Leaderboard

Thank you, thank you. I credit my fanatical zeal for basketball and love of testicle-related linguistic trivia. And all the little people who made it possible. Looking at the Members section... I'm locked in a dogfight with KingDL1 for highest overall reputation. It's an honor to be up there with him. Though I'm amazed he hasn't gotten more -1's, considering all the terrible things he's said about your mothers. Awful, vulgar things... But I'm sure you all have your reasons for supporting him. If you all can get past the fact that he hates America and all that we stand for, and that he killed your childhood pets... Who am I to question the wisdom of such a fine group of people? I salute your forgiving natures.

Now to be clear that was a large sock full of soda cans, and well she double dipped what was I supposed to do?

Now do I get blackballed also? Will it help if I invite everyone to tailgate with me? I have cheesy balls.

We can debate this all we want, but this situation is far clearer than most any other position on the field. Say we assume that Canales will have as much control as any offensive coordinator reasonably would.... okay, then, as others stated before me, it's awfully clear that Riley is awfully similar in style to Matt Groethe, Canales' most successful QB. On top of that, Riley has three more years in the system, seemingly being a better choice as far as laying the foundation for the future. Hell, while we're at it, Riley has more experience at the collegiate level and more experience working with this line and these WRs... which I don't think even matters, considering Canales' stylistic leanings and Riley's eligibility. Now, let's consider that Dodge is making all the final decsisions as the head coach and still basically running the show. If Dodge so much as has a little veto power on any of Canales' decisions, there isn't any question Riley will play. Basically, this isn't an issue. IIf you like Nathan Tune's ability, be thankful we have a solid backup. Because like it or not, that's what he'll be - no matter what. And there's little doubt Riley gets injured next year, so we'll need him dearly, regardless of what the depth chart says.

Just a quick recap : Orr was pretty much the key to the class. TD expects him to play as a freshman. Hawkins could see time at TE until he fully develops into a LT. JUCO WR Chris Bynes , has been committed since last summer , TD was scared he wasn't going to hold on to him. JUCO S Jamison Hughes committed to Ole Miss coming out of high school. Last sign of the day JUCO DB D'Andre Wood , signed with UNC out of HS

My Top 5 Favorite Captians : 1> Lou Albano 2> Morgan 3> Kangaroo 4> Tasty 5> Crunch You are in good company my friend

D'Andre Wood from New Mexico Military Institute. Player Page

If so, I call 5 hole.

I'll tell you...DAMN good football they have there in South Carolina. I mean, you could be ranked the 15TH BEST ATHLETE IN THE NATION...but only be ranked 36th in the state. Wow...WOW!!!

No disrespect to Coach Ford but, you just did not hear the X's and O's speak from Ford that Coach Canales launched into during the chat session this morning. Coach Canales knows his stuff and it fired me up! NatureBoy (Rick)

I've always thought that this young man had a LOT of potential. I really want him to succeed. And if this is where he can help NT the most, and if this is where he might be able to play pro football, then forgodsakes KEEP HIM THERE. And forgodsakes someone needs to start throwing the ball to him in the off season.

....only if everyone here at North Texas believes the same thing....and keeps believing it.

They can talk about going I-A all they want.... until the NCAA lifts the moratorium, they're not budging. *IF* the NCAA unfreezes divisional moves, you can bet they will keep a tight leash and raise the requirements to make the move up. There are many FCS schools that want to move up, not just UTSA and TSU.

The recruiting services are for athletes what SATs are for students: A useless means to determine whether any individual will actually succeed, but a pretty reliable indicator for the potential for success. They get those marks for measurable ability, but once they get to campus, they gotta work their butts off to make something of themselves, regardless of those evaluations. It's still a roll of the dice on any individual case, but you are hedging your bets with a higher rating that things will pan out. That said, there's nothing more rewarding, as a fan, to see some underrated kid come in, hit the weights/books, knock heads on the field/in class, and come out on top.

One note of warning for anyone who's considering tailgating with KingDL1- I once saw him beat an elderly woman to death with a sock full of double-A batteries. I'm sure he had a good reason, though. No need to let it bias your opinions of him.

What the hell did I walk into? Wow I will just hide now .

Well, he's NOT like the token black 4th or native american 5th Centurions that they brought in after the first series of episodes. Am I saying King DL1 is racist against minority Centurions? I would never make that sort of accusation. I'm just pointing out facts. I leave it to you fine, wise people to draw your own conclusions. Also, I actually had (and almost certainly still have, boxed up somewhere at my parents' house) a blue Centurion jumpsuit that was part of one of the greatest Halloween costumes I've ever had in my life. So if you're basing your rankings on Centurions-related associations... I think I'm the logical choice. And if I had any +1s to give (not sure what's going on... I don't remember ranking anyone all day), you'd have gotten one for the Centurions reference. Bonus points if you can somehow tie this situation into MASK.

That USA team was the culmination of John Pelphy's recruiting strategy of bringing in as many division 1 transfers as possible so that he could move up in the coaching world...which he did with a tourney appearance the year before. 6 of the team's top 8 scorers we D-1 transfers...the other 2 were JUCOs. In this case, it panned out...however that is a huge risk and rarely leads to long term success. The next year USA went 10-8 in conference (though to be fair they had a nice run through the tourney and made the final)...this year they're currently 4-7. As has been thoroughly explained by Tasty...we're on a similar path of a Butler or Gonzaga, schools with little to no history of basketball success who have built winning programs over the past 25 years, and at a quicker pace. Our 2 year tourney absence has seen our conference mates earn an at-large, make the sweet 16 and miss a second sweet 16 due to a buzzer-beater...lets give them a little bit of credit. I understand how high expectations were for this season...but there is absolutly no discounting the 2 major and myriad of minor injuries this team has suffered. DJ's injury forces our best scorer to play out of position and pushes a likely redshirt candidate on to the floor early. Hogans' injury means extended minutes for a talented, but raw freshman. With all of that, we've lost only 2 games (Boise and FIU) we shouldn't have.

The real reason Nathan Tune should start... he is really good at fake guitar. I'd like to see Riley do this!

My thinking exactly. Any "analysis" of Riley Dodge that fails to consider his running ability certainly doesn't tell the whole story.

I thought he was one of our more effective DT's...

The Chat Room

Matt. 7:7 So far . . . 7:58 Steven B: morning everyone Wednesday February 3, 2010 7:58 Steven B 7:59 Kenny: Everyone got their laptops and donuts ready? We sure do! Wednesday February 3, 2010 7:59 Kenny 7:59 Steven B: big day today, its national signing day for all high school kids. Wednesday February 3, 2010 7:59 Steven B 7:59 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] I can't believe im awake and on here without a energy drink yet... I must be a loser or a meangreen fan...maybe a bit of both Wednesday February 3, 2010 7:59 NT03 7:59 Steven B: you are both sir! Wednesday February 3, 2010 7:59 Steven B 8:00 Steven B: i went with whataburger, forget those energy drinks, they flame out in about 2 hours Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:00 Steven B 8:00 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] It's a GREAT DAY to be a part of the Mean Green Nation! GO MEAN GREEN! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:00 Guest 8:00 Steven B: Well I'm looking at the list of the names to be unveiled as we wait for the fax machine to start humming Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:00 Steven B 8:01 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] I believe so Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:01 NT03 8:02 [Comment From Jim Jim : ] When I look at Rivals .com they list 15 recruits. How many recruits do we expect to sign this year. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:02 Jim 8:02 Steven B: well the list i'm looking at has 22 names. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:02 Steven B 8:02 [Comment From Kram1 Kram1 : ] Hello NT03...Kram1 here...great to see you this morning...GO MEAN GREEN! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:02 Kram1 8:03 Steven B: not going to give out names, but i'm looking at 12 defense, 9 offense, and 1 special teams guy Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:03 Steven B 8:03 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] So Pourhouse 430 today ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:03 NT03 8:03 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] How many signees are we expecting in this class? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:03 Guest 8:03 Steven B: pourhouse at 430 is correct, 530 is when TD begins talking about the class Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:03 Steven B 8:03 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Likewise , GMG. I cant stay long I have a doc appt at 900 Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:03 NT03 8:04 [Comment From Fidel Fidel : ] Hey guys. Can't wait to see who joins Mean Green Nation! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:04 Fidel 8:04 [Comment From untcampbell untcampbell : ] Might we not hear from all 22 today? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:04 untcampbell 8:04 Steven B: i wouldn't think so, as long as they have the right fax number...... Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:04 Steven B 8:04 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Hoping to see some nice surprises fax in LOI's today! Go Mean Green! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:04 MeanGreenTexan 8:04 Eric: Good Morning from Mean Green command central. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:04 Eric 8:05 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Do u have names that are not listed my rivals or scouts ? Maybe someone we don't know about ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:05 NT03 8:05 Steven B: there are some names that weren't on scout or rivals Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:05 Steven B 8:05 Steven B: names that weren't showing up on the NT list of recruits that is Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:05 Steven B 8:06 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] What names are the two "Mystery unknown recruits" Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:06 Guest 8:06 Steven B: ahh there seven "mystery" names. I'll be honest, my head has been in the clouds due to basketball but I haven't been able to keep up with the rivals or scout lists so I'm not positive who the mystery names are Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:06 Steven B 8:07 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Will Coach Chico be at the Pourhouse ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:07 NT03 8:07 Stephen Howard: How many SID's does it take to run a signing day chat? Four ... apparently Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:07 Stephen Howard 8:07 Steven B: uh not sure, but I did pass him in the hall way a minute ago. I'm going to try and get him on here later this morning Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:07 Steven B 8:07 Steven B: make that 5, one is dialed in from the road. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:07 Steven B 8:07 [Comment From CJE CJE : ] I saw we've signed the QB from Odessa Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:07 CJE 8:07 [Comment From Jim Jim : ] Early reports show 7 three star recruits. How many three star recruits have we had in past years? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:07 Jim 8:08 Stephen Howard: As soon as we get the faxes in from the kids, you will know about it right here, guys Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:08 Stephen Howard 8:08 [Comment From LongJim LongJim : ] Fax should be heating up...! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:08 LongJim 8:09 Steven B: i'm printing off the rivals "3 star" recruit list as we speak, but I don't put too much stock into the who "star" rating system. I think alot of that is based on who's recruiting you. So say if Mack Brown accidentally dials a kids name, that gets out, and BAM, he's a four-star recruit. Todd Dodge calls you, your "star" rating is just a two or three. Never understood that. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:09 Steven B 8:09 [Comment From KRAM! KRAM! : ] Will the 1PM news cast--be right here on Mean Green Sports? Will be good to hwear what Coach Dodge has to say. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:09 KRAM! 8:09 Steven B: it will be, live and free Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:09 Steven B 8:09 [Comment From CBL CBL : ] Steven, do you expect that we will be happily surprised, rather indifferent or mildly irate with the names you have and we don't Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:09 CBL 8:10 Steven B: I always expect there to be some irate fans, its the MG nation!....I do however expect some suprised looks on y'alls faces though Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:10 Steven B 8:10 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] I hope there is a Booger clone somewhere on that list Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:10 NT03 8:10 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] this is like Christmas Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:10 NT03 8:10 [Comment From Fidel Fidel : ] Do you know if Riley has been hitting the weight room? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:10 Fidel 8:11 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] CBL won't be happy unless we sign someone from the east coast !! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:11 NT03 8:11 Eric: I hope all of you will have a chance to stay tuned to this chat throughout the morning as we will have many special guests stopping by. Look for head football coach Todd Dodge as well as defensive coordinator Gary DeLoach and offensive coordinator Mike Canales. Have your questions ready. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:11 Eric 8:11 Steven B: i saw Riley yesterday when I met Coach Canales, he was in with him. Looks a little bigger, but he's got a new hair do working. Must have changed it for a girl Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:11 Steven B 8:11 [Comment From Fidel Fidel : ] Where'd you see that CJE? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:11 Fidel 8:11 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] I hope he's at the Pourhouse, that would be a great time/place to hear from him...coach Canales that is. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:11 MeanGreenTexan 8:12 Steven B: not sure if he's going to make it out to the pourhouse or not, but I'm promise I'm working him over to get him on the chat later this morning Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:12 Steven B 8:12 [Comment From Metko Metko : ] Greetings from North Dakota boys! Here's hoping for a great day, will be watching throughout my work day to see who we get. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:12 Metko 8:12 Stephen Howard: Good morning Jason, what's the weather like in North Dakota this morning? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:12 Stephen Howard 8:13 Ryan: Good morning from Norman, Okla. everyone! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:13 Ryan 8:13 Steven B: ahhh the great Metko, good to hear from you. Its cold and rainy here, I shouldn't complain though considering what your going through I bet Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:13 Steven B 8:13 [Comment From LongJim LongJim : ] Big day for the MG Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:13 LongJim 8:13 [Comment From Charlie Charlie : ] Hey guys- I have a private request. Last year, on this blog, someone stole my Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:13 Charlie 8:14 Steven B: Sorry charlie! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:14 Steven B 8:14 [Comment From Metko Metko : ] 5 degrees above and Sunny. Love this climate! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:14 Metko 8:14 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Kids like to sleep in Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:14 NT03 8:14 Steven B: okay, the first fax is in.....and the winner is Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:14 Steven B 8:14 [Comment From Sean H Sean H : ] Make sure you don't run out of paper! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:14 Sean H 8:14 [Comment From CBL CBL : ] If CJE is right and we have a QB coming in from Odessa I bet its this guy:http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Derrick-Teegarden-97282 Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:14 CBL 8:14 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Good morning guys... I noticed we didnt get verbals from Southlake like we do most years? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:14 Medpilot21 8:15 Steven B: no and I'll go ahead and tell you there aren't any names from Southlake on my list Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:15 Steven B 8:15 [Comment From CBL CBL : ] an east coast guy who looks to pass first and shoot second maybe Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:15 CBL 8:15 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Any chance that Javia Hall changes his mind last minute a-la John Shorter a few years ago switching from UNT to Tulsa, then back to UNT on signing day?? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:15 MeanGreenTexan 8:16 Steven B: don't count on it Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:16 Steven B 8:16 Stephen Howard: And our first signee of 2010 is .......... Zach Orr, a linebacker from DeSoto, Texas Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:16 Stephen Howard 8:16 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] How many have signed on to watch this blog Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:16 OldTimer 8:16 Steven B: number two is in, Will Wright from South Garland Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:16 Steven B 8:17 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Good morning guys... No Southlake Carroll player recruits targeted this year? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:17 Medpilot21 8:17 Steven B: i wouldn't say that, but there are no kids from Carroll signing today, at least with the Mean Green Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:17 Steven B 8:17 Eric: OldTimer - right now we are at 41 guests on the chat. I expect that number will increase in the next hour or so. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:17 Eric 8:17 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] They would leave anyways Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:17 NT03 8:17 [Comment From CJE CJE : ] You're right CBL! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:17 CJE 8:17 Steven B: haha, well some have, some haven't Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:17 Steven B 8:18 Stephen Howard: Orr had a monster 2008 season - 5A All-State selection - and was a 3-star recruit according to Rivals. He made 157 tackles, 24 tackles for loss as a junior, but ended up getting hurt early in his senior year. This kid is big time, and we were able to sneak in and get him Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:18 Stephen Howard 8:18 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Thanks.. disregard the second text. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:18 Medpilot21 8:18 [Comment From CBL CBL : ] Beautiful...our best signee (that we know of) is the first to send in his LIO Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:18 CBL 8:18 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] I was worried about Orr...getting late attention from other schools... Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:18 OldTimer 8:18 [Comment From UNTBowler UNTBowler : ] nice to see to Defensive Hawks come in first. Nice pick-ups Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:18 UNTBowler 8:18 Steven B: Orr is a kids with a great background and give the assist to Clayton George on that signee Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:18 Steven B 8:18 [Comment From Mo Green Mo Green : ] How many defensive linemen are on the expected list? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:18 Mo Green 8:19 [Comment From CJE CJE : ] I should've said the QB from Odessa has committed, not signed yet Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:19 CJE 8:19 [Comment From KRAM! KRAM! : ] OK...no negativity on this chat...it's all good today! Go Mean Green! Ha! :-) Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:19 KRAM! 8:19 [Comment From mgsteve mgsteve : ] glad orr is in Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:19 mgsteve 8:19 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] I believe Desoto is having signing day @ 8 am with all their recruits Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:19 NT03 8:19 Steven B: three, but we had an interesting talk with DeLoach yesterday, he's expecting alot of the improvement this season in the D-line to come from within. I kind of agree with him. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:19 Steven B 8:19 Stephen Howard: Orr did get late attention from other school, because he is a monster. The Ticket was talking about this kid on the radio this morning as a steal for the Mean Green! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:19 Stephen Howard 8:19 [Comment From UNT_Flyer UNT_Flyer : ] Has the secret recruit signed yet? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:19 UNT_Flyer 8:20 Steven B: that's a secret Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:20 Steven B 8:20 [Comment From LongJim LongJim : ] GREAT that Orr is in. Nice pickup at LB. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:20 LongJim 8:20 [Comment From MeanGreenSig MeanGreenSig : ] Morning! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:20 MeanGreenSig 8:20 Steven B: morning to you, action is picking up, 2 out of 22 names have signed. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:20 Steven B 8:21 Kenny: Here is Rivals bio on Zach Orr: http://rivals.yahoo.com/louisianatech/football/recruiting/player-Zach-Orr-93786 Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:21 Kenny 8:21 Steven B: what the heck, louisiana tech football? What are you doing Kenny? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:21 Steven B 8:22 Kenny: Hey that's some good news! We stole him, haha Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:22 Kenny 8:22 Ryan: LaTech page with a Mean Green Logo at the top. It passes for me! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:22 Ryan 8:22 Kenny: Also here's the scoop on Will Wright: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Will-Wright%20Jr.-102273 Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:22 Kenny 8:22 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Son of Terry Orr who played for the best team ever , THE WASHINGTON REDSKINS !!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:22 NT03 8:22 Steven B: Special guest Gary DeLoach in the house Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:22 Steven B 8:23 Stephen Howard: "We're gonna play him at MIKE linebacker and he will have his shot at competing for the starting job right off the bat." - That's what I like to hear from D-LO! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:23 Stephen Howard 8:23 Steven B: From the lips of Gary D talking about Orr "I expect him to be a good football player, a good tackler and his dad played at Texas as everyone knows, I think we are very fortunate to get him here" Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:23 Steven B 8:23 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Good morning Coach DeLoach! Looking for some help on defense??? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:23 Medpilot21 8:23 Steven B: "Of course we are, as much as we can get!!!!" Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:23 Steven B 8:24 Stephen Howard: I really just think D-Lo was looking for the donuts on the desk here in the defensive war room! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:24 Stephen Howard 8:24 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Hey Coach!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:24 MeanGreenTexan 8:24 Kenny: We better eat them while we can Stephen Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:24 Kenny 8:24 [Comment From KRAM! KRAM! : ] Coach DeLoach...where do you expect to see the most "internal" improvement from the D this season? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:24 KRAM! 8:25 Steven B: Sorry, D-Lo just stepped out, we are in his conference room. He did say he's coming back in a little bit. We are going to hold him down and let you guys fire off the questions next time. He's pretty amped up though and keeps going to the fax machine every 30 seconds Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:25 Steven B 8:25 Stephen Howard: I hate this waiting around between recruit faxes. It can be so nerve wracking. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:25 Stephen Howard 8:26 Ryan: I bet it's better with donuts though Stephen! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:26 Ryan 8:26 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] What can you tell us about the juco guys that you picked up earlier in the year? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:26 MeanGreenTexan 8:26 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] Is the 22 names on your list in addition to the 5 JC LOI"s signed earlier? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:26 OldTimer 8:27 Steven B: no, they are included on the list of 22 names. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:27 Steven B 8:27 [Comment From UNTBowler UNTBowler : ] We need to get back some of the nastiness from the Bowl Team Defensives, guys who just wanted to hit someone, not just bump them out of bounds Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:27 UNTBowler 8:27 [Comment From KingDL1 KingDL1 : ] Great Kram1 chase the coach off Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:27 KingDL1 8:27 Steven B: agreed, that's what D-Lo wants to, mean nasty dudes Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:27 Steven B 8:27 [Comment From UNT_Flyer UNT_Flyer : ] Well, hey guys... if you are queing up questions for the coaches, I'd really like to know how big of a factor stadium construction has had on the recruiting strategy this year Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:27 UNT_Flyer 8:28 Steven B: heck of a question, I gotta think that was a huge recruiting chip they used. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:28 Steven B 8:28 Stephen Howard: He'll be back, we promise ... It's tough to hold coach Deloach down on a day like this. He's a spark plug normally, but he's acting like a little kid who just snuck into the candy jar! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:28 Stephen Howard 8:28 [Comment From KRAM! KRAM! : ] Amen to that! We need some real nastiness on defense...a real hit first and ask questions second bunch! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:28 KRAM! 8:28 [Comment From JoeH JoeH : ] Good question Flyer Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:28 JoeH 8:29 Steven B: hang on everyone, I think we've got Lefty in here for some questions Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:29 Steven B 8:30 Coach Leftwich: morning everyone Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:30 Coach Leftwich 8:30 [Comment From LongJim LongJim : ] If Orr hits like his daddy did, he will tear some people's heads off... Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:30 LongJim 8:30 Coach Leftwich: "As far as the stadium goes, its a huge tool, people can actually see it, our two weekends in january dirt was being moved and it was a big decision for a couple of these guys Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:30 Coach Leftwich 8:30 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Good moring Coach..So what's the scoop on Mason YBaro? 6-2, 300? Project or contributor in 2010? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:30 Medpilot21 8:31 [Comment From Mo Green Mo Green : ] Coach L how are the kids doing in the weight room Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:31 Mo Green 8:31 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] If we have22 signees, 5 from mid-term that leaves 17 ...we know of 11 so that means to me we have 6 unknowns to come in. GREAT Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:31 OldTimer 8:31 [Comment From JChap JChap : ] Cap.... Will you be at the pourhouse tonight?? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:31 JChap 8:31 Kenny: Medpilot...sorry but cant comment on kids that haven't signed yet Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:31 Kenny 8:31 Coach Leftwich: they are working hard in the room, its probably been the best month of january since we've been here. Coach Gahagan is working hard and the biggest thing is you can see some leadership in that room, which we haven't had before in the past Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:31 Coach Leftwich 8:31 Stephen Howard: Capper is running around the office right now, but I can guarantee that Capper will be at the Pourhouse later. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:31 Stephen Howard 8:32 [Comment From KRAM! KRAM! : ] Good morning Coach...where do you see the biggest area for internal improvement for 2010? Who do you think can and will really step up in 2010? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:32 KRAM! 8:33 [Comment From JChap JChap : ] He's acting like he's working then?? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:33 JChap 8:33 Stephen Howard: Let's tap the brakes there, JCap! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:33 Stephen Howard 8:33 Coach Leftwich: those are two tough ones. i think Kelvin Drake and Santiago along with Victor Gill Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:33 Coach Leftwich 8:34 Coach Leftwich: I think we have three guys who can replace Tyler Bailey. Coleman Feeley, Troy Franklin, and Fortenberry are all three guys who can step up and replace him Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:34 Coach Leftwich 8:34 [Comment From David David : ] Coach were do you see the most imporvement coming from in 2010. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:34 David 8:34 Stephen Howard: Wow, good to hear that we have tons of options at guard ... that's good news! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:34 Stephen Howard 8:34 [Comment From JChap JChap : ] haha..... I'm going to try and make it tonight Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:34 JChap 8:34 [Comment From KRAM! KRAM! : ] Great...thanks Coach Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:34 KRAM! 8:35 Coach Leftwich: "I think our team speed on offense, making plays, more explosive plays. Defensively we will have more speed and these five junior college players will bring alot of that speed. We are going to be able to put more people on the field this year that can run and help us out immediateley Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:35 Coach Leftwich 8:35 [Comment From Mo Green Mo Green : ] Who are the leaders in the O line Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:35 Mo Green 8:36 Coach Leftwich: Kelvin Drake, Santiago, and Victor Gill Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:36 Coach Leftwich 8:36 [Comment From Kevin Kevin : ] Coach Lefty: Do you see Matt Tomlinson playing Tackle or Guard this year? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:36 Kevin 8:37 Coach Leftwich: i think Tomlinson has proven to be a guy that can play, wherever that is. Right guard, right tackle, he's kinda of our "sixth man". He's got a chance to play though. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:37 Coach Leftwich 8:37 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Coach, how is it going getting to know our other acquisition this year, coach Canales? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:37 MeanGreenTexan 8:37 Coach Leftwich: great, super, the eagle has landed! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:37 Coach Leftwich 8:37 [Comment From Rick Herold Rick Herold : ] This is going to be a grand day for the Mean Green. My kuddos to all the Coaching Staff! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:37 Rick Herold 8:38 Steven B: lefty's gotta run everyone, he needs more coffee Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:38 Steven B 8:38 [Comment From UNT_Flyer UNT_Flyer : ] That's awesome Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:38 UNT_Flyer 8:38 [Comment From SilverEagle SilverEagle : ] Coach Leftwich, I was pleasantly surprised to see Fortenberry do so well....especially coming from a small school (Era). Any other small school surprises out there? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:38 SilverEagle 8:39 [Comment From Bruce Magallan Bruce Magallan : ] Should be a good day! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:39 Bruce Magallan 8:39 Steven B: the list i'm looking at, no Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:39 Steven B 8:39 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Good morning! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:39 Scott 8:40 Steven B: another one in......the signee with the most famous of fathers Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:40 Steven B 8:40 Stephen Howard: Did Burt Reynold's kid sign with us? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:40 Stephen Howard 8:41 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Welcome Blake!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:41 Medpilot21 8:41 Steven B: good call, welcome Blake Dunham to the MG nation Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:41 Steven B 8:41 Steven B: hey ryan, you awake Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:41 Steven B 8:42 [Comment From Rick Herold Rick Herold : ] I predict great things from Blake. Still growing, great intensity! George has to be on cloud 9! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:42 Rick Herold 8:42 Stephen Howard: We signed Blake as a do-it-all athlete. He can play linebacker, but more importantly, he is one of the top deep snappers in the DFW area Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:42 Stephen Howard 8:42 [Comment From Sean H Sean H : ] I'm sure his father knew well before we did who he was signing with. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:42 Sean H 8:42 Steven B: No doubt, Georgie flew back from Miami for this morning, and then is flying back to Miami to do the North Texas-FIU men's game saturday. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:42 Steven B 8:42 Ryan: I'm here! Trying to pack up a little before we leave the hotel, but I'm done now! Back to football for a while! Welcome Blake. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:42 Ryan 8:43 Stephen Howard: Actually, Blake had other offers on the table, specifically Texas State, who were after his deep snapping abilities Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:43 Stephen Howard 8:43 [Comment From Sean H Sean H : ] Steven B. Georgie in on the Ticket right now in Miami, so I don't think he flew to DFW for this morning's signing Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:43 Sean H 8:43 Steven B: negative sir Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:43 Steven B 8:44 Steven B: the magic of radio can fool you. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:44 Steven B 8:44 Stephen Howard: Not true, he flew in last night in order to be with his son. He is broadcasting from Dallas this morning, and will rush to Argyle as soon as he's off the air to participate in their signing day fun Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:44 Stephen Howard 8:44 [Comment From Rick Herold Rick Herold : ] George is at The Ticket studios.... Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:44 Rick Herold 8:45 Kenny: Here is Rivals on Blake Dunham: http://rivals.yahoo.com/texashoops/football/recruiting/player-Blake-Dunham-90402 Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:45 Kenny 8:45 Steven B: okay, well the first fumble of the day goes is on us, we are still working Blake's bio but I can tell you he had a bunch of tackles and was a hell of a deep snapper. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:45 Steven B 8:45 [Comment From MeanGreenEagleFan4Life MeanGreenEagleFan4Life : ] You mean George can be on the radio in dallas and miami? Is he traveling on a time machine? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:45 MeanGreenEagleFan4Life 8:45 Stephen Howard: Yes Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:45 Stephen Howard 8:45 Steven B: have you been to that club to Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:45 Steven B 8:45 Stephen Howard: We have an awesome Flux-Capacitor Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:45 Stephen Howard 8:45 Steven B: MGRN spares no expenses when it comes to Jub Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:45 Steven B 8:45 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Good to have Blake aboard! He's at home in Denton! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:45 Medpilot21 8:46 Stephen Howard: Indeed, sir ... He's always dreamed of suiting up for the Mean Green, and now he'll have a chance to play in both Fouts Field and the new stadium in 2011 Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:46 Stephen Howard 8:46 Steven B: upcoming guests on the live chat will be Rick V talking stuff and then I think we have wrangled up Todd Dodge himself, probably around 930 or 10 when he stops by Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:46 Steven B 8:46 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] Blakes Jr. stats: 34 solo tackles, 31 assisted tackles, 1 sack, 1 interception, 2 fumble recoveries...don't have sr stats yet. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:46 OldTimer 8:47 Stephen Howard: He also saw time at running back as well Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:47 Stephen Howard 8:47 Steven B: I've got those, 123 tackels, 1 sack, 1 int, 1 blocked punt, and a seven rushing TD's. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:47 Steven B 8:47 Kenny: While we're still waiting on the fax machine to crank out a few more newbies...we can fill you in on some the junior college guys that have already signed, including three members of the Butler County defense Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:47 Kenny 8:47 [Comment From NRTXSTEAGLES NRTXSTEAGLES : ] What were George's high school stats? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:47 NRTXSTEAGLES 8:47 Ryan: Led the team in rushing td's in 2009 Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:47 Ryan 8:47 Steven B: ummmm, 38 handicap Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:47 Steven B 8:48 Stephen Howard: George's high school stats - Two blondes, 3 brunettes and a red head Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:48 Stephen Howard 8:48 Steven B: i wish I numbers like that Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:48 Steven B 8:48 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] George fumbled one of the blondes... Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:48 Medpilot21 8:49 Stephen Howard: That rumor is unsubstantiated Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:49 Stephen Howard 8:49 Stephen Howard: While we're waiting, Kenny is about to touch on some of the JUCO kids we grabbed from Butler CC in Kansas Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:49 Stephen Howard 8:49 Kenny: Forlando Johnson, LB, Ht: 5’11, Wt: 205 Ibs, 40: 4.6, El Dorado, KS (Butler CC) Was a first-team all-conference selection in the Jayhawk Community College Conference … Played in eight games in 2009, totaling 57 tackles, five of which were for losses … Also had one sacks, four pass breakups and a fumble recovery … In 2009 Butler’s defense was ranked eighth in the nation in total defense in the NJCAA … Played for a Butler team that went 19-4 during his two seasons, including a number one ranking in 2008 … Was a three-star athlete according to Rivals.com. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:49 Kenny 8:50 [Comment From TheRockisaMeanGreenFan TheRockisaMeanGreenFan : ] Where do we find a list of guys who have already signed? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:50 TheRockisaMeanGreenFan 8:50 Kenny: D’Leon McCord, CB, Ht: 6-1, Wt: 185 Ibs, Kansas City, KS (Butler CC) Was a third-team all-conference selection with 30 tackles in nine games last season… In 2009 Butler’s defense was ranked eighth in the nation in total defense in the NJCAA Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:50 Kenny 8:51 Stephen Howard: So far, we see all local kids that have signed ... We have Argyle, DeSoto and South Garland HS ... I like that trend Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:51 Stephen Howard 8:51 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] Blake yes 19 carries and 7 TD's on rushing won silver medal in long snapping at the one star kicking challenge. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:51 OldTimer 8:51 Kenny: And we also have Ryan Downing, DB, Ht: 6’1, Wt: 200 lbs, El Dorado, Kansas (Butler County CC) Registered 62 tackles in 2009 as a member of the Butler County Grizzlies … hauled in 3 interceptions which he returned 88 total yards … made two tackles for loss … he defended eight passes from his spot at corner … was a three-star recruit according to Rivals.com. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:51 Kenny 8:52 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Johnson is 5-11, 205, and a 4.6... possible Free Safety? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:52 Medpilot21 8:52 Stephen Howard: I'm not sure about that one, but we'll have to ask one of the defensive coaches when they walk by Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:52 Stephen Howard 8:52 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] Hey checking in from snowy Falls Church, VA. I have the whole day off to follow signing day! Hello to the UNT SID crew and my fellow GoMeanGreen fanatics. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:52 BenW 8:52 [Comment From David David : ] but when he recovered the fumble there was two blondes Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:52 David 8:53 Stephen Howard: So now we have South Dakota and Virginia in the house ... Welcome! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:53 Stephen Howard 8:53 Steven B: Morning ben, i've always wanted to tour the Virgina countryside, big civil war fan Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:53 Steven B 8:53 [Comment From JB JB : ] Forlando...... Isn't there an ABBA song about him Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:53 JB 8:53 Ryan: Thanks for joining us Ben with such dedication! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:53 Ryan 8:53 Kenny: Just bare with the stupid ad but here is a highlight video on Forlando Johnson: http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/recruiting-football/Forlando-Johnson-Highlights-1-54661?NICK_NAME=ecapper&LEVEL=2&TIME=1265208754&SIG=d55db04bc66a2579d96df4a960fe3767 Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:53 Kenny 8:53 Steven B: "dancing queen" Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:53 Steven B 8:53 [Comment From JIM B JIM B : ] WITH THE LOSS OF HALL ARE THERE ANY QBs IN THIS CLASS? wITH CANALES CAN WE EXPECT A TRUE COMPETITION @ qQB THIS SPRING? I WOULD LOVE TO SEE nATHAN AS A SR. @ qb AND RILEY @ WR AS HE WAS AS A SOPH IN HS. GIVES MANY OPTIONS AND CAN'T STACK UP FOR DUNBAR IN MIDDLE. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:53 JIM B 8:54 Steven B: yes there is and he hasn't signed yet Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:54 Steven B 8:54 [Comment From Rick Herold Rick Herold : ] I agree Stephen on the local kids. I noticed this morning that SMU had no local kids on their list. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:54 Rick Herold 8:54 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Hi Ben.. Cold in VA? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:54 Medpilot21 8:54 Stephen Howard: I think signing local kids is a must, especially when you are in such a hot bed as DFW Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:54 Stephen Howard 8:54 [Comment From JoeH JoeH : ] faxes a little slow coming in ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:54 JoeH 8:54 [Comment From David David : ] Michigan here! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:54 David 8:54 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] The VA country side is great, as are the battlefields. But did you know about the wineries? Awesome. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:54 BenW 8:55 Steven B: no, this is normal, most of the time the high schools pick certain times for their D-I signees to sign and fax, so dont' worry Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:55 Steven B 8:55 Stephen Howard: Bartolotta is a battlefield junkie as well, BenW Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:55 Stephen Howard 8:55 Kenny: Here is also some footage on Ryan Downing: http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/recruiting-football/Ryan-Downing-Highlights-1-54658 Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:55 Kenny 8:55 Steven B: they did have great booze though during the war Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:55 Steven B 8:56 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Wow.. Johnson is a hitter! Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:56 Medpilot21 8:57 Steven B: okay, i'm trying to compare the rivals list to the one that I'm looking at. I'm going to see if I can get you guys to go on a scavenger hunt to find at least two of these names. Here are the first two hints. They Mike Nelson signees Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:57 Steven B 8:57 Steven B: okay, D-Lo in the house. Line up your questions Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:57 Steven B 8:58 [Comment From UNTBowler UNTBowler : ] unfortunately in Hog Country here, so good to see some Green Talk Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:58 UNTBowler 8:58 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Reminds me of Jonus Buckles.. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:58 Medpilot21 8:58 [Comment From JoeH JoeH : ] More blitz packages this year ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:58 JoeH 8:58 Stephen Howard: D-Lo just stopped in and let us know that Forlando Johnson is checking in a little heavier than that 205 listing. He is probably 215, and is one of the most explosive players that he's signed. He was the Jayhawk Conference Defensive Player of the Year and will play outside linebacker Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:58 Stephen Howard 8:58 Coach Leftwich: possibly with those guys. It just depends, blitzing depends on if you have corners that can cover, if you don't have corners that can cover, you can't blitz but we are in the process of taking care of that Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:58 Coach Leftwich 8:58 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Coach, do you see any of the juco guys starting right away? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:58 MeanGreenTexan 8:59 Coach DeLoach: they are all going to add depth and competition to the defense. That is what I've been striving to get., that's what I had before and we are going to have that now. We are going to have good competition in the spring and the fall Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:59 Coach DeLoach 8:59 [Comment From Mitch Maher Mitch Maher : ] Go Mean Green. Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:59 Mitch Maher 8:59 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] Coach D. I thought Jackson and Atkinson were both pretty effective last year, but I know you like to rotate guys in frequently. Who do you look to step up as DTs 3 and 4? Wednesday February 3, 2010 8:59 BenW 9:00 Stephen Howard: Good morning, Mitch! Good to hear from a Mean Green Great! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:00 Stephen Howard 9:00 Coach DeLoach: well we've got SA and KJ, Tevinn Cantly, Draleyn Ross, LaChris Anyiam, Jessie Desoto, so I feel like there will be good compeition. There will be a good rotation but its going to be good compeition that we haven't had here at all. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:00 Coach DeLoach 9:01 [Comment From D. Lovelace D. Lovelace : ] Very excited about these JUCO Defensive players as a fan. Coach DeLoach, where do you see these guys fitting in? Johnson and Graham to start at LB along with Craig? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:01 D. Lovelace 9:02 Expand Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:02 9:02 [Comment From Mo Green Mo Green : ] God bless Mitch! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:02 Mo Green 9:02 Coach DeLoach: No, we've got guys that were here last year that they have to come in and compete. We will roll out after spring and put the best three out there at linebacker. Until I see them in person on the field, I need to see them practice and see them do stuff and then we will decide who the top three are. Daniel Prior, AJ Penson, Jeremy Phillips all played last year and aren't out of the mix, and they are players to. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:02 Coach DeLoach 9:02 [Comment From Rick Herold Rick Herold : ] Could the next Booger be in this class? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:02 Rick Herold 9:03 Coach DeLoach: come on guys, I've only seen one Booger and I haven't seen one since. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:03 Coach DeLoach 9:03 [Comment From Mo Green Mo Green : ] D-Lo what are you going to look for this spring in your defense Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:03 Mo Green 9:03 Coach DeLoach: I'm gonna look for consitency. We have to be able to stop the run. We are returning seven starters and we have an infux of signees that are coming in at mid-term. We went real heavy on d-lineman, this year we went heavy on the back seven. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:03 Coach DeLoach 9:04 Stephen Howard: D-Lo got a phone call, but will be back shortly for more questions Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:04 Stephen Howard 9:05 Stephen Howard: Time for the next signee ... Richard Abbe DT, Ht: 6-4, Wt: 290 Ibs, 40: 5.2, Lubbock, TX (Lubbock Monterey HS) Helped anchor an offensive line that averaged 203.8 rushing yards per game … Selected to the first-team offense 2-5A All-District … Named to the second-team offense 2009 TOC All West Texas Team … Also was named to the first-team offense Lone Star Varsity All-City Football Team Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:05 Stephen Howard 9:05 [Comment From D. Lovelace D. Lovelace : ] It's good to see that you'll have depth, and quality depth at that, to plug in different spots and utilize a lot of bodies throughout the course of the season. I look at Alabama and the number of players they used in the BCS Game (something like 50) and that's a testament to their depth. It's always nice to have that depth at your disposal, and to have fresh bodies in there. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:05 D. Lovelace 9:05 Stephen Howard: And yet another Mean Green signee hits the fax machine ... Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:05 Stephen Howard 9:06 Stephen Howard: Aaron Bellazin, DE, Ht: 6-2, Wt: 230 Ibs, Everman, TX (Everman HS) Played defensive tackle in high school but will make the transition to defensive end at North Texas … Chosen to the TOC 2009 Class 4A DFW All-Area Team … Named second-team defense 2009 TOC Class 4A All-State Team …. Was a unanimous first-team all-84A selection as a junior … Named to the second-team all 8-4A as a sophomore backup … Was a three-star athlete according to Rivals.com. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:06 Stephen Howard 9:07 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Coach Lefty, if you're still on, can you tell us what you hope to see from Flax? I recall alot of excitement around him last year... Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:07 MeanGreenTexan 9:07 Steven B: he's gone, but he will return shortly we are hoping Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:07 Steven B 9:08 Stephen Howard: Bellazin is supposed to be a monster at DE ... All-State at tackle at Everman, and a 3-star type talent! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:08 Stephen Howard 9:08 [Comment From JoeH JoeH : ] Orr and Bellazin.........HUGE pickups !! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:08 JoeH 9:09 [Comment From Rick Herold Rick Herold : ] Friends from Everman, say Bellazin is incredible! Congrats! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:09 Rick Herold 9:09 Stephen Howard: That's good to hear. Everman is a solid football program that routinely sends folks to D1. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:09 Stephen Howard 9:09 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Nice to see some defensive gems this year. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:09 Scott 9:09 Steven B: okay, there are seven names on nobody's list that we know about, the first one that came in was Richard Abbe is the first one to sign Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:09 Steven B 9:10 Steven B: mike nelson on the phone working one of his signees, a stealth name Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:10 Steven B 9:10 [Comment From Kyle Casey of rivals.com Kyle Casey of rivals.com : ] Does the mean green coaching staff think they will recieve the commitment from D'Andre Wood one of the top juco players according to rivals.com and a highly recruited player out of highschool? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:10 Kyle Casey of rivals.com 9:10 Stephen Howard: there was a definite slant toward the defensive side of the ball in this class, especially in the back 7, according to D-Lo Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:10 Stephen Howard 9:10 Steven B: Big O-line from Monterey HS in Lubbock, another Mike Nelson recruit Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:10 Steven B 9:11 Steven B: abbe that is. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:11 Steven B 9:11 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Stats on Abbe? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:11 Scott 9:12 Steven B: see above Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:12 Steven B 9:12 Steven B: Helped anchor an offensive line that averaged 203.8 rushing yards per game … Selected to the first-team offense 2-5A All-District … Named to the second-team offense 2009 TOC All West Texas Team … Also was named to the first-team offense Lone Star Varsity All-City Football Team Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:12 Steven B 9:13 Steven B: I'm hearing Nelson talking to one of his kids, just congratulated him, this is another mystery name Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:13 Steven B 9:13 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Ah. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:13 Scott 9:13 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] where did richard abbe come from? he was not listed anywhere, but does appear to be a good signee... Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:13 Guest 9:14 Steven B: Lubbock Monterey HS Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:14 Steven B 9:14 Stephen Howard: He was just chatting away in the hallway there ... Looks like we can expect another fax any second Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:14 Stephen Howard 9:14 [Comment From Kyle Casey of rivals.com Kyle Casey of rivals.com : ] Does the mean green coaching staff think they will recieve the commitment from D'Andre Wood one of the top juco players according to rivals.com and a highly recruited player out of highschool? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:14 Kyle Casey of rivals.com 9:14 Stephen Howard: And our next signee ... Michael Miller, DL, Ht: 6-4, Wt: 245 Ibs, Palmdale, CA (Antelope Valley College) Played in nine game in 2009 while compiling 38 tackles, 11.5 of which were for losses (-49 yards) … Also had six sacks (-37 yards), one forced fumble, two pass breakups and one fumble recovery for 64 yards … In 2008 was named second-team All-American Pacific Division … In high school was selected second-team All-Golden League and competed in four years of wrestling. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:14 Stephen Howard 9:14 Steven B: stealth name, Mike Nelson found this kid out in California a few weeks ago and trust me, he did some serious sword fighting to keep him. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:14 Steven B 9:15 Stephen Howard: I really like his size and production in a good California system Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:15 Stephen Howard 9:16 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Is this the same kid who was ruled out just a day or so ago? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:16 Scott 9:16 Steven B: no i don't think so, you got him confused with somebody else Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:16 Steven B 9:16 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] Good find in Miller! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:16 NTSUEagle 9:17 Stephen Howard: Miller is the kind of kid that can chance a recruiting class for the better. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:17 Stephen Howard 9:18 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Who were we battleing with for his services? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:18 Scott 9:18 [Comment From JoeH JoeH : ] Sword fighter ? Nelson=Ninja guy ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:18 JoeH 9:18 Stephen Howard: You have no idea Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:18 Stephen Howard 9:18 Ryan: Stephen is right Joe. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:18 Ryan 9:19 [Comment From JoeH JoeH : ] Touche' Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:19 JoeH 9:19 Stephen Howard: And our next signee is a big 'ole boy! Antonio Johnson - 6-6, 267, 4.81 40-yard dash Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:19 Stephen Howard 9:20 Ryan: This is a big boy. As his 40-time indicates is quick on his feet for being as big as he is. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:20 Ryan 9:21 Stephen Howard: Antonio blocked for a running game that totaled 2,279 yards and 26 touchdowns, and had a 1,200 yard rusher ... He also recorded 20 tackles on the defensive line, 18 of which were solo ... he lettered in football and basketball, so you know he has athleticism Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:21 Stephen Howard 9:21 [Comment From SilverEagle SilverEagle : ] So Miller is a Juco who won't be here until the fall? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:21 SilverEagle 9:22 Steven B: well the story I heard was there were a few coaches who overheard Nelson talking about him in california, next thing you know they were all on him. Nelson told me it was an Arkansas State coach who overheard him talking about him and BOOM, he was up a the JC trying to steal the kid. Didn't work. Score one for the Mean Green over the Red Wolves Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:22 Steven B 9:22 [Comment From Kyle Casey of rivals.com Kyle Casey of rivals.com : ] This D'Andre Wood kid could possibly be the strongest recruit to sign today. He is a 4 star according to rivals and has a long list of offers that are extended in his name such as louisville, unc, ole miss , north texas, troy and middle tenn. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:22 Kyle Casey of rivals.com 9:22 Stephen Howard: I believe that is correct on miller Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:22 Stephen Howard 9:22 [Comment From MIke W. MIke W. : ] Tight end? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:22 MIke W. 9:22 [Comment From JoeH JoeH : ] OL or DL ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:22 JoeH 9:22 [Comment From MattM MattM : ] Sounds like an Eddrick Gilmore type, to me. Athlete? DE? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:22 MattM 9:23 Steven B: Just spoke to Nellie, he told me Miller is up to 260 right now, he's like AK but a little bit slower, but alot bigger. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:23 Steven B 9:23 [Comment From mike jennings mike jennings : ] Hey i heard of that D'Andre Wood kid. i never heard that he commited to north texas though. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:23 mike jennings 9:23 Steven B: we can neither confirm no deny Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:23 Steven B 9:23 Stephen Howard: Actually Antonio can play both offensive and defensive lines, but according to our coaches he will play on the offensive line ... they just can't get over his overall size and potential on the line Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:23 Stephen Howard 9:24 [Comment From D. Lovelace D. Lovelace : ] Nice to have those California ties at work! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:24 D. Lovelace 9:24 [Comment From Stu Jones Stu Jones : ] Why are we losing Hall from Skyline to UTEP? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:24 Stu Jones 9:24 Steven B: you might want to ask him Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:24 Steven B 9:25 Stephen Howard: I've heard Juarez is nice this time of year Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:25 Stephen Howard 9:25 [Comment From Stephen H Stephen H : ] Its very nice to have our hands in Californnia now!!! Go Mean Green! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:25 Stephen H 9:25 Steven B: yes, body guards don't come with that scholarship do they? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:25 Steven B 9:25 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] With the loss of Hall, will we still look to sign a QB in this class? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:25 BenW 9:26 Steven B: yes, Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:26 Steven B 9:26 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] peobably so...the Juarez nightlife is more appealing...lol Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:26 NTSUEagle 9:26 [Comment From MattM MattM : ] +1 Stephen. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:26 MattM 9:26 [Comment From D. Lovelace D. Lovelace : ] hahaha! classic Stephen H Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:26 D. Lovelace 9:26 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] Juarez just has over 1,000 murders last year. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:26 OldTimer 9:26 [Comment From Stephen H Stephen H : ] Stephen is this one of our nicest classes as of yet? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:26 Stephen H 9:26 [Comment From Mike W Mike W : ] Mexican food and border violence, who could resist? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:26 Mike W 9:27 Steven B: I'm waiting till we get the entire class in before passing judgement Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:27 Steven B 9:27 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Good one! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:27 Scott 9:28 Stephen Howard: Looks like the fax machine is blowing up again ... Three more recruits on the way Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:28 Stephen Howard 9:28 Steven B: and now for the quarterback in this class. Derrick Teegarden from Odessa HS Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:28 Steven B 9:28 Steven B: Was the 2009 2-5A Offensive Player of the Year … Completed 155-of-224 passes for 1,911 yards, 18 TD’s and four interceptions in 2009 … Also rushed for 833 yards on 109 carries and nine TD’s … In 2008 was first-team all-district and all-state honorable mention after completing 151-of-233 passes for 2,224 yards, 24 TD’s and 10 interceptions … He also rushed for 743 yards on 114 carries and 10 TD’s his junior season … Selected second-team all-district his sophomore season while throwing nine touchdowns and running for four more. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:28 Steven B 9:28 Kenny: Here's Teegarden video: http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/recruiting-football/Derrick-Teegarden-Highlights-1-49823 Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:28 Kenny 9:28 Steven B: Teegarden was your "mystery" QB Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:28 Steven B 9:28 [Comment From glick glick : ] This feels like Christmas morning to me!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:28 glick 9:29 Steven B: stand by, another "mystery" name is coming Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:29 Steven B 9:29 Ryan: Well glick if you were here in Norman it would look like it too. Snow still on the ground. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:29 Ryan 9:29 Steven B: 6-0, 170, runs a 4.5 40 Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:29 Steven B 9:29 [Comment From JoeH JoeH : ] size? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:29 JoeH 9:30 Stephen Howard: And our next recruit ... Steven Ford - 6-0, 190, DB, Fort Scott, Kansas Collected 49 tackles (31 solo) in 12 games in 2009 ... Picked off 3 passes, registered 3 tackles for loss of 23 yards ... A 3-star recruit according to Rivals.com Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:30 Stephen Howard 9:30 Steven B: Teegarden had received interest from OU and TCU throughout the recruiting process Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:30 Steven B 9:30 [Comment From Mike T Mike T : ] He runs a 4.45 40 Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:30 Mike T 9:31 Kenny: For all you people that like the "big uglies"...here's a new addition: Mason Y’Barbo, OL, Ht: 6’2, Wt: 290lbs, Sulfur Springs, Texas (Sulfur Springs HS) Helped pave the way for an offense that racked up 2,278 rushing yards, averaging 5.8 yards per carry and 30 touchdowns … 2009 offense averaged almost 30 points per game and scored 384 on the year … was a reason the offense averaged 406 yards per game. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:31 Kenny 9:31 [Comment From Mike W Mike W : ] Were OU and TCU interested as an athlete or a QB? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:31 Mike W 9:31 Stephen Howard: I don't think Teegarden was a mystery for any one following the recruiting process. He is a heck of a talent Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:31 Stephen Howard 9:32 Steven B: that I don't know, but he's playing QB here. I can confirm that, straight from Coach Dodge Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:32 Steven B 9:33 Kenny: Here is footage of Y'Barbo: http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/recruiting-football/Mason-YBardo-Highlights-1-50389;_ylt=AtGsvlezd7YhcHw4EC0YS0UWsJB4 Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:33 Kenny 9:33 [Comment From D. Lovelace D. Lovelace : ] Teegarden looks like a position change from QB to WR or DB. I.E. William Cole, DeWaylon Cook, Willie Taylor, James Hamilton, and others in TD's recent classes. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:33 D. Lovelace 9:33 Stephen Howard: Nope, Teegarden is staying put according to TD Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:33 Stephen Howard 9:33 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] Teegarden's highlights look like Riley's SLC highlights...great sign. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:33 Guest 9:33 [Comment From NCMeanGreen NCMeanGreen : ] GOOD question, Mike W! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:33 NCMeanGreen 9:34 [Comment From Mike W Mike W : ] Thanks. Love this feature. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:34 Mike W 9:34 [Comment From Stu Jones Stu Jones : ] Is the new OC going to coach the QB's? He coached WR's at USF. Maybe that is why Hall switched when Coach Ford resigned. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:34 Stu Jones 9:35 Steven B: Coach Caneles is going to coach QB's, TD already said that. He's going to coach QB's and be the OC, calling plays. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:35 Steven B 9:35 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] OldTimer didn't mention Teegarden so he must be a mystery signee! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:35 MadDog 9:35 [Comment From John Liddle John Liddle : ] I'm enjoying these "stealth" signings. Feels like the old days...except we've got a new stadium in the works :-) Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:35 John Liddle 9:35 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] I hope Ford can be a shut down corner as he is advertised... Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:35 MeanGreenTexan 9:35 Steven B: he was, there are three more "stealth" signees Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:35 Steven B 9:36 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] True on the stealth recruiting. And I use to critizize DD on his recruiting tactics! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:36 MadDog 9:36 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Okay, now we can talk about Y'Baro.. What's the scoop on this kid? Huge talent, but is he a potential contributor this year? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:36 Medpilot21 9:36 Steven B: don't get confused about the term "stealth" we are using. Two of these three names I'm looking at have been committed to North Texas for over 2 months Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:36 Steven B 9:36 [Comment From Mike W Mike W : ] 3 more to come? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:36 Mike W 9:37 [Comment From John Liddle John Liddle : ] I'm giggling with anticipation. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:37 John Liddle 9:37 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] question ...did NT receive a LOI from De Andre Wood? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:37 OldTimer 9:37 Steven B: we can neither confirm no deny Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:37 Steven B 9:37 [Comment From CBL CBL : ] I like the balance of known and stealth recruiting...DD not letting us in on anyone was annoying Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:37 CBL 9:38 Steven B: again, it's not stealth because nobody picks up on it. Again let me say again. 2 of these 3 names have been committed since near Turkey Day Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:38 Steven B 9:38 Stephen Howard: I can only say that we enjoy bringing you guy this kind of signing day action. There isn't much better than having the coaches who actually recruited these kids come in and talk with us live Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:38 Stephen Howard 9:38 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] YOu dog! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:38 MadDog 9:38 [Comment From GreenP GreenP : ] Stealthily committed? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:38 GreenP 9:38 [Comment From John Liddle John Liddle : ] "stealth" meaning media outlets didn't find out before signing day Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:38 John Liddle 9:38 Steven B: correct! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:38 Steven B 9:39 [Comment From IhaveaEaglehardon IhaveaEaglehardon : ] Is there a chance we can play in the new stadium this season? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:39 IhaveaEaglehardon 9:39 Stephen Howard: It would be a little muddy with no field Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:39 Stephen Howard 9:39 Steven B: no way, but I hear, just hear that the press box will be up by August. If I'm wrong, Brian will come down here and yell at me! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:39 Steven B 9:39 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] As long as one of them is a big DT, I will be happy. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:39 BenW 9:39 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Are you serious? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:39 MadDog 9:39 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] Kinda like a Stealth Bomber? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:39 GreenP1 9:40 Stephen Howard: That's what Lefty said just a few minutes ago! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:40 Stephen Howard 9:40 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] agreed, BenW! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:40 NTSUEagle 9:40 [Comment From KRAM! KRAM! : ] I am really enjoying this day so far...and I expect more good news to come. This class is really shaping up to be a very good one for the Mean green nation. I know it is early in the day, but congrats to TD and all the coaches, and staff for making this happen...hard work for sure...way to go! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:40 KRAM! 9:40 Kenny: Here comes another...here's hoping the kicking game is solved from here on out: Zach Olen, K, Ht: 5’9, Wt: 210 Ibs, Richardson, TX (Berkner HS) Kicker and Punter in high school … registered 34 punts for an average of 38.88 yards per punt with 9 downed inside the 20 and a long of 52 yards … Made 10 of 15 field goals with a long of 47 yards … Collected 33 touchbacks on only 56 kickoffs. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:40 Kenny 9:40 [Comment From UNT_Flyer UNT_Flyer : ] I think many will be surprised how much progress will be done on the stadium by season kickoff Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:40 UNT_Flyer 9:41 Steven B: likewise, the hole in the ground keeps getting bigger. I'm told though they are digging three feet below the ground level as you knew it. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:41 Steven B 9:41 Stephen Howard: It's no secret that NT has had plenty of kicking woes. Hopefully Zach is the answer Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:41 Stephen Howard 9:41 Steven B: if not maybe you or Ryan could kick Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:41 Steven B 9:41 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] I wish I could make it to a game next year. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:41 BenW 9:42 Steven B: why can't you? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:42 Steven B 9:42 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Only if the rain holds off. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:42 Scott 9:42 Ryan: Let's do it. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:42 Ryan 9:42 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] I will be in Honduras! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:42 BenW 9:42 Stephen Howard: I personally think that I am a better choice than Ryan ... He stalled at 40 yards and I nailed a 45 yarder Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:42 Stephen Howard 9:42 Steven B: ahh, I think that's the only place the Sun Belt TV Network is seen Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:42 Steven B 9:42 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] But I will find a way to a game in 2011. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:42 BenW 9:43 Ryan: I believe we both nailed 45 yarders at some point there Howard! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:43 Ryan 9:43 Stephen Howard: We have a special guest joining us now fellas, recruiting coordinator Chuck Petersen ... Line up the questions Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:43 Stephen Howard 9:44 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Hey coach! How many of the signees do you anticipate to red shirt? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:44 Scott 9:44 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] Do you like this gig? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:44 GreenP1 9:44 Stephen Howard: That wasn't the question, P1 Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:44 Stephen Howard 9:44 Expand Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:44 9:45 Coach Peterson: We really don't anticipate any red shirt in the way that we talked to each recruit. TD philopshy is to come in and play. If we tell them right now they are going to redshirt, that takes the edge away from them. We want them to prepare for the season like they were going to be playing at Clemson in week one. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:45 Coach Peterson 9:45 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Coach, congratulations on the signees so far. Any surprises we can expect later in the day? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:45 MadDog 9:45 Coach Peterson: not really, i think this class will be as good as advertised. We aren't anticipating losing or gaining. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:45 Coach Peterson 9:46 [Comment From John Liddle John Liddle : ] How has the assurance of a new stadium helped in the recruiting process? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:46 John Liddle 9:46 Coach Peterson: its been tremendous. In the last three years, we operated and the recruits that signed really we doing it out of faith, which is a belief in things not seen. With the digging of the hole and the turning of the dirt, they don't have to trust that its going to happen. I really anticipate that the class we are already working on for next year to be a really good class because they now its happening Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:46 Coach Peterson 9:46 Stephen Howard: I hate to interrupt, but one of coach Rausch's signees has sent in his papers ... Christopher Bynes, WR, Ht: 6’1”, Wt: 210 Ibs, 40: 4.6, Lauderdale Lakes, FL (Coffeyville CC) In 2009, played in 10 games and had 25 receptions for 282 yards … Rushed for one touchdown on three carries … Was a two-star athlete out of high school according to Rivals.com. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:46 Stephen Howard 9:47 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Coach, Do you anticipate any of the new guys starting in the secondary (especially the juco guys)? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:47 MeanGreenTexan 9:47 Kenny: Here is Bynes Rivals: http://rivals.yahoo.com/hovpen/football/recruiting/player-Christopher-Bynes-98935 Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:47 Kenny 9:48 Coach Peterson: I anticipate great competition. Especially for the mid-year JC kids, they were brought in here to compete, that's why they are here. As we have told all of our players, there isn't a spot that is locked up. The best way you become better as a program is through competition, the new guys coming in will help us in that way. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:48 Coach Peterson 9:48 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] What do you think so far of all these JUCO Safeties? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:48 BenW 9:48 Coach Peterson: I like them on film but I haven't been around them very much. The little that I've gotten to know they are as advertised as far as ability and work ethic. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:48 Coach Peterson 9:48 [Comment From Stu Jones Stu Jones : ] Coach, will there be any changes in the offense with the new OC in place? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:48 Stu Jones 9:49 Coach Peterson: I'm on the defensive side, but I will let Mike answer that Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:49 Coach Peterson 9:49 [Comment From Rick Herold Rick Herold : ] Coach, just an exciting class of new Mean Green Football players! Congrats' to you and the Staff! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:49 Rick Herold 9:50 Coach Peterson: thanks, we appreciate it. the neat thing about being here is getting to know so many Mean Green fans. Looking forward to seeing a bunch of you guys at the Pourhouse. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:50 Coach Peterson 9:50 Stephen Howard: Just a heads up folks, we have word that every Mean Green assistant coach will be at the Pourhouse tonight ... So here's your chance to meet them all Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:50 Stephen Howard 9:50 [Comment From JucoSteve JucoSteve : ] Do we have a list of who recruited these Juco signees out of high school? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:50 JucoSteve 9:50 Coach Peterson: no Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:50 Coach Peterson 9:51 Stephen Howard: Thanks for stopping by coach! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:51 Stephen Howard 9:51 Steven B: FYI everyone, Bynes was one of the stealth guys, a WR from Coffeyville Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:51 Steven B 9:52 Steven B: just received word that new OC Mike Canales will be stopping by soon Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:52 Steven B 9:52 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Thanks Coach! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:52 MadDog 9:52 Stephen Howard: Bynes doesn't have the eye popping stats, but at 6-1, 210, he has the potential size to dominate at this level. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:52 Stephen Howard 9:52 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] A little surprised at the Bynes signing, with 4-5 guys that started returning plyus Cole and Stradford. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:52 BenW 9:53 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Hats off to the AD. This is a neat format for fan interaction. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:53 MadDog 9:53 [Comment From Emmitt Jackson Emmitt Jackson : ] Coach, I'm most pleased to see the juco players signed on defense. Do you think this will give Delo more flexibility to open up his "playbook" a bit? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:53 Emmitt Jackson 9:54 Stephen Howard: Coach Petersen had to step out for a phone call, but in my opinion, they signed this many defensive players for a reason. We need to step up on that side of the ball, and the only way to do that is competition. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:54 Stephen Howard 9:54 [Comment From Courtland Courtland : ] Pretty amazing -for us lucky NT folks I don't think most programs let their OC face the masses. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:54 Courtland 9:54 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] Chico! Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:54 NTSUEagle 9:55 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] Are we expecting any more WRs signing today? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:55 GreenP1 9:55 Steven B: yes Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:55 Steven B 9:56 Steven B: just looking at my list here, there are five more signees to go. two that are the "stealth" variety Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:56 Steven B 9:56 [Comment From Sean H Sean H : ] don't you mean the firing squad, courtland? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:56 Sean H 9:57 Steven B: you guys are both firing squad and the masses. But really, being in sports, the heat is always going to be on, that's my take Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:57 Steven B 9:57 [Comment From Emmitt Jackson Emmitt Jackson : ] Any word on whether more DT's might come through? The kid from Cibolo perhaps? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:57 Emmitt Jackson 9:58 Steven B: nobody from Cibolo on my list Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:58 Steven B 9:58 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Steven B, if we do sing the remaining five, how many will that give us in this 2010 class? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:58 MadDog 9:58 Steven B: 22 kids Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:58 Steven B 9:58 [Comment From glick glick : ] Who are the other two grayshirts besides Boutwell? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:58 glick 9:59 Steven B: oh man, i'm blanking on that one.....give me a second and I'll find out. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:59 Steven B 9:59 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] I predict 4 of the next 5 signees are on the defensive line. Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:59 GreenP1 9:59 Steven B: oh, you want to play that game do you. Your wrong Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:59 Steven B 9:59 [Comment From Courtland Courtland : ] lol Sean Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:59 Courtland 9:59 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Green guys, you guys get to interact with the coaches often... in your opinion who are the specific guys that the coaches are excited about? Wednesday February 3, 2010 9:59 MeanGreenTexan 10:00 Steven B: well of the ones that haven't signed yet I know that Bellazine from Everman, Ford and Graham are guys they are salivating over. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:00 Steven B 10:00 Steven B: i should say they have signed Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:00 Steven B 10:00 [Comment From Lee Lee : ] Corey Hill from Cibolo Steele committed to SFA Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:00 Lee 10:00 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] They can neither confirm nor deny Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:00 Scott 10:00 [Comment From SouthBound35 SouthBound35 : ] I want to thank North Texas for building a new stadium and making my road look better. I have to make up to drivers because I made them drive thru oklahoma. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:00 SouthBound35 10:01 [Comment From LongJim LongJim : ] More DT's? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:01 LongJim 10:01 Steven B: keep guessing everyone, I'll give you some hints, of the 5 kids left to sign, none are at the same position. Meaning, there aren't two RB's, or OL, etc, etc. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:01 Steven B 10:01 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] I hope you're right, P1! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:01 NTSUEagle 10:02 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] GreenP1 they better be! Though we have not seen the Copperas Cove guys signed yet Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:02 BenW 10:02 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] stephen so how does Rileys hair look? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:02 greengang 10:02 Kenny: Very Zoolanderish.... Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:02 Kenny 10:02 Steven B: i think he did it for a girl, but he wouldn't tell me. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:02 Steven B 10:02 [Comment From CBL CBL : ] The only knowns that haven't checked in that I can see are the two from Copperas Cove and Hawkins...is Chancellor the WR recruit still to come, or is there another of the stealth variety? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:02 CBL 10:02 [Comment From Adam Adam : ] With some recruits getting compared to past recruits, which signed recruit do you guys think has the best potential to be the next Stephen Howard? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:02 Adam 10:02 Steven B: we can neither confirm nor deny Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:02 Steven B 10:03 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] We need stealth defensive linemen. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:03 GreenP1 10:03 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Speaking of Riley, how's his arm? Is he in the weight room? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:03 Scott 10:03 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] What did Riley do to his hair? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:03 MadDog 10:03 [Comment From LongJim LongJim : ] Yep Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:03 LongJim 10:03 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] Who has better hair? Riley or Tune? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:03 GreenP1 10:03 Stephen Howard: I don't think any of these recruits can match my words per minute, Adam Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:03 Stephen Howard 10:03 Steven B: slight edge to Tune, but Riley's had more mousse. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:03 Steven B 10:03 Kenny: Actually talked to Riley yesterday and he said the arm was feeling 100% better...he's just trying to regain some strength right now. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:03 Kenny 10:04 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] When you get the last LOI in can you recap the signees in one listing Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:04 OldTimer 10:04 Stephen Howard: we can do that ... no problem Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:04 Stephen Howard 10:04 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] I'm hoping that Hawkins comes through. He looks to have a good frame to build on to be a nice tackle in the future. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:04 MeanGreenTexan 10:04 Steven B: let me go on a minor jag here folks. After a quick talk with D-Lo yesterday, he made it clear that the d-line is going to get better with the guys they currently have in place. There are going to be some additions that will help with depth and competition, but the names you know, are going to be the ones that will make or break the d-line next year Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:04 Steven B 10:05 [Comment From Eric Eric : ] Tune looks like Ace Ventura and you give him the edge? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:05 Eric 10:05 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] saw Riley the other day on campus he looked like he had put some weight on. confirm or deny? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:05 greengang 10:05 Steven B: confirm Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:05 Steven B 10:05 Steven B: he's probably around 200 by now Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:05 Steven B 10:05 [Comment From Adam Adam : ] Stephen, I was talking in terms of natural physique. No five star recruit can match the finger dexterity of sports media guys Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:05 Adam 10:05 Stephen Howard: And now for our final WR signee ... Brelan Chancellor - 5-9, 165, 40: 4.4 Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:05 Stephen Howard 10:06 [Comment From scott scott : ] for those just joining can you recap who has sighned from Jucco and HS Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:06 scott 10:06 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] I would expect Tune's hair to be a little better at this point, being a senior and all. I fully expect Riley to find his look as he matures in the system. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:06 GreenP1 10:06 Stephen Howard: A small, speedy receiver, Brelan played running back in high school but is slated as a slot pass catcher at NT. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:06 Stephen Howard 10:07 Steven B: okay, here's an audible nobody knew about was Brandin Byrd. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:07 Steven B 10:07 Stephen Howard: Brelan rushed for 621 yards in 2009 and was a first team all district 12-5A in 2008 ... He scored 12 touchdowns as a junior and led the team with 7.6 yards per carry Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:07 Stephen Howard 10:07 Steven B: He actually graduated in December and is here, so welcome to Brandin Byrd from Copperas Cover Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:07 Steven B 10:07 Kenny: Byrd video: http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/recruiting-football/Brandin-Byrd-Highlights-1-55603 Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:07 Kenny 10:08 Steven B: Named to the 2009 5A-12 second-team all-district … Selected to the Killeen Daily Herald’s 2009 All-Area second-team offense … Ran for 980 yards on 125 attempts and 12 TD’s as a senior … Rushed for 1,061 yards on 167 carries and 10 TD’s in 2008 … Totaled 2,379 yards rushing on 353 carries and 27 TD’s throughout high school … Is a two-star athlete according to Rivals.com. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:08 Steven B 10:08 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] Are you telling us to expect AK-47 in the starting lineup again next year? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:08 GreenP1 10:08 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] Byrd great sign! very explosive Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:08 greengang 10:08 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] You have to give Dodge at least 4 years to get HIS hare care products in place. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:08 MeanGreenTexan 10:08 [Comment From Eric Johnson Eric Johnson : ] With the receiving corps running a solid 8 deep, where do you think these two will fit in? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:08 Eric Johnson 10:09 [Comment From Emmitt Jackson Emmitt Jackson : ] Heard a rumor that Rick V has eligibility left and signed on to play TE. Confirm or deny? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:09 Emmitt Jackson 10:09 Steven B: he's looking more like an o-lineman these days..........But seriously he's a busy man these days with the stadium. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:09 Steven B 10:10 [Comment From LongJim LongJim : ] That's great that the DL is going to get better with the guys they have, but more depth and size at that position would be to put it mildly--nice. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:10 LongJim 10:10 Stephen Howard: These receivers are certainly adding to an already deep position, and can make an impact. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:10 Stephen Howard 10:10 [Comment From Mean Green Matt Mean Green Matt : ] I can't wait to see the quality of players this coaching staff can get in here once they get some wins under their belt this year! This is a great class!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:10 Mean Green Matt 10:11 [Comment From shoss shoss : ] I would hope that there is no predetermined wr depth chart going into spring. competition should dictate the cream rising to the top at every position... Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:11 shoss 10:11 Stephen Howard: That's exactly right shoss ... I guarantee that anyone can rise to the top of this depth chart Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:11 Stephen Howard 10:12 [Comment From Eric Johnson Eric Johnson : ] Jamaal, Darius and Tyler will be three of the starters I will bet my life on that. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:12 Eric Johnson 10:12 Steven B: coach alert everyone, Mike Caneles will be here in about 5 minutes, get your questions ready. Don't send them in yet though. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:12 Steven B 10:12 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] Steven, Did the quarterback who had to come in and play in the last game of the year because of injuries lose his red shirt status? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:12 Guest 10:13 Steven B: Derek Thompson, yes, he is a sophomore heading into the 2010 year. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:13 Steven B 10:13 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] I would only lean on Carey right now... all other WR spots are open. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:13 MeanGreenTexan 10:13 [Comment From Eric Johnson Eric Johnson : ] Yes Derek Thompson lost his red shirt. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:13 Eric Johnson 10:13 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] How is big Shavod looking? should we expect the break out year from him this season? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:13 GreenP1 10:14 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] darius in my opinion is our best guy! very smart and showed us that a true freshman can come and really contribute right away! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:14 greengang 10:15 Steven B: bigger and in alot better shape I will say. He was I think a bit of a dissapointment for some, but I know D-Lo has him penciled in as one of the guys to have a much better year. The feeling is that JC guys need a year to develop and adjust to the D-I level. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:15 Steven B 10:15 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Off topic stadium question- will the seating structure be concrete or steel like UCF? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:15 MadDog 10:15 Steven B: concret, no recyled soviet tank parts will be used in the construction of this joint like at FIU and UCF Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:15 Steven B 10:16 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] Great to hear Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:16 GreenP1 10:16 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] Has Coach Charr made an impact on our players? What improvemnts have you seen? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:16 NatureBoy 10:16 Steven B: big time, the guys are finally into his system for the full year and I think that will have a great impact. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:16 Steven B 10:16 Stephen Howard: I am really glad to hear about the concrete structure. All of the new metal bleacher structures around the country just look cheap Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:16 Stephen Howard 10:16 [Comment From Concerned Fan Concerned Fan : ] Do you think George Dunham will be a crazy parent of a College football player. Always trying to talk to coaches and making his way into the press box. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:16 Concerned Fan 10:17 Steven B: all parents are crazy if you ask me, but not likely Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:17 Steven B 10:17 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Now we will have a first class stadium!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:17 MadDog 10:17 [Comment From Eric Johnson Eric Johnson : ] Darius will be great, but Jamaal and Riley have great chemistry as well. So I would have to say that those two are locked in as the top two guys, and Tyler Stradford is a freak, he is going to turn heads this year. The other starting spot will be a solid competition between Cole and Outlaw, that would be my prediction. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:17 Eric Johnson 10:17 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] will any of our players be at the pour house tonight? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:17 greengang 10:17 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] Who are we waiting on for LOI as of now? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:17 OldTimer 10:18 Stephen Howard: I think George will already be on the air in the press box, so we probably don't have to worry about him going after the coaches during the game Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:18 Stephen Howard 10:18 Steven B: three more guys are left Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:18 Steven B 10:18 [Comment From Adam Adam : ] no way Dunham is a much better announcer than Craig "Bribe" James Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:18 Adam 10:18 [Comment From Adman Adman : ] Can you speak to offseason conditioning? Meaning is there a set/mandatory schedule of weights, running etc and if so what is our schedule like. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:18 Adman 10:18 Steven B: going to get coach canales, stand by. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:18 Steven B 10:19 [Comment From BT BT : ] @ Steven b agreed! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:19 BT 10:19 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] george might go off on the air! jk Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:19 greengang 10:19 Steven B: that's my job so I hope not! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:19 Steven B 10:19 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Geroge cant be as rabid as Chris Hurd's and Nick Bazaldua's moms were? They were a riot! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:19 Medpilot21 10:19 Steven B: I would also put Rusty Beck's father at the top of the list Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:19 Steven B 10:20 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] true true!!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:20 greengang 10:20 [Comment From sam mann sam mann : ] Did Derrick Teegarden of Odessa TX sign? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:20 sam mann 10:20 Kenny: Yes he did Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:20 Kenny 10:20 Coach Peterson: Adman - Offseason conditioning is currently ongoing. They workout in small groups at a scheduled time four days a week. There are small groups that go at 6 a.m., 8 a.m. 12 noon and 2 p.m. each Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:20 Coach Peterson 10:20 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Bazaldua's parents sat next to me. Good people. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:20 MadDog 10:20 [Comment From Stephen H Stephen H : ] Agree to the Hurd and baz comment Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:20 Stephen H 10:20 [Comment From Mean Green Matt Mean Green Matt : ] Another Off-Topic Stadium Question...What will the stadium look like when it is expanded? I have heard anything from tearing out the "v" and completing the bowl, to upper decks here and there. Is the expanded design planned out yet, or is that bridge going to get crossed when we get there? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:20 Mean Green Matt 10:21 Steven B: let's wait until we get to that point...... Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:21 Steven B 10:21 Stephen Howard: Bazaldua is one of my all time Mean Green favorites. He is still around, and if you keep your eyes peeled he comes to almost every game Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:21 Stephen Howard 10:21 Stephen Howard: Get your questions ready for Mike Canales, the new offensive coordinator for the Mean Green. He is joining us now ... Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:21 Stephen Howard 10:21 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] No Q but just want to Thank and Welcome Coach Canales to UNT Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:21 NatureBoy 10:21 [Comment From sam mann sam mann : ] That's great I have seen that kid play he's a talent. Go Mean Green! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:21 sam mann 10:22 [Comment From UNT_Flyer UNT_Flyer : ] Coach Canales, what will be your primary focus this season in finding areas to tweak? Game/clock management, turnovers, etc Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:22 UNT_Flyer 10:22 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Welcome to UNt Coach Canales! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:22 MadDog 10:22 Coach Canales: Visiting with the staff, Coach Dodge has talked about eliminating turnovers, that just kills drives. We are going to concentrate on decision making by the QB's. I think its important that game management can control the game and give ourselves a chance going into the fourth quarter, that really stands out to me in the short time that I've been here. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:22 Coach Canales 10:23 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] hey coach great to have you on board!!!! what are your first thoughts on Riley? and have yall already started breaking film down? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:23 greengang 10:23 Expand Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:23 10:24 [Comment From JoeH JoeH : ] Just want to say WELCOME COACH. You are a great addition to Mean Green football Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:24 JoeH 10:24 Coach Canales: I've had a chance to meet with Riley, we met for about an hour, his future here, and the expectations. Arriving yesterday, he came by and we spent time watching film, what struck me was he looked a lot like Matt Groethe, I almost fell out of my chair when I watched the chair. But there are alot of simlilarties in how they play. they are both gym rats and I see the same qualities in Riley as I do in Matt. I'm exicted to coach the group and I've been very fortunate to be around alot of successful guys and I'm excited about working with them. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:24 Coach Canales 10:24 Stephen Howard: That isn't a bad comparison to a great QB ... I like to hear that about Riley Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:24 Stephen Howard 10:24 [Comment From Jozef Jozef : ] Hi and welcome Mike! We are expecting great things out of you and your wealth of exp. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:24 Jozef 10:25 [Comment From scott scott : ] Welcome Coach C... Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:25 scott 10:25 Coach Canales: In the QB position its important to develop a relationship and as a coach you have to be able to take off your coaches cap and listen to them and build the trust with the QB's. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:25 Coach Canales 10:25 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] Welcome Coach Canales, we're really excited to have you on board. I look forward to seeing your experience greatly benefit this team. I hope your wife and family are doing well. Have you had a chance to review game film yet and, if so, do see any glaring problems that you can immediately fix? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:25 gangrene 10:26 Coach Canales: the one thing I've told the guys here is that I've got no ego, I've checked that in at the door. We have to improve our short yardage and third downs. I like to call it third and must, we have to be successful, not always throwning the ball but creating a hard edge mentality. I like those types of schemes is something we will evaluate. I think we've got a great back and he can do those types of things in short yardage. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:26 Coach Canales 10:26 [Comment From Mike W Mike W : ] Coach Canales, will there be a truely open competition for every position on offense this year? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:26 Mike W 10:28 Coach Canales: That's how you get better. At USF that's a big thing Coach Levitt said there is no spot that's taken That's how you get better. I keep stats on everything, throws, reception, block, I will grade every practice so they know they are being looked at. I even told them, teasing them a bit, that I'm grading them when they drink water. The competion creates success no doubt about it. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:28 Coach Canales 10:28 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Welcome coach Canales! We're very excited to have you here. What made the UNT job apealing to you over other options? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:28 MeanGreenTexan 10:28 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] Great to have you here Chico. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:28 GreenP1 10:29 Stephen Howard: Tons of questions for coach C coming in, so we're trying to get to all of them! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:29 Stephen Howard 10:29 Coach Canales: We had a couple of opportunities to go to a few places, but the one thing that stood out was the coaches. What stood out was it was a great fit, I felt really comforatable. I feel like we are right on the cusp of making the move and I know the league pretty well. I know alot of coaches in the league and I felt like it would be a great situation for me. Also I've been able to coach in california and florida, and I'm really excited to come to a hot bed of talent in texas. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:29 Coach Canales 10:29 [Comment From MattM MattM : ] Coach Canales - From a technical standpoint, how is your personal offensive philosophy similar to what North Texas is currently doing? Are there any ways in which is different? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:29 MattM 10:30 Coach Canales: We were more of a multiple spread, we ran our QB's quite a bit, but we utilized our QB's alot so you have to be able to run the ball. In my study of Florida, your QB has to be able to run the ball. You don't want to be able to take away the ball from our RB's, but you want to have the chalk last as coaches say. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:30 Coach Canales 10:30 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] What are some realitic goals you have set for yourself and the players your are responsible for, this year? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:30 NatureBoy 10:32 Coach Canales: I met with the kids yesterday, they have to understand something that Herm Edwards told me. Playing football at any level is not a given right, its a priveledge and an honor. I want them to understand its an honor and they need to respect the opportunity given to them. We are going to respect the teams we play, but fear nobody. But it's all buisness when we step on the field and our mindset is going to be "we are going to beat you" We aren't going to fear anyone we play and I don't want our players to think that. When we played at Florida State this year our kids had that mentality and attitude and we had that mindset at the game. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:32 Coach Canales 10:32 [Comment From Adam Adam : ] Coach Canales, what do you see as the biggest challenge for the offense this upcoming year? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:32 Adam 10:34 Coach Canales: I'm still studying the film, but I think the turnovers and the game management are two keys. But I can't get a full answer until I look at all of the game film yet. But we do need to stay injury free and build some depth at all positions because those guys are going to lead us. We have to do that to be successful. If your going to win, you need a great D-line, great O-line, QB, and cornerbacks. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:34 Coach Canales 10:34 [Comment From glick glick : ] From looking at film of your offenses it looks like you like to get the QB in a position to make good decisions and have a run/pass option, is that a correct asessment? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:34 glick 10:35 Coach Canales: Very much so, I like to give them the freedom once they get use to the system. They need to understand where they fit run wise and how they can attack the weakness on the defenses. That comes from the relationship that comes with the QB's. They are an extension of me on the field, and how we prepare and study together. There were times with Phillip Rivers where we got in the game and they knew through film study what to go to and look for and it was alot of fun. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:35 Coach Canales 10:36 [Comment From Charlie Charlie : ] Will your spead offense use a TE and a FB? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:36 Charlie 10:36 Coach Canales: I love the TE! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:36 Coach Canales 10:37 Coach Canales: The TE position is very vital in every offense, even in the spread. You can create mismatches everywhere. My background at BYU was to use the TE as a mismatch, spread him out and create plays with multiple sets. with different personnel. I really enjoy using the TE and its just going to be who is that guy going to be. The spring will be important towards finding that out. I saw a couple of guys in the team meeting yesterday that I wanted to make TE's though. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:37 Coach Canales 10:37 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] have you been able to see Lance Dunbar in action? and if so how do you compare him to other guys you have been around? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:37 greengang 10:38 Coach Canales: To be honest he could have been a starter at USF for us. He's that good. The explosive plays I saw outta him was amazing. He will be fun to get the ball in his hands. I can see on flexing him out and utilitizing him in alot of different ways. That's going to make him a lot of fun to coach. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:38 Coach Canales 10:39 [Comment From LongJim LongJim : ] There have been concerns about Riley's arm strength and his ability to make necessary throws as a RS Freshman. Do you have concerns about this, or do you think that the off-season and continued growth and weight training will be the key to his continued development? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:39 LongJim 10:41 Coach Canales: One of the things in visiting with Riley was he's the very body frame that Matt Groethe was at at USF. He just needs to put on the correct weight, muscle, so he can take the pounding that the spread QB's take. Arm strength wise, there are certain drills I like to use that. I like to use a drill called a Hard Arc, learning how to throw that ball, we throw it up a hill. He's got great mechanics but alot of it is being in the right position. I know that people are concerned about that but it will come with maturation and development. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:41 Coach Canales 10:41 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] Will the QB have the ability to call audibles, or will all the play calling be done from the sideline via the set, stop and look, system? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:41 gangrene 10:44 Coach Canales: There are multiple uses in your spread, the look, give the play, you look , see if you want to keep it. But there are many variations of the spread. I like using it, but it gives the QB the freedom, because once he understands the defense it becomes fun. What's important in this process is the development of the QB. I will have the freedom to call all of the plays, that's why I came. The gameplan though that we put on the board is a process of all five of us on the offensive side of the ball. I will just the one calling the plays. The only difference between the guy calling the plays and guys who aren't is I have the call sheet. In my 24 years of coaching, I've called plays for 18 years, but I don't have an ego. I'm open for suggestions all the time, its about the kids on the field. And I'm a big situational guy and we will practice all of them and we won't ever get caught with our pants down, I can assure you of that. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:44 Coach Canales 10:45 [Comment From greengang greengang : ] I know Matt Groethe put some great numbers on the ground with you! Do you feel like you can do the same with Riley? and to make this fun who do you think is faster Riley or Matt? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:45 greengang 10:46 Coach Canales: I think in the spread, you have to be able to run the ball against the defense. Matt is not as fast as Riley, even though he said he will fly to Dallas and race Riley. they are very similar and I'm very excited to coach all of them. We are going in with a gameplan and set those goals. they will understand that I'm there for them and nobody else. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:46 Coach Canales 10:47 Stephen Howard: That was actually my first time to meet coach Canales (dang you basketball season!) and I 'm really impressed. He sounds like a guy that has checked his ego at the door, and is really here to make this place better as a team! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:47 Stephen Howard 10:47 Steven B: I will tell you this, if his offense runs as fast as he talks watch out. My laptop is burning up Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:47 Steven B 10:48 Steven B: Our first trade of signing day, Gary DeLoach has aquired Richard Abbe in exchange for a can of snuff from Lefty Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:48 Steven B 10:48 Steven B: actually we had Abbe as an OL but he will be a defensive tackle Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:48 Steven B 10:49 Stephen Howard: Uh oh, coach Caneles just popped his head back in the door to ask why no one asked him any questions in spanish? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:49 Stephen Howard 10:49 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] que ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:49 NT03 10:49 Steven B: Como se touchdown? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:49 Steven B 10:49 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] What kind of snuff? lol Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:49 NTSUEagle 10:50 [Comment From Jozef Jozef : ] Donde esta la cerveza por la fiesta Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:50 Jozef 10:50 Stephen Howard: Donde esta la biblioteca? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:50 Stephen Howard 10:50 [Comment From UNT_Flyer UNT_Flyer : ] No hablo Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:50 UNT_Flyer 10:50 Steven B: okay, who are we missing here. Three guys left, but I think we've got some updates to deliver. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:50 Steven B 10:50 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] Yo puedo preguntarle a Coach Canales en Espanol. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:50 BenW 10:51 [Comment From H-town H-town : ] So Abbe at DT? Did he play that in HS...Howard love The Community reference!!!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:51 H-town 10:51 Steven B: I think he played OL in HS, but D-Lo wanted him bad at the D-tackel spot. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:51 Steven B 10:51 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] Me llamo Eppy Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:51 NTSUEagle 10:51 [Comment From Mean Green Matt Mean Green Matt : ] Estadio Nuevo!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:51 Mean Green Matt 10:51 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Does he speak Sicilian?? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:51 MadDog 10:52 Steven B: I don't know about that. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:52 Steven B 10:52 [Comment From txmatt txmatt : ] What role do you expect the Dunham boy to play this year? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:52 txmatt 10:52 Stephen Howard: While we were chatting with coach Canales, another fax came through ... Graylan Hawkins, OL, Ht: 6’4, Wt: 240 Ibs, (Dallas Skyline HS) Was a first-team All-District 9-5A selection … Played OL and DL … Totaled over 40 tackles and six sacks in 2008. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:52 Stephen Howard 10:53 Steven B: as a freshman I think Blake can come in and win the job as the deep snapper and play on special teams. It might be while until he works into the LB rotation. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:53 Steven B 10:53 Steven B: two more to go, and they are the "stealth" names. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:53 Steven B 10:53 [Comment From rhey rhey : ] great to hear from coach canales - as a fan, what he said has me all fired up and ready for the 2010 season Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:53 rhey 10:53 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] forged abou id Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:53 NatureBoy 10:53 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] How many faxes are in ? Sorry I've been away Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:53 NT03 10:54 Steven B: 20 of 22, pretty good percentage. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:54 Steven B 10:54 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] Assuming we get the 3 who are left...will we have any ships left to catch later transfers that we have been so successful at in recent years. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:54 OldTimer 10:54 [Comment From txmatt txmatt : ] me too...i promise to get out and see some games in person...show my daughters UNT... Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:54 txmatt 10:54 Steven B: Don't quote me on this but I'm pretty sure there is one scholarship left going forward. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:54 Steven B 10:54 [Comment From Jozef Jozef : ] is Dodge too busy to hop on Steven? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:54 Jozef 10:55 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Didn't Johnson also deep snapped in HS , Blake could have competition there Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:55 NT03 10:55 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Is he big enough to play linebacker at the FBS level. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:55 MadDog 10:55 Stephen Howard: Oh no, coach Dodge will be our next guest Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:55 Stephen Howard 10:55 Stephen Howard: He should be coming along shortly Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:55 Stephen Howard 10:55 [Comment From shoss shoss : ] I'm starting to love the stealth recruiting practice... it makes today like christmas in Feb... Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:55 shoss 10:55 Steven B: I think he is, his biggest hurdle will be adjusting to the speed of the FBS game. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:55 Steven B 10:55 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] Has Antonio Johnson signed yet? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:55 gangrene 10:56 Steven B: already signed Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:56 Steven B 10:56 [Comment From D. Lovelace D. Lovelace : ] Great comments from Coach Canales, and all of the other coaches. These guys are good men who work very hard, and today is a good day for them to stick their chest out and feel good about landing these kids. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:56 D. Lovelace 10:56 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] Hey NT03, 97and03 here. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:56 BenW 10:56 [Comment From Jozef Jozef : ] great to hear...I am at work...so I am having to watch this on the DL Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:56 Jozef 10:56 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] sup Ben! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:56 NT03 10:57 [Comment From charles hibbler charles hibbler : ] tell me aaron bellazin DL/LB?????? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:57 charles hibbler 10:57 Stephen Howard: Ballazin will be a DE Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:57 Stephen Howard 10:57 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] I think we are all at work on the DL Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:57 NatureBoy 10:57 Steven B: DE that D-Lo is jacked about Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:57 Steven B 10:57 [Comment From glick glick : ] DE!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:57 glick 10:57 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] I called in today... IM A GREAT FAN !!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:57 NT03 10:57 [Comment From txmatt txmatt : ] I'm curious at this level what the staff has to do to keep players safe when practicing in the heat and humidity up here. I'm from west Tx....and I know I would have died during two a days had I had them up here! Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:57 txmatt 10:58 [Comment From H-town H-town : ] Thats awesome to hear that one of Copperas Cove boys is already on campus. That is something that goes on at the BCS schools. A great way for him to get a jump on the competitio. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:58 H-town 10:58 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] immediate starter at DE? Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:58 GreenP1 10:58 Steven B: not likely, but as all of the coaches have preached, its all about competition and he will get his chance. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:58 Steven B 10:58 [Comment From jeffery smith jeffery smith : ] coach canalas can you tell me what you know about the db recruit D'Andre Wood Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:58 jeffery smith 10:59 Steven B: we can neither confirm no deny. Let me know when your tired of us saying that. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:59 Steven B 10:59 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] Humidity? Up there? LMAO Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:59 NTSUEagle 10:59 Stephen Howard: Once again guys, we can't comment on potential student athletes that haven't sent in their paperwork Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:59 Stephen Howard 10:59 Steven B: FYI, Coach Dodge is going to roll in here in about 10-15 minutes, so get your ????? ready Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:59 Steven B 10:59 [Comment From LongJim LongJim : ] Thanks to the coaches for stopping by and taking questions, for sure. Appreciate it. Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:59 LongJim 10:59 [Comment From D. Lovelace D. Lovelace : ] Congratulations to Coach Dodge and his entire staff on an outstanding class so far. A question for Todd would be how instrumental has the new stadium been in recruiting? Late last spring when kids began committing early it was in the plans. Now, there is dirt turning as the kids visit the campus. Surely that has made a difference right? I mean these kids in the D/FW area are playing in stadiums nicer than Fouts Field in high school... Wednesday February 3, 2010 10:59 D. Lovelace 11:00 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] don't forget LaChris at DE Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:00 NatureBoy 11:00 Steven B: good points, LaChris has great size and potential, and after a year to redshirt and get healthy, he will get a shot. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:00 Steven B 11:00 [Comment From Jozef Jozef : ] So Zachary Olen faxed in first? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:00 Jozef 11:00 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Obi on one side and Bellazin on the other with AK47 coming in for passing situations sounds nice! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:00 MeanGreenTexan 11:01 Stephen Howard: According to my records, Zac Orr was the first one to have his paperwork in this morning Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:01 Stephen Howard 11:01 Steven B: I think Obi and AK are your starters for now and the rest will have to battle it out to take their spots. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:01 Steven B 11:01 [Comment From kram1 kram1 : ] So, 21 of 20 signed so far? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:01 kram1 11:01 Steven B: 20 of 22 Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:01 Steven B 11:01 [Comment From D. Lovelace D. Lovelace : ] DeLoach said LaChris will be a DT Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:01 D. Lovelace 11:01 [Comment From UNT UNT : ] in between all the great LOI's coming in make sure to cheer on Coach Lama as they look to take down the Sooners at 3 PM today. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:01 UNT 11:01 [Comment From glick glick : ] D-LO listed him as a DT from what I understood, LaChris that is Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:01 glick 11:02 Steven B: with all of the movement that's gone on at the tackle spot, I would imagine LaChris could end up there. Either way he's going too factor into the mix. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:02 Steven B 11:02 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] We can knock Coach Dodge on some things but you have to be more that pleased that he and his staff have done a fantastic job at recruiting since he has been here at UNT. I recognize and appreciate that!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:02 NatureBoy 11:03 [Comment From ZSaleski ZSaleski : ] Just wanted to let all Mean Green fans to know that keep your eye on the QB position this year. I played with a guy named John Dodson. Great composure and has a great touch on the ball. if this kid gets time in the pocket he will be VERY dominant....just keep a look out Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:03 ZSaleski 11:03 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Is Mack Cole still on the roster ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:03 NT03 11:03 Steven B: no, he was a sr. last year Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:03 Steven B 11:04 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] AK-47 needs to be a dedicated pass rusher.... not a D-1 starting defensive end. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:04 GreenP1 11:04 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] He could wreck in that role.... instead of getting mauled up and down the field. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:04 GreenP1 11:04 [Comment From UNTBowler UNTBowler : ] have been a critic of TD, but this years class looks very good Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:04 UNTBowler 11:05 Steven B: Its okay to be a critic, at 5-31 its hard not to be but I think there is plenty of reasons to be optomistic to. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:05 Steven B 11:05 Stephen Howard: I think more depth on the d-line was a focus. AK can be a very good pass rusher, but it takes more than him to dominate the line of scrimmage Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:05 Stephen Howard 11:05 [Comment From Scott Scott : ] Sounds like next season is going to be exciting! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:05 Scott 11:05 [Comment From Sean H Sean H : ] not asking for names, but does the coaching staff know who the 2 missing potential recruits are and are there any concerns they might not sign with NT? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:05 Sean H 11:05 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] LaChris is going to be a playmaker! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:05 NatureBoy 11:06 Steven B: yes they do, we didn't recruit them. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:06 Steven B 11:06 Steven B: well from the official source himself, D-Lo popped in to say LaChris is going to be a DT and that he played nose guard at Allen HS in the 3-4. shows what I know. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:06 Steven B 11:07 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] Any idea what weight LaChris is at these days? Also, seems like Cantly is bar at DT, correct? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:07 BenW 11:07 Stephen Howard: Yea, our coaches know who they are, and no they aren't worried about them committing elsewhere. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:07 Stephen Howard 11:07 [Comment From kram1 kram1 : ] Coach Dodge...the class of signees looks great! You and your staff are be congratulated for the hard work. It can't be easy to sign a class of this quality with all the competition in the area alone, not to mention nationally. Super job. It's a great day to be a member of the Mean Green Nation! Well done. Will look forward to seeing the final 2 signees "in the house". GO MEAN GREEN! Mark Miller aka KRAM1 aka "The Original"...who cares about being "stealth" with the name on a day like this! Ha! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:07 kram1 11:07 Steven B: yes Cantly is. I'm not sure what LaChris is checking in at these days, I haven't seen him since the fall, but I would guess somewhere between 200 and 400 pounds. Give or take a 100 Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:07 Steven B 11:08 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] John Dodson? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:08 MadDog 11:08 Steven B: no Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:08 Steven B 11:08 [Comment From Regino A Regino A : ] will zac orr redshirt? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:08 Regino A 11:08 Steven B: way to early for that. But if your looking for christmas presents for me I'd like a new big screen TV. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:08 Steven B 11:08 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] AK-47 should be the "5TH" guy rushing the passer! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:08 NatureBoy 11:08 [Comment From Jozef Jozef : ] In your honest opinion....does this class rank higher than the first class that Dodge brought in? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:08 Jozef 11:09 Steven B: I'd say Dodge's second class has been the bedrock for this team. The first class was cobbled together in about 3 weeks time, it was pretty tough work for those guys. I think on paper it has the potential to be, but until you see them on the field its always impossible to tell. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:09 Steven B 11:09 Stephen Howard: Yes, it has more depth at a variety of positions. Plus this class wasn't rushed like the first class. They only had a month to put that recruiting class together Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:09 Stephen Howard 11:09 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] I think Coach Chico is the most important addidition for next season , more than any player Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:09 NT03 11:10 Steven B: I agree with that, he's brought in a ton of experience by just showing up. Plus anybody who has coached Phillip Rivers will have pretty good street cred if you ask me. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:10 Steven B 11:10 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] This class looks pretty good, but I have to put the 2008 class up there pretty high. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:10 BenW 11:11 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] TOTALLY agree, 03! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:11 NTSUEagle 11:11 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] Are these 2 missing "stealth" recruits of the JUCO variety? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:11 MeanGreenTexan 11:11 [Comment From kickersdad kickersdad : ] thank you to all the coaches at UNT! Coach Petersonand coach Dodge have been great through out the recruiting process.What an exciting time!GO MEAN GREEN!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:11 kickersdad 11:11 Steven B: your getting warmer Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:11 Steven B 11:11 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Maybe Javia changed his mind about going to Juarez, uh UTEP. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:11 MadDog 11:11 Steven B: nope Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:11 Steven B 11:11 Stephen Howard: Welcome to the board Mr. Olen! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:11 Stephen Howard 11:11 [Comment From H-town H-town : ] I know LaChris redshirted last season to overcome an injury. How is he doing with that? And what is he at weight wise? Thanks Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:11 H-town 11:12 Steven B: I think he's pretty much over it. They are planning on him being available in spring ball and ready to roll. He is at 6-4, and that's no lie either, big, big, dude Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:12 Steven B 11:12 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] It's amazing how we can keep so excited about football regardless of the 5-31. It takes incredible intestinal fortitude to be a true Mean Green fan. I'm really excited about this year. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:12 NatureBoy 11:12 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] Just like players, Anytime you can improve on coaches you have to make the call! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:12 NatureBoy 11:13 Steven B: Ahh but the payoff will be worth it. Or you will know what its like to the a Detroit Lions fan Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:13 Steven B 11:13 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] I hear Circuit City has some deals on TV's, Steve B.... Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:13 NTSUEagle 11:13 [Comment From MARK T MARK T : ] WHATS THE STATUS ON DERRICK TEEGARDEN OUT OF ODESSA HIGH? I THOUGHT HE AVE HIS VERBAL TO UNT? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:13 MARK T 11:13 [Comment From Adman Adman : ] Any chance Will Atterburry gets FG duties this season? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:13 Adman 11:13 Steven B: I don't think so, but I wouldn't be suprised to see him get a chance to kick off. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:13 Steven B 11:14 Stephen Howard: Take a look at our earlier posts, Derrick Teegarden committed and signed earlier today Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:14 Stephen Howard 11:14 [Comment From Adman Adman : ] Chico & The Man Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:14 Adman 11:14 [Comment From Jozef Jozef : ] I agree with NT03 Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:14 Jozef 11:14 [Comment From kickersdad kickersdad : ] glad and proud to be here!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:14 kickersdad 11:14 [Comment From kram1 kram1 : ] NT03...agree 100% regarding Coach C Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:14 kram1 11:14 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] I keep hearing Rick Flair's voice everytime the NatureBoy types something Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:14 NT03 11:14 [Comment From MeanGreenTexan MeanGreenTexan : ] I agree about coach Chico NT03, but followed closely by Olen, if he's as advertised. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:14 MeanGreenTexan 11:14 Stephen Howard: Wooooooo!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:14 Stephen Howard 11:14 Steven B: WOOOOOOOO Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:14 Steven B 11:15 Stephen Howard: Everyone , welcome to the discussion, coach Todd Dodge ... Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:15 Stephen Howard 11:15 [Comment From LJ LJ : ] Coach Dodge, do you feel like you've made progress in area recruiting? You stressed recruiting DFW, when you came in, but it seems like your recruiting base continues to spread into LA and MS (not that that's a bad thing...you've gotten some good players outside DFW) Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:15 LJ 11:16 [Comment From Stephen H Stephen H : ] Coach Dodge, congrats on the great class this year Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:16 Stephen H 11:16 [Comment From Rick Herold Rick Herold : ] Coach Dodge...congrats on a very exciting recruiting class! I am very excited about Spring Ball and the 2020 season. Congrats' to you and your Staff! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:16 Rick Herold 11:17 Coach Dodge: Well it has always been a priority to do a much better job in the DFW area. You have to be careful and always recruit the entire state of Texas. We feel like we have to have around 50 percent DFW kids to help build our fan base as well. We felt like we made a nice showing in the DFW area. As far as getting what we wanted, yes, we stayed very true to our board. The five mid-year transfers were very important, all on defense. 3 DB's and 2 LB's and because of our APR situation we inherited we are finally at full allotment of scholarships going in. This infuses a little bit older Division I talent for us. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:17 Coach Dodge 11:17 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Was it easier to sell the new stadium to a recruit since now they are actually out there moving some dirt ? Oh , and hello and thanks for all your hard work Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:17 NT03 11:19 Coach Dodge: Oh gosh absolutley. The first thing it does, the team right here now, they are really motivated because everyone of them has been recruited to this stadium. the other thing is we bring recruits in during January and bring them in, you don't have to show them the model anymore, the proof is in the dirt. What a player and a coach wants is to play in a stadium that has an atmosphere, to us walking out of your dressing room, into your stadium, with it locked and loaded with 32,000 people, that's what we are selling and I know we can be that way real quickly. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:19 Coach Dodge 11:19 [Comment From MARK T MARK T : ] COACH DODGE DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT POSITION YOU WANT TO USE TEEGARDEN AT YET? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:19 MARK T 11:21 Coach Dodge: he's a QB. He is the QB of this class and goes into the line of what we have always tried to recruit here is a dual threat QB. Derek and I are going to be speaking the same language when he comes in, we are thrilled with him. He's a guy, if he wasn't playing QB, he could play in the slot and as a kick returner. We want to recruit guys at the QB spot, that can do other things if needed but he is very dynamic with the ball in his hands. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:21 Coach Dodge 11:21 [Comment From Jozef Jozef : ] Great job on recruiting both a fantastic OC and a solid recruitment class! Can you briefly define what duties you will be overseeing as a more of a CEO coach rather than your traditional style of coaching? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:21 Jozef 11:22 Coach Dodge: First of all, I have been following the USF offense for the last three of four years. I really enjoyed watching them, though there was alot thing that looked similar to ours. After things happened at USF, I got his cell phone and got him. When we visited the thing we talked about was multiple formations. When we sat down the last few days, it was almost uncanny how similar the things were. We are going to be adding motions, TE sets, multiple sets, and just a wealth of knowledge and experience. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:22 Coach Dodge 11:23 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] Congratulations Coach Dodge on a great class. I've been a fan of yours since your QB days (no, I didn't boo), but I'm going to guess that these last three years have been some of the toughest of your life. I would imagine the UNT job has been more difficult than you anticipated, but can you explain how a 5-31 record and your status has impacted recruiting? I'm hoping for a bit of insight into the recruiting process, both from your perspective, as well as what you may have heard from recruits regarding their experience with other potential suitors. Also, can you explain how your role on the coaching staff will change with the addition of Coach Canales? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:23 gangrene 11:24 Coach Dodge: I think your naive if you don't think it can't affect it. You can't go into recruiting season blind like that, but it is what it is. The thing I told our players was the biggest thing that helped us during this recruiting season was our current players. When I brought a recruit in I can't tell you how many times that kid told me at the end of the process how excited he was to come in and play with this team and this program. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:24 Coach Dodge 11:24 [Comment From Ogdog Ogdog : ] Coach Dodge, How will the redzone offense be this year? We struggled inside the 10 and had trouble from under center! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:24 Ogdog 11:26 Coach Dodge: The red zone offense is an area from the previous season we improved, but we aren't near where we need to be. That is something that Mike brings to the offense that can help. So of the play-action stuff he's got and some of the freedom he's going to give to the QB's, checking down in the red zone. the thing you don't get is alot of man, its more zone. going under center is something as we continue with things with Mike, under center, 2 TE stuff, we will look at. But it will be in a different look. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:26 Coach Dodge 11:26 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Is Austin Fitzpatrick someone you see as our #1 TE ? Who are others that may battle him for that role ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:26 NT03 11:27 Stephen Howard: Oh yea folks, this one just rolled in ... Jamize Olawale, TE, Ht: 6-0, Wt: 237 Ibs, 40: 4.5, Long Beach, CA (El Camino College) Played in seven games in 2009 accumulating 276 yards on 11 receptions and three touchdowns … In 2008 he played four games and caught four passes for 59 yards. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:27 Stephen Howard 11:27 Stephen Howard: That was good timing! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:27 Stephen Howard 11:28 Coach Dodge: as we go into spring ball, we've got Greg Brown, Austin Fitzpatrick, Draylen Ross, we moving him to TE, and we have just signed Jamize Olawale who we just got in. He's a guy who played TE at El Camino, similar to Bryant Seidle. He really stretches the field for us. The thing about it I hear this all the time about TE, if people came to the games and watched them we used the TE more than 50 percent of our snaps. What we have to do is take it to the next level where we are getting them the ball in space. It was a huge reason we led the league in rushing last season, the TE just gave a new dimension to our offense. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:28 Coach Dodge 11:28 [Comment From Drag goon Drag goon : ] Good luck this upcoming year. I notice there are no SLC recruits on this year's list. SLC had a large signing class. Were there just no fits between the players and UNT's needs? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:28 Drag goon 11:29 [Comment From MARK T MARK T : ] ARE YOU PLANNING ON REDSHIRTING TEEGARDEN THIS NEXT SEASON? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:29 MARK T 11:29 Coach Dodge: no, as we went through it was just a year we didn't sign anyone from southlake. alot of outstanding guys there this year. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:29 Coach Dodge 11:30 [Comment From unt2000 unt2000 : ] Coach, Just wanted to thank you for taking the time to speak with us and that there are alot of UNT fans out there who believe in you. I know that this program is about to make a huge leap and am really excited about the future of this program. Go Mean Green ! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:30 unt2000 11:30 Coach Dodge: I don't plan on redshirting anyone. I don't want any of our players coming in with the idea of redshirting. Frankly I've told Derek that when he steps on campus he is our 4th scholarship QB, along with Nate, Riley, and Derek Thompson. He will be training as a QB and if he beats all the rest of them out he will be the QB. If he doesn't, he will be somewhere with the ball in his hands, be it at WR or kick returner. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:30 Coach Dodge 11:30 [Comment From Jozef Jozef : ] There are rumors that this year will see more of a blitz friendly defense....any truth to this? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:30 Jozef 11:32 Coach Dodge: As we continue to go through things, the thing Gary's package has is very multiple blitzes. Its not necessarily that will have to be taught, its in. From a standpoint of getting comforatable with personnel, you have to get lined up right the thing that's good to see is I see the personnel growing. We are going to be so much more multiple on defense because we have so many guys that aren't going to be young anymore, it will be exciting to see in the spring. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:32 Coach Dodge 11:32 [Comment From H-town H-town : ] Draylen Ross back to TE, interesting. What is he weighing in at? He was around 300lb last season Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:32 H-town 11:33 Coach Dodge: Well he's a guy that the previous staff recruited him as a TE, but because of the situation with Seidle being injury and forgoing his last year, we are looking as we go into the spring for a TE. He's at 290 pounds right now. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:33 Coach Dodge 11:34 [Comment From H-town H-town : ] Coach Stephen and Steven are holding out on us with the last commit....spill the beans!!!!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:34 H-town 11:34 Coach Dodge: can't do it Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:34 Coach Dodge 11:34 [Comment From kram1 kram1 : ] Coach Dodge...what guys do you see making up the special teams package this season in the punter/placekicker, holder and deep snapper roles? What about punt and kick-off return guys? Great job by the way! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:34 kram1 11:36 Coach Dodge: Our young punter is back in Atterberry, there were some inconsistency throughout the year which you expect, but he showed the fans what he do in the future. He's going to be fine. Zach Olen is our kicker that we signed today, he's got a very strong leg, very experienced from the level he brings. His first ever kick he made at the varsity level was as a freshman to beat Dallas Carter in the playoffs. the best thing that he does right now is he's very consitent on his short range FG's and he can kick the ball out of the back of the endzone in HS. He will be with us all summer long. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:36 Coach Dodge 11:36 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Will you be having the brownie sundae at the pourhouse today ? I think you deserve it Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:36 NT03 11:36 Coach Dodge: I think I do to, I will celebrate with that. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:36 Coach Dodge 11:36 [Comment From SilverEagle SilverEagle : ] Is this guy Olawale potentially like the TE that played at Tulsa a few years ago? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:36 SilverEagle 11:38 [Comment From Weazy Weazy : ] Garret Mills from Tulsa Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:38 Weazy 11:38 Stephen Howard: Thanks Weazy! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:38 Stephen Howard 11:38 [Comment From FanOfTheGreen FanOfTheGreen : ] Coach, greeting from Port Arthur! And congratulations on what appears to be a fine class of recruits. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:38 FanOfTheGreen 11:39 Coach Dodge: Nellie found him in CA, our offensive GA Kevin Barbay did a tremendous job on the legwork on Jamize, He's a guy who is very similar to Bryant Seidle, that's what we wanted. A guy who could block like Seidle and see what he could do in the receiving game and put a blend together. We had planned on getting him in mid-year, but didn't have enough scholarships at the break. The interesting thing about him is he played for De Lasalle and Long Beach Poly in high school, two of the more noted HS in CA. He does remind me of the guy from Tulsa, and the TE at ULM last season as a blocker and a pass catcher. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:39 Coach Dodge 11:39 [Comment From Jonathan Jonathan : ] Coach, Is it true that every position is open this upcoming year, because this quarterback battle will be a good one. Thompson has great size and can see the field as shown in the drive against ark st. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:39 Jonathan 11:40 Coach Dodge: That's what spring football practice is all about. Absolutley. You have a starting point where you come from on the first day, but no, we've got competition open at every level. That depth chart can change but that's how we can get better is to make sure our competition is better during spring football practice. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:40 Coach Dodge 11:40 [Comment From H-town H-town : ] How is Rileys arm? And what are you going to do to concentrate on cutting down on some of the turnovers? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:40 H-town 11:42 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] Olawale averaged 25 yards per catch and scored 30% of the time he caught the ball. Impressive. Sounds like an Aaron Hernandez from Florida (the 1st team All-American TE). Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:42 Guest 11:42 Coach Dodge: His arm is doing fine. Everything is going great with the arm. As far as turnovers, from the QB standpoint it will be using the experience you had as a freshman and applying it to your sophomore year and learning from those mistakes. We have all of those 14 interceptions on tape and a few of them were inaccurate passes but almost half were just freshman mistakes. All of those things on a day-to-day basis are being addressed. From our entire offense we turned the ball over too much, we have to cut those in half for the 2010 season and Mike knows that and he's come in I've told him what our biggest needs our. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:42 Coach Dodge 11:43 [Comment From Tyler Tyler : ] Has Olawale signed with the Mean Green yet? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:43 Tyler 11:43 Stephen Howard: Yep, we got Olawale's papers in earlier today. Check earlier in the chat for that info. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:43 Stephen Howard 11:44 [Comment From Sky Sky : ] Any comments about the signing of Linebacker Brad Graham and his impact on the defense? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:44 Sky 11:44 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] Do you agree with Steven B's assessment that Tune has better looking hair than Riley? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:44 GreenP1 11:44 Coach Dodge: I would really worry about myself if I was evaluating Nathan and Riley's hair. They probably already worry about me as the head coach, but I won't be doing that. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:44 Coach Dodge 11:47 Coach Dodge: First of all he's steps onto our campus and he's got leadership running through his veins. Comes from a great HS program at Katy, and started for three years, played in 47 HS football games, played him in 2005 in the state championship game. He's a guy that was a qualifier our of HS, but did not get the kind of offers he was looking for so he went to JC, started every game for Navarro, this year he was the defensive player of the year in the Texas conference and a first-team all-american. He is just a tackling machine, he and Forlando Johnson,. are just great tacklers, Those two are really outstanding tacklers. Brad is a difference maker on the field and in the locker room. He's going to be really good for the Mean Green. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:47 Coach Dodge 11:47 [Comment From Ogdog Ogdog : ] Coach, Explain how this year's recruiting was different from your first year. Was the additional time what made the difference?? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:47 Ogdog 11:50 Coach Dodge: I think it starts with our ability to get quality midyear guys. We have gone a little heavy on JC's the last two classes, but we are getting some quality kids that are coming in and making us better and being good in the classroom. sometimes those are things you worry about with JC's, but they are some of the best kids on the team. As far as the rest of the class it was important to get a DE, Mike Miller is the guy we needed, we sent Nelly out to find one. We needed a QB for this class, Derek's committment has been in place for a long time and to be honest with you its kind of refreshing because he and his family are a little naive to the process and didn't go splashing it out everywhere. The WR's from Coffeyville, Chris Bynes has been committed to us since last summer. He reminds me alot of Brandon jackson, his body type, his personality, his leadership, so we are exicted about him. One of his brothers is a starting LB at Auburn and another brother is the starting QB at Hampton Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:50 Coach Dodge 11:51 Coach Dodge: Some other interesting things for our fans Zach Orr's father played 10 years with the Washington Redskins and was a teammate of mine Antonio Johnson, his mother was a great basketball player at LSU. Went on his home visit, stood between his mother and grandmother and they were 6-3 and 6-5. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:51 Coach Dodge 11:52 Coach Dodge: Jamize's older brother is the starting QB at Columbia. Jamison Hughes, his dad is one of the assistant coaches at Miss. State. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:52 Coach Dodge 11:52 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] You better hope Johnny Jones doesn't steal AJ away for a few minutes on the hardwood. The need a big brusier in the paint ! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:52 NT03 11:53 Coach Dodge: I saw him play basketball the other night, he can move around quite a bit. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:53 Coach Dodge 11:53 Stephen Howard: That's it for coach Dodge, he's gotta get back to work. There's a press conference here in an hour, and he's got a ton of recruits to congratulate. Thanks for all the questions. We still have one more recruit that we are awaiting paperwork from, so keep your questions coming for myself and Steven! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:53 Stephen Howard 11:53 [Comment From FanOfTheGreen FanOfTheGreen : ] Any eligibilty left for granny and daughter? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:53 FanOfTheGreen 11:54 Stephen Howard: I wish! it looks like we have a ton of guys with deep connections to the game, and tons of football IQ. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:54 Stephen Howard 11:54 [Comment From MadDog MadDog : ] Thanks for taking the time to chat with us Coach Dodge. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:54 MadDog 11:55 [Comment From Sky Sky : ] Katy High School or Southlake Carrol as the 2000-2009 Team of the Decade? Teams are 1-1 head-to-head. Katy has more wins in the overall decade, Southlake has more undefeated seasons. Both teams finished with the same amount of championships (4) but Katy went to more (6). Who's your pick trying not to be biased to your Dragon faithful Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:55 Sky 11:56 Steven B: Im going with Katy, they had a stronger run for the entire decade, the Carroll run ran out a steam when the Dragon left. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:56 Steven B 11:56 Stephen Howard: I am a little partial to Southlake myself ... I watched tons of their games, and they made Texas high school football so attractive to the rest of the country. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:56 Stephen Howard 11:56 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] So is it all but set that we will open up with Clemson ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:56 NT03 11:56 Steven B: yep, done deal there Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:56 Steven B 11:56 [Comment From Rick Herold Rick Herold : ] Stephen and Steven, I missed this last year, and just wanted to comment how exciting this has been today! Thanks to you, all the Coaches and Rick V! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:56 Rick Herold 11:57 [Comment From Weazy Weazy : ] So that TE is 6ft...was that correct? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:57 Weazy 11:57 Steven B: well actually he just grew two inches, he's 6-2 Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:57 Steven B 11:57 Stephen Howard: Thanks Rick, and thank you to all the folks who came on and chatted with us. You guys make this possible Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:57 Stephen Howard 11:57 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] can we recruit in from our own teams? i.e., UNT Basketball team, Track Team? Keyth Talley ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:57 NatureBoy 11:57 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] I'll go with Renee Zellweger's Alma Mater... Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:57 NTSUEagle 11:57 [Comment From Ogdog Ogdog : ] SC is nationally know as a Texas football powerhouse! Katy is a state known name. I am not tied to either school Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:57 Ogdog 11:58 Eric: WOW! We've had over 600 people on this chat this morning, which is by far the most we've ever had for a live chat on MeenGreenSports.com. Thanks for the participation! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:58 Eric 11:58 Stephen Howard: Maybe that's why Zellweger always has that look like she just bit into a lemon? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:58 Stephen Howard 11:58 Steven B: SC was a national power for about 4-5 years, and the same goes for state power. Katy was a state power for 10 years. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:58 Steven B 11:58 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] I'd say Southlake Carroll as they brought a bevy of National Media and attention to Texas HS football. However, once Dodge left things went downhill with Wasson's laid back personality. Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:58 Guest 11:59 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] sweet , so I can make my travel plans. 09/04 ? I guess its a safe bet then that Rice will be here the following wknd ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:59 NT03 11:59 [Comment From CBL CBL : ] Its known as "Bee-Sting Face" Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:59 CBL 11:59 [Comment From Medpilot21 Medpilot21 : ] Thanks for everything guys! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:59 Medpilot21 11:59 Steven B: those are both safe bets.....But if something happens to the clemson game don't blame me! Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:59 Steven B 11:59 [Comment From big mo big mo : ] What are the starters on the o-line this year lookin like? Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:59 big mo 11:59 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] it was from the dust and pollen there in Katy...back in the day Wednesday February 3, 2010 11:59 NTSUEagle 12:00 [Comment From Stephen H Stephen H : ] When will our 2010 schedule be public Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:00 Stephen H 12:00 Steven B: it pretty much is, the only thing that will change is the conference dates, alot of that has to do with TV. Non-con games are Clemson, Rice, K-State and Army Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:00 Steven B 12:00 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] I think teams just caught up to Southlake, they didn't get worse Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:00 NT03 12:00 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Ill blame the red headed guy Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:00 NT03 12:01 Steven B: or diet coke boy Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:01 Steven B 12:01 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] one more 'stealth' name... Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:01 NTSUEagle 12:01 Steven B: yep, just one more holdout is all we are waiting on. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:01 Steven B 12:01 [Comment From HickoryHouse HickoryHouse : ] Any confirmed TV dates next season? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:01 HickoryHouse 12:02 Eric: Big Mo - They have four of five starters returning, so I would say that the early favorites would be Victor Gill, J.J. Johnson, Kelvin Drake and Esteban Santiago. The other guard position will be a good battle. Drake will probably miss spring ball after having surgery recently so there will be a chance for some young guys to prove their worth. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:02 Eric 12:02 [Comment From Stephen H Stephen H : ] Thanks Steven B Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:02 Stephen H 12:02 [Comment From CBL CBL : ] Did I miss Graylin Hawkins LOI? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:02 CBL 12:02 Steven B: not yet, but I would imagine the Clemson game will be on something. I would also think a couple of more TXA 21 games will happen and then the Sun Belt TV package, available in Monroe, Lafayette, and Honduras Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:02 Steven B 12:02 [Comment From Weazy Weazy : ] what side of the ball is the last recruit on? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:02 Weazy 12:03 Steven B: hmmmm, defense. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:03 Steven B 12:03 Eric: CBL - We did receive Hawkins LOI earlier. He is in. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:03 Eric 12:03 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] diet coke boy is now with one of the DCCC athletic programs. He still comes out to games. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:03 BenW 12:03 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Can I take a dump at the 50 on fouts after the k st game ? Will i be arrested ? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:03 NT03 12:03 Steven B: Go for it! Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:03 Steven B 12:03 [Comment From dee dee : ] in the house from WHO DAT NATION!!!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:03 dee 12:04 Steven B: hey what's up Dee, I'm rooting for the Colts. Sorry. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:04 Steven B 12:04 [Comment From Htown Htown : ] Are you holding out the best recruit for last? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:04 Htown 12:04 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] Let's talk D-line rotation. Projections? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:04 BenW 12:04 Steven B: that's a common misconception, but honestly everyone we have in we have posted. The last name just happens to be.......... Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:04 Steven B 12:05 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] Woo hoo Honduras! Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:05 BenW 12:05 [Comment From Htown Htown : ] dee!!!!!! Your boy had a great freshman season! Looking forward to what he does next year Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:05 Htown 12:05 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] What percentage chance does this North Texas team have of winning the sun belt or going to a bowl game Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:05 Greg 12:05 Steven B: 1/9, just like everyone else does in the league. I'd say its around 25-30 percent. The rest of this league is pretty strong still. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:05 Steven B 12:05 [Comment From OldTimer OldTimer : ] I have to leave for a meeting at 5:30 and shave before that..hope this last commit comes before that time or I will miss my meeting. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:05 OldTimer 12:06 [Comment From kristen kristen : ] where can i find a list of signees? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:06 kristen 12:06 Stephen Howard: We have a press conference at 1 p.m., so I hope he gets his papers in before then Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:06 Stephen Howard 12:06 Steven B: we will post them on the website around 1ish.... Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:06 Steven B 12:07 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] Dee! Say hi to Darius for us!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:07 BenW 12:07 [Comment From Lee Lee : ] Is the press conference going to be shown on MG Premium? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:07 Lee 12:07 [Comment From dee dee : ] Thanks,I cant wait im excited for our young men!!!!!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:07 dee 12:07 Eric: BenW - That one is a little tougher. I really think that Kelvin Jackson and Shavod Atkinson will be solid Sun Belt tackles if they can stay healthy. The competition at DE will be fierce during spring ball. K.C. Obi and Brandon Akpunku are returning DE with a lot of experience, but both are kind of speed guys. They will try to find a big run stopping DE this spring. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:07 Eric 12:07 Steven B: actually its free on the MGSports. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:07 Steven B 12:07 [Comment From UNT_Flyer UNT_Flyer : ] Somewhere between 0% and 100% certainty Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:07 UNT_Flyer 12:07 [Comment From Bruce Magallan Bruce Magallan : ] Who is the BEST recruit out of this years class? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:07 Bruce Magallan 12:07 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] 28.76 % on a bowl game. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:07 NT03 12:08 [Comment From Sky Sky : ] The K-St game will feature two of my former teammates in Brad Graham(UNT) and Ryan Doerr(KST). Tough competition from Big XII school, do you think we can get a larger attendance in that game? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:08 Sky 12:08 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] press will be live vid? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:08 NatureBoy 12:08 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] where do you think this recruiting class stacks in against the rest of the sun belt classes this year Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:08 Greg 12:08 [Comment From dee dee : ] will do Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:08 dee 12:09 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] Having a TRUE PK in Olen will help in close Games. I smell 1st Team SBC for this kid, as early as this Season. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:09 NTSUEagle 12:09 Stephen Howard: Yes sir, we are attempting to stream the press conference live for free on meangreensports.com ... Hopefully the firewall issues have been iron out! Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:09 Stephen Howard 12:09 [Comment From CBL CBL : ] John Weber? Medical redshirt? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:09 CBL 12:09 [Comment From NTSUEagle NTSUEagle : ] Chico...best recruit, hands down. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:09 NTSUEagle 12:09 [Comment From NatureBoy NatureBoy : ] on a scale from 1-2 , how would you rate this years chat session? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:09 NatureBoy 12:09 Steven B: Well honestly I would say it's middle of the pack, near the upper echelon. On paper it looks like FIU got some pretty big names and WKU stole a couple of guys late. The real test will be in three years, whoever wins the league that year will have won the recruiting battle. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:09 Steven B 12:09 [Comment From Adam Adam : ] what do you think of the upcoming man vs food challenge tonight? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:09 Adam 12:10 [Comment From BenW BenW : ] I am intrigued by our recruiting out of Cali. The KS, TX, and MS JUCOs get hit so hard by the Big 12, 10, and SEC. Is that why we are looking for gems out west? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:10 BenW 12:10 Steven B: I can't wait, but I've got a women's game to do. I can promise myself and Stephen Howard are going to do that challenge whatever it is on Friday night when we are in Miami. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:10 Steven B 12:10 Stephen Howard: I personally think that tonight's Man vs Food live challenge will be one of the defining moments of my generation. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:10 Stephen Howard 12:11 Stephen Howard: It's like Woodstock for hungry people Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:11 Stephen Howard 12:11 Eric: Ben - The west coast connection is Mike Nelson, our D-Line coach. He recruited California heavily during his time at San Diego State and still has a lot of connections there. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:11 Eric 12:11 [Comment From Bruce Magallan Bruce Magallan : ] Thanks NTSU EAGLE! Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:11 Bruce Magallan 12:11 Steven B: Intrigue but its also nice to have the connections. Nelly being a former Cali guy and current GA Kevin Barbay came in and told me his recruiting area use to be California and El Camino JC has a TON of guys Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:11 Steven B 12:11 [Comment From NT03 NT03 : ] Dodge just hit the east side of the LBC !!! Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:11 NT03 12:12 [Comment From GreenP1 GreenP1 : ] damn right Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:12 GreenP1 12:12 Steven B: West side of the 405 Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:12 Steven B 12:12 [Comment From David David : ] Zachery Olen is he signed yet? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:12 David 12:12 Eric: Olen is in. Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:12 Eric 12:12 [Comment From Htown Htown : ] Where is barbay from? Wednesday February 3, 2010 12:12 Htown 12:12 [Comment From Adam Adam : ] do you think Todd Dodge could eat the roosters challenge (18 burgers) to drum up excitment for this year?

1. Hayden Fry 2. Richard Lowe 3. John Hedlund 4. Jimmy Gales - Just because I loved the guy! 5. Bill Blakeley

Stratford?

That was the year before and he has since left the program. Im thinking maybe Flax is one. He didn't count towards our numbers last year

How can Dodge not be in your bottom 5 ?

I really think we need this guy. The more beef the better. Who are the 3 grayshirts Vito is referring to. I remember Boutwell , but who are the other 2 ?

With all the discussion about recruit ratings, I had some time and decided to see how Harry's projected starting lineup for 2010 rates for 'star power'.(Rivals) OFFENSE QB - Dodge *** RB - Dunbar ** WR - Stafford *** Xfer - rating when signed with OU WR - Jackson ** WR - Cole **** Xfer - rating when signed with OSU Wildcat - Carey ** T - Santiago ** G - Feeley ** C - Johnson ** T - Gill ** K - Olen ** DEFENSE DE - Akpunku ** DT - Jackson ** DT - Atkinson *** DE - Obi ** OLB- Johnson *** MLB- Robertson ** OLB- Herron ** Xfer rating when signed by SMU S - Smith *** S - Cook *** CB - Hill ** CB - McCord ** P - Atterbury ** *** Defensive recruits 2010 not in Harry's starting lineup Downing, Graham, Hughes.

Who?

Dosen't matter how many stars the kids come with ..........its the W's they leave with that counts!

I think you're missing the obvious choice: 11.

Sorry brah, any top ten list of captains without Captain Planet, Captain America, or Captain D's lacks credibility.

Congratulations Quoner!

Yes, but if you use all of the recruiting services selectively you can show where every player is at least a 3* according to someone.

Don't confuse my dumping on the Global Warming Hoax for my willingness to pollute the environment. There is an awful big difference between the two. The Global Warming issue is beyond environmental protection. You're using an example of regulations placed (far too late in my opinion) on companies in this country that were willingly polluting the local water supply and air. This was stopped by and large in the 70's and 80's. We KNEW these actions were bad for the environment when they were going on. ...compare that to Global Warming/Global Cooling/Climate Change (or whatever they are calling it this week to hide the fact they really don't know what is going on) and the two concepts don't belong in the same conversation. We don't know if we're actually having an impact on global tempuratures based on our actions. ...we COULD tell we were polluting the air and water making localized areas inhospitable in the example you site. Scientists and Politicians who are pushing Man Made Climate Change as a reality can't even seem to tell us straight if the planet is cooling or warming, but they are sure its our fault? ...and that cutting down on CO2 emissions when CO2 makes up 4 parts in 10,000 of greenhouse gases in our atmosphere will actually impact the planet's natural climate cycles? That's the overwhelming evidence? Lets say the atmosphere is Fouts Field. let's say that the 10,000 parts are attendees at a football game that we're losing. Let's say 2 of those people get up and walk out. Would you notice? ...well, that's the same impact that decreasing CO2 in the atmosphere by half would have on the atmosphere. You're right, there are a lot of people outside of America beating this same drum, using the same bad science, and interesting enough, most of them are pointing the finger at us and expecting us to lower our standard of living to theirs (or below) in order to fix this problem, which hasn't even been determined by the scientific community to actually be a problem, or be anything we can do anything about or that we had anything to do with it in the first place. ...and following that drumbeat of world opinion is one political party in this country. Like it or not, but this IS a political issue because instead of letting science actually discover the facts and determine what is really going on and why, we simply jump to the conclusion that our actions are impacting the climate. What arrogance to think we have that kind of power. ...I remember being told that Global cooling would wipe us out in 20 years back in the 70's. ...I remember being told that San Francisco, LA, Manhattan and Miami would be underwater by the year 2010 back in the 90's. ...and I remember that it was the same group of people with the same agenda spouting off that nonsense that are pushing this agenda today.

Sorry Tasty. The dude flies and scubas. We fear giving him negative points because we're not safe on land, water, or in the sky. He's like all three Centurions rolled up into one. You're gonna lose.

According to his facebook, he has 13 more days in a cast so I'm going to guess he is likely done for the season.

So Tasty's a Naval Lieutenant now????? Congratulations, Tasty!

First...read this. I know its a lot of words but it will help put in perspective for you what it takes to build a winning basketball program from next to nothing...which is essentially what JJ had to work with. Second...we have 8 seniors to replace after the 2011 season - Dom, Josh, TT, Cam, Mangrum, Thomas, George and Shorter. We'll have a returning group of Hogans, Knox, Holman, Williams and whoever we land in 2010. Third...if anybody ought to have patience and perspective it is the 40, 50, 60 ect. something person who should have some kind of grasp as to how bad UNT basketball has historically been. Me, I've been fortunante to only see JJ-era UNT basketball...but based on the fact that he owns exactly 1/2 of our NCAA bids and in just 8+ years of coaching has moved to second all-time in wins at UNT I feel very confident in saying that there wasn't much of a basketball tradition before my time. So thats why I'll listen to the opinions of those like Buford Julep, Cooley, untgeorge and SUMG, all of whom have high expectations, but also have enough basketball knowledge and perspective to realize that this program is in better shape than at any point during their fandom.

I heard Troy signed 20 new coaches to their staff, but don't expect all of them on campus next year.

This is a guy on the 4th ranked all-sports station in a 3 station market. We are giving him exactly what he wants. Listeners.

(sigh) Ok, once again there is nothing wrong with the WAC. If NT was in the Mountain or Western TIme Zone it would make sense to join it. It doesn't seem to register with everyone that Denton is NOT in either of those two time zones. Because we are not in either of those two time zones, the media in Texas does not cover those WACy folks very well. During Bowl games that often take place at 3pm or 5 pm in the West, they do get coverage. But very, very little for regular season games. The games end after the newspapers have to go to press and all you get is a single line "see the web for more information." About 3 people out of every 100 subscribers then look up the story. On the Sundays after most college football games there is this organization called the NFL that also plays football. NFL coverage pushes out college coverage on Mondays because 1. far more people follow the NFL than college and 2 the college game was two days ago and is thus now old news. TV newscasts happen at 10pm in our time zone. That is 8pm on the West coast so night games are generally just around halftime. Thus the TV coverage is "NT is currently playing school X. The current score is X. In other sports...." Please don't try to suggest ESPN as an alternative. Look at the ratings differences between local TV stations and ANY cable channel. Local news has been losing viewers for years, but they still have ratings in double digits while cable channels local ratings generally begin with a decimal point and often a decimal point followed by a zero and THEN a number. Resect for the WACy schools. Really? You honestly think that? Was SMU, Rice, TCU or Tulsa respected for being WACy? Obviously not. Ask a TCU fan how Wyoming is did last year and they aren't sure. Ask about San Jose State and you will probably get an answer of "who?" A few years back, the WAC approached NT, U of Louisiana and Arky State about changing conferences. All of them looked at the real financial data that was available through the Louisiana state government thanks to La Tech and all said thanks but no thanks. As a result, the WAC took U of Idaho which was their last choice, the choice they wanted to avoid if at all possible. The last choice for the WAC was the only school interested. Let's get more recent. What do the two WACy schools to have been to BCS bowls think of the WAC? They both want to leave. In fact Hawaii, Fresno, Nevada, La Tech and Boise has all been actively campaigning to get out of the conference that some assert gets more respect. Thats over half the conference who have actively campaigned to leave! While many SBC schools would jump at the chance to join CUSA, only FAU has actively campaigned to join another conference. Even Western Kentucky has decided the SBC was better than the alternative of the MAC. And please don't suggest being WACy would increase NT's home attendance. The only school in the WAC that wasn't in the Big West is Hawaii. Our attendance was not great when those same school visited before. The only school of the bunch with a higher profile is Boise. La Tech's attendance does not make a huge jump when they visit now. Of course there is a lot less alternative choices for the sports dollar in Ruston than in the DFW market. If we were the University of North New Mexico, then the WAC would make sense. We are not. Suggesting otherwise ignores sports reality. Don't go WACy.

You don't think that 100+ attempts is a good sample size? I think it is a fine sample size and is definitely large enough to project with. Something that isn't taken into consideration is the fact that Tune's numbers mostly came against our two toughest opponents and late in games when Riley had to come out. I am not saying that I think that we should have a decision now about who the starter is, but I think that the statistics are as representative as they are going to get.

Here we go again. Nathan is NOT a dual-threat quarterback. Riley had 5 rushing touchdowns; Nathan 0. Tune may be a better pocket passer because of his height but that does not make him a better quarterback for the spread. Riley made mistakes as we all know. Many of those can be overcome with coaching. Some of the mistakes weren't all Riley's fault. I can remember a couple of instances where the receiver broke off his route. He had several fumbles by trying to fight for extra yardage instead of just taking what he had and protecting the ball. Those are freshman type mistakes. If Canales can't cure those then he very well may try another quarterback but let's see what happens first. For all of his interceptions, Riley still tied for 7th in completion percentage in the nation. So, at least most of his passes went to the good guys. By the way, B.J. Daniels, Chico's former protege, was one of the highest in the nation in yards per attempt. I'm looking forward to seeing what Canales can do with Riley who completed 14% more of his passes than Daniels. Their rushing average was almost identical. And, unlike some of you, I don't believe that the fix is on. We'll put the best quarterback for the system on the field.

I'm not going to lie. I feel a little less excited than I did before I read this. I thought he also had offers from Kansas State , Tulsa & ECU.

Ofcourse I trust! For it is the right thing to do! Call me what you want....It is always easier to believe in the Mean Green than bring back the negative tone that has been a major part of this program EVEN when we went to four consecutive bowl games. Take time to look with enthusiasm and anticipation for the upcoming season....rather than will mistrust and disbelief. You will have a lot more fun....and maybe, just maybe, the Mean Green will surprize all of the non-believers. I don't live in the past...but, the optimism of the future. And, if things for some reason don't work out....I will think about that then and only then. For now, I really do believe in the Mean Green!

Just because we line someone up outside of the tackle with his hand on the ground doesn't make him Jason Witten or Dallas Clark. Tightends for the past thee years have been there to block so give that arguement a rest. We could line Cole or Outlaw up tight but wouldn't make them tight ends either. Deloach HAD to run zone 99% of the past two seasons because we simply didn't have the speed to play man. The more talent we get, the more man we will play. Why do you think we are signing so many db's and linebackers that have experience in JUCO. BTW: Dodge piled up those offensive numbers against an SBC schedule. Canales against a BCS schedule. Same letters, big difference.

Up until recently I was positive that Shanice Stephens would be successful. She seemed to have the confidence and positive attitude that almost always increases ones potential. For this reason I do not think we should throw in the towel yet, but if we do not show some significant improvement against some of the more mediocre Sun Belt teams in the last 7 games of the season, then it might be time to explore other options.

Whoosh. That's the sound of North Texas passing us by... Wait, that's just a bad habit.