Better consistency On Offense Key for South Florida in '09

[Brad]

Better consistency On Offense Key for South Florida in '09

By Tom Zebold

THE LEDGER

South Florida begins training camp today and there's plenty for the Bulls to figure out on offense before they open their season on Sept. 5 at Raymond James Stadium.

Mike Canales has stepped back into the USF offensive coordinator role for the first time since the 2000 season and takes over a talented squad that struggled at times with consistency last season.

He knows exactly what has to change for the Bulls to be a contender in the Big East.

"If I had to put my finger on one thing and say, 'this is what we need to do better than last year,' that's take care of the football," said Canales, who was the school's first offensive coordinator in 1996. "I think that was our demise in the middle of our slump. We just turned the ball over too much whether it was poor decisions, or a missed throw, or a dropped ball or whatnot. Those things will kill you."

A big plus for Canales is the continual progression of quarterback Matt Grothe. He said the former Lake Gibson standout made strides in the offseason in understanding what to do and what not to do against defenses. That includes seeing and attacking weaknesses, and not forcing the big play.

"I think he's just gotten better through maturation and development as a quarterback that he is really starting to understand what he needs to do," said Canales of Grothe, who threw 18 touchdowns and 14 interceptions last year.

One thing for USF to figure out is who will be Grothe's primary backup. Redshirt freshmen B.J. Daniels and Evan Landi looked impressive in the spring game and will continue to battle it out for the No. 2 spot in camp.

Going into practice, Canales didn't say who has the edge and said the coaches will be evaluating each snap looking for consistency from the dual-threat QBs in a game-like atmosphere.

"Every day they step on the field at practice it's a game situation for them because they are waiting for the opportunity to present itself to step in and play," Canales said.

Daniels, like Grothe and Landi, has the ability to hurt a defense with his feet and Canales said, "he throws the ball a lot better than people give him credit for."

Landi also will be used some at wide receiver, which Canales said will be part of the Bulls process of getting the most out of their talent on the field.

"We're going to utilize him both places," he said. "We think he's that kind of athlete that can help us win."

Quarterback isn't the only position where the Bulls will be battling in camp. Canales said last season ended up being "running back by committee," and he is looking for one to step up and be "the guy."

Among the Bulls' squad of backs are junior Mike Ford, former Lakeland Dreadnaught Jamar Taylor, also a junior, and senior Mo Planchar. None of the three put up enough yards individually to surpass Grothe as the team's leading rusher in 2008, as the group was slowed by injuries.

Taylor sat out during the spring game after having offseason surgery on his shoulder, but Canales said he looks healthy heading into camp.

"He is put together and wow is he impressive looking," Canales said of Taylor, whom he described as "bigger but sleeker."

Another key area for the Bulls to fine-tune is the offensive line, which has a number of younger players trying to secure starting spots.

"I think what we're going to try to do during camp is try to clear up that continuity because they are so young," Canales said.

As a whole, Canales said the offense will be striving for balance. He admitted some things as far as formations and personnel grouping will be similar to last year and there will be some added twists and changes. The schematics of the attack obviously won't be divulged just yet as Canales said USF is keeping it "close to the vest."

One thing is certain and the Bulls' success can be increased greatly if it's achieved.

"We want to get the ball to our playmakers and try to create ways that will do that," Canales said.

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[Rizman]

Hey couch Coaches and QB's do you think we loss last year because our offensive was sloppy.

[Brad]

I think we have struggled in each of the last two seasons because our offense turned the ball over too much (read INTs).

I also think our defense let us down more last year than in previous seasons.  We missed Jenkins and Williams.  We gave up a lot of the long ball.

[slick1ru2]

They have played half games, looked like doggy doo doo for an entire half. Yeah, play a good 60 minutes and we will be fine.

[Matt]

geez...i wish these writers would stop talking about our inconsistency

: :

[Guest hm101]

missed tackles in the backfield and a predictable offense were big problems.

we need consistent production and performance without being predictable in our play calling, formations, & go-to men.

[lotsofbull99]

More QB draws will help improve the offense.

[Bulls On Parade]

More QB draws will help improve the offense.

Coach Gregory?

[CyberBull]

More QB draws will help improve the offense.

LOL!

LOB99 takes the early lead for post of the month.  ;D