The offense is catching up with the defense after what coach Kyle Whittingham called “maybe the best practice of camp.” The offense is finding its rhythm, executing better, and gaining ground on their defensive counterparts. The offensive line is blocking better, the receivers are getting open, and Travis Wilson and Kendal Thompson had nice zip and accuracy on their throws today.
The return of Kenneth Scott to the offense has created more problems for the defense. Siaosi Wilson is likewise a big addition to the offense, becoming a playmaker with a good amount of height to go with his athleticism. Kenric Young has also made more noise on the offense in the past several days, coming up with athletic catches over a contested midfield. Bubba Poole’s strength is in isolated passing plays, where he excelled as a running back as well. Newcomer Caleb Repp has been standing out and impressing coaches. Built with a tight end frame with the athleticism of a wide receiver, he will prove to be a nice option for the offense.
The receivers are holding their own without top guys Tim Patrick and Raelon Singleton. The main questions of wide receiver and defensive secondary are being answered.
Sam Tevi seems to be pulling away with the starting left tackle job, although that isn’t for sure yet. That sets a tentative offensive line of (left to right) Sam Tevi, Isaac Asiata, Siaosi Aiono, Salesi “Leka” Uhatafe, and JJ Dielman. That’s an offensive line Devontae Booker and Travis Wilson can feel comfortable with.
Marcus Williams is likewise seeming to pull away with the free safety position. His football instinct is now being combined with a new aggressiveness, making him into a valuable playmaker for the defense.
Kyle Whittingham said Jason Fanaika (whom we have yet another new pronunciation for) is the strongest guy on the team, and has really fine-tuned his game since becoming solely a defensive end instead of splitting time with linebacker last season.
