The OL

[UNCGridironFanatic]

Anyone have any insight into Spain's injury and what his time on the shelf will be? Hope he stays out for Delaware, even if he can come back. We need him at GT. Ferranto is more than serviceable for the Blue Hens, and he's a really good backup in that he can play OT and OG, either side. But Spain is simply more athletic and able to handle the pass rush better than Ferranto. A few times Sat., a big nasty from Illinois had JF on his wheels...to his credit, JF kept the guy off Marquise, but the guy had JF pushed right into MW as the ball was thrown.

When Spain comes back, we are set in the first five. Ferranto's versatility and Prince and Henson's development give us a pretty solid 8. When Hatton gets back, I'll feel good about our ability to rotate some fresh bodies in when needed. Deep OLs are a consistent separation point from the mediocre teams to good ones.

 

[TarHeelNation11]

Agreed that Spain should sit out Delaware even if healthy. I love Ferranto's effort and team-first attitude, but I want him backing up, not starting, when we start conference play.

 

[Archer2]

Agreed that Spain should sit out Delaware even if healthy. I love Ferranto's effort and team-first attitude, but I want him backing up, not starting, when we start conference play.

Agreed on both counts. I know Fed is tight lipped about injuries but has anyone heard anything about Hatton or Spain's injuries? We need both of them.

 

[Raising Heel]

Spain should be available for Delaware. Not sure whether the coaches will play him, but I tend to disagree about shelving him. He's the starting LT with limited game experience so he needs more reps IMO.

Seems like I heard Hatton had sustained a concussion. I hoped it wasn't serious but missing a few games isn't good.

 

[UNCGridironFanatic]

Good point on Spain needing reps. I guess the deciding factor should be the probability of re-injury based on the type of injury it is.

Maybe play him to the point we go up 4 TDs, then go to Ferranto. JF getting reps, at BOTH guard and tackle, is critical also, IMHO, to create some effective depth.