Size matters

[Casey]

OK, maybe that was a cheap ploy to get attention. However, it plays into SMU's 2004 recruiting. With so few scholarships (are we still sitting on 9 for next February?), the coaches have to be very specific in filling their needs, in my opinion. Therefore, here's a new list of what I'd like to see the Ponies sign next year, but four of the positions have definite size requirements:

2 defensive tackles - big ones
2 offensive linemen - big ones
1 wide receiver - big
1 safety - big

Beyond that, I'd say go for talent, potential and productivity over no-exceptions size:

1 tight end
1 running back
1 linebacker

What do you think?

[50's PONY]

I'll let the coaches decide -- plus we will have closer to 15!

[Buddha]

I hope you're right, 50's, but if we're specifying positions that need size, as well as talent, I'd add tight end to the list. There are rumblings that Ryan Kennedy might one day move inside to play on the offensive line, which would leave us seriously strapped at tight end.

[PonyFan]

There is some size already at WR on the SMU roster. Jay Taylor is 6-4, and Reynaldo Pellerin and James Elliott are both 6-3. I'd say a WR with great talent can override the need for simply a big body at the position.

[Corso]

Not so fast, my friend! (hadn't included that in a while.)

Those receivers you mention are big, but Jay Taylor has not yet fulfilled his potential, and we don't know anything about James Elliott and Reynaldo Pellerin. Elliott redshirted last year and Pellerin is a true freshman, who I imagine the coaches would like to redshirt this year. So until we know that we have a stable of big receivers who also are productive, I'd say a big WR or two should remain a priority.

[Horseshoe]

And Cedric Vinson (5-11, 200) isn't overly tall, but he uses his size well to sheild defenders from the ball. I see him cracking the regular rotation this year.