SI ranks SMU 110 out of 117

[jtstang]

This new "wide open" offense won't mean diddly if our quarterback doesn't have time to throw.

This is true, but if you limit the plays to quick timing routes and slants and the like, it might be fun to watch. The Run and Shoot was a desperation offense back in the initial post-DP years, but it was fun to watch when it was moving the ball.

[EastStang]

Also Phillips and Romo should be able to run out of trouble which might turn positive into negative. With four receivers and a back and tight end releasing out on each play, the other team won't be able to just key on the quarterback they will have to chase these guys. And the one back should hold the linebackers to a degree on play actions.

[stentman]

SMU WILL be better this year. The Mustangs are obviously not a bowl team yet but stay tuned. As far as "15 seconds on ESPN" are concerned, rest assured those days are coming. One of the reasons Greg Taussig chose SMU over Vanderbilt was because of the encouragement of friend Lee Corso who feels the program is definitely on the rise under the guidance of Phil Bennett.

[PerunaPunch]

Our QBs took a lot of heat because they stunk up the place last year. Bartel, with all the arm in the world, couldn't (or wouldn't) hit a barn door. Wallis, a great kid and a good ball player isn't a QB. The only lift at QB we got last year was from Philips when he stepped in as a true frosh (for goodness sakes). So you can't lay all the blame on last year's OL. They, and poor KK, didn't get much help.

Back to the SI article: No offense intended to our secondary, but they're not this team's strength. In fact, almost every unit we have is as deep (or deeper) and has as much talent. IMHO, I'd rank them like this.

1. Interior DL: stockpiled with players like Adami, Jones and Bonds. Studs in the making like Berry, Mouton and Pryor.
2. LBs: If Carrington didn't get hurt, we'd be as deep here as at interior DL
3. Running Backs: Munlin, Massey, Brown, Dorsey. Nuff said? Well howabout newcomers Henderson, Martin and McKinney?
4. OL: We've got players and depth now.
5. DBs: Bennett says that for the first time we have enough quality and depth to run his defensive scheme.
6. DEs: A little thin with Melvin Williams being the only proven veteran. Muse, Bey and Horton are as yet unproven.
7. QBs: Jury is still out
8. WRs: Lots of bodies, lots of athleticism, but no standout receivers... yet.

The guys who write for SI are just coming up with this crap from each team's media guide. I doubt they even talked to our coaches.

[jtstang]

One of the reasons Greg Taussig chose SMU over Vanderbilt was because of the encouragement of friend Lee Corso who feels the program is definitely on the rise under the guidance of Phil Bennett.

Who's that?

[abezontar]

Lee Corso? He's that guy that makes all the stupid comments on NCAA 2005 on PS2

[The PonyGrad]

Needing to grow up fast and operating in a new system is not a recipe for winning the Tech game. We may see a lot of learning going on. Hopefully we will be able to stand the pain for a few games and reap rewards later in the season.

[gostangs]

I thought Berry and Pryor are now thought of as ends - is that not the case? - Berry played end at the Red Blue last Spring I thought.