Highlights of Dinich Interview With James Franklin
Not long ago I posted about how things were going to slow down a bit, and then I come across an interview on ESPN.com with Heather Dinich and James Franklin. This will just be a quick summary for those of you who don’t have the time to go out and read everything Terps related on the web.
She asked how things were going this year compared to last year. Basically Franklin said everyone was on the same page and knows the system. He is also very excited to Chris Turner returning at quarterback. The next question she asked Franklin was about being named Head Coach in Waiting. He said it has taken the questions about Friedgen retiring out of recruiting. He said everyone knows his contract status, and now it is kind of a non-issue. Then she asked about Chris Turner. Franklin said he is so much ahead of where he was last year, and is very comfortable with the system. He really feels like it is second nature and more of a review of stuff he already knew. Franklin also said he would rather be young at O-line than quarterback. I can see his philosophy on that, but Turner is liable to get killed! Franklin really thinks Turner is stronger, and making quicker throws this spring so far, and is a result of knowing the system.
Dinich’s next question was about losing Heyward-Bey. Franklin is really excited. Even though the Terps lost Heyward-Bey, Isaiah Williams, and Danny Oquendo, these guys really played a lot last year. Very excited about Ronnie Tyler, Amani Lee-Odai and Torrey Smith. He thinks they just need to get used to being “the” guys. Sticking with the wide receivers, she asked about Kevin Dorsey. Franklin spoke very highly of his physical skills. He has been nicked up with an injury similar to turf-toe and he is not quite 100% yet, but he still has been impressive. The last big question was about the offensive line, and center. Franklin seems very comfortable having Phil Costa at center. Though he didn’t play a lot, he got some time, and always practiced well. The big problem will be if Costa goes down, as there really isn’t a backup for him. It is really the other positions he is more concerned about players stepping up. Franklin is looking for some of the younger players to really play a big part this year. It sounds like the two deep for the line is going to be littered with sophomores and redshirt freshman.
Like I said, it is a very good Q and A. If you have time check it out, but I know some of our readers don’t have time to go everywhere and like coming here to get the Cliff’s Notes version. Go Terps!
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April 9th, 2009 at 6:10 am
I agree about the WR”s. I think that is what makes it easier to lose DHB, the fact that we have all these young guys. I’m interested to see which ones will step up, even with the loss of of HeyBey, I think WR”s is an area of strength.
April 9th, 2009 at 7:29 am
Torrie Smith looks like he will be the man. Ronnie Tyler made some big plays last year so I expect him to excel this year too. We should be really good at running back. I just hope that young line can block.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:25 am
The line is going to make or break this season. The other thing is the Corners. Everything you hear is about pressure D, and the corners being out there all alone. There is no doubt we are going to give up some big plays, but if the line/linebackers can pressure the QB, it will be a big help.