Did anyone get a chance to listen to the Coach Banny radio show last evening? I did not. If you did, let us know what was said.
I took some time to listen to it and wanted to share some of the highlights. Can't say that I'm overly optimistic, especially with the offensive line:
GENERAL
- Banaszak is sick of losing to Dayton. Heh. Aren't we all?
- He noted it's been seven years since an NEC title for RMU and that the program needs to be competitive in the league again.
- Sounds like injuries are an issue again.
- Thinks the freshmen are the best class they've had at RMU and that a bunch of them will play early on, not just because of need but because they're the most talented.
- RMU will now be on the opposite sideline at Joe Walton Stadium. The visitors will be closer to the crowd while RMU is on the open end of the field. Banaszak said it's to try to limit noise and distractions, especially for his offense.
- Joked that it gives the Colonial Crazies a chance to get up close and personal with the opposing team.
OFFENSE
- Jimmy Walker is indeed the starter at QB. Banaszak said he was just a little bit ahead of Matt Barr after a good competition. Chase Bodeman and George Martin will back up. So technically three QBs, but...
- ...Banaszak said that if Walker were to get hurt for an extended period, Barr would probably move back to QB. Sounds like they're willing to let Barr play because he can help, but he's technically the No. 2.
- Barr volunteered to move to WR. Felt he could help the team. Banaszak said it was a great reflection of Barr willing to be a good teammate and that his size could be an advantage. Andrew Romanchak is also at WR.
- Harrison Dreher is suspended for the first game but Banaszak is high on his potential.
- Cole Blake and T.J. Neal will split carries against Dayton. Sounds like Jonathan Wanat will get some reps as a bigger back. Matt Holmes could play as a freshman as a fullback and tight end.
- Tim Vecchio had a hamstring injury early on but should be good to go. Warren Robinson had a really good game, according to Banaszak. DeLano Madison and Eldin Anu have had good camps, too. Also likes freshmen Zacchaeus Humphrey and Tavin Allison.
- Banaszak said Matt Gonzalez might have had the best camp out of anyone at TE. Dalton Elliott has a lot of promise but is still a bit green.
- Eric McAllister is the starting center. Matt Fennell and Rene Rodriguez have had competition and Banaszak said he won't hesitate to play a freshman in front of them if the freshman is better. Connor Mundy is back practicing (I think someone here said he had a concussion). Also mentioned Trevor Hicks, John Sheldon, Bussy Remaley and Dylan Young.
- Thought it was interesting he didn't mention the two JuCo linemen - Tyler Knight and Patrick Banning. You'd think they'd be more advanced. Don't know if they're hurt or just not clicking.
DEFENSE
- Andy Smigiera may be out for a bit early on. He may need hernia surgery but that's not for sure. That said, Banaszak likes the depth. Besides likely starters Ryan Richards, Travon Stott and Drew Allen, he singled out Myles Canton, John Muehlbauer and Heavon Price.
- Gee Stanley will be out for academic reasons early on.
- Sounds like Gerald Ferguson, Adam Wollet, Joe Uhatafe and Tyler Lamica at linebacker. Did mention they're a little banged up. Also mentioned Frank Antuono and David Steele
- Waiting on whether Mike Lamb will make transition to defensive line. Tore a triceps muscle putting his jersey on in first week.
- Amir Fenwick and Chris Stanford having "tremendous" camps. Also hyped up Derian Smith. Zack Zamiska is recovering from offseason shoulder surgery but should be ready for Dayton. Izon Pulley and Greg Rose should be part of the rotation.
- Really wants to be able to redshirt some freshmen. Can't be forced to play some because of injuries.
SPECIAL TEAMS
- Banaszak is still coaching special teams. Even does the scouting report himself. Leaves Farison and Miller to handle their sides of the ball.
- Frank Antuono will be the long-snapper.
- Adam Check has become more consistent with his punting.
- Freshman Nick Bisceglia will be the placekicker. Banaszak said he has a tremendous leg and could be a fixture for four years.
