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Ranked #74 The team remains ranked after beating Denver and crushing Louisville. Big matches with a dangerous ULL team on Friday and then a big ranking match-up with Rice (#42) on Sunday.

Seriously guys, we need to get over Thompson losing his redshirt and move on. It happened and there's nothing anyone can do about it. Yes, he was but three minutes shy from having an additional year of eligibility, but I really don't see it as that big of a deal. Rarely does any team have a four-year starter at QB that plays every single game in each of those four years. Some of you will disagree but I really don't view Thompson's Freshman season playing time much differently than I view UT's Garrett Gilbert's Freshman campaign. Take out his stats in the national championship game and he participated in 8 games, compiling a grand total of 124 passing yards on 15 completions in 26 attempts. Now, had he not been forced into action in the championship game, would you view those regular season stas as a worthwhile contribution versus having an additional year of eligibility?

May I ask what positions on this team are deeper? RB, WR, and then....? I'm not saying we have Peyton Manning as a fall back if Joe Montana fails, just that both Tune and Thompson seem to both be serviceable options. Much is being made of Tune only starting two games and, while that is true, it's not like he didn't play. Last year in 5 games Tune had a QB rating of 126.88 and was only sacked twice in 107 passing attempts (which included a game against Troy who averaged 2.5 sacks per game) in comparison Rodge was sacked 10 times in 303 attempts. Every source I have looked at has seen says that Thompson can play. The fact that he is challenging a senior who performed adequately when he got the opportunity to play only drives home that point. Yes, the zone read was a huge part of our offense last year, but only when Rodge was healthy. Lance was still able to contribute in a big way without Rodge in the line-up and from spring games (against our defense I know, I know) it looks like he is in even better shape this year. As far as injuries go the fact that both Tune and Thompson are competing for the job shows that the two players are comparable. If both go out yes we are in trouble, but show me a D1 school who can afford to lose their top two options at QB. The biggest point I am trying to make is that we don't need to chuck the ball all around the yard anymore. From the reports we are getting it seems that the two of the best players on our team play running back and we are hurting this team if we throw the ball 35-40 times a (competitive) game.

I don't disagree with that. And I don't think it's fair to point to that final drive and say, "Hey, we're going to get a full season of 100% completions and a TD every 3 passes!", but I do think that drive showed us, the team, and most importantly him, that he can succeed here. It's not like he came in and handed the ball off every play. That would have been a complete waste. I seriously doubt that we would be singing this guys praises like we are if he did not play in that game last year. We would be saying, "Oh, this guy Thompson is having a nice spring, but he's still unproven. Tune should definitely start!" The fact that this thread is even here is partially a testament to the decision to burn his redshirt last year. Unfortunate: Yes. Right thing to do: Yes.

I guess I want to confrontational today. There is no way in heck that our QB situation is deep. NT has a journeyman senior in Tune who has started two games and a sophomore who has played about a minute. Their backup is a 170 lb true freshman and several non-scholarship players. No matter what your thoughts on Riley's ability was, his being out of the QB position has made the depth at QB go from adequate to very questionable. An injury to Tune or Thompson or both would be a disaster. I would caution people not to rely on spring performances being very useful in projecting a team or unit's success. I also wouldn't discount Riley's ability running the option for a significant part of Dunbar's success last year. His speed at QB will be missed as will his ability to read defenses. The new QB will likely have better passing range, but NT lost a great weapon in Dodge's running ability.

Can you redshirt any year, or just the first? He lost a year of eligibility, but isn't he still able to have a (non-medical) redshirt year? Back to the thread topic; I thought Thompson was the best QB in the scrimmage Tuesday. He plays very mature and has a great arm. The offense took it to the defense, and the defense has seen the plays the past two weeks. I also saw more variety of play calling in two hours than all of last season.

You are ever so right. Tune personally called a pass play when he came in ice cold, with a lead, and a running game that was working, right? And he didn't then march straight back down the field and retake the lead...oh wait, yes he did. And he didn't hit a receiver in the hands in both regulation AND overtime only to see game winning touchdowns dropped...wait, he did that too.

Yes, we should have thrown in the towel at that point. A 10 point defecit is way to deep a hole to come out of. We should have put in Hamilton or Carey and just ran draws with Dunbar. A win is a win. You play to win the game! And you do what is in the best possible interest of the team to win that particular game. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRxm0oGbnRI

Please ask any player or coach on the team if that assertion is absurd! It doesn't matter what the record is/was if you can win a game, you do it! Now if the score was 40-3 or something, then yes, you probably don't do it...

I think it is a little unfair to make the point that if you multiplied the statistics by 3 for Tune, that they would be way better. If you look at the majority of situations that Tune was placed in, it was in games that were already out of hand, or in instances like Alabama where we were using a super conservative gameplan. Dodge and Vizza were both forced to try and make plays to win games, resulting in obviously more turn overs. Also I think Vizza was a freshman in 2007 and a Sophomore in 2008.

So Check out the shirt! Someone on the trip with us just sent me this photo..it was taken this last September in Munich at Oktoberfest...while I was still upright...and I now have proof of that fact! Go Mean Green!

I, for one, hope he does get to play D-1 ball at his new school. The kid played his heart out for the Mean Green.

Welcome to the board NTfan4now... I hope you'll drop the '4now' part of your name after we do well next season!

I'm going to have to agree with GrandGreen regarding the QB situation. This position is far from being the deepest. Too much inexperience now that Riley is gone. We're basically back to square one with a relatively unknown starting at QB. Now I will say I somewhat agree with you in that the potential is definitely there. This being such a pivotal season for Teflon Todd really makes it a big deal, IMO.

I really think everyone is blowing this whole QB situation out of whack. Compared to other positions on this team QB is one of our deepest. I don't think anyone is disillusioned about the ability of the defense (or lack of it) and going in with the mentality that you need to pass to win may not be the best for the team. I know I have said it again and again, but we have the Sun Belt's version of Chris Johnson on our roster and he needs to be the number 1 focus of the offense. Running the ball with Copspeed is essentially just like the passing game Dodge has implemented over the past 3 years, consistent short gains that have the potential to break a long play, except less of a chance at a backbreaking turnover. Whether it is Tune or Thompson who ends up taking snaps this season the team will be most effective establishing Lance as a running threat and then use play action when LD isn't breaking 60 yard runs. No need to split into Team Tune and Team Thompson, let's worry a little bit more about Ira Smith getting burned deep.

He's gone...Fosho

It's not that he can't redshirt in a future year... You've got that part of it correct. If Dodge and Canales decide to redshirt him this season, he'll still have 3 more years to play 3 seasons. The issue that caused all the controversy is that by using him for just 4 plays, that 4 play drive was all we get from one of his maximum four years of eligibility. So while he can redshirt this year, he'll still only have 3 years of eligibility years left. One fourth of his college career will be the one drive at the end of an all-but-over game that concluded a 10 loss season. When we decided not to redshirt Vizza, the guy started 8 games out of his freshman season and saw mop-up duty in 2 others. When we decided not to redshirt Riley, he would have potentially played 11 out of 12 games that season. Once he suffered his season ending injury (wink!) in week 4, he wound up qualifying for a medical redshirt anyway. But Thompson didn't start 8 games or have a chance to play in 11. He got 4 plays. One quarter of all he'll ever have the chance to do as a college player totaled one minute and seventeen seconds. Agree with the decision to play him or not, I don't think anyone disagrees that the lost year of eligibility is very unfortunate.

Awesome

You are right, but you had better be careful calling out the defense. We can blast Dodge and the offense all day long, but people will defend Deloach's worst in the country defense to the death.

He didn't quit, he's graduating. He anti-quit, and now he's going elsewhere because he's got more not-quitting in him. You'll be missed, Collin.

The kind thats a big mean jerk.

We need to recruit this kid.

I grew up a White Sox fan myself, followed them ever since I moved to/from Texas. I can't name one member of their team but they did beat the Cincinnati Indians today 6-0 at Cominsky Field. Rick

If we have no shot at him, then why the updates? I'd prefer to read on here about players that want to play for us.

There are not enough +1s for this post. It's a fair feeling to have regrets about the burning of his redshirt, but the fact of the matter is that it happened, and it's time to focus on what he can do in his three remaining years. That is, unless someone here can figure out the flux capacitor quandary. Solve that, and it's time to hop in the DoLorean with McFly to fix this thing. Just be careful about unraveling the fabric of the space time continuum.

Thanks to your crappy attitude, I have run out of my daily negative votes for the first time ever. So this will have to do... NEGATIVE 1 TO YOU SIR! How about you save your statements about the "era" for when the era is actually over. Until then none of what you are saying has any merit. It's not like we are all happy with where our football program is at, but the kind of persistent negativy you are contributing right now really should be saved for IF Coach Dodge is fired. After this season I think you may be singing another tune.

well i think your the worst fan in school history...if were just blurting out opinions!

Quittin is quitten broseph.

I just wanted to quote the longest post I've ever seen

not everyone wants to be or is redshirted. it's a moot point anyway, yet we keep beating it into the ground.

IMO, it was a bad decision even if a miracle had happened and NT won the game. Do you really think that a season ending win that would get NT to two conference wins is worth losing a good QB for a year? If that QB had been Maher, Scott Hall, Scott Davis or Steve Ramsy do you believe that one win would offset the loss of those QB's for a year. The reality was with a never used QB that NT's odds runing the wildcat were close to as good as Thompson's great series for a td.

What would you have done sir? Riley = Out. Tune = Out. Baine = Out. No one else had experience running QB in our system other than Thompson. We were 10 pts down in the game. We still had a chance to win. Play the person who gives you the best chance to win. If you don't do that, you don't deserve to be coaching at ANY level, FBS, High School, or otherwise.

You remove a 6-6 coach BECAUSE of what you've seen the previous three years. The gradual evolution of removing HS coaches, tweaking the offense, hiring qualified assistants, etc etc isn't to me a sign of growth but rather desperation moves as the "formula" failed. If these changes were made wholesale between years 1 and 2...or even 2 and 3 then I could see where we could point to this as a program that is learning/growing. As it is, this is a gift year and is absolutely make or break. Any more leniency and you're not being fair to your investors.

Hey Ben Knox....don't you want to pursue a law degree or something?

Yes, you are. Reasons: 1.) No hands 2.) No hops 3.) Weak 4.) Big White Stiff 5.) name the last good UNT big man white guy Center in the last 20 years 6.) Jones doesn't trust him 7.) His teammates don't trust him. 8.) He's not hungry 9.) I'm tired of typing reasons.

Pssst. 1. The Dodge era is the worst in school history. What jury are you waiting on? 2. Vizza was the better option, but Daddy didn't see it that way. 3. Dodge will be fired mid-season, but will stay on the rest of the season. The same way they did with Dickey.

I tend to agree. You've got to factor in how inexperienced the O-line was with Vizza as well. For as much pressure as that kid was under, he did a heck of a job. He also had nothing in the way for real, experienced receivers form the onset. Then...there was the coaching on both sides of the ball back then. Awful. It would have been interesting to see Vizza as a senior working with Canales offense behind an experienced O-line and with veteran receivers. I'm eager to watch Tune and Thompson, though. I think Vizza was a better scrambler than either of them. But, as you may have guessed from my post prior posts, I'm not completely enamored of scrambling quarterbacks. It's a useful tool to have in your belt, but you don't want it to be the main tool for the job. To me, scrambling is like the nail setter - useful when you need it, just sitting down in the pouch when you don't.

Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe I read on ESPN Dallas that Thompson lost his redshirt when Todd Dodge, in his infinite wisdom, put him in the last game of the season after Rodge and Tune went down.

So does our coach.

We were last year, but that will change with whoever is the new starting QB.

Not sure what this has to do with Oktoberfest, but STP is awesome. +1 for you sir!

Forgive me for posting this....but for those of you who didn't see....our defense got hammered yesterday in the scrimmage. Below is the chat trascript of the matchup. Key standouts (IMO) are both Baine on the run as a QB...and DT's lethal arm. Tune had his moments as well....either way...the defense took way too long to adjust to the style of offense that they play next to every day. I for one am scared and hope to God that Gary gets his side of the house in order before we get into another drought of a season. The Scrimmage Ryan Kasmiersky: Sorry for the delay everyone, we were having a bit of an issue with the internet, but we are live from Fouts Field now! Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:38 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:39 [Comment From Bouldin Bouldin : ] Is it the internet, or is it Fouts? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:39 Bouldin 4:39 Ryan Kasmiersky: Good Question. We'll say that one is TBA Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:39 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:41 Ryan Kasmiersky: Coach Dodge has the team huddled up and ready to get things underway. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:41 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:41 Ryan Kasmiersky: Special Teams now underway. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:41 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:41 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] Who is QB in scrimmage today? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:41 NT71 4:42 Ryan Kasmiersky: Well there is five of them... Nathan Tune, Derek Thompson and Chase Baine are the three main guys at moment. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:42 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:42 [Comment From Glenn Glenn : ] What color of jersery is #11 wearing? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:42 Glenn 4:42 Ryan Kasmiersky: White... Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:42 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:44 [Comment From Glenn Glenn : ] Is there an admission charge for the game on Sunday? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:44 Glenn 4:44 Ryan Kasmiersky: There is not, so come out and support!! And stop by tennis on the way over! Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:44 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:44 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] wheres the rest of your crew today? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:44 Drew 4:44 Steven B: finally, what did I miss Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:44 Steven B 4:44 Ryan Kasmiersky: They are on the way on, internet is being a bit spotty, but should be on shortly Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:44 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:45 Steven B: where are we ryan, special teams work underway Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:45 Steven B 4:45 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] What are the strengths of the 3 main guys at QB? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:45 NT71 4:46 Steven B: Tune- verteran, expereinced, not the greatest arm, but can throw it deep Thompson- Fearless, young, amazing arm, big, strong, and can run Baine- can run the option Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:46 Steven B 4:46 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] Dee are you here yet? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:46 Drew 4:46 Steven B: special teams work over, a quick pep talk from Coach dodge and we will be underway. 105 plays today for the scrimmage Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:46 Steven B 4:46 [Comment From JH JH : ] Who, in your opinion, is the drivers seat for QB at this time ? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:46 JH 4:46 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] Do you think they will use Dodge in any wildcat formations this year? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:46 Greg 4:47 Ryan Kasmiersky: Right now, I would say that Nathan is in the driver seat just because of the experience. Don't exactly rule out Derek Thompson, the kid can flat out play and, in my opinion, is the best option down the road. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:47 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:48 [Comment From All About UNT All About UNT : ] Then Steven...I think we know where the best option for us lies Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:48 All About UNT 4:48 Steven B: In racing speak, I'd say Tune has about a 5 second lead over Thompson, and Baine is a lap down Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:48 Steven B 4:48 Ryan Kasmiersky: Who is that All About UNT? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:48 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:50 Ryan Kasmiersky: Lance Dunbar just breaks a 65 yard TD run on the first play of the scrimmage. WOW. Doesn't look like he has lost a step. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:50 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:50 [Comment From All About UNT All About UNT : ] lets be real guys...giving Nathan the reins with him only here one more year is not as attractive as getting 3 years out of Derek. Watch Derek's video...the kid can play and I am hearing nothing but solid reports of his ability on the field and in the locker room to lead Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:50 All About UNT 4:50 Steven B: don't get me started on the option today everyone, Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:50 Steven B 4:51 Steven B: disagree with you, this coaching staff might not be here in three years, they need to win now and putting your faith in the hands of an inexpereinced guy sounds risky.....that's all i'm saying Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:51 Steven B 4:51 Stephen Howard: Dunbar looked as fresh as could be on that scamper. He took a handoff around the right end and got a great block Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:51 Stephen Howard 4:51 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] How many receivers do we have and how is Coach C using them? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:51 NT71 4:51 Steven B: i'd say about 12-14, on the roster just by eyeballing it, but yes, i think alot will be used. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:51 Steven B 4:52 Steven B: second series underway with tune still at qb Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:52 Steven B 4:52 [Comment From All About UNT All About UNT : ] and looks like our defense is still letting them through! Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:52 All About UNT 4:52 Steven B: yes Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:52 Steven B 4:52 Stephen Howard: Tune to Lewis on the right sideline for 15 yards ... Nice zip on the ball from Tune Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:52 Stephen Howard 4:52 Steven B: dunbar slowed down on that next play by AK busting through the line Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:52 Steven B 4:53 Steven B: second down and long Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:53 Steven B 4:53 [Comment From All About UNT All About UNT : ] well Nathan was 5 TDs for 2 INTs last year....higher QB rating than Riley on games played....he might be a great option and your point is well taken Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:53 All About UNT 4:54 Stephen Howard: Chris Neal with a nice break up on that pass. He met Bennie Jones on a comeback route, and jarred the ball loose. He will make some waves at DB this year. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:54 Stephen Howard 4:54 Steven B: j phillips busting up a screen pass on third and long, nice looking read by the youngster to end the drive. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:54 Steven B 4:54 [Comment From James James : ] do you think we will lose Dunbar to the NFL for the 2011 season? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:54 James 4:54 Steven B: negative Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:54 Steven B 4:54 Ryan Kasmiersky: I would have to say no as well... Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:54 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:54 Steven B: alright everyone, thompson is up at QB running with the 2's Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:54 Steven B 4:55 Steven B: wow, what a start, 70-yard touchdown pass to breece johnson.....it won't always be that easy son! Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:55 Steven B 4:55 Steven B: great looking throw by thompson, the defender fell down on the far sideline, and it was off to the races for johnson Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:55 Steven B 4:55 Ryan Kasmiersky: The old act like you're under thrown and move at the last second and score play.. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:55 Ryan Kasmiersky 4:55 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] Steve B what I meant by using them (recievers) is blocking, short routes to pick off Lbs, etc Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:55 NT71 4:56 Stephen Howard: If we are playing Troy, Alabama, Clemson, Middle Tennessee, Florida or any of the other teams we are going to face in the next few years, that pass gets picked off and run 70 yards the other way. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:56 Stephen Howard 4:56 Steven B: oh yes, his formations and sets are pretty interesting to look at Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:56 Steven B 4:56 [Comment From All About UNT All About UNT : ] see....I told ya Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:56 All About UNT 4:56 [Comment From JH JH : ] Pass ? Deep or pass & run ? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:56 JH 4:56 Steven B: very true, but hey at least he has some confidence early! Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:56 Steven B 4:56 Stephen Howard: That ball hung in the air and the DB didn't even look like he was paying attention Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:56 Stephen Howard 4:57 Steven B: thompson to dodge.....a connection over the middle for 5 Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:57 Steven B 4:57 Steven B: could dodge take more punishment going over the middle as a WR than playing QB? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:57 Steven B 4:58 Steven B: thompson going deep for dodge, no flag for whatever reason, as the falls short and incomplete. Series over, and its onto the 3's. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:58 Steven B 4:58 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] How many yards rushing do you see from Dunbar this year? Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:58 Greg 4:58 Stephen Howard: I'm guess that the refs don't have flags today, because Riley was man handled on that deep play from Thompson. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:58 Stephen Howard 4:58 Steven B: depends on the QB situation, if its good, 14-1500, if its a shaky, 11-1200 yards Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:58 Steven B 4:59 Steven B: d-lo can't be happy.....james hamilton rips off a 70-yard run for a TD on the first series for the second team again, 3's not up yet. Tuesday April 6, 2010 4:59 Steven B 5:00 Stephen Howard: We are seeing a theme today, aren't we boys? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:00 Stephen Howard 5:00 Ryan Kasmiersky: Three straight jobs with first play touchdowns. I'd say so Stephen. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:00 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:00 Steven B: hamilton showed a great burst going up the middle and then turning around Ryan Downing in the open field for the td Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:00 Steven B 5:00 Steven B: the theme is the defense needs alot of work right now Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:00 Steven B 5:00 [Comment From Concenred citizen Concenred citizen : ] Mr. Howard, You said "Ball hung in the air". Would you like to clarify that statement? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:00 Concenred citizen 5:01 Stephen Howard: No need to be "Concenred" ... Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:01 Stephen Howard 5:01 Steven B: 3rd and short coming up, TE situation with Fitzpatrick lined up Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:01 Steven B 5:01 Steven B: ahhh that's what thompson can do, a little QB keeper over the edge and he barrels forward for 8 yards. nice looking run by the big fella Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:01 Steven B 5:01 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] What has happened to the D? I thought they were a couple of players away from being able to stop other folks. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:01 NT71 5:02 Ryan Kasmiersky: He is deceptively shifty for a big guy. Can move well when he needs to. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:02 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:02 Stephen Howard: Moving on to the next series ... Chase Baine lining up at QB Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:02 Stephen Howard 5:02 Steven B: not sure, i think they are still trying to work some guys into the mix, but its still a big work in progress. Can't be for too much longer though Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:02 Steven B 5:02 [Comment From All About UNT All About UNT : ] I am gonna not think about the D and think that the O is just getting to be awesome Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:02 All About UNT 5:03 Steven B: add special teams to that as well..... Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:03 Steven B 5:03 Ryan Kasmiersky: Offensive line is just setting the tone so far... getting at least four yards of push on their counterparts. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:03 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:03 Steven B: man, tevin cantly has fallen all the way down to the 3's on the d-line, kinda of suprising after the fall camp he turned in last year Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:03 Steven B 5:04 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] I picture Thompson as more of a Tebow like runner compared to Riley Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:04 Drew 5:04 [Comment From dee dee : ] hello everyone Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:04 dee 5:04 Steven B: great comparison, Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:04 Steven B 5:04 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] How was Tyler Statford(sp?) looked thus far in Spring? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:04 Drew 5:05 Stephen Howard: Drew, I think you'll see more runs up the middle than Riley has taken ... He loved to run off tackle Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:05 Stephen Howard 5:05 Steven B: hit and miss, but his speed is amazing. He occasionally will go "alligator arms" on you, but he will be able to stretch the field Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:05 Steven B 5:05 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] Welcome Dee! Darius got a little banged up earlier in the spring, how is he heath wise? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:05 Drew 5:05 [Comment From All About UNT All About UNT : ] besides Tyler...any word on our JUCO transfers and how they are holding up? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:05 All About UNT 5:06 Steven B: well one got smoked by Hamilton and the other got pancaked on the dunbar run if that's any indication. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:06 Steven B 5:06 [Comment From JH JH : ] Hello Dee........... Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:06 JH 5:06 Steven B: 2's back out there right now, thompson running the show Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:06 Steven B 5:07 Ryan Kasmiersky: Correction these are the one's Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:07 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:07 Steven B: pardon me, this is the one's, and the No. 2 QB???? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:07 Steven B 5:07 [Comment From dee dee : ] he's good to go.nothing serious Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:07 dee 5:07 Ryan Kasmiersky: I think we are truly seeing an open competition at QB, which makes both of them better most of the time. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:07 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:07 Steven B: he's still wearing a red jersey though, and I'm giving him a hard time about that Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:07 Steven B 5:08 Stephen Howard: Sweet hit by D'Leon McCord in the backfield ... The corner worked around his block and laid the lumber to Breece on a pass in the right flat ... Solid stick from the junior Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:08 Stephen Howard 5:08 [Comment From All About UNT All About UNT : ] That first play for a 70 yd TD must have changed things Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:08 All About UNT 5:08 Steven B: AK breaks through and brings Thompson down, well touches him, in the open field for a sack, D-line with some more heat lately Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:08 Steven B 5:08 Ryan Kasmiersky: Which one? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:08 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:08 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] who are the O linemen and D linemen? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:08 NT71 5:09 [Comment From dee dee : ] just a color of caution for now, he told me Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:09 dee 5:09 Stephen Howard: Another example of Thompson running up the middle ... This time improv ... No one was open so the sophomore pulled it down and ran for 10 yards between the tackles Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:09 Stephen Howard 5:09 Steven B: its a mix and match right now wiht some guys out with injury, JJ, Coleman, Tomlinson, Noble, Franklin, Fortenberry are all seeing time Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:09 Steven B 5:09 Steven B: don't remind me he's a sophomore Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:09 Steven B 5:10 Ryan Kasmiersky: Victor Gill is out for the spring, so expect him to be in the starting mix come fall Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:10 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:10 [Comment From JH JH : ] at 6'4, 228 thompson must be a load to bring down. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:10 JH 5:10 Steven B: i think he's bigger than that right now, but we will see in august for the official weigh-in Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:10 Steven B 5:10 Stephen Howard: Dunbar once again gone for 75 yards ... No one was within 20 yards of the Haltom Buffalo so he jogged it into the endzone ... Big hitting plays continue! Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:10 Stephen Howard 5:11 Steven B: are you guys encouraged by the offense? Or frieghtend by the defense? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:11 Steven B 5:11 Steven B: 1st-team back out there, with DT at QB Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:11 Steven B 5:11 [Comment From Tony D. Tony D. : ] Why is Riley playing slot reciever? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:11 Tony D. 5:11 Steven B: too small for the outside Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:11 Steven B 5:11 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] What is DeLo doing after all this scoring? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:11 NT71 5:12 Steven B: looking for weaponary Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:12 Steven B 5:12 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] How has the youngster from Copperas Cove looked? Braylin Byrd? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:12 Drew 5:12 Ryan Kasmiersky: Haven't seen yet, but will be looking next time for sure. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:12 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:12 Stephen Howard: The offense is getting good stuff from it's key guys - Dunbar & Co. - but the defense is seeing the same problem today - bad tackling ... There is no reason for 4 plays of over 60 yards in this short of time Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:12 Stephen Howard 5:12 Steven B: i 've love what I've seen outta Byrd, fantastic athlete and very, very fast. He's got a great future. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:12 Steven B 5:12 [Comment From JH JH : ] frightened by the defense Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:12 JH 5:13 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] Coach C has to love what he's seeing from the running game. DeLoach on the other hand....... Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:13 Drew 5:13 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] Encouraged by the offense if we score more points then our opponents we win Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:13 Greg 5:13 [Comment From Mo Green Mo Green : ] How does Tomlinson look on the corner, can he be any help in the fall? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:13 Mo Green 5:13 Ryan Kasmiersky: Good call Greg... helps if we can stop people from scoring though too. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:13 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:13 Steven B: bigger and alot more comforatable right now at the OL spot than the past. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:13 Steven B 5:13 [Comment From All About UNT All About UNT : ] Steven...going back to the Tune/Thompson comparison....we need a QB who can run...Derek shows the ability to do it...and Tune doesn't. How does this factor in? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:13 All About UNT 5:13 [Comment From dee dee : ] do u think darius is going to do anything today Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:13 dee 5:14 Ryan Kasmiersky: Dee... He's in the red jersey, but I wouldn't expect too much out of him for caution... Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:14 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:14 Stephen Howard: Butler University nearly won the national basketball championship last night, but Butler CC just supplied a nice stop on that play. Forlando Johnson, our newest linebacker, made a solid stop on a screen pass before it could even get going. He broke the play down and made a solid stick. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:14 Stephen Howard 5:15 Steven B: not the deciding factor in my opinion though. How many games did riley win or lose for us last year with his legs? Or for that matter ever since Coach Dodge has been here? It's an added dimension that I think is important, but not a deal-breaker or maker Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:15 Steven B 5:15 [Comment From Lee Lee : ] Guys, I think you may have misunderstood Tony's question. He may have been wondering why Riley is not at QB. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:15 Lee 5:15 [Comment From dee dee : ] okay thanks, oh and by the way we will be having beignet's and coffee sunday for spring game.see u there? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:15 dee 5:16 Steven B: oh yes please, where can we find you. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:16 Steven B 5:16 Ryan Kasmiersky: Are you kidding Dee? I'll be looking for you intently. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:16 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:16 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] What are you guys seeing out of the LB competition? There are alot of guys fighting for only 3 spots. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:16 Drew 5:16 Steven B: alot of competition like you said. I think Forlando Johnson is the best bet to break into that rotation in the fall Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:16 Steven B 5:16 [Comment From dee dee : ] red tent Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:16 dee 5:16 Stephen Howard: Nathan Tune with the block 30 yards downfield to spring Hamilton for another 50+ yard touchdown ... This defense is getting shredded Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:16 Stephen Howard 5:16 Steven B: dunbar about 55 yards a carry right now. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:16 Steven B 5:17 Steven B: i'm not lying either Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:17 Steven B 5:17 Steven B: tune back in with a mix of 1st and 2nd teamers Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:17 Steven B 5:18 Stephen Howard: We are getting to see alot of good 40-yard dashes out of our linebackers today. Unfortunately its trying to catch up to the running back as he enters the endzone Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:18 Stephen Howard 5:18 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] hamilton or dunbar on that run? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:18 Drew 5:18 Stephen Howard: They look really fast though Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:18 Stephen Howard 5:18 Ryan Kasmiersky: that last one was Hamilton. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:18 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:18 Steven B: i'm kinda intersted in seeing how the new DB's do here today as well, Hilbert Jackson is locked in a good battle with D'Leon McCord for the starting spot opposite Hill Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:18 Steven B 5:18 [Comment From JH JH : ] defense is very discouraging. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:18 JH 5:19 Steven B: agreed, i was worried coming in, i'm petrified at the moment. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:19 Steven B 5:19 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] 5 TDs of 50+ yards?? that's a scary defense - are they playing or standing on the sidelines? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:19 gangrene 5:19 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] Is this a sign of how much we might miss Tobe? He was someone who could clog up the middle against the run. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:19 Drew 5:19 Steven B: a little of both, but d-lo has been mixing and matching a bit, but right now, honestly the D is getting whipped. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:19 Steven B 5:20 Steven B: a little break time right now, both sides huddling up.....woudn't want to be on the green side right now. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:20 Steven B 5:20 Stephen Howard: Tobe was huge for this defense over the last few years, but the team played without him for a while last year. That really shouldn't be the issue Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:20 Stephen Howard 5:20 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] who is running 1st team D as far as the LB's? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:20 Drew 5:20 Steven B: offense with the 3's back out, Baine at QB Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:20 Steven B 5:20 Steven B: Phillips, Penson, and Robertson Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:20 Steven B 5:20 Ryan Kasmiersky: Craig Robertson, Jeremy Philips and AJ Penson Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:20 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:21 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] That is an understatement about the D Steven B Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:21 NT71 5:21 [Comment From JH JH : ] can't beleive our defensive players are this bad. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:21 JH 5:21 Steven B: hmmmm, i like this wrinkle by Canales, even with the third-teamers, he puts a RB on the edge, brings him in motion, sets in the backfield, and has the option of running or passing. nice change of pace. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:21 Steven B 5:22 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] is kyle white playing any? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:22 gangrene 5:22 Steven B: yep, out there right now Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:22 Steven B 5:22 Stephen Howard: Interesting look from Canales & Co. ... Matt Ponce lines up in the left flat and goes in motion to the backfield ... Some times he gets the handoff and some times he doesn't ... It certainly presents an interesting look for this offense Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:22 Stephen Howard 5:22 Steven B: Chase Baine busting out for a big-gainer on the QB keeper, goes for about 50-yards on the right side. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:22 Steven B 5:23 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] huge Kyle White fan. Actually I think I'm just a fan of the NOLA boys Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:23 Drew 5:23 Steven B: me too Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:23 Steven B 5:23 Stephen Howard: So, Chaise Baine looks to be the best running option at QB ... He just scorched the entire defense through a hole 20 yards downfield ... Wow Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:23 Stephen Howard 5:23 [Comment From J J : ] Any new formations? undercenter stuff? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:23 J 5:23 Steven B: not yet, but I have noticed one new wrinkle, no looking to the sidelines after getting to the line Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:23 Steven B 5:24 Stephen Howard: That is a change that fans will like this year Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:24 Stephen Howard 5:24 Steven B: series for the 3's is over, first team back out with Tune and Dunbar Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:24 Steven B 5:24 Steven B: correction, that's hamilton not dunbar Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:24 Steven B 5:24 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] I like what Canales is bringing in as far as his sets and motion. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:24 Drew 5:24 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] I know the O-line is going to be strongest area of the team this season. We have experience and depth. Hopefully what we're seeing in the running game thus far is a sign of that. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:24 Drew 5:25 Steven B: i would agree, and keep in mind a few of the anchors, Drake and Sanitago are out right now Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:25 Steven B 5:25 Steven B: 3rd and really long now for the offense and two stops Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:25 Steven B 5:25 [Comment From meantothegreen meantothegreen : ] HEY STEVE you got give Baine some credit...the dude got some wheels !!! Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:25 meantothegreen 5:25 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] I'm very excited to see what Hamilton has done so far this Spring. He is a sophmore correct? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:25 Drew 5:25 Stephen Howard: I like that there is often motion at the line of scrimmage and that he mixes in a ton of counter runs ... An example right there from Hamilton yields a couple of yards Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:25 Stephen Howard 5:26 Steven B: i certainly will, like I said, best option QB in the Sun Belt Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:26 Steven B 5:26 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] With all the motion do you think that it is confusing the D? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:26 NT71 5:26 Steven B: better not be, they see this everyday Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:26 Steven B 5:26 [Comment From J J : ] watching usf last year there will still probably be look-backs in the games. It is a scrimmage so they are probably just looking to run the plays and not so much of seeing what the D is doing. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:26 J 5:27 Steven B: 2nd team/1st team back out there again, tune at QB Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:27 Steven B 5:27 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] then why are they not making the tackles? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:27 NT71 5:27 Steven B: i wish I knew, but they just aren't making the plays right now Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:27 Steven B 5:28 Steven B: whoa, the first flag of the day and Coach Canales went absoluty balistic.....didn't like something there. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:28 Steven B 5:28 [Comment From Lee Lee : ] Drew, Hamilton will be a junior this next season. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:28 Lee 5:28 Stephen Howard: Jeremy Phillips got into the backfield and broke up a screen pass from Tune to Johnson ... Nice play from Phillips using his nose for the ball Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:28 Stephen Howard 5:28 [Comment From JH JH : ] I'm a big DeLoach fan, but at some point we've got to start questioning the defensive coaching. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:28 JH 5:29 Stephen Howard: I think it's interesting that Canales is on the field ... Don't see that too much from an offensive coordinator Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:29 Stephen Howard 5:29 Steven B: okay, the first play made by the defense today, well maybe not the first, but in a long time. Robertson comes over the top and knocks a pass away to end the drive. 2 straight stops for the d. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:29 Steven B 5:29 Steven B: i bet he is in the box at Clemson Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:29 Steven B 5:29 [Comment From ryan ryan : ] So with Riley working at reciever who looks like the main quarterback for now? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:29 ryan 5:29 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] is it a case of overpursuing and being out of position? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:29 gangrene 5:30 Steven B: i'm not that great at breaking it down, but I'd say a lack of making plays is a better way of putting it. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:30 Steven B 5:30 Ryan Kasmiersky: Ryan... See above. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:30 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:30 Steven B: tune has flexed the arm on the last two plays, going deep on both, but badly overthrowing the WR's. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:30 Steven B 5:31 [Comment From J J : ] Who is winning the yelling battle DLO or Canales? haha Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:31 J 5:31 Stephen Howard: I will say this ... The defense has straightened up over the last few series ... No big plays, and it's not like the Offense hasn't tried! Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:31 Stephen Howard 5:31 Steven B: D-Lo, he's always yelling at someone. Canales is very calm and direct, until you make a mistake and then you wish you hadn't. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:31 Steven B 5:31 [Comment From meantothegreen meantothegreen : ] steve thats says alot about baine....mayby dodge plays him somewhere else...get him on the field. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:31 meantothegreen 5:32 Steven B: maybe. Who do you replace with Baine though? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:32 Steven B 5:32 Ryan Kasmiersky: You have to have three qb's Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:32 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:32 Steven B: the bubble screen goes for a only a few yards there. Jamaal Jackson brought down, 3rd and 6 coming up with DT at QB Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:32 Steven B 5:33 Steven B: yikes, thompson hooks up with Benny Jones but he was outta bounds. The throw was a duck, and Dez Brigham should have made the play Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:33 Steven B 5:34 [Comment From J J : ] how is baine throwing the ball? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:34 J 5:34 Steven B: not bad, his arm isn't that great though Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:34 Steven B 5:34 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] The biggest question facing this team is whether or not they can finish at the end of games. I think there is no doubt the offense will keep us in games, but can the defense finish Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:34 Greg 5:34 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] I'm still pulling for Riley to get the arm rested and then in the fall come back and be involved in the offensive game plan at QB. Heck he hasn't rested the arm since high school. Give it some time to heal and see what he brings in the fall. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:34 Guest 5:34 Stephen Howard: Brandin Byrd getting a touch off tackle that went for 7 ... How deep is the running back position here? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:34 Stephen Howard 5:34 Steven B: you are correct sir Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:34 Steven B 5:34 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] anyone know who, if any, UNT coaches will be at the 2010 NIKE combine camp this Saturday at Pennington Field? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:34 gangrene 5:34 Steven B: no idea Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:34 Steven B 5:36 Stephen Howard: Forlando Johnson had the coverage against Byrd on a pass down the left sideline, and covered him well ... Thompson laid the ball in the right spot, but great defense broke up the play Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:36 Stephen Howard 5:36 Steven B: that was the ghost of cam montgomery (johnson wearing his number). Cam couldn't catch either. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:36 Steven B 5:37 Stephen Howard: Thompson with a zip pass down the middle to Willie Taylor. That ball had some heat on it, and went for a 20-yard gain Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:37 Stephen Howard 5:37 Ryan Kasmiersky: Willie Taylor has looked good at receiver so far this spring... continuing it on that play. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:37 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:37 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] no one is going to bite on the rest Riley and come back in the fall statement. Man I thought that would surely get a reply. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:37 Guest 5:37 Stephen Howard: Really? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:37 Stephen Howard 5:38 [Comment From J J : ] What is Coach Dodge doing during the practices and scrimmages now? Does he just over see everything now? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:38 J 5:38 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] Really? yep, that is what I hope happens anyway.... Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:38 Guest 5:38 Stephen Howard: He's running around the offensive sideline with Canales .... The two of them work together on the offensive gameplan Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:38 Stephen Howard 5:39 Steven B: mystery QB out there again.....No number but i'm pretty sure its john dodson Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:39 Steven B 5:39 [Comment From jake jake : ] He has had alot of time to rest. Its not like after the last game of the season, the team didn't go right into spring ball Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:39 jake 5:40 Stephen Howard: Maybe it's Riley, but they just switched his jersey as a conspiracy? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:40 Stephen Howard 5:40 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] maybe he should work with d-lo - tell the defense which plays the offense is going to run and see if they stop 'em that way? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:40 gangrene 5:40 Steven B: hmmmm, he is as small as riley Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:40 Steven B 5:40 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] What is happening on D with DeLoach? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:40 NT71 5:41 Steven B: making some adjustments and making a few stops, still though the big plays are very troubling Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:41 Steven B 5:41 Steven B: and speaking of, another one ripped off by someg Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:41 Steven B 5:41 Steven B: guy I don't have on the roster. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:41 Steven B 5:41 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] Riley was good in stretches but in a season where UNT has to win, I think the coaching staff has opted for going with a QB who can stay healthy and provide them with a big arm Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:41 Greg 5:42 [Comment From James James : ] do you think the offense is a lot better with Canales in charge? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:42 James 5:42 [Comment From Guest Guest : ] That rest included recovery of a broken arm, maybe throwing too soon or rehabbing too fast. I just think more time and alot can change Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:42 Guest 5:43 Steven B: yes, more crisp, smooth, and looks more in control. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:43 Steven B 5:43 Stephen Howard: James, it's just way too early to say ... Canales has certainly changed some things that most fans will pick up on, and hopefully that translates into good things ... His track record says he will! Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:43 Stephen Howard 5:43 [Comment From jake jake : ] Then its John Dodson because they are the same size Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:43 jake 5:43 Ryan Kasmiersky: Canales seems to be a pretty sharp guy. I'm excited to see where this offense goes. They are already running a quicker pace and run more plays than last year in practice. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:43 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:43 Steven B: i'll got with that, Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:43 Steven B 5:43 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] Steven B. - maybe you should run a play at RB? If you break a long then we know we have serious issues on defense? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:43 gangrene 5:43 [Comment From J J : ] awesome, i know that offense means alot to coach dodge, glad to see he is still active in gameplanning. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:43 J 5:43 Steven B: i've said I can do alot things, boasting wise athletically speaking, but ripping off a 30-yard run isn't one of them. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:43 Steven B 5:44 Steven B: i'm still shamed by my softball performance last year. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:44 Steven B 5:44 Steven B: break time right now for everyone, Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:44 Steven B 5:44 [Comment From Kenny Kenny : ] Papi is better than Micah Mosley Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:44 Kenny 5:44 Stephen Howard: Last time Steven took a challenge it involved hitting a home run off a Division I softball pitcher ... It didn't go too well Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:44 Stephen Howard 5:45 Steven B: gimme a month in the cages and that changes. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:45 Steven B 5:45 [Comment From jake jake : ] It doesnt take that long to heal abroken arm and especially with QB's, they want to do everything that they can fro their arms to heal so if he is back now, then he must be healed Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:45 jake 5:46 Steven B: i would agree with that, but from the shoulder, to the concussions, to the broken arm, this is probably the right move for Riley. I'm still dissapointed to see him move though. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:46 Steven B 5:46 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] What is the temp in Denton right now at Fouts? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:46 NT71 5:46 Steven B: a little toasty, upper 80's is the field temp report.....Lower 70's in the press box though. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:46 Steven B 5:46 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] Who is DaWaylon Cooks running mate at the Safety spot? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:46 Drew 5:46 Steven B: ira smith, with ryan downing getting some looks at times. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:46 Steven B 5:47 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] give it guys - Riley's QB days are over. They wouldn't have announced the decision if it was still in question. That position is too important for both Dodges to take lightly. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:47 gangrene 5:47 Steven B: i know, but I still wish it wasn't Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:47 Steven B 5:47 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] UConn or Stanford tonight? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:47 Drew 5:47 Steven B: uconn. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:47 Steven B 5:47 [Comment From NT71 NT71 : ] Are these guys in full pads Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:47 NT71 5:47 Ryan Kasmiersky: Why even ask that question Drew? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:47 Ryan Kasmiersky 5:48 Steven B: yep, full gear on. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:48 Steven B 5:48 [Comment From JH JH : ] where are the big breakdown in the defense ? Line ? Lbs, " Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:48 JH 5:48 Stephen Howard: Jamaal Jackson with a beautiful 25-yard flag route catch from Thompson ... Perfectly executed all the way around Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:48 Stephen Howard 5:48 Steven B: all of the above, really it starts with the d-line not getting any penetration though and the LB's missing tackles Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:48 Steven B 5:48 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] Ryan, just wanted to see how sane you guys are? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:48 Drew 5:50 Stephen Howard: Jackson again, this time curling inside for a touchdown from Thompson ... Another nice play from an offensive unit that seems to be hitting its stride Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:50 Stephen Howard 5:50 Steven B: uhhhhggggg.....that's six TD's by my count. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:50 Steven B 5:50 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] not a fan of the pop-up ads in the chat program... Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:50 gangrene 5:50 Stephen Howard: Did anyone see a DB anywhere around Jackson on either of those plays? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:50 Stephen Howard 5:50 Steven B: sorry about that.....if it makes you feel any better we don't get any of that money Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:50 Steven B 5:51 Steven B: about 10 yards behind him. way behind him Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:51 Steven B 5:51 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] that just makes it worse Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:51 gangrene 5:51 [Comment From Kenny Kenny : ] Sounds like a lot of Adryan Adams starter kits Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:51 Kenny 5:51 Steven B: alex lott over the middle for about 20, moves the sticks, offense on the march again Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:51 Steven B 5:51 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] joining a little late, how is Thompson looking? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:51 ctv0006 5:52 Steven B: very active and very good. I'm at little suprised how comforatable he looks but I like it. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:52 Steven B 5:52 Steven B: first team defense comes up with two stops and its the end of the series. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:52 Steven B 5:53 [Comment From gangrene gangrene : ] this is just depressing - first Riley's QB career is over and know the defense can't make a play Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:53 gangrene 5:53 Steven B: hang in there, its still spring. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:53 Steven B 5:53 Stephen Howard: Nice composure from Thompson, evading tacklers in the pocket and spilling into the flat ... Refs blew the play dead after he escaped, but he looked cool under pressure Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:53 Stephen Howard 5:53 [Comment From jake jake : ] Out of all of the QB's who looks the most relaxed times/ Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:53 jake 5:53 Steven B: Both do, i'd say they both look confident and very relaxed. thompson hasn't looked rattled or nervous at all. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:53 Steven B 5:54 [Comment From JH JH : ] maybe derek is on a mission since riley has gone to receiver Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:54 JH 5:54 Steven B: could be. Tune almost hits riley down the sideline, but he got tripped up at the last minute or it was another big gainer. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:54 Steven B 5:54 Steven B: well, there is a big gainer, Tune down the middle to Johnson for about 25 Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:54 Steven B 5:55 [Comment From dee dee : ] we cant do nothing but get better we have the right guys Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:55 dee 5:55 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] What shot do you think Dunbar has in being a Doak finalist? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:55 ctv0006 5:55 Steven B: he would need to have around 2,000 yards and North Texas win at least 5 games. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:55 Steven B 5:56 Steven B: taylor down the middle from tune for about 20 more yards. First down at the 12. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:56 Steven B 5:56 [Comment From jake jake : ] What about the QB's with no numbers? How do they look? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:56 jake 5:56 Steven B: they need to do a little more to go numbers Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:56 Steven B 5:56 [Comment From JH JH : ] If he can run against this defense, he'd have a lot more than 2,000 Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:56 JH 5:56 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] Well who would this defense rattle anyways? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:56 Greg 5:56 Steven B: still thinking..... Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:56 Steven B 5:57 Stephen Howard: Five games!!! When is the last time a major award winner won five games??? We would have to win at least eight or 10 to get national award attention Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:57 Stephen Howard 5:57 Steven B: The dude from rice in 1990, Trevor Cobb won it Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:57 Steven B 5:57 Steven B: Finally a stop and a play made by Robby Gordon. Makes an int at the goaline and the drive is stopped. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:57 Steven B 5:58 Steven B: mix of first and second team back out with Tune at QB starting at the 50. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:58 Steven B 5:58 [Comment From jake jake : ] That was 1990 this is 2010 Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:58 jake 5:58 Steven B: it is possible. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:58 Steven B 5:58 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] If Dunbar rushes for over 2000 yards I would bet we win more then 5 games Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:58 Greg 5:58 Steven B: i would agree. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:58 Steven B 5:59 Stephen Howard: Good call Greg! Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:59 Stephen Howard 5:59 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] what about Atiknson? (spelling) not solid at all in the middle? Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:59 ctv0006 5:59 Steven B: he is, i like him with jackson but they have struggled today. Tuesday April 6, 2010 5:59 Steven B 6:00 Steven B: baine breaks outta the pocket after some heat put on by kyle white, ran for about 10 yards Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:00 Steven B 6:00 [Comment From dee dee : ] i agree also Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:00 dee 6:00 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] hm...I was hoping they would shore up our D LINE a lot this season. What about big boy from last year? Tevin Cantley I believe is his name. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:00 ctv0006 6:00 Steven B: me too, cantly has fallen on the depth chart, he's second or third team right now. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:00 Steven B 6:00 [Comment From Drewbles Drewbles : ] What do you think the percentage chance of Riley sticking at slot are? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:00 Drewbles 6:00 Steven B: 99.99 percent Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:00 Steven B 6:01 Ryan Kasmiersky: I'll add the extra .01 Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:01 Ryan Kasmiersky 6:01 Steven B: baine down the middle to a wide open austin fitzpatrick. great route, great pass, big gainer for 25 yards Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:01 Steven B 6:01 [Comment From Drewbles Drewbles : ] So according to you guys his days at QB are over and done with.. No more? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:01 Drewbles 6:02 Stephen Howard: Ryan Downing with a good stick on the short pass in the flat ... The receiver didn't budge an inch after Downing made contact Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:02 Stephen Howard 6:02 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] you mean Riley wont be our starting CB? WHAT? The guys on gomeangreen.com are going to the think the sky is falling!!!! jk Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:02 ctv0006 6:02 Steven B: it isn't already? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:02 Steven B 6:02 Ryan Kasmiersky: I would say it looks like it Drew. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:02 Ryan Kasmiersky 6:03 Stephen Howard: Some late 1's action ... Dunbar & Tune working from the 30 yard line going in Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:03 Stephen Howard 6:03 Steven B: oh my, from the 30 a sweet end around and jackson takes it to the house......but a flag brings it back.....illegal formation Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:03 Steven B 6:04 Steven B: second team back out, tune at QB Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:04 Steven B 6:04 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] I have been following Thompson since HS...Im sorry but I think he is the real deal. He is a true gunslinger Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:04 ctv0006 6:04 Steven B: i agree with the gunslinger's part, still needs some seasoning Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:04 Steven B 6:05 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] Who has been getting time at D-end? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:05 Drew 6:05 Steven B: AK and Obi with the 1's Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:05 Steven B 6:05 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] how are the TE formations looking? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:05 ctv0006 6:06 Steven B: a lot of H-back formations Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:06 Steven B 6:06 Steven B: Nice looking TD run there by Mathis from 26 yards out. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:06 Steven B 6:06 Steven B: offense back out there starting at the 30 again. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:06 Steven B 6:07 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] Compared to other teams around the Belt do you think our Offense may have the most speed ? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:07 Greg 6:07 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] so turnout for the spring game on sunday...who is tailgating? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:07 ctv0006 6:07 Steven B: very quick, but this league is full of a ton of talent and speed on offense. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:07 Steven B 6:09 Steven B: that drive ends, and it appears it are heading down to the north end for more situational ball Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:09 Steven B 6:10 Steven B: DT back at QB with the first team, and hamilton at RB Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:10 Steven B 6:12 Steven B: thompson airs it out in the corner and Hilbert jackson is called for pass interference. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:12 Steven B 6:12 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] how is my boy BJ Lewis looking this spring? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:12 ctv0006 6:12 Steven B: good, very productive but its gonna be a deep rotation to crack in the fall Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:12 Steven B 6:12 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] Who is the juco coming in from New Mexico this summer? I hear he's supposed to be the real deal. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:12 Drew 6:13 Steven B: i can't remember his name but I know who you are talking about, he is a DB who will help. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:13 Steven B 6:13 Steven B: first down again at the 30 for the first team. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:13 Steven B 6:13 [Comment From UNT90 UNT90 : ] Thompson will be the starter come September. 100% chance. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:13 UNT90 6:13 Steven B: really? is that a guarantee sir? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:13 Steven B 6:14 [Comment From ctv0006 ctv0006 : ] how about Robertson at LB? he has always been so solid Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:14 ctv0006 6:14 Steven B: agreed, veteran guy who needs to take the spot of tobe as the leader on D Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:14 Steven B 6:14 [Comment From UNT90 UNT90 : ] Yes, it is. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:14 UNT90 6:14 Steven B: okay, i'll mark it down. My odds are Tune 70 percent, Thompson 30 percent. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:14 Steven B 6:15 [Comment From Greg Greg : ] How are field goal kickers looking ? Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:15 Greg 6:15 Steven B: haven't seen much at all, had two kicks to start this scrimmage and that's it. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:15 Steven B 6:15 [Comment From Drew Drew : ] agree with 90, Thompson will start Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:15 Drew 6:16 Steven B: really, i'm suprised a bit that everyone is on the thompson bandwagon right now. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:16 Steven B 6:16 Steven B: 3rd and goal right now for the O at the 7. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:16 Steven B 6:16 [Comment From JH JH : ] Tune will probably start the Clemson game Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:16 JH 6:17 Steven B: agree with that, i'm not saying thompson won't start or play, but i would be awfully suprised if tune isn't taking the first snap of the year. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:17 Steven B 6:17 Steven B: last series of the scrimmage underway. baine under center from the 30. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:17 Steven B 6:17 [Comment From UNT90 UNT90 : ] Tune is too immobile. I can see him starting the Clemson game so as not to destroy Thompson's confidence. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:17 UNT90 6:17 Steven B: yep, see 2007 season everyone. Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:17 Steven B 6:17 [Comment From UNT90 UNT90 : ] But fm the second game on, it will be Thompson Tuesday April 6, 2010 6:17 UNT90 6:18 Ryan Kasmiersky: Ok, well practice is wrapping up so it's time to head down to the field. Hope you guys enjoyed it! See you Sunday at 3 p.m. for the Spring Game. Don't forget to tune in to the MGRN on KNTU 88.1 for the broadcast and here on the live chat. Have a good week and Go Mean Green

Not really. Vizza should have this job. But our high school coach wanted to go with his kid. The Dodge Era is the worst in school history.

We had tons of discussion on this topic. And your assertion that you don't deserve to be a coach if you don't waste a year of eligibility for a chance to win is absurd with the circumstances of that game. Outside of the odds that you could win being very low, a win would have made NT a 3-9 instead of 2-10. If Thompson turns out to be the QB, NT has been searching for, his loss of a year of play for one drive will go down as one of the worst coaching decisions in the history of NT football.

Go ahead take your survey, you may be surprised at the results. You may also want to quiz other head coaches, if they would give up a year of eligibility of a promising athlete's career for a less than 5% chance of winning the last game of the season with a 2-9 record with approximately 3 minutes left in the game. The objective of coaching is obviously to win but sometimes you have to take a longer term approach, that decision could cost you several much more important future wins. Why redshirt anyone if you subscribe to a win now at all cost philosophy? I think Dodge panicked and made a poor decision. Some agree, some don't; but it is far from the automatic decision you seem to think it was.

5-31. Dodge has to win 7 games to pass the Dennis Parker's record. And that's with an extra season, and one extra game per year. The Dodge Era is the worst in school history