From the Chicago Trib:
Weis stirred some intrigue when he said an unnamed player showed up at his office at 5:30 a.m. Monday, seeking advice on how to become a better leader. Weis called it "one of the most enjoyable parts of my entire week."
Hours later, left tackle Sam Young ended the mystery and copped to being the early and eager riser—though he downplayed the sleepless-night dramatics Weis included. "I just want the team to do well," Young said. "Whatever position I need to be in, I want to fill it."
This team has been looking for a leader to emerge. The fact that a SOPHOMORE has identified that need is both telling and encouraging. It's telling (and troublesome) because such a young/inexperienced guy sees the need for leadership. He sees that gap, and recognizes how important it is that this team finds those few leaders to really help guide this team into the future.
Encouraging because even though he is just a sophomore, he's stepping up to the plate. Is Mr. Young the leader this team (and o-line) needs? I don't know. But it's encouraging to see him recognize the need, and man up and take a shot.
Finally, to any/all those people that claim that this team has given up, that Charlie has lost his players - how many kids that have given up walk over to the Gug at 5:30AM to meet with the coach about leadership when they've given up? Or when they think others have given up? That's right, none. This team is fighting, trying to find an identity. And they will, with leaders like Sam.
Well done, Mr. Young. Well done.
By ForeverFaust November 14, 2007 - 5:56 pm
I found out the problem with the O-Line. A close friend of mine happens to work in a establishment that the players frequent often (this will remain un-named). He talks with the players often and even considers Laws and Zibby friends. Now here it goes…
My friend talked with an offensive lineman and was told that during practice, the offense line looks awesome. He then stated that soon as the game starts, there are certain players on the o-line that shit their pants! He stated that they even come into the huddle with a blank look on their face. Hmmmm.
Apparently, the players have not given up on Weis. One thing that was said was he is a dickhead in the lockerroom, but the players still think he is a good coach. I was told a good story about Geoff Price. Price had told my friend that when he was struggling at the beginning of the year, Weis was all over him and really pissing Price off. Price then told my friend that he just had enough and ignored Weis. After that, Price started looking like a punter. Guess Weis got his results.
Oh, and Evan Sharpley is apparently a arrogant, all-about-me asshole. Sounded like the players were more behind Clausen than Sharpley. There is more, but I’m tired of typing for now.
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By JB November 14, 2007 - 7:55 pm
Kudos to Sam Young . . . I had a hunch it was him. God knows Sullivan wasn’t a leader, neither were Thomas or Carlson.
Here’s to a good 2008 season!
GO IRISH! Beat Duke!
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By Clashmore Mike November 15, 2007 - 2:31 pm
Part of the problem might be this un-named establishment and others that are frequented by players and recruits.
Yesterday I read the spring of 1988 team speech given by Holtz and he addressed this issue in no uncertain terms.
He also addressed the team chemistry issue in 1988 which has and is a problem in 2007.
To be a champion requires commitment, a team mentality and focus. I am not sure that these exist currently on this team.
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By domer.mq November 15, 2007 - 2:47 pm
Clashmore, I was just thinking the same thing. In 10th grade I read Holtz’s book about that season, and that was a big emphasis for him.
Weis has gone to Lou and Ara for advice in the past, I hope he talks to them a lot this winter.
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