Today is the fifth practice of the fall (starting now), and we've been able to watch six periods in two of those. So not a lot of viewing time. We will get more tomorrow morning when they head out to Jervey Meadows, but until then I have a few observations for you.
I will start with the WR. This group just has a different feel and vibe to it than the last couple of years. Watching them is just different and it's hard to explain, but seeing these guys go and make plays is encouraging. The OL also seems different - I was told that Thomas Austin has worked tirelessly to get them ready and technically sound. Dietrick Pennington looked really good, and this group seems close with a lot of chemistry. And they are all also a year older, which helps.
But I think the biggest difference is just the overall confidence of the offense. I was told that after the offense popped a couple of "big bangers" on the defense things took a very competitive turn. I was told the defense, which is really good and really fast, was out for blood (keep in mind, not in full pads, but still...) and the offense still made plays.
It's hard to explain, but I get the feeling this group knows it has a chance to be good. No laughing. No dancing like we've seen. Just focus. Ruke Orhorhoro told us last night the goal is to win the National Championship, and it didn't seem like he was saying it to just be saying it. He means it. Hopefully I can get a better feel after tomorrow morning's session.