big East called Huskies coach Randy Edsall to express their deepest condolences.

 

UConn resumed practice on Tuesday, as they prepare to travel to West Virginia on Thursday to take on the Mountaineers Saturday at 12 p.m. on ESPNU. For the remainder of the season, the Huskies will wear a “JH” decal on their helmets in addition to bringing Howard’s helmet and jersey to every game. In addition, Jazz’s locker will also remain intact throughout NEXT season, as he would have been a senior in the 2010-11 season.

 

Prior to the game in Morgantown on Saturday, the University of West Virginia will hold a moment of silence, followed by a team handshake with UConn. Mountaineers Head Coach Bill Stewart also mentioned that his team will wear a decal on their helmets.

 

Meanwhile, the Howard family is preparing to take Jasper’s body home to Miami, where a funeral has tentatively been planned for next Monday, Oct. 26. The entire UConn football team is expected to attend. Also, if you’re interested in purchasing a “Number 6” tee-shirt, please periodically check back on the website, uconnhuskies.com for availability. All proceeds will benefit the new foundation in memory of Jasper Howard; assisting inner city kids who do not have the resources to go to college. Jasper Howard became the first member in his family to attend college. UConn officials are currently working with Nike to see if more officially licensed tee shirts can be produced in light of this tragic event.

 

The Huskies are currently a seven-point underdog to West Virginia, a team they have never defeated. Last season, the Mountaineers beat the Huskies 35-13 in East Hartford.

 

October 19, 2009

Connecticut 38 Louisville 25
~UConn remembers CB Jasper Howard, 1/28/89 - 10/18/09~
By Marc Zirolli 

The Connecticut Huskies got a much needed win at home on Saturday in which the celebration would later become short-lived. Though UConn put up 38 against the Cardinals, winning their first league game of the year, and affixing themselves in fifth place in the Big East Conference, they would not be able to take Sunday off before preparing for a tough road game this week at West Virginia.

In the early morning hours of Sunday, shortly after defeating Louisville, UConn junior cornerback Jasper Howard (Miami) was stabbed to death on the Storrs campus during a university-sanctioned homecoming dance. No other details have been released nor have any suspects been identified by Connecticut State Police, but the tragedy has resonated throughout the state and the outpouring of thoughts and prayers to the family and University have been second to none. If you would like to post your condolences to the Howard family, please log on to: UConnhuskies.com

At this point, UConn will play as scheduled this week at West Virginia at 12 p.m. The Huskies, now 4-2 (1-1) played exceptionally well against the Cardinals. And even though pre-season starting quarterback Zach Frazer was cleared to play after a shoulder injury sustained in Week Two, sophomore quarterback Cody Endres got the nod and improved to 3-1 this season as a starter, but not before having another stellar performance. Endres threw for 273 yards and a touchdown on 14 passes, with the touchdown going to what might be his favorite receiver, a 16-yard pass to Marcus Easley to give UConn a 21-13 in the third quarter. If you recall, Easley caught a 79-yard bomb from Endres last week at Pittsburgh.

The 21-13 advantage on Saturday proved to be pivotal and it was the UConn defender who received the game ball that later saved the game. With the Cardinals driving with ease and knocking on the end zone’s door, UConn CB Jasper Howard stripped the ball from Louisville RB Bilal Powell on the UConn 4-yard line and then recovered the fumble to give the Huskies the ball deep in their own end. It would later lead to a Dave Teggart field goal to give the Huskies a 24-13 advantage, which would then score again on Andre Dixon’s third touchdown of the game on a 1-yard run to put the game out of reach. Dixon played great, earning 153 yards on 33 carries. UConn’s leading receiver was again Marcus Easley, gaining 108 yards on six receptions.

Connecticut in Week 8 did not receive any Top 25 votes and will gingerly travel to (22) West Virginia this Saturday and will play in honor of their fallen teammate, CB Jasper T. Howard, who will be remembered by so many family and friends both at UConn and across the country. The Huskies have not yet announced how they will honor Howard for the rest of the season, but will likely wear a patch on their jerseys.

More information will be added later this week as the Huskies prepare for West Virginia and continue their remembrance of “Jazz” Howard.

 

October 13, 2009

If the game of football lasted 45 minutes, the Connecticut Huskies would be 5-0 this season. Instead, after leading then #22 North Carolina 10-0 going into the fourth quarter, the Huskies lost 12-10. And, after leading Pittsburgh, on the road no less, 21-13 at the end of three, UConn suffered a devastating conference-opening loss to the Panthers, 24-21.

 

One of the more disturbing facts is that UConn literally didn’t even show up on offense this past week in the fourth, gaining only six yards with only 2:33 of time of possession in what appears to be the Huskies Achilles Quarter. Conversely, the Panthers rocked one of the nation’s leading defenses with 147 of their own yards, only to win on an 18-yard field goal as time expired to avoid going into overtime. There was however, a post-game debate regarding Edsall’s decision to let his team play before the clinching field goal. With only 2:35 to go and inside the UConn 15-yard line, the Huskies played strong defense instead of allowing the Panthers to score so UConn could regain possession in an attempt to score again. Coach Edsall said it was a gamble, which unfortunately did not pay off.

 

On the bright side, you ask? UConn DB Robert Vaughn was named Big East defensive player of the week, mostly impart to his two interceptions against Pittsburgh on Saturday, one coming in the second quarter in the end zone to prevent a score and the other early in the third; a “pick-six” for 20 yards off Bill Stull to give UConn a 14-3 lead. Huskies QB Cody Endres also had another stellar performance, going 17-23 for 197 yards and one touchdown, a 79-yard heave to Marcus Easley to give the Huskies a 7-3 advantage in the second quarter as well as at halftime.

 

To put it simply, when you’re leading 21-6 in a Big East game with 3:56 to go in the third quarter, you must find a way to win the game. The Panthers subsequently scored 18 unanswered points in the final 19 minutes of the game to win, improve to 5-1, and most importantly, improve to 2-0 in the Big East.

 

Connecticut, now 3-2 (0-1), returns home this week to play the lowly Louisville Cardinals, to which they are favored out of the gate at 11 ½ points. This game is critical for the Huskies, as they will travel to West Virginia next week to play the Pat White-less Mountaineers, a team they have never beaten.

 

There is nothing UConn can do about last week’s tragic loss. The best thing they can do is re-focus and prepare for a Cardinal team desperately looking for their identity, now 2-3 coming off a slim 25-23 win over Southern Miss.

 

INURY UPDATE

 

1. LB Scott Lutrus (re-aggravated Stinger) is doubtful for Saturday’s game against Louisville.
2. DT Twyon Martin (Leg) is questionable for Saturday’s game against Louisville.
3. RB Robbie Frey (Head and Neck) is questionable for Saturday’s game against Louisville.

 

October 7, 2009

Big Game to Start the Big East

By Marc Zirolli

 

 They’re an 8 ½ point underdog this week; they were picked to finish sixth in the Big East Conference, but when the 3-1 Huskies take to the field this Saturday at Pittsburgh for their conference opener, there’s only one goal: win!

 

The bye week couldn’t have come at a better time for UConn. Even though they are relatively healthy, there were still things to work out, such as holding on to the football after seven fumbles last week against FCS foe Rhode Island. Another thing to consider is the fact that Cody Endres, a native of Pittsburgh, is coming home. Will he be able to handle the starting role in front of family and friends? Will he be able to compose the offense to get off to a fast start against the pre-season conference favorite? So far this season, Endres is 2-0; he has won at Baylor and at home last week against Rhode Island. He is 38 of 60 for 466 yards and two touchdowns. More importantly, he has yet to throw an interception.

 

To counter attack, the Panthers have an arm of their own. Senior Bill Stull has been the main reason why Pittsburgh has started 4-1 and lighting up the Cardinals last week, 35-10 in their Big East opener. Stull is 77 of 116 for 988 yards, 11 touchdowns and only one pick. You can be willing to bet that he will not seize to amaze this Saturday at home (3:30 p.m., ABC). The Panthers are ranked 13^th in the nation in scoring offense at 37 points per game. But, UConn serves up the country’s 18^th best scoring defense at 15 points per game, which may improve come Saturday.

 

On Tuesday, Huskies coach Randy Edsall announced that junior linebacker Scott Lutrus, who had missed the last month due to a stinger to his shoulder, has been cleared to practice and is listed as probable for Saturday’s game. This comes as a treat to the secondary as UConn can really make a move by getting off on the right foot in the conference. Linebacker Greg Lloyd is also thrilled that Lutrus is back because the line is back together, which also includes Lawrence Wilson.

 

In the Week Six AP/USA Today Top 25 poll, UConn did not receive any Top 25 votes, but a win this week will place them in third place in the Big East and at 4-1 overall.

 

INJURY UPDATE

 

 

ORAL COMMITMENT

 

- Gilbert St. Louis, a 5-foot-10, 175-pound cornerback from Plantation, Fla. orally committed to UConn this week. Other schools he considered were Indiana, Colorado State, Central Michigan and Western Michigan.

 

September 29, 2009

 

Connecticut 52, Rhode Island 10

By Marc Zirolli

 

The first four games of the 2009 season for the Connecticut Huskies did not look too good on paper, given the off season changes on the coaching staff and personnel. But after opening with games against two BCS conference teams in the first three weeks, it was almost as if it was a mental prep in what was a week four match up against their old D-IAA rival Rhode Island. The Huskies were fine tuning what worked and adjusting what wasn’t so they didn’t come out sluggish against the Rams. Whatever they did, it worked, and it worked well, and the Huskies seem to be ready from top to bottom as they officially enter conference play – except for one crucial aspect.

 

This past Saturday, UConn on paper played their least challenging opponent, yet fumbled the football a whopping seven times, their most since coughing it up six times in their International Bowl win over Buffalo back in January. What’s more is that two of them were fumbled by Mr. Creativity, Jasper Howard. You can’t deny that he is trying to be the hero on every play, but sometimes when you know you just can’t get to the endzone, either run out of bounds or protect the football. And out of those seven, only three were recovered by Rhode Island but most importantly, it didn’t cost UConn the game, in which may have been the case in their other two wins had they been less fortunate.

 

On the other hand, Coach Edsall now has a tough decision to make if starting quarterback Zach Frazer is cleared to play next week at Pittsburgh. In the 42-point rout of Rhode Island, back-up QB Cody Endres had a stellar performance, going 23-30 for 289 yards and two touchdowns to Andre Dixon to open the scoring early in the first quarter and a 50-yard strike to freshman Mike Lang to give the Huskies a 38-7 advantage late in the third. For once, it was the passing game, not the running game, which stood out.

 

On the ground, Jordan Todman, though he only rushed for 70 yards on 15 carries punched the ball in for three scores. The offense is beginning to come together, but just as it was last year when Lorenzen went down at Louisville, who will start UConn’s next game? Is Endres ready? Will Frazer be healthy? Who will start? Whoever it is, let’s hope the Huskies can put 57 on the board at Heinz Field on Oct. 10 for a much needed 1-0 start in the Big East Conference.

 

This week, The Huskies at 3-1 received no Top 25 votes in either the Associated Press or USA Today polls.

 

September 26, 2009

Wrapping up September at Home!
By Marc Zirolli

 

The Connecticut Huskies – minus Donald Brown, aka “their offense,” from a year ago – have more than proven themselves in the first month of the 2009 season. The Huskies were a field ago away from being 3-0 going into this weekend in what should be a clinic against D-IAA Rhode Island, but a 3-1 start to the season before conference play begins, given their personnel, have played hard-nosed football.

With starting QB Zach Frazer not expected to be back until maybe the Pittsburgh game on Oct. 10, Cody Endres has filled the void, and proved himself last week in Waco, Texas; which brings up the question: who should start when Frazer returns? Frazer has a rocket of an arm, both quarterbacks have completed about 50% of their passes; Frazier has two TDs and four interceptions while Endres has none of the above. Right now, the focus is on Rhode Island, the focus is finishing September at 3-1 and with a week off next week, be rest assured that UConn will be well rested (and hopefully) healthier when they open conference play at Pittsburgh. Then, we will worry about who will be under center.

NOTES

• Saturday will be the 94th meeting between UConn and Rhode Island (UConn leads 50-35-8).
• Coach Edsall looks to become 61-61 as head football coach, now in his 11th season.
• The Huskies are fifth in the nation in sacks per game (four).
• The Huskies are 20th in the nation in total defense (260.3 yards against).
• UConn is ranked 39th in rushing offense (188.7 yards per game).
• Must I report that out of 120 FBS teams, they rank 113th in passing offense (132.67 yards per game). But remember, it’s a new offense, a new coordinator; just give it some time. As long as they keep winning, let them be 113th in passing – what a storyline that would be!

 

September 25,, 2009

Connecticut Recap:
BY: Jason Nafziger

A 2-point loss to North Carolina is the only blemish with wins over
Ohio and Baylor.
Stats so far: UConn is 64th with 3.99 yards per rush attempt and 105th with
5.5 yards per passing attempt. Overall, they have scored 21 points and
gained 321.3 yards on offense per game. Defensively, they are 21st with
2.67 yards allowed per rush attempt and 52nd with 6.2 yards allowed per pass
attempt. Overall, they have allowed 16.7 points and 260.3 yards per game.
Coming up: The Huskies get a breather against Rhode Island before a pair of
tough conference games against Pittsburgh and Louisville.

Jason Nafziger writes about Pro and College Football at
http://onfootball.wordpress.com

September 22, 2009

 

Connecticut 30, Baylor 22

By Marc Zirolli

 

Just when you thought there was reason for concern when UConn lost a tough one last week against North Carolina, the Huskies bounced back pretty convincingly and avoided what I called a troublesome 2-2 start of the season in the month of September. Now, I’m not trying to overlook Rhode Island coming up this weekend in East Hartford, but the Huskies, unless an Appalachian State occurs, will improve to 3-1, and oh so very close to surprising everyone’s expectations of starting 4-0.

 

Connecticut got a much needed win on the road, the furthest game traveled in UConn football history, against the Big XII, and against a team that gave the Huskies all they could handle last season with a very versatile quarterback in Robert Griffin, III. Ironically, Baylor is 7-2 all-time when playing on Sept. 19 and both of those loses has come at the hands of Connecticut.

 

Skepticism came full bloom last week during practice when UConn sophomore quarterback Cody Endres apparently said he was not fully prepared for the Carolina game when called upon when Zach Frazer left with a knee injury. That sparked some concern from head coach Randy Edsall and a minor confrontation, to which Endres said he was fully prepared, but rather needed more time to work with the first team. Well, Endres was fully prepared on Saturday, by not committing one turnover and going better than 50 percent throwing at 12 of 23 for 147 yards. He didn’t throw any touchdowns, but sprayed the ball to five different players, including four for 76 yards to Isiah Moore.

 

For the second time this season, UConn’s one-two punch in the back field rushed for over 100 yards each, with senior Andre Dixon leading the way with 149 yards on 31 carries and scored three times – clearly, a breakout game for Dixon. The other nine points came from David Teggart, connecting from 39, 30, and 34 yards. And once again, the defense had yet another day at the office, allowing just 266 yards while forcing an interception and three fumbles, two of which were recovered by one of the nation’s best defenses.

 

Connecticut returns home this weekend to take on D-IAA foe Rhode Island (1-1), a team that got slapped around by Massachusetts 30-10 on Saturday. The Huskies look to improve to 3-1 and prepare for a much needed week off to get healthy and prepare for conference play at Pittsburgh on Oct. 10. UConn is currently fifth in the Big East Conference and has yet to receive any Top 25 votes by either the Associated Press or USA Today.

 

Connecticut versus Rhode Island kicks off at 12pm on Saturday from Rentschler Field and will not be televised. However, it can be viewed on ESPN360.com or heard on WTIC-AM 1080.

 

INJURY UPDATE

 

• WR Michael Smith (knee) is probable for Saturday.
• WR Kashif Moore (shoulder) is questionable for Saturday.
• LB Scott Lutrus (stinger) is questionable for Saturday.
• LB Sio Moore (hamstring) is questionable for Saturday.
• QB Zach Frazer (knee) is out and not available for Saturday.

 

GAME BALLS

 

• RB Andre Dixon, offense.
• LB Lawrence Wilson, defense.
• K Desi Cullen, special teams.
• CB Jasper “Jazz” Howard, special teams.

 

September 14, 2009

(19) North Carolina 12, Connecticut 10
By Marc Zirolli

There comes a time in every game, whether it is a regular season opener or the final game in the playoffs, where the officials just “let ‘em play.” But in Connecticut’s home opener on Saturday, the officials, in a tight fight, decided the fate of the game on what will probably be the only called foul of this scenario all season in the FBS.

With just over 90 seconds to play in a 10-10 tie, UConn had third down at their own eight-yard line. Backup QB Cody Endres, playing for the injured Zach Frazer, rolled out and completed a pass for what may have been a first down. But a detrimental flag on the play, a holding call on the Huskies’ Dan Ryan in the end zone, proved to be the game winner for Carolina. As a result, the Tar Heels were awarded the safety for a 12-10 lead and eventual win. For a team that’s only 1-14 versus Top 25 teams all-time, this would have been a signature win. Instead, the Huskies now need to focus on a wide open Big East.

However, for the second straight week, the stingy Connecticut defense collapsed in the fourth quarter, this time being costly. With a 10-point lead entering the final quarter, Carolina went 13 plays for 78 yards in just over four minutes and settled for a 22-yard field goal to cut the lead to 10-3. With a combined effort of a FBS-worst 196 total yards for UConn and another Tar Heel score just over four minutes later, Carolina tied the game on a similar drive; 13 plays, 76 yards and a TJ Yates 2-yard touchdown pass to Zack Pianalto.

On a brighter note, Lindsey Witten had another stellar game, recording six tackles, three of them being sacks. Sophomore running back Jordan Todman had an average game, rushing for 66-yards on 18 carries and a touchdown in the third quarter to give UConn a 10-0 advantage. Senior Brad Kanuch had another great game receiving, catching four balls on 56 yards while freshman Dwayne Difton caught four for 25.

As for UConn quarterback, Zach Frazer. With an undisclosed right knee injury suffered early in the third quarter, Frazer will miss two weeks without surgery. Cody Endres, the redshirt sophomore, will have two weeks to grow and prove himself and if UConn can finish September with a 3-1 mark, as I stated a few weeks ago, Endres may just continue to be the starter. But, Frazer will have an extra week to rest as the Huskies are idle in early October before traveling to Pittsburgh on Oct.10th to take on the Panthers. This week, UConn travels to Waco, Texas for the first time to take on Baylor and to finish the two year, home-and-home series with the Bears. Junior linebacker Scott Lutrus, who suffered a stinger against Ohio and did not play against Carolina, is questionable for this week’s game, which kicks off at 5 p.m.

Connecticut is now 1-1 on the season and is currently in sixth place in the Big East. They have not received any Top 25 votes in either week one or week two.

 

September 9, 2009

Connecticut 23, Ohio 16
By Marc Zirolli

It was business as usual for the UConn Huskies on both sides of the ball last Saturday, but that business doesn’t include the air attack. But, in game one, the season debut for the proposed new, balanced offense, a win is a win and expect an improvement as the season progresses.

First off, Frazer threw the ball 24 times for 127 yards, accounting for 33% of the offense. The downside? Well, it can’t happen this coming week. Frazer threw three interceptions, two more than his Ohio counterparts (the Bobcats played two quarterbacks, Jackson and Scott). On a promising note, the running game has seemed to make a seamless transition from Donald Brown’s presence in 2008, and even more so with a one-two punch. For the first time since 2006, UConn had two running backs rush for 100 yards – sophomore Todman with 157 and senior Dixon with an even c-note. Jordan Todman also contributed with a score in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach.

Even though Frazer gave up three balls, he still had somewhat of a productive night, throwing what would be the winning score, a 35-yard heave to Brad Kanuch to break the tie to give the Huskies a 14-7 advantage at halftime. By the way, Kanuch didn’t have a touchdown in 2008 so already, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Defensively, senior DE Lindsey Witten was the star, logging three sacks including a safety on Ohio’s Boo Jackson in the third quarter to make it 16-7. As a unit, UConn allowed just 247 total yards and played a solid 45 minutes, until they softened up and gave up a field goal and touchdown with a failed two-point conversion in the fourth quarter.

There were two notable injuries that may not be as serious when they actually occurred. Junior defensive anchor Scott Lutrus suffered a stinger and should be probable for the home opener this Saturday against the Tar Heels. Also, Sio Moore sustained a leg injury and may not be available for Saturday, but we will know more during Thursday’s press conference with Coach Edsall. It has been outlined that any injuries will be discussed to the media on Sundays and Thursdays only. Please look forward to a game preview and injury update on Friday, preceding Saturday’s pivotal home opener as Carolina comes in ranked 19th in the nation after Tuesday’s week one poll release.

The weather on Saturday in Hartford looks to be in the upper 70’s with a mix of sun and clouds with a possible shower. But without a shadow of a doubt, Rentschler Field (and I from section 232) will be rocking, pulling for the upset.

On a side note, if Carolina doesn’t bring their game, they can certainly bring back my hockey team that Hartford’s missed for 12 years…

 

September 4, 2009

The Tell All Finally Begins
By Marc Zirolli

Ohio University may not be a I-AA team like Appalachian State was two years ago when they stunned Michigan in the Big House, but they will be a Big “MAC” challenge for UConn, which opens at Ohio on Saturday and will be literally introducing a brand new offense, from top to bottom.

So again, with Zach Frazer taking over the starting role as quarterback (Sophomore QB Cody Endres in tow and chomping at the bit), and with a talented receiving core, on paper, UConn knows there is a lot to do both on the ground and in the air, but for sophomore tailback Jordan Todman, it has all come full circle. During last season, Todman said that he didn’t pay too much attention to the little things, such as reviewing film, studying defensive schemes, and keeping in shape. But after Donald Brown announced he was leaving for the NFL Draft, Todman’s senses cleared and he realized it was time to focus so someday, he could follow Brown to the professional gridiron.

The 5-foot-9, 190-pound Massachusetts native began his off-season preparation in the gym, packing on an additional twelve pounds for the upcoming season. While backing up DB last season, Todman rushed for almost 300 yards on 47 carries and three touchdowns, including a season-long 50-yard run at Syracuse. Ultimately, if Todman can add the number “1” to those 300 yards this season as the starter, partnered with Andre Dixon’s contributions, the UConn running game may not lose too big of a beat. And with the meat and potatoes of one of the nation’s best defenses in 2008 returning, it may not be a small world after all. Instead, the future looks bright, that is, if first-year Offensive Coordinator Joe Moorhead can call a good game and gradually narrow the ratio of running to passing throughout the season.

It all starts Saturday – the Huskies are 2-0 all-time in Bowl Games against the MAC Conference; Toledo in 2004 and Buffalo last January. This doesn’t include regular season domination over the years against the Buffalos and Akrons. But with the entire community of Athens, Ohio wearing green on National College Colors Day on Friday, you can be rest assured that the Ohio Bobcats won’t go down without a fight in the season opener, at home, no less.

What better place than here; what better time than now. Connecticut football is back and may surprise a lot of people…in the win column.

 

August 25, 2009

Pros and College
By Marc Zirolli

 

Diehard UConn fans these days are not only salivating for the first Saturday of the year to get together with friends on an early Connecticut morning in September on the old runway strip of Rentschler Field to tailgate, but they are also getting their first glimpse of the future stars making their debuts in the NFL.

Donald Brown, you ask? Well, you could say he picked up where he left off when he ran the ball all across Canada in the International Bowl. In his exhibition debut for the Colts, he carried the ball 5 times for 58 yards, including a 38-yard dash in a 13-3 loss to Minnesota. OLB Cody Brown had 2 assists for the Cards two weeks ago, but on Saturday, tore a ligament in his left wrist and will be out for the season. DB Darius Butler had two tackles for the Patriots in a win over the Eagles. And in another notable performance, Giants’ OT William Beatty seems to be fitting in quite nicely. He played 42 snaps in a 24-17 win over Carolina a week ago Monday. Not bad, Connecticut; not bad at all!

Now back to UConn Country. Last week, Connecticut shifted gears to focus on their defensive packages. With a defense ranked sixth in the country last year and then subsequently lost 5 starters, one would think that this team may not be ready for the long haul in 2009. But, the team brings back six starters, including the core; the linebackers; Greg Lloyd, Lawrence Wilson and the stud, the anchor, the JUNIOR; Scott Lutrus, whom which led the team in tackles last season with 106. Just like in any sport, many argue that defenses win championships. Now, to put UConn in the same sentence as the tantalizing conversation of who goes to the BCS National Championship is probably several years away. But to put them in the same conversation to go for the Big East Championship and to play in a BCS bowl is anything but a joke. They have proven critics wrong time and time again. If they can stop the run and force turnovers like they usually do, they will win games in a Big East conference that is quite honestly, not very powerful this season.

This week, the Huskies have been, and will be continuing to work on the two minute drill passing situation, in addition to red zone and two-point conversion plays. More importantly, they will also be focusing on special teams, which was a dismal department on last year’s team. With North Carolina only three weeks away, UConn hopes to decrease their punt blocks against from three to zero.

In all, as we look ahead to the first “game practice” of the year coming up on Thursday, August 26th, UConn fans should be patient. The offense will grow, but will need time. The defense should be ready to defend, just as good, if not better than last year. Scores may be low, the games may be choppy, but if UConn can chalk up a win, let it be – it’s a win. This team will improve as the season progresses, both on the ground and in the air.

A 3-1 September will be more than expected, whether it be a win at Baylor or a home opener upset of (20) North Carolina. But just a 2-2 September with wins against Ohio and Rhode Island will be worrisome. Let’s just take this in stride…one game at a time.

 

August 19, 2009

UConn Country…Get Ready for an Aerial Assault!
By Marc Zirolli

One of UConn’s prized recruits just so happens to be entering his freshman season just when Donald Brown left for the draft, just when we thought, “oh boy, it’s gonna be a long season.”

Dwayne Difton from Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. is that prized recruit and thus far, has proven himself to be right in the mix of something special for the 2009 Connecticut Huskies. Already a state-of-the-art 40,000 seat stadium, a state-of-the-art indoor training and practice facility, two bowl wins, a Big East Title, a 10-year exclusive contract with Nike, a committed head coach who has shot down rumors to jump ship for another program, a 2009 first round draft pick…oh my, we do have something special; and now we have a freshman wide receiver, who comes from the best high school in the country and who also turned down Tennessee because he already picked UConn. Hey UConn Country, if you haven’t tuned in, you better start now.

On another stifling day in Connecticut, the Huskies had a day off so they could sport their brand new uniforms in front of Hartford reporters for the annual pre-season media day. But Mr. Difton, the young and inexperienced, didn’t take the day off in preparation for a possible spot in the starting line-up for UConn’s opener at Ohio on September 5th.  Difton has awakened the missing element to UConn’s offense the last three years by catching passes and running tip-top routes in near lightning speed. The 4.40, 40-yard dasher has even gone up against UConn’s number one DB on the depth chart, Jasper Howard. It’s pretty clear cut: Difton wants to be the best by going up against the best.

Under center, Zach Frazer will be initiating the aerial assault to Difton, fellow freshman Malik Generett, sophomore Kashif Moore and talented senior Brad Kanuch. First year offensive coordinator Joe Morehead will have his hands full with a relatively young receiver core, but the next few weeks will probably be experimental, but also exciting. Today, the team worked on third down plays, the two minute drill, and the two-point play.

UConn Country, get ready because this assault is ready to explode…FINALLY!!!

 

August 12, 2009

Connecticut Football Open for Business
By Marc Zirolli

Monday August 10th was the hottest day of summer in Connecticut and ironically, the first day of preseason for the Connecticut Huskies. But their performance was far from hot, as they are officially adapting to a new offensive scheme under first year offensive coordinator, Joe Moorhead.

If you haven't followed Connecticut football lately, here's a quick update - they are a running team...until now. Last season, junior running back Donald Brown ran for an astonishing 2,083 yards and subsequently became the first-ever Husky first round draft pick in the NFL Draft (27th overall to Indianapolis). But there was a downside - they were ranked 109 out of 119 division-I schools in passing.

Joe Moorhead, in his first year, is determined to make use of UConn's talented quarterbacks and young batch of receivers, including speedy sophomore Kashif Moore. Zach Frazer, the QB transfer out of Notre Dame, is ready to lead the offense after a strict summer regimen of working out and eating healthy. Frazer lost 10 pounds and swiftly moved throughout Monday's first practice - but it came with a price. In the intense heat and Moorhead's no-huddle style, the guys were exhausted. Never did they feel the way they did after practice then the way they gingerly left the old Memorial Stadium on Monday. In addition to Moore, two incoming freshmen impressed Coach Edsall, amongst others. Dwayne Difton comes from the number one ranked high school in 2008, St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale and Malik Generett from York, Pa.

On the ground, now that Donald Brown is gone, Senior Andre Dixon and sophomore star Jordan Todman will fight for the starting tailback position. But regardless what happens, both are determined to help the team win. Additionally, both Dixon and Todman are on the Doak Walker Award radar. Todman, by the way, is the high school leading rusher in the state of Massachusetts.

Lastly, to add fuel to the fire, UConn has been projected to finish 6th out of eight teams in the Big East this year. In 2008, they were also projected to finish 6th, but they went on to win a bowl game. If the Huskies can quickly rebound from losing four, first round draft picks in this year's draft, they may surprise a lot of people as they aim to play in their third consecutive bowl game. The month of September will be a strong indicator as to how the rest of the season will fare with a game on the road at Baylor and their home opener on September 12th against North Carolina, a team that forced 3 blocked punts on the Huskies just a year ago.

UConn opens Big East play on Saturday October 10th, at pre-season conference favorite, Pittsburgh.