I am compelled to highlight a recent comment that came into Chu Chu Rah Rah. I appreciate the sentiments expressed and would welcome hearing from others as to their thoughts on the specific and general messages included here. As with everything connected with the HCGLC, we are continually looking to address our single stated goal of helping Holy Cross Football "win on and off the field." As the chair of the HCGLC, I am happy to take on the challenging issues or topics in order to achieve this most worthy goal. This message very clearly speaks for itself.
It would sicken me to see the administration of HC, a school so rich and deep in athletic tradition not jump at the chance to create excitement for the school with a night venue for the football team.
I have closely watched HC over the last 40 years squander numerous opportunities to leverage the tradition and heritage of its athletic program and I am thrilled to see the rejuvenated interest cultivated through the Holy Cross Gridiron Council.
HC athletics is in need of fierce leadership and support from the top down. It boggles the mind to see the Board of Directors of the school accept the deterioration of the athletic program and the acceptance of mediocrity. Not the Jesuit way.
Thoughts, color, comments, constructive criticisms always encouraged and appreciated!!
Larry Doyle '83
Chair, HCGLC
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Reactions to the UMASS Game
In last week's reaction to the season opener against the Howard Bison, I stated that: "...virtually nothing went wrong against the Howard Bison." Against the University of Massachusetts Minutemen, almost everything DID go wrong. Granted, UMASS' size, speed, athleticism, and most of all, sheer talent/skill, greatly contributed to this, but the Crusaders did shoot themselves in the foot on several occasions that contributed to the lopsided result.
In my 3+ years at HC, I have rarely seen the Crusaders not "in a game." Going into the 4th quarter, although losing, Holy Cross always seemed to at least be in a game with a reasonable shot at winning. The last game I can recall where the men in purple were outclassed in seemingly every aspect of the game was in 2007 on Family Weekend against Yale (HC lost 38-17). The feeling of defeat in such convincing fashion is not something to which the purple faithful have become accustomed. Knowing the resiliency of the coaching staff and the team, I am sure they will all come out with something to prove this Saturday in Cambridge. How hard they played in the second half (HC actually outscored UMASS 7-0) is something to take away from the game. Now, let's look at what went right against the Minutemen:
In my 3+ years at HC, I have rarely seen the Crusaders not "in a game." Going into the 4th quarter, although losing, Holy Cross always seemed to at least be in a game with a reasonable shot at winning. The last game I can recall where the men in purple were outclassed in seemingly every aspect of the game was in 2007 on Family Weekend against Yale (HC lost 38-17). The feeling of defeat in such convincing fashion is not something to which the purple faithful have become accustomed. Knowing the resiliency of the coaching staff and the team, I am sure they will all come out with something to prove this Saturday in Cambridge. How hard they played in the second half (HC actually outscored UMASS 7-0) is something to take away from the game. Now, let's look at what went right against the Minutemen:
The Legend of Bill Osmanski
"Bullet" Bill Osmanski is undeniably the finest football player in the history of the College of the Holy Cross. That commendation does not begin to do justice to this legend. I would not venture to think that my writing could capture any semblance of his greatness.
If you care at all about Holy Cross and what the deep tradition of the college and its' football program embodies, do yourself the favor and savor this attached writeup like the finest wine. I thank the Osmanski family for providing this clipping. I know I join many in saying how much I look forward to honoring his commitment to excellence and true greatness on October 2nd when Bill Osmanski's name and number are displayed for perpetuity at Fitton Field. Click on the image below to read the full article.
Larry Doyle '83
Chair, HCGLC
If you care at all about Holy Cross and what the deep tradition of the college and its' football program embodies, do yourself the favor and savor this attached writeup like the finest wine. I thank the Osmanski family for providing this clipping. I know I join many in saying how much I look forward to honoring his commitment to excellence and true greatness on October 2nd when Bill Osmanski's name and number are displayed for perpetuity at Fitton Field. Click on the image below to read the full article.
Larry Doyle '83
Chair, HCGLC
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Last Night's Attendance
Tough loss last night for the Crusaders but in typical Tom Gilmore fashion,
there is absolutely no quit in the Holy Cross Football vocabulary.
Aside from the final score, the set of numbers that truly grabbed me
were attendance (16,352) vs capacity (17,000). On a picture perfect
evening (did you see the guy in the parasail type gizmo beyond the
UMass sideline. Very cool!!) the crowd was a little late arriving (to
be expected with tailgating) but overall very impressive and well
behaved.
I am fairly certain that Holy Cross is scheduled to play UMass again next year.
How cool would it be to make the UMass game next year the first night
game in Holy Cross history. UMass has 44 players on this year's roster who
live within an hour of Holy Cross. How many of their high school coaches
and fans do you think would attend?
UMass has a huge alumni base throughout eastern and central Massachusetts.
UMass travels well with a spectacular band. Holy Cross would certainly attract
all of the local Worcester area high schools and the Worcester
community at large. Great chance for some solid town-gown goodwill
right there!
The icing on the cake would be the second rendition of the Building the
Brand/Ring of Fame. Fitton Field would be a Field of Dreams as say Jon Morris, Bruce Kozerski,
and a representative of George Connor's family strolled to midfield. Last night's attendance and the UMass roster confirmed that this is a NO BRAINER.
I would take the over at 20k in attendance. 10k for the HC faithful, 10k for the UMass contingent.
Give away 5k in endzone tickets to local grammar schools. It would be an awesome showcase for the college and a potential sellout.
Will Holy Cross have the vision to make this a reality?
Larry Doyle '83
Chair, HCGLC
there is absolutely no quit in the Holy Cross Football vocabulary.
Aside from the final score, the set of numbers that truly grabbed me
were attendance (16,352) vs capacity (17,000). On a picture perfect
evening (did you see the guy in the parasail type gizmo beyond the
UMass sideline. Very cool!!) the crowd was a little late arriving (to
be expected with tailgating) but overall very impressive and well
behaved.
I am fairly certain that Holy Cross is scheduled to play UMass again next year.
How cool would it be to make the UMass game next year the first night
game in Holy Cross history. UMass has 44 players on this year's roster who
live within an hour of Holy Cross. How many of their high school coaches
and fans do you think would attend?
UMass has a huge alumni base throughout eastern and central Massachusetts.
UMass travels well with a spectacular band. Holy Cross would certainly attract
all of the local Worcester area high schools and the Worcester
community at large. Great chance for some solid town-gown goodwill
right there!
The icing on the cake would be the second rendition of the Building the
Brand/Ring of Fame. Fitton Field would be a Field of Dreams as say Jon Morris, Bruce Kozerski,
and a representative of George Connor's family strolled to midfield. Last night's attendance and the UMass roster confirmed that this is a NO BRAINER.
I would take the over at 20k in attendance. 10k for the HC faithful, 10k for the UMass contingent.
Give away 5k in endzone tickets to local grammar schools. It would be an awesome showcase for the college and a potential sellout.
Will Holy Cross have the vision to make this a reality?
Larry Doyle '83
Chair, HCGLC
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Chu Chu Rah Rah Meets "Minutemen Nation"
Matt Creedon, author of a UMASS Athletics blog entitled "Minutemen Nation" (minutemennation.net), reached out to me a few days ago as he wanted to create a preview article/interview for the upcoming game this Saturday in Amherst. We exchanged questions, and Matt provided some great answers and insights regarding the Minutemen football team.
Kevin Doyle: After being selected to finish 8th in the CAA, UMASS went on to defeat William and Mary who was predicted to finish second in the league. Do you think the Minutemen felt disrespected by the rest of the league and had something to prove against The Tribe?
Matt Creedon: I’m not sure I would say disrespected. We had a very disappointing season last year considering the talent we had on our roster. We had guys like Vlad Ducasse (now on the Jets) and Victor Cruz (Giants) but still finished 5-6. With Kevin Morris in his second year, a shaky Kyle Havens at quarterback, and a young roster, expectations weren’t too high coming into the year. I do however think 8th place was a little low for UMass. We may have struggled in 09 but we always have a competitive football team. As for proving something, I don’t think UMass entered the game feeling they had to prove anything, but after the win I think they’ve proven we will be a force in the CAA this season.
KD: With Northeastern and Hofstra dropping their football programs, UMASS was the beneficiary of landing both John Griffin (Northeastern), and Anthony Nelson (Hofstra). What have these two players meant to the team thus far, and what impact will they have during the 2010 season?
MC: Both were fantastic in week one. Griffin got the start over Jonathan Hernandez and scored two touchdowns including the game winner. Nelson caught five passes for 78 yards and a touchdown while making some great catches. I personally would start Hernandez over Griffin, but Nelson is without a doubt our best wide receiver this season. We got some other transfers as well and they played great against William and Mary. They will be a big part of UMass’ success this year.
KD: What is the biggest question mark that UMASS fans had going into the season?
MC: Some would say head coach Kevin Morris, but I think it’s too early for that. It’s gotta be how quarterback Kyle Havens plays. Every game last year he’d show flashes of brilliance and then he’d throw two picks. I think the talent is there but the decision making is questionable. If opponents can get pressure on him, he will make bad throws which of course leads to turnovers.
KD: Rather than a question mark, what do fans feel most comfortable with in 2010?
MC: The offensive line is probably the position UMass fans feel most comfortable with. We lost Ducasse but we still have three upperclassmen on the line. The biggest strength of the line is just that, they are huge.
KD: Although Holy Cross lost their All-Everything quarterback in Dominic Randolph, new starter Ryan Taggart is still very capable behind center and runs the offense quite well. How will UMASS go about disrupting Taggart and the rhythm of the "O"?
MC: We have a great linebacking core led by Tyler Holmes who was named CAA defensive player of the week. The line got good pressure on Callahan and the Tribe last week and shut down one of the best running backs in the country in Jonathan Grimes. I’d expect them to put similar pressure on Taggart. If he can get the ball away, our pass defense looked a little weak last week.
KD: Everyone knows about the two-headed monster in John Griffin and Jonathan Hernandez running the ball, but what about the passing game? Has Kyle Havens improved since last year, and who are his primary targets?
MC: Havens seems to have improved from last year, but we only have one game under our belt. He didn’t throw any picks and completed 15 of his 24 passes for 223 yards and a TD. If you haven’t seen his now infamous 4th and 2 play, it’s a must watch. He had an open lane to the first down marker and even the endzone at the WM 7 but decided to throw the ball which was knocked down. Even worse, he threw it past the line of scrimmage. Like I said, if he picks the right target, he can make the throw. It’s just that he throws it into double coverage too often. There were a few passes for big gains that missed their open target but the receivers may have been to blame. Havens will look for Nelson first followed by TE Emil Igwenagu. Julian Talley and Hernandez are also threats.
KD: Aside from the big name players, who is one guy on the roster that does not get enough notoriety, and is a relatively unknown, but significant player?
MC: Most people who read my blog and your blog probably know him, but among the general UMass football fanbase, I’d say Junior linebacker Tyler Holmes is underrated. He led UMass in tackles last year with 110 which was also good for second in the CAA and eighth in the nation. He was named the CAA Defensive Player of the Week after his game sealing interception against William and Mary.
KD: Your prediction for the game?
MC: UMass, of course. In terms of score, UMass wins by at least a touchdown. I think we have a great team this season. On the other hand, nothing would surprise me with UMass athletics. No matter what sport it is, the Minutemen generally play down to the competition and can lose some bad games. I think we have this one though.
KD: Attendance for the game? Does McGuirk get between 15,000-20,000 for a Saturday night game?
MC: I think we can get close to 15,000 on Saturday night. We got 10,000 for William and Mary which was better than expected thanks to a large turnout by the students who moved in early. It’s the first game back for all the students, a night game, and our last home game until October 16th. Plus, I hope we get some visitors from Worcester. Best guess would be 11-13,000 but 15K isn’t out of the question.
Here are the questions I was asked, along with my responses:
MC: Despite winning the Patriot League last season and making the playoffs for the first time since 1983, the Crusaders were picked to finish fourth in the pre-season Patriot League coaches’ poll, and third in the Sports Network poll. Do you feel the team enters the season underrated?
KD: I'm not sure if "underrated" is the right term, but rather, they feel disrespected. They are out to prove to everyone in the Patriot League that they are more than just one player (Dominic Randolph), and they have the ability to have a very strong year. In a sense, however, "underrated" may be the right term because not many people are expecting a whole lot from this year's squad, but I believe the 2010 Crusaders enjoy that, to an extent. The "we will show you" mentality is something that the team has really taken to heart.
MC: Dominic Randolph had a fantastic career at Holy Cross and was a big loss for you guys. How confident are Holy Cross fans in senior QB Ryan Taggart who entered the season having only thrown two passes in his collegiate career?
KD: Before the Howard game, the confidence may not have been there as there were many questions surrounding the offense and quarterback position. Following the Howard game, however, I think many fans are very comfortable with Ryan Taggart as the starting QB. He beat out a talented Kevin Watson in summer camp (Watson was Randolph's back-up before getting injured last season), and runs the offense very well for a first-year starter. His knowledge of the offense and superb decision making makes him seem like a seasoned quarterback, rather than a QB who has only one game under his belt.
MC: What is the biggest concern Holy Cross fans have about this year’s team?
KD: It would be either the offensive line or quarterback position. After graduating three starting members from a stellar line last season, this part of the offense was certainly a concern for many. As previously mentioned, having a new quarterback lead the offense is a concern too, but I believe both of these concerns were addressed against Howard. With that being said, the UMASS Minutemen are an entirely different animal than the Bison after they recently defeated the #4 team in the nation in William and Mary, so we will see if the O-line or QB become a concern following the UMASS game.
MC: Our quarterback, Kyle Havens, doesn’t do well under pressure. I know you guys have a solid linebacking core and secondary…do you think you can get enough pressure up front to force Havens into making bad throws?
KD: The pressure, most likely, will not come from the secondary or linebackers, but rather the defensive line. A Tom Gilmore coached defense, customarily, does not heavily rely on the blitz, so it is up to the defensive line to apply the pressure on Havens. Fortunately, Holy Cross' D-Line this year should be one of the best in recent memory as they return the Preseason Defensive Player of the Year in Mude Ohimor. Alongside Ohimor is the big defensive tackle Jack Maliska who is poised to have a monster season for HC. To be honest, I am not worried in applying a whole lot of pressure on Havens, but simply stopping the vaunted UMASS running game. If Kyle Havens is going to single-handedly beat us, then so be it, but I'd rather contain John Griffin and Jonathan Hernandez than make Havens the focal point.
MC: UMass did a fantastic job shutting down one of the best running backs in the country in John Grimes from William and Mary last week. What’s Holy Cross’ running game like?
KD: Holy Cross' running game will be the same as last year, but with one more RB in the mix. Matt Bellomo and Eddie Houghton were the primary backs last season, with Francis Camara receiving carries sparingly, but now sophomore Sam Auffant has entered the picture. Auffant will not run anyone over, but he is a very shifty back with breakaway type speed. As many know, Holy Cross is a pass-first offense, but the running game is good enough this year to keep opposing defenses on their toes. A defense cannot simply drop back into pass coverage with the threat that this year's running backs possess.
MC: Who is the player to watch for on Holy Cross?
KD: When looking through your programs at McGuirk Stadium on Saturday evening and looking up and down the Holy Cross roster, I suggest stopping at #82. Bill Edger finished last season in an emphatic fashion by torching the Villanova secondary, and he did the same last week against Howard by reeling in 7 catches for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns. Edger appears to be the primary target for Ryan Taggart as he has arguably the best hands on the team and is great going up in the air and bringing down the ball. He is HC's best threat on the outside.
MC: Is there anything else UMass fans should know about the Crusaders?
KD: This is a very hungry football team. After losing to UMASS in their last two meetings by scores of 40-30 in 2007, and 45-42 in 2008, the seniors on the 2010 team are out for revenge. The team as a whole feels they were disrespected by their own league by being selected to finish fourth, and a victory against a top 20 team in the nation, a team that just defeated the fourth ranked team, would cause a lot of people to turn their heads and take the 2010 Holy Cross Crusaders a little more seriously.
MC: Prediction for the game? Does Holy Cross snap UMass’ seven game winning over you guys?
KD: On paper, UMASS probably has more talent, more team speed, more size, and the home field advantage. This may be the homer in me, but I truly feel that there is something special with the Crusader football squad, and there is no better place to show their talents than on a big stage in Amherst. I'll take HC by 6, 34-28.
MC: And finally, I just have to ask, who do Holy Cross fans like more: Lehigh or Lafayette?
KD: Well, they are both Patriot League opponents, and both fairly big rivals, so it is hard to "like" one of these football teams. But, if I had to pick a team, I guess I would go with the Lehigh Mountain Hawks. Playing against a Frank Tavani coached football team is a much more daunting task than an Andy Cohen coached team. Plus, I always enjoy traveling to Bethlehem to play Lehigh; Goodman Stadium is one of the very best places to watch a college football game.
I hope you enjoyed the interviews. Hopefully I can coordinate something similar to this format with other blogs of schools the Cross plays.
Kevin Doyle: After being selected to finish 8th in the CAA, UMASS went on to defeat William and Mary who was predicted to finish second in the league. Do you think the Minutemen felt disrespected by the rest of the league and had something to prove against The Tribe?
Matt Creedon: I’m not sure I would say disrespected. We had a very disappointing season last year considering the talent we had on our roster. We had guys like Vlad Ducasse (now on the Jets) and Victor Cruz (Giants) but still finished 5-6. With Kevin Morris in his second year, a shaky Kyle Havens at quarterback, and a young roster, expectations weren’t too high coming into the year. I do however think 8th place was a little low for UMass. We may have struggled in 09 but we always have a competitive football team. As for proving something, I don’t think UMass entered the game feeling they had to prove anything, but after the win I think they’ve proven we will be a force in the CAA this season.
KD: With Northeastern and Hofstra dropping their football programs, UMASS was the beneficiary of landing both John Griffin (Northeastern), and Anthony Nelson (Hofstra). What have these two players meant to the team thus far, and what impact will they have during the 2010 season?
MC: Both were fantastic in week one. Griffin got the start over Jonathan Hernandez and scored two touchdowns including the game winner. Nelson caught five passes for 78 yards and a touchdown while making some great catches. I personally would start Hernandez over Griffin, but Nelson is without a doubt our best wide receiver this season. We got some other transfers as well and they played great against William and Mary. They will be a big part of UMass’ success this year.
KD: What is the biggest question mark that UMASS fans had going into the season?
MC: Some would say head coach Kevin Morris, but I think it’s too early for that. It’s gotta be how quarterback Kyle Havens plays. Every game last year he’d show flashes of brilliance and then he’d throw two picks. I think the talent is there but the decision making is questionable. If opponents can get pressure on him, he will make bad throws which of course leads to turnovers.
KD: Rather than a question mark, what do fans feel most comfortable with in 2010?
MC: The offensive line is probably the position UMass fans feel most comfortable with. We lost Ducasse but we still have three upperclassmen on the line. The biggest strength of the line is just that, they are huge.
KD: Although Holy Cross lost their All-Everything quarterback in Dominic Randolph, new starter Ryan Taggart is still very capable behind center and runs the offense quite well. How will UMASS go about disrupting Taggart and the rhythm of the "O"?
MC: We have a great linebacking core led by Tyler Holmes who was named CAA defensive player of the week. The line got good pressure on Callahan and the Tribe last week and shut down one of the best running backs in the country in Jonathan Grimes. I’d expect them to put similar pressure on Taggart. If he can get the ball away, our pass defense looked a little weak last week.
KD: Everyone knows about the two-headed monster in John Griffin and Jonathan Hernandez running the ball, but what about the passing game? Has Kyle Havens improved since last year, and who are his primary targets?
MC: Havens seems to have improved from last year, but we only have one game under our belt. He didn’t throw any picks and completed 15 of his 24 passes for 223 yards and a TD. If you haven’t seen his now infamous 4th and 2 play, it’s a must watch. He had an open lane to the first down marker and even the endzone at the WM 7 but decided to throw the ball which was knocked down. Even worse, he threw it past the line of scrimmage. Like I said, if he picks the right target, he can make the throw. It’s just that he throws it into double coverage too often. There were a few passes for big gains that missed their open target but the receivers may have been to blame. Havens will look for Nelson first followed by TE Emil Igwenagu. Julian Talley and Hernandez are also threats.
KD: Aside from the big name players, who is one guy on the roster that does not get enough notoriety, and is a relatively unknown, but significant player?
MC: Most people who read my blog and your blog probably know him, but among the general UMass football fanbase, I’d say Junior linebacker Tyler Holmes is underrated. He led UMass in tackles last year with 110 which was also good for second in the CAA and eighth in the nation. He was named the CAA Defensive Player of the Week after his game sealing interception against William and Mary.
KD: Your prediction for the game?
MC: UMass, of course. In terms of score, UMass wins by at least a touchdown. I think we have a great team this season. On the other hand, nothing would surprise me with UMass athletics. No matter what sport it is, the Minutemen generally play down to the competition and can lose some bad games. I think we have this one though.
KD: Attendance for the game? Does McGuirk get between 15,000-20,000 for a Saturday night game?
MC: I think we can get close to 15,000 on Saturday night. We got 10,000 for William and Mary which was better than expected thanks to a large turnout by the students who moved in early. It’s the first game back for all the students, a night game, and our last home game until October 16th. Plus, I hope we get some visitors from Worcester. Best guess would be 11-13,000 but 15K isn’t out of the question.
Here are the questions I was asked, along with my responses:
MC: Despite winning the Patriot League last season and making the playoffs for the first time since 1983, the Crusaders were picked to finish fourth in the pre-season Patriot League coaches’ poll, and third in the Sports Network poll. Do you feel the team enters the season underrated?
KD: I'm not sure if "underrated" is the right term, but rather, they feel disrespected. They are out to prove to everyone in the Patriot League that they are more than just one player (Dominic Randolph), and they have the ability to have a very strong year. In a sense, however, "underrated" may be the right term because not many people are expecting a whole lot from this year's squad, but I believe the 2010 Crusaders enjoy that, to an extent. The "we will show you" mentality is something that the team has really taken to heart.
MC: Dominic Randolph had a fantastic career at Holy Cross and was a big loss for you guys. How confident are Holy Cross fans in senior QB Ryan Taggart who entered the season having only thrown two passes in his collegiate career?
KD: Before the Howard game, the confidence may not have been there as there were many questions surrounding the offense and quarterback position. Following the Howard game, however, I think many fans are very comfortable with Ryan Taggart as the starting QB. He beat out a talented Kevin Watson in summer camp (Watson was Randolph's back-up before getting injured last season), and runs the offense very well for a first-year starter. His knowledge of the offense and superb decision making makes him seem like a seasoned quarterback, rather than a QB who has only one game under his belt.
MC: What is the biggest concern Holy Cross fans have about this year’s team?
KD: It would be either the offensive line or quarterback position. After graduating three starting members from a stellar line last season, this part of the offense was certainly a concern for many. As previously mentioned, having a new quarterback lead the offense is a concern too, but I believe both of these concerns were addressed against Howard. With that being said, the UMASS Minutemen are an entirely different animal than the Bison after they recently defeated the #4 team in the nation in William and Mary, so we will see if the O-line or QB become a concern following the UMASS game.
MC: Our quarterback, Kyle Havens, doesn’t do well under pressure. I know you guys have a solid linebacking core and secondary…do you think you can get enough pressure up front to force Havens into making bad throws?
KD: The pressure, most likely, will not come from the secondary or linebackers, but rather the defensive line. A Tom Gilmore coached defense, customarily, does not heavily rely on the blitz, so it is up to the defensive line to apply the pressure on Havens. Fortunately, Holy Cross' D-Line this year should be one of the best in recent memory as they return the Preseason Defensive Player of the Year in Mude Ohimor. Alongside Ohimor is the big defensive tackle Jack Maliska who is poised to have a monster season for HC. To be honest, I am not worried in applying a whole lot of pressure on Havens, but simply stopping the vaunted UMASS running game. If Kyle Havens is going to single-handedly beat us, then so be it, but I'd rather contain John Griffin and Jonathan Hernandez than make Havens the focal point.
MC: UMass did a fantastic job shutting down one of the best running backs in the country in John Grimes from William and Mary last week. What’s Holy Cross’ running game like?
KD: Holy Cross' running game will be the same as last year, but with one more RB in the mix. Matt Bellomo and Eddie Houghton were the primary backs last season, with Francis Camara receiving carries sparingly, but now sophomore Sam Auffant has entered the picture. Auffant will not run anyone over, but he is a very shifty back with breakaway type speed. As many know, Holy Cross is a pass-first offense, but the running game is good enough this year to keep opposing defenses on their toes. A defense cannot simply drop back into pass coverage with the threat that this year's running backs possess.
MC: Who is the player to watch for on Holy Cross?
KD: When looking through your programs at McGuirk Stadium on Saturday evening and looking up and down the Holy Cross roster, I suggest stopping at #82. Bill Edger finished last season in an emphatic fashion by torching the Villanova secondary, and he did the same last week against Howard by reeling in 7 catches for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns. Edger appears to be the primary target for Ryan Taggart as he has arguably the best hands on the team and is great going up in the air and bringing down the ball. He is HC's best threat on the outside.
MC: Is there anything else UMass fans should know about the Crusaders?
KD: This is a very hungry football team. After losing to UMASS in their last two meetings by scores of 40-30 in 2007, and 45-42 in 2008, the seniors on the 2010 team are out for revenge. The team as a whole feels they were disrespected by their own league by being selected to finish fourth, and a victory against a top 20 team in the nation, a team that just defeated the fourth ranked team, would cause a lot of people to turn their heads and take the 2010 Holy Cross Crusaders a little more seriously.
MC: Prediction for the game? Does Holy Cross snap UMass’ seven game winning over you guys?
KD: On paper, UMASS probably has more talent, more team speed, more size, and the home field advantage. This may be the homer in me, but I truly feel that there is something special with the Crusader football squad, and there is no better place to show their talents than on a big stage in Amherst. I'll take HC by 6, 34-28.
MC: And finally, I just have to ask, who do Holy Cross fans like more: Lehigh or Lafayette?
KD: Well, they are both Patriot League opponents, and both fairly big rivals, so it is hard to "like" one of these football teams. But, if I had to pick a team, I guess I would go with the Lehigh Mountain Hawks. Playing against a Frank Tavani coached football team is a much more daunting task than an Andy Cohen coached team. Plus, I always enjoy traveling to Bethlehem to play Lehigh; Goodman Stadium is one of the very best places to watch a college football game.
I hope you enjoyed the interviews. Hopefully I can coordinate something similar to this format with other blogs of schools the Cross plays.
Kevin Doyle '11
KLDOYL11@holycross.edu
Monday, September 6, 2010
Reactions to the Howard Game
Rather than write my thoughts about a game right after its completion, I like to wait a few days to rethink the game, ponder what went well and what did not, read articles and postings of other people's commentary, and analyze the entire stat sheet. After giving a good deal of thought to the game, and replaying most of it in my head, I can honestly state that virtually nothing went wrong against the Howard Bison. Well, there certainly are minor issues that I am sure the coaching staff will correct during the week in meetings and practices, but I believe it is impossible to play a flawless football game. First, let's look at what went right . . . and there are many things that did:
- Ryan Taggart performed exceptionally. Aside from several misfires to open targets, he delivered many catchable balls (some of which were dropped), and even delivered a few balls out there that were reminiscent of #9. His management of the offense and good decision making by not forcing any throws into tight coverage was a very good sign.
- Any questions regarding the offensive line, which lost three starters from last year's team, were answered Saturday. The line gave Taggart sufficient protection throughout the game and opened up solid running lanes for both Sam Auffant and Eddie Houghton.
- Bill Edger's (photo above) performance at wide receiver reminded me of the days when Brett McDermott was running routes up and down Fitton Field. Edger was great on the outside as he had 7 catches for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns. He burned Howard's cornerback multiple times and appears to be the go-to receiver on this year's squad.
- The kicking game of Rob Dornfried and Don Lemieux performed beautifully, as was expected. Dornfried going 5/5 on PATs and 1/1 on field goals, and Lemieux booting 4 kickoffs through the endzone and crushing a 63 yard punt were all impressive. I've said it before, and I will say it again, Holy Cross will have the best kicking game in the Patriot League in 2010.
- On the defensive side of the ball, I was extremely impressed with the play of first year starter Cav Koch. Although he was flagged for two pass interference calls, one of which was pretty questionable, Koch was solid throughout the game up until his injury in the 3rd quarter. I believe the injury was nothing more than a bad cramp, and he should be ready for UMASS this weekend.
- Defensive End /Outside Linebacker Rory Sullivan seemed to be in the offensive backfield all game, and deterred many plays the Bison attempted to run.
- The entire linebacking core, particularly the play of Sean Lamkin, Ricky Otis, and CJ Martin, was solid all game. In my opinion, the play of these three will determine whether the Crusaders leave Amherst with a win next weekend. UMASS has maybe the best running game we will see all year.
As for what did not go right . . . and there are not many:
- I would have liked to have seen Alex Schneider be more of a target. He was only thrown to a few times, and having him become a major part of the offense will alleviate some pressure on Taggart to find open wide receivers. He is the biggest target on the field, and should have the ball thrown his way more often.
- First year starting center Sean Whited, who is taking over for the ageless Chris Smith, was solid all game with the blocking schemes and calling out assignments, but his shotgun snaps were a little low at times and need to come up.
- The offense needs to limit the "3-and-out" series. Granted, series like these inevitably happen during the course of a football game, but there was a stretch between the first and second quarter when the offense failed to move the sticks too many times.
- Going off of my last point, the time of possession needs to move closer to 30-30. Against bigger and better teams, an offense may wear down our defense. UMASS loves to run the ball and may eat up a lot of clock; sustaining long drives will help both our offense and defense.
One final note on the Howard game: Willie Carter, #12 and the Bison's stud receiver, was one of the best players we will see all year. Some of the catches he made were in double coverage, and our defensive backs -- although they were in perfect position -- still could not defend Carter.
Game one is done and out of the way. First game jitters are out of the team's system, and we are now ready to play two of the tougher games on our schedule: UMASS and Harvard.
Look for a preview to the UMASS game this weekend in the coming days. The writer for www.minutemennation.net/ has asked to team up and create a preview to this weekend's tilt.
Go Cross Go! 1-0 and now on to the Minutemen.
Kevin Doyle '11
KLDOYL11@holycross.edu
Interview with Rick Henderson of Goal Line Philanthropy
I recently interviewed Rick Henderson, Co-President of Goal Line Philanthropy, LLC, an entity that provides unique fundraising programs for charities, colleges, and universities, with specific focus on intercollegiate football programs. Rick is actively engaged with a wide array of colleges and universities, including schools within the Patriot League. He has unique perspectives and answers for a host of issues facing college athletic budgets in general and football programs specifically.
Rick was gracious enough to answer some questions. We are happy to provide his insights here at Chu Chu Rah Rah.
LD: What is the current climate like from a fundraising perspective in regard to NCAA Football programs?
RH: The biggest issue currently across all non-profits, not only NCAA programs, is the fear of parting with assets. With lots of uncertainty with tax laws, personal portfolios and businesses, there is a reluctance to part with assets.
Another issue is the annual pressure on programs to fulfill the balance of the budget not covered by the university’s budgeted amount. Programs are trying to connect with supporters by offering tickets, parking, etc to make it easier for them to grasp the idea of giving a gift and parting with their assets. While Retention rates are on the rise, the sizes of gifts are in decline. However let’s not forget that supporters have a unique passion for their respective sport. Football guys will probably give to football before they give an unrestricted gift to the university.
LD: In your opinion what is the impact of dedicated fundraising programs on the coaches and players?
RH: Nowadays, coaches spend half the off-season recruiting and half the time fundraising. One coach told me that lately his friends and supporters walk away when he walks into a room or social event, “they know I am going to ask for money.” Think about the pressure on today's coaches. While the emphasis within recruiting is on the relationship, facilities play a huge part.
These are 18 year old kids, they look at the facilities and how they compare to other schools. If your facilities are not up to par with your competition, your coach needs to sell the relationship component even more. Knowing that our unique fundraising initiatives can address many financial needs such as editing systems, recruiting budgets, planes,or even scholarships, takes the pressure off a coaching staff so they can do what they were hired to do....recruit good kids and win.
LD: What separates your company from all others?
RH: With 26 years of college football coaching experience at the senior level of our staff and by working with some of the largest programs in the country, we know the frustrations of all athletic department members and coaches. We also know that the relationship with the athletic department supporter base is far more important than anything else. We have developed and managed these same types of relationships as you. We understand what the coach needs, what the athletic department needs and also, what the supporter needs.
LD: How does your company execute these gifts?
RH: We use a variety of different ways to connect with supporters, but one particular strategy that we specialize in is a perfect fit for NCAA athletic programs. Making it easy for a supporter to give is our primary goal, by not only making it productive for them, but efficient as well. We want the supporter to be able to impact the program in many different ways. At the same time we need to help them with the financial side of the decision and make it “painless” for them to give.
LD: What separates this strategy from all others?
RH: Well, we understand the need for larger capital gifts for facilities and renovations but we also know the importance of the annual gift to the program’s booster club. This strategy allows the supporter to take advantage of both with one strategy.
We are engaged with a large state university that is in the midst of a facilities renovation project. Of course, the school has naming opportunities for the project. Our strategy can allow someone to take advantage of a naming opportunity now while they're alive and also fund a certain amount annually to the booster club as well. This in some cases could secure season tickets, parking passes, club box passes, endow a scholarship, etc. Previously we would have asked a supporter to part with money to help with the renovation project and then part with money on an annual basis to the club. With us they do not part with the asset at all.
LD: How can this strategy also be used to enhance the yearly line item stress that our football program has handled in the past?
RH: Our number one goal is to take the pressure off the program to cover the annual expenses. For the athletic director or the head coach to know that a certain amount is always accounted for, they can expand their attention to other projects. They will be more productive, efficient and impactful. They will be better positioned to win 'on and off the field.'
LD: Rick, you're talking our language. The HCGLC's mission is to do exactly that...help Holy Cross football win 'on and off the field.' Next question. In your opinion what is the future forecast for fundraising with NCAA programs.
RH: As much financial uncertainty as there is in our country, the great thing about our industry is the “passion.” If you put a handful of football supporters of a specific program in a room together, you can cut the passion in the air with a knife. Everyone wants to see their team be on top. In today’s world, this comes down to one thing, recruiting. Unfortunately, to recruit the best kids, facilities do come into play. If you visit the best programs in the country, they have tremendous facilities. This helps the coaches recruit. If the coaches recruit, they will win. Having the best facilities, unfortunately comes down to money. We are excited about the future of college athletics. Coaches and players get up every day working on the x’s and o’s. That’s their passion. We are impacting programs everyday by making it easier for supporters to help their schools and teams. With our background and expertise finding solutions to achieve everything from facilities to annual giving to booster clubs is why we get up every morning. This is our passion!
LD: Rick, Thanks very much for sharing these insights and your passion as well. Certainly we are living through challenging times. These challenges require truly creative solutions. Goal Line Philanthropy sounds like it is well positioned to help schools get creative. We have to get you introduced to our friends atop Mt. St. James. Thanks again for taking the time.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I have no business interest or affiliation with Rick or Goal Line Philanthropy. I just thought those who are passionate about Holy Cross in general and Holy Cross Football specifically may care to hear from an individual such as Rick.
Larry Doyle
Chairman
Holy Cross Gridiron Leadership Council
Rick was gracious enough to answer some questions. We are happy to provide his insights here at Chu Chu Rah Rah.
LD: What is the current climate like from a fundraising perspective in regard to NCAA Football programs?
RH: The biggest issue currently across all non-profits, not only NCAA programs, is the fear of parting with assets. With lots of uncertainty with tax laws, personal portfolios and businesses, there is a reluctance to part with assets.
Another issue is the annual pressure on programs to fulfill the balance of the budget not covered by the university’s budgeted amount. Programs are trying to connect with supporters by offering tickets, parking, etc to make it easier for them to grasp the idea of giving a gift and parting with their assets. While Retention rates are on the rise, the sizes of gifts are in decline. However let’s not forget that supporters have a unique passion for their respective sport. Football guys will probably give to football before they give an unrestricted gift to the university.
LD: In your opinion what is the impact of dedicated fundraising programs on the coaches and players?
RH: Nowadays, coaches spend half the off-season recruiting and half the time fundraising. One coach told me that lately his friends and supporters walk away when he walks into a room or social event, “they know I am going to ask for money.” Think about the pressure on today's coaches. While the emphasis within recruiting is on the relationship, facilities play a huge part.
These are 18 year old kids, they look at the facilities and how they compare to other schools. If your facilities are not up to par with your competition, your coach needs to sell the relationship component even more. Knowing that our unique fundraising initiatives can address many financial needs such as editing systems, recruiting budgets, planes,or even scholarships, takes the pressure off a coaching staff so they can do what they were hired to do....recruit good kids and win.
LD: What separates your company from all others?
RH: With 26 years of college football coaching experience at the senior level of our staff and by working with some of the largest programs in the country, we know the frustrations of all athletic department members and coaches. We also know that the relationship with the athletic department supporter base is far more important than anything else. We have developed and managed these same types of relationships as you. We understand what the coach needs, what the athletic department needs and also, what the supporter needs.
LD: How does your company execute these gifts?
RH: We use a variety of different ways to connect with supporters, but one particular strategy that we specialize in is a perfect fit for NCAA athletic programs. Making it easy for a supporter to give is our primary goal, by not only making it productive for them, but efficient as well. We want the supporter to be able to impact the program in many different ways. At the same time we need to help them with the financial side of the decision and make it “painless” for them to give.
LD: What separates this strategy from all others?
RH: Well, we understand the need for larger capital gifts for facilities and renovations but we also know the importance of the annual gift to the program’s booster club. This strategy allows the supporter to take advantage of both with one strategy.
We are engaged with a large state university that is in the midst of a facilities renovation project. Of course, the school has naming opportunities for the project. Our strategy can allow someone to take advantage of a naming opportunity now while they're alive and also fund a certain amount annually to the booster club as well. This in some cases could secure season tickets, parking passes, club box passes, endow a scholarship, etc. Previously we would have asked a supporter to part with money to help with the renovation project and then part with money on an annual basis to the club. With us they do not part with the asset at all.
LD: How can this strategy also be used to enhance the yearly line item stress that our football program has handled in the past?
RH: Our number one goal is to take the pressure off the program to cover the annual expenses. For the athletic director or the head coach to know that a certain amount is always accounted for, they can expand their attention to other projects. They will be more productive, efficient and impactful. They will be better positioned to win 'on and off the field.'
LD: Rick, you're talking our language. The HCGLC's mission is to do exactly that...help Holy Cross football win 'on and off the field.' Next question. In your opinion what is the future forecast for fundraising with NCAA programs.
RH: As much financial uncertainty as there is in our country, the great thing about our industry is the “passion.” If you put a handful of football supporters of a specific program in a room together, you can cut the passion in the air with a knife. Everyone wants to see their team be on top. In today’s world, this comes down to one thing, recruiting. Unfortunately, to recruit the best kids, facilities do come into play. If you visit the best programs in the country, they have tremendous facilities. This helps the coaches recruit. If the coaches recruit, they will win. Having the best facilities, unfortunately comes down to money. We are excited about the future of college athletics. Coaches and players get up every day working on the x’s and o’s. That’s their passion. We are impacting programs everyday by making it easier for supporters to help their schools and teams. With our background and expertise finding solutions to achieve everything from facilities to annual giving to booster clubs is why we get up every morning. This is our passion!
LD: Rick, Thanks very much for sharing these insights and your passion as well. Certainly we are living through challenging times. These challenges require truly creative solutions. Goal Line Philanthropy sounds like it is well positioned to help schools get creative. We have to get you introduced to our friends atop Mt. St. James. Thanks again for taking the time.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I have no business interest or affiliation with Rick or Goal Line Philanthropy. I just thought those who are passionate about Holy Cross in general and Holy Cross Football specifically may care to hear from an individual such as Rick.
Larry Doyle
Chairman
Holy Cross Gridiron Leadership Council
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