The Observation
Under 30 players were at practice today. Most team segments of practice were performed using a “Half Line” concept. The numbers were not large and the tempo was mild. It was evident that the focus of practice was “Baby steps”…learning. The coaches slowed down practices and harped on small details.
The Barons will be implementing a new offenses this season. One that will hopefully spring rising senior RB, Ryan Green and force teams to defend other threats. 2014 prospect, Reilly Gibbons seems to have made the permanent move to left offensive tackle and is expected to thrive.
The Outlook
After observing practice today and comparing the talent level, SPC will have a tough time in their district for the 2012 season. CCC and Tampa Catholic will be the early favorites with the Barons slugging it with Berkeley Prep for the #4 spot. Players and coaches alike are optimistic about the summer, anticipating a large group of incoming freshmen, a few that hopefully will make an immediate impact.
| 3A-5 2011 | DIST | ALL | PF | PA |
| Berkeley Prep C | 3-0 | 12-1 | 437 | 91 |
| Clearwater Central Catholic R | 2-1 | 8-3 | 263 | 106 |
| St. Petersburg Catholic | 0-3 | 2-8 | 249 | 394 |
| Tampa Catholic | 1-2 | 6-4 | 264 | 176 |
The Heavy Hitters
Ryan Green is “The Show”! Restricted today to non contact drills as a precaution for a nagging shoulder injury (not serious), Green looks the part. Because practice was mostly a walk through/teaching session, I never did get to see Green perform.
Reilly Gibbons has come on strong lately as a young promising prospect. He currently holds offers from Purdue, Nebraska, Rutgers and Tennessee. Gibbons started at TE last season, but has made the move to left offensive tackle. A few things stick out which make me believe that Gibbins could be a real good tackle. First, he has long arms which will help with keeping rushers at bay. Second, he bends really well. Good flexibility translates into good technique. Last, he moves well laterally allowing him to be a good reach blocker. I did not see him kick step, pass protect or punch. A lot is left to be seen as Gibbons learns and becomes more comfortable at his new position.
The Future
Joe Uhatae, 2014, LB; Elevisi Halapio, 2014, LB and Chris White, 2014 S all looked well in pads today. Both LBs showed physicality while White shows plenty of athleticism. However, the most impressive young prospect was freshman RB, Jaquan Fuller. At 5-8/160lbs this kid is pretty electric. The young back has a great burst, excellent feet and fascinating balance. If Fuller pans out to be a legit threat, Ryan Green will have Christmas come early. Fuller will take a lot of weight of the shoulders of Green, intern could allow Green to run wild his senior year.