So in about a week, we're going to pop open the previews for the season (if you can't wait, check out what Sippin' On Purple has been doing thus far), but as I sit here watching the Northwestern vs. Wisconsin game from last year, I can't help but get excited for the season.
But as any good Northwestern fan, we question some players, some positions, some situations, and then we are pleasantly surprised, and say, "Yeah, I knew that guy would be good."
Going into this year, I'm sure most people are somewhat scared (or scuurrred) about a few things. Here are my few.
Is the running game going to continue to be a non-factor?
Running with Dan Persa is great and all, but you still need balance. I'd like to see Arby Fields take the starting job (if it's still his by Vandy) and run with it, literally. He's obviously a dynamic athlete that needs to learn to block. I don't think he has the speed NU needs in the spread offense, but they said the same about Tyrell Sutton.
We all took Andrew Brewer for granted.
In my opinion, if he doesn't get hurt earlier in his career, he ends up one of the best wide receivers NU has ever had. The guy had it all for the college game (size, speed, and smarts) and fit into the offense well. Who is going to be that guy this year? I think Demetrius Fields can be that guy.
Secondary? I challenge you guys to show me up.
I watch last year, and I know RoseBowlDreaming will have more on this, and I am hoping to see vast improvement in Jordan Mabin. It almost seemed like he was nowhere near the ball. I know he played slightly hurt, like most guys, but Jordan, the pressure is on you to carry that secondary.
Special teams: Can the return team give NU solid field position more often?
It was disappointing when the 'Cats would start on their own 16 and opponents would start on their own 37. If you want to score on every drive, that extra yardage goes a long way. I know, I sound like Madden now, that was a "duh" statement.
Finally, which youngster will step up this year?
We heard a lot about Jeravin Matthews and the coaches did what Lovie Smith does to every good athlete. Fitz never figured out a good spot for a guy with a ton of speed. We heard a lot about Vince Browne a few years ago and then teams geared on him. Me? I want to see a lot more Bryce McNaul. The guy has battled injuries and if he's healthy, he's clearly making plays. I'm aware he's not much of a youngster, but he hasn't played a ton.
Filed under: Football
Tags: Arby Fields, northwestern, northwestern wildcats football, pat fitzgerald
