I didn't take detailed notes on the game but here are some "hightlights" that I felt
warrant comment:
1. Brandon Jones looked outstanding (running back) -- probably the best freshman RB
performance I have witnessed in the past 5 spring games (hands down). He caught several
passes -- has good hands and IMO was the most impressive RB in the game.
2. Charles Davis Rhinehart are two terrific Freshmen TEs. Both are quick, athletic have
excellent hands. Did anyone notice that Davis lined up as a WR several times during the
game-- going on deep patterns on a few occasions. Unfortunately, Kyle Smith was unable
to connect with him on the deep patterns. Who said we don't have a a tall athletic,
physical WR.
3. Jameson Evans was a big surprise at WR. He caught everything thrown his way, mostly
in heavy traffic. But I thought most of the WRs looked good (except Rucks, Cavallo
James -- had several drops between them -- but remember that Rucks Cavallo haven't
really even started their FR years yet). Noel looked to me like he may be ready to
"break out" this year. He looks more confident and a lot stronger.
4. Damion Grier DT looks like he has raised his game a couple of notches. He is much
quicker, is playing with a lot more energy etc. I believe he is ready to make a major
contribution at DT.
5. Orton have improved substantially. He wasn't given a lot of time to throw most of
the time. But he didn't throw many bad passes (accuracy decision making has improved) --
short passing accuracy (swings, etc.) has really improved -- still could be better though.
6. Jarod Ramirez had an interception that left me thinking that maybe they should consider
moving him to TE ( maybe Cavallo to DE).
7. Matt Turner looked good at center.
8. Bobby I. looks like he will be a major contributor in the fall.
9. Off-the-depth-charts: Chad Dickerson CB (R-Fr walkon??)and Doug Swann So. DE had
good games.
IMHO, this is the best Purdue team I've seen in the past five spring games and I won't
be surprised if Orton has a better Sophomore year than Brees' had.
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