Bowling Green State University Athletics
BGSU Football Press Conference Quotes
August 30, 2005 | Football
Aug. 30, 2005
BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - The Bowling Green State University football team is in the midst of preparations for the 2005 season opener. The Falcons will head to Madison to take on the University of Wisconsin Saturday (Sept. 3) at noon Eastern. The game will be televised on ESPN, and will also be broadcast on the Falcon Radio Network.
On Tuesday, head coach Gregg Brandon and a number of players met with the media to discuss the UW game and the start of the season. These are their stories...
HEAD COACH Gregg Brandon
Coach, could you give us some thoughts on getting the season started?
Gregg Brandon (GB): "It's here. Time to play. We're excited. It's a great opportunity. Opening with a Big 10 opponent on the road. It's great for our team, to play in a place like Madison is exciting for our players."
You know how to prepare for big games. You guys have done that with the national TV games, and with playing at places like Oklahoma, Purdue and Ohio State. How much of an advantage is that?
GB: "I don't think anybody's going to be surprised. Dealing with crowd noise is always a problem. You have to practice that, and we're working on that on both sides of the ball. When you're playing in front of 80,000 plus, it's going to be noisy and that can be a distraction if we allow it to be a distraction."
(As an assistant), you've coached several games against Coach Alvarez. Does that give you a better sense of what to expect out of his team?
GB: "Well, you know what Wisconsin's going to do. They're going to run the football and try to control the line of scrimmage that way. They led the Big Ten in time of possession last year, and that's the thing that scares me the most; that they're going to try to physically dominate our defense. We're a MAC defense, not a Big Ten defense. Hopefully we can create some problems for them on defense scheme-wise, blocking-wise, and get off the field."
For someone who hasn't seen your offense much, how would you explain the basic concept of it and what type of quarterback do you need to run an offense like that?
GB: "Well, the basic concept is to spread the field to be able to run and pass, to sum it up. I like a quarterback who has to throw the ball. We look for a passer first. A kid that has some running ability is nice. Athletic quarterbacks similar to Omar (Jacobs) and Josh Harris, I know those are the type of kids that fit in our system. We've been fortunate that we've been able to recruit kids like that."
So how are some of those guys who were banged up on defense last week?
GB: "We should be full strength on Saturday. It's early in the week and some guys have been limited in terms of reps. We have a physical camp, which is what we needed to do to get ready for the season. It's kind of a double-edged sword because you don't want to bang them too much getting ready to play a Big Ten team, especially Wisconsin. But, by the same token, you have to hit and have contact to get ready for the rest of the season. We tried to manage through that and we got some guys dinged up. And there are some guys that were hurt last season that are still recovering from those post season surgeries. I think we'll be at full strength Saturday."
Last year, you didn't want to put too much pressure on Omar. This year, has that philosophy changed?
GB: "This year, all of the pressure is on Omar. (Laughing) Last year, we went to Oklahoma and we probably had about 60 to 70 percent of the offense in. We had 60-70 percent of the offense in the second day of camp this year. We've been able to experiment with some new things. That's the excitement of having an experienced veteran quarterback."
How has he handled this kind of attention? A lot of people have come in to do stories on him -- ESPN, USA Today ... have you seen any changes in him at all?
GB: "I think he does a great job with that. He's a grounded kid, very poised, very humble kid. Those are qualities that we want in every member of our team. I just want to Coach a bunch of humble guys, I really do. I'm fortunate to be able to coach them, and they're fortunate to be able to play the game. All the attention they get is a result of the game; it has nothing to do with them. We need to keep things in perspective and Omar does a great job with that."
You shook up the defensive secondary, according to the depth chart...
GB: "Well, it shook itself up. Antonio Smith is a true freshman that earned a spot at corner. It allowed us to move (Terrill) Mayberry inside to safety, which will probably benefit us in the long run. I'm not really fired up about that against Wisconsin. Terrill will throw his body in there; I just hope he doesn't have to do that too many times. (Deaudre) Perry started against Oklahoma last year, he's a veteran; he had some academic problems in the spring and that's why we didn't see much of him and he's got that squared away. And of course Jelani Jordan, a veteran, is on the other corner. Jelani's really had a nice camp. Jelani missed some time in camp, though, due to a death in the family."
Do you see Antonio and Kenny Lewis as interchangeable?
GB: "No, Antonio's ahead of Kenny. Kenny's a good player. He's also worked his way into the two-deep. It's nice to see those young kids step it up."
What did Antonio do? Was it a case of him doing more, or did someone else do less, for him to be able to move into the lineup?
GB: "No, he did more. He definitely earned it; it's not by default. He has great coverage skills, a very instinctive player. He's out of one of the top programs in Florida. He played in high school against guys that are going to Florida, Florida State, Miami. He knows what speed looks like. He can cover."
I remember one of the scrimmages he had a great special teams play. Would he be in on special teams at all?
GB: "Yeah he'll be in PAT and field goal block. He's an edge guy. He'll help us in the kicking game."
How about the new guys on your offensive line?
GB: "Offensive line? I feel good. Jon Culp has emerged at center; he's been here forever. He's going to be a fifth-year kid and I'm really excited for Jon because this is his chance to finish his career on a high note. He'll be a senior leader on that offensive line. (Derrick) Markray has really stepped his game up at guard. He's battled back from a lot of off-the-field issues. He's dealt with two deaths in his immediate family. He's struggled academically and got himself eligible, and I'm really happy for Derrick Markray. For his (first) start to be at Wisconsin, it will be fun. Drew Nystrom has emerged as a right tackle. Drew played some last year. He's very capable player, just needs to continue to get stronger, but he has great feet, very athletic. I'm pleased with the offensive line. I think they've jelled, especially the last week."
How much have you focused your camp on Wisconsin?
GB: "We started on them last week. You know that's the first game, but you can't get too caught up in that. I did last year against Oklahoma and I think it hurt us. I spent a good part of the camp saying we want to go beat Oklahoma. I think I made a mistake and this year we really stressed that camp is for the season. We need to be standing in the end, in November, so we can get back to the GMAC or Motor City Bowl. Wisconsin is a great opener. We're going to have to play really well to win up there. It's just a game on the schedule, really."
With the success you have had at some of the bigger schools in recent years, do you sense the expectations of your fans changing when you play a game like this?
GB: "We're going to be fortunate to win. This is no different than going to an Oklahoma, Ohio State, going to a Purdue. You're talking about a team that led the Big Ten in total defense and gave up 15 points a game. So that's what we're going in to."
What would you say is the biggest benefit of having a player of national regard like Omar Jacobs as far as to the program? How does it affect Bowling Green?
GB: "I think it really helps our recruiting. For him to have success in our system hopefully will attract top ranked quarterbacks, running backs, kids that want to play in the system. Omar is an excellent player; he would be good in any system. He has become the dominant player because of what we do with him and because of the system."
Going back to what you said earlier about Wisconsin's offense pounding on your defense ... do you think that's the biggest key to the game?
GB: "I'd say it's one of the top two. If we can somehow slow their running game, force them to throw ... I'd just rather not see their offense (on the field). If we can somehow get some three and outs, get them out of sync, out of rhythm ... Our offense has to score. We have to score points. That's our only chance and if we can do that, hopefully we can be successful."
Do you know anything about Brian Calhoun, the kid that moved in at running back?
GB: "Oh yeah, he wasn't (at Colorado) when I was there, but I saw him at the Big XII championships a couple of years ago against Oklahoma and he was running by those guys, and you know what those guys look like. We've got to tackle that guy. We've got to swarm him and hit him."
Are you also concerned, as in all programs when you go on the road to play a team like this, that they're just going to keep putting a bunch of guys on the offensive and defensive line to try to wear you down?
GB: "Yeah, that's always a problem when you play a Big Ten caliber team or Big XII, their depth kind of grinds on you. That's what I think kind of got us at Ohio State a couple of years ago, that's what got us at Oklahoma. Their next level of guys are better than our next level of guys. A lot of our starters could play at places like Oklahoma and Ohio State. It's the backup kids that when you get into a game like this, that you get concerned about."
Has your experience with these big games the past couple of years made the atmosphere something that you are not really worried about any more?
GB: "Yeah. We won't be surprised. There will be some kids, initially, that will be bug-eyed, but we've been in these types of venues. It's exciting. You can't be concerned about it or worry about it, it's fun."
How is P.J. Pope?
GB: "P.J.'s good. He's going to practice this afternoon. We'll see how he does."
What are some of your keys?
GB: "We always talk about taking care of the football. I think we created turnovers (last year), but we also didn't turn it over. We only threw four interceptions, I think we had five or six fumbles. We have to take care of the football, and like I said earlier, we have to score points."
FIFTH-YEAR SENIOR OT Rob Warren
(General feelings on the Wisconsin game)
"We are all pumped up. Camp is over and practice is wrapping up, and we are ready to play and hit somebody else for a change."
(How do you feel about opening at a Big Ten school, at a stadium like Camp Randall?)
"It makes it that much more exciting, going to a place like that. Big Ten, a big stadium with a great crowd, we're pumped up to play."
(Does the offensive line take pride in the recognition that Omar Jacobs gets?)
"One goal, and one thing we pride ourselves in from `Coach Stud', is not allowing any sacks. When Omar does well and comes out of the game with a clean jersey, we are satisfied that we have done our job."
(What have you heard about Camp Randall Stadium?)
"I've heard that it's a crazy place to play, it's very loud. But we're preparing with all of the crowd music and all of that stuff. We have played in places like that, so hopefully that will help as well."
(Does the fact that you won at Purdue a few years ago help?) "It helps a little bit, but we approach every team the same way, just one play at a time. We're just going to go out there and try to do our best."
FIFTH-YEAR SENIOR NG Mike Thaler
(Do you have a prediction on the Wisconsin game?)
"We are going to go out there to play a tough game. They are a good team. Whenever you go to play a Big Ten school, you are always expecting a good game. There are no pushovers. We know we can go up there and play with them, but we know it will be a tough game. Personally, I've never been up to Camp Randall, but I hear it's a tough place to play. I am not making any predictions yet, but I can tell you it's not going to be a pushover."
(You've played at Purdue and Ohio State. You're not in awe of the Big Ten environment, are you?)
"You look at the last couple of years. Purdue, Ohio State, Oklahoma . . . we have been in some big venues. Its not like we are going to go in there, our jaws are going to drop and we are going to have big wide eyes. We've been there before. We have learned to deal with the crowds. It's the same as Coach always says, the game is played in between the lines. The crowd is just another distraction that you have to put out of your mind."
(Around here, people still talk about BG beating Purdue in 1972. Twenty years from now, people could talk about the Bowling Green team that went to Wisconsin in 2005. That has to be an inspiration for you, to want to be put in that position.) "It's awesome. (At Purdue two years ago) I can still remember that very last play on defense, rushing the quarterback and turning around to see Mitch Hewitt knock down the pass for Stubblefield. I remember it like it was yesterday. It's awesome to have those memories, not only for yourself, but to have the community, the nation talk about it. The Bowling Green team that shocked Purdue. I don't know that (a Bowling Green win this year) would be a shock. We have put our name out there. But, going into a venue like that, playing in an environment like that is something that stays with you forever."
(A team like Wisconsin may try to line up and run the ball right down your throat. What is your individual game plan?)
"Well, I think you have to go in thinking that a team like this is are not going to try to beat you throwing the ball. They are going to try to take your will away. We watched the Ohio State game from last year, and that's really what they did. They are going to keep pounding it and pounding it. They kept pounding and pounding, and just kind of taking Ohio State's will away. You've got to go in with that mindset, that they will come at you saying, `We are going to run it into the A-gap, see if you can stop us.' You have to go in with the mindset that it's going to be a rough game. It's going to be tough and you are going to be sore the next day, but if you come out with a W then it makes it all that much better."
(Do you look forward to being sore the next day?)
"I look forward to it if all that pain and effort came with a win. It's going to be tough. They're gonna run that power, they are going to double team us inside. They have a 270-pound fullback that's going to try to take out one of our D-linemen on a running play. So, it's going to be tough, but it's part of the game. It's the way the game is played, and I would have it no other way."
JUNIOR QB Omar Jacobs
(What are your thoughts on the start of the season being just a few days away?)
"Excitement. It's almost here. When you finish spring ball, you feel like (the season) is such a long way away, but now it's here, and guys are excited and ready to play."
(Your first game was at Oklahoma, so I can't imagine you are too imitated by playing at Wisconsin, are you?)
"The Oklahoma game provided great confidence for me, so each game I go in with high confidence. Wisconsin is a great team, and we are just going to go in and take every game seriously like it was Oklahoma or a MAC game."
(Are you guys past the point of `We're playing a Big Ten school' or `We're playing a Big 12 school,' aren't you?)
"Every team is equal. We see nobody as bigger than another, so if we're playing a I-AA school, or a Big Ten or Big 12 school, we treat everybody the same."
(Coach Brandon said you had 60 or 70 percent of the offense in for the Oklahoma game last year. Do you feel better going into this game, knowing you have 100% of that offense ready to go?)
"Oh, yeah. Knowing that we have the offense in and we could run anything (in our offense) and knowing we have some veterans on the team. We can run anything; if the game situation changes or if they try to do something else, we will be able to adjust."
(Your offensive line on the right side is young.)
"I try to talk to the new guys because last year, I was the new guy. I was the guy that had the question marks around him. They did a great job this spring, and in our summer workouts, they were doing a great job and making huge strides. I have confidence in them as starters."
(Are there any moral victories in this game? If you were to lose by one point, you would still be disappointed, right?)
"Oh, yeah. Any losses would be disappointing. We have such high goals, and we try to win every game."
(We know you are not hung up on numbers, but what are your expectations, personally, this year?)
"To manage the offense like I did last year. My goal is the team goal: the MAC Championship. I am not settling for anything less. If I do well and put up big numbers, then I do. But, if I don't (put up big numbers), and we get a MAC Championship, then I will still be happy."
(Are you more excited to get the season underway, or are you more excited about going to Camp Randall?)
"I am excited to play every game. I'm just ready to start the season and I am tired of looking at these other guys in orange. I just want to see a different color and play against different guys."
(Your team has won at Purdue. How much does that help your confidence?)
"We are an extremely confident team, going into every game. Even in the Oklahoma game, or the Ohio State game a few years ago. You have to go into every game confident. If you don't, then you are already defeated."
(Does the television coverage change anything about the game, or your preparations?)
"I try not to pay attention to it, because it is outside the lines, and you have to play your game inside the lines. When you do that all the other stuff just goes away. The only time you really realize you are on TV is when you have TV timeouts, and you see the guy with the red hat come on the field."
