By Jeff Bugher
Football under Jay Sawvel's leadership seems to be running like a well-oiled machine, showcasing a blend of precision and passion that sets the tone for the upcoming season. Following the team's first spring practice, Sawvel took the opportunity to engage with the media, providing in-depth insights across a spectrum of crucial topics. From player development to strategic planning, his openness offered a comprehensive glimpse into the inner workings of Wyoming's football program. Here, I've summarized his key points to ensure you're fully informed on all the details surrounding the team's preparations and aspirations.
Energy
Sawvel underscored the energy and spirited atmosphere that pervaded the team during their first practice session. Sawvel remarked, "There was a lot of energy. They had a lot of energy to them today. There was a lot of good spirit." His words reflected the same things we have been hearing from sources throughout the offseason.
Coaching Dynamics
Sawvel shared insights into his transition into the coaching staff and his interactions with position coaches. Sawvel highlighted the importance of hiring competent coaches and entrusting them with autonomy while also providing guidance and support. He emphasized that coaching is a collaborative effort, stating, "You hire good people to coach, you know, and so you let them coach." Sawvel's belief in the expertise of his coaching staff and the value of fostering an environment of trust and collaboration.
Assessment of Team Dynamics
Sawvel provided his assessment of the team's dynamics, emphasizing their eagerness, enthusiasm, and work ethic. Sawvel remarked, "I think just the eagerness, the enthusiasm, the overall work ethic," highlighting the positive attitude and commitment displayed by the players. Furthermore, Sawvel expressed satisfaction with the team's pace and execution during the initial practice session, stating, "We had a really good pace going for a first practice today."
Quarterback Situation
Sawvel provided valuable insights into the quarterback room particularly focusing on Evan Svoboda’s performance and readiness. Sawvel remarked, "All the quarterbacks are really, really engaged and bought into what we're doing. He further emphasized Johnson's progress, stating, "Evan especially has been really, really good with that," highlighting the quarterback's dedication and understanding of the team's offensive strategies. Additionally, Sawvel mentioned the coaching staff's active involvement in quarterback meetings, stating, "I sit in the quarterback meetings quite a bit," underscoring the importance of collaboration and communication among the coaching staff and players. Moreover, Sawvel stressed the significance of decisiveness and command on the field, stating, "If I'm going somewhere with the ball, I'm going there right now," emphasizing the need for quarterbacks to make quick and confident decisions during gameplay.
Offensive Strategy
Sawvel delved into the team's offensive strategy, discussing the incorporation of various formations and player utilization. Sawvel stated, "Well, I mean, I mean we did, I mean in theory there's spread stuff that was involved with our offense a year ago too," indicating a continuity in offensive approach while acknowledging potential adjustments. He further emphasized the importance of utilizing player strengths, stating, "Utilizing our players, you know, that's really what it is," highlighting the team's focus on maximizing individual talents within the offensive scheme. Sawvel also mentioned the priority placed on top skill players, stating, "We better have those guys that are one through five on the field a whole lot more than guys that are six through ten," underscoring the significance of evaluation during camp and deploying the most impactful players for increased playing time.
Player Development
Sawvel provided insights into player development, particularly focusing on quarterback Evan Svoboda's progression and preparation for different game situations. Sawvel remarked, "We'll do a lot of two minutes this, [and] we'll do a lot of situational things".
Physical Development
Sawvel focused on the team's physical development, highlighting improvements in strength and conditioning. Sawvel remarked, "Our bodies look good right now," indicating satisfaction with the team's physical progress. He further elaborated, stating, "We gained 510 lbs a year ago...this year we're [at] 641 lbs," showing the teams' buy-in for physical preparation.
Wide Receiver Corps
Sawvel offered insights into the wide receiver corps, highlighting the potential contributions of experienced players to the team's success. Sawvel remarked, "Big fans of both of those guys," referring to Will Pelissier and Alex Brown. He further emphasized the importance of their production, stating, "We gotta get big production from them," underscoring the role of experienced receivers in driving offensive success. Additionally, Sawvel stated, "Alex Brown made some nice catches today," further reinforcing his confidence in Brown.
Player Progression
Sawvel provided insights into player progression, particularly focusing on individuals transitioning to starting roles. Sawvel remarked, "There's no limitations on Connor Shay," showing his belief in Shay's potential to excel in a starting role. No complacency: "If they see themselves as a backup...then all of a sudden...their preparation and attention to detail...gets better,"
Player Attitude and Contributions
Sawvel acknowledged player attitudes and contributions, emphasizing Jaden Clements' perseverance and team-oriented mindset. Sawvel remarked, "He's had a great attitude day in, day out," praising Clements' dedication despite changes in his role within the team. Sawvel further highlighted Clements' positive impact, stating, "We're going to give him every opportunity," indicating the team's commitment to recognizing and rewarding hard work and attitude.
Defensive Progress
Sawvel shared insights into the team's defensive progress, offering observations on newly appointed defensive coordinator Aaron Bohls' performance and readiness. Sawvel remarked, "He's fine...I don't have to worry about him," praising Aaron Bohl's preparedness and reliability. Additionally, Sawvel mentioned defensive strategies and player responsibilities, stating, "He'll be really good in the role that he's in...I'm comfortable with him calling everything defensively," with confidence.
Injury Updates
Sawvel provided updates on injured players, including insights into their recovery progress and the team's approach to managing their rehabilitation. Sawvel remarked, "Harrison feels great...He's in a really good spot," indicating optimism regarding the recovery progress of Harrison. Sawvel further elaborated, stating, "We know that he won't practice in the spring...we [will] bring him along...when he's cleared." No other updates were provided.
Future Expectations
Sawvel remarked, "After we get a couple practices in...then maybe there becomes a more directed focal point," showing a desire to refine the team's performance over time. He further emphasized ongoing evaluation and adjustments, stating, "I tried to get around everywhere today...I couldn't give you an honest answer about focusing on one specific area."
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