catdaddyp

The further away from the football, the higher the chances of a freshman starting. Meaning it’s more likely for a freshman to make a bigger impact at safety or cornerback than it is at defensive end or defensive tackle. However, there are plenty of examples of it happening, but it’s usually due to a high need at that position or the player just being that much more gifted than the current players on the roster. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Murphy get some playing time in the back half of the season, but it’ll be tough in the front half - especially with this year’s depth. As far as the 3-4 goes, the best way to think of the 3 down linemen is as space eaters. In a perfect world, they would hold their ground, swallow up the double teams, and allow the linebackers to run free. In today’s game, the schemes have gotten more complicated and offenses have become so good at getting to the second level (think about all the inside and outside zones you see now vs 20 years ago). So when a defensive lineman has the chance to make the play, he’d better do it, otherwise the chances are high that an offensive lineman has already moved up to the linebacker. The DEs are usually in the 6’3-6’6 250-300lbs range. The DTs are usually in the 6’0 - 6’3 265-315lbs range. Those are just general numbers as some players are more productive at different weights due to their body types. Our roster may not exactly fit those ranges right now as the staff will continue to recruit more to the scheme we are playing. Depending on down and distance we could see a combination of any of the linemen. Could be up to 3 DTs on the field in short yardage, 3 DEs for pass rush, or 1 DT and 1 DE when we go nickel. The 3-4 is popular due to all the combinations and pass rushing angles that can be created.

That’s a tough one. I think we’ll see a different starting 5 by the end of the season than the 5 we see at the beginning. To start the season, Im guessing we see something like this: LT - Chambers LG - Beckman C - Georges RG - Banes RT - Murphy The line (I think) I’d like to see by end of season: LT - Chambers LG - Kilbane C - Lyons RG - Banes RT - Landers It’s too bad we don’t have access to any spring film. We’d have a better idea of where things stood and there are certainly a number of different combinations that could be made. I suspect one or two of last years main contributors may find themselves on the outside looking in by the time 2022 concludes.

I’m not sure I would say one is more important than the other as they tend to go hand in hand. I could go more in-depth on all the linemen, but I’m not interested in doing so as I’m trying to cover every player on the team.

The staff did a nice job landing immediate help from the transfer portal and JUCO ranks during the 2023 offseason. Run defense and pass rush improved over the previous year. Depth additions and development of the previous recruiting classes could make the 2024 DL the best in Moorhead’s tenure. (DE) Cyrus Durham - [Redshirt Junior, New] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ JUCO / (5.4) 2 ⭐️ Portal - Transfer from Arizona. JUCO FILM Known Portal Offers: Campbell and UMASS. Kam Cheatom - [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Cheatom is the second highest rated player in Akron’s 2023 class according to Rivals. He missed his senior year due to injury, but was used as a standup DE/OLB as a junior. Cheatom’s strength is rushing the passer and he has a frame to add on more mass without losing any explosiveness. Cheatom saw action in 2 games on defense and 3 on special teams before redshirting in 2023. Joe Moorhead said “Cheatom will be a star in this league.” Cheatom was very active in the 2024 spring game and will contribute this season. HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD. Bruno Dall - [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - The best way to describe Dall is untapped potential. Dall is uniquely agile and smooth in his movements for someone his size. He has a massive frame at 6’7”, with long arms, and is just scratching the surface of his development. Dall did not see the field in 2023 and redshirted. HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD. Tristen Graham - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Former Syracuse commitment and the highest rated HS prospect in Akron’s 2024 class. Graham plays in the same vein as CJ Nunnally. He’s very active and does not give up on a play. Graham dominated at a lower level of football in Delaware and in time could become an All-conference player. Graham already has the size to play as a freshman, but a year in the S&C program will help refine his body and make him even more explosive. Graham was a post spring arrival. HS FILM. * Dahvon Frazier - [Freshman, New] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Frazier played RB, TE, and LB in HS. He is explosive in short space and runs well. Frazier also has an impressive vertical leap and has a knack for knocking the ball loose from the ball carrier. Frazier enrolled post spring and is listed as a DE on the official roster. HUDL FILM * Jahvon Frazier - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Defensive end with some length. Frazier is able to bend and turn the edge quickly on pass rush. He was also stout against the run at the HS level. Frazier will likely redshirt and add mass his freshman year. Frazier was a post spring arrival. HS FILM * Vann Kavals - [Freshman, New] - (5.3) 2 ⭐️ - HS FILM Ty Watkins - [Freshman, New] - NR - HS FILM Jon’Trell Mixon [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - NR - Walk-on. Langston Ragland [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - NR - Walk-on. (DT) Zy Brockington - [Redshirt Senior, Returning] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (HS) / (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (Portal) - Transfer from Memphis. - Portal Offers: Georgia Southern. * Dimitri Madden - [Redshirt Senior, Returning] - (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (JUCO) / (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (Portal) - Former JUCO that transferred in from UTEP. Madden played less than 50 snaps at UTEP, though he did play well in his limited time. He is agile for a big man - easily changing directions and already has a handful of moves. Madden will likely step in as a backup DT on the depth chart. Madden was a post spring addition. JUCO FILM * Kiawan Murphy - [Redshirt Junior, Returning] - (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Strong and heavy nose tackle. Murphy fires out quickly and moves unusually well for a guy his size. Murphy played in 1 game on special teams in 2022 and was singled out by Moorhead as a young guy to watch. He did not breakthrough in 2023 despite playing in 5 games. Murphy participated in the 2024 spring game. HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD. Ronald Hull - [Sophomore, Returning] - (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Lazy rating by Rivals. Similar to Elijah Davis, Hull moves extremely well and is a violent player. He is physically built more in the vein of Kiawan Murphy and has all-conference potential. Hull will likely redshirt, but also would not be a surprise to receive significant snaps as a freshman. Hull was a post spring arrival. HS FILM * Elijah Davis - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Extremely agile and violent DT. Davis moves unusually well for an interior lineman and has all-conference potential. Davis will likely redshirt due to the depth at this position, but it would also not be a surprise to see him collect meaningful snaps similar to Marcus Moore’s freshman year. Davis was a post spring arrival. HS FILM * Jamie Riedel - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - NR - Walk-on. HS FILM * Jaiden Brown-Demery - [Freshman, New] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - HS FILM Going into the 2023 season no one knew what to expect from this group. We knew the talent level and athleticism would be increased, but that was about it. JUCO CJ Nunnally became the carbon copy of what is desired along the defensive line and was voted 1st Team All-MAC . The other JUCOs provided depth, but not much more in their first year in the system. Transfer DT Terray Jones was the only legitimate interior pass rusher and was flanked by another transfer in Lama Lavea. Devon Robinson never lived up to his 3 star rating coming out of high school, but did become a solid backup. Freshman Marcus Moore came on strong as the year progressed and will be a terror if he can continue to develop. The DL did struggle at times putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks without the assistance of blitzes. If coach Wart has another strong offseason of recruiting and development, the DL could be impressive in 2024. Fast forward to the 2024 offseason and the defensive line is in excellent shape. Starter Terray Jones and backups Devon Robinson and Kyle Thomas are gone from the middle. Jones had a season that was certainly worthy of an all-conference selection. In his stead will be a rotation between Moore and transfer Kapongo. Lavea returns in his starting spot at the other DT position. Transfers Brockington and Madden will have the opportunity to work their way into the rotation, while Murphy may be ready to contribute as well. Keep an eye on the two freshmen defensive tackles later in the season. Both have the potential to contribute in their first year, but need time to get acclimated. At defensive end both starters return in Nunnally and Adler. Former JUCOs Antonio Smith and LaJoshua Jackson were backups that decided to move on. Richards and Cheatom will have a chance to fill the backup roles and potentially give a higher level of production than the departed backups. Freshmen Graham and Frazier will also have a chance to contribute if they are ready. Scholarship Players: Kiawan Murphy Kam Cheatom Bruno Dall Dahvon Frazier Jahvon Frazier Elijah Davis Ronald Hull Dimitri Madden Vann Kavals Ty Watkins Cyrus Durham Added: Cyrus Durham Vann Kavals Ty Watkins Removed: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - DE Bennett Adler - Graduation. (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (JUCO) - DE CJ Nunnally - TP = Purdue NR - DE Kabbash Richards - Graduation. (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (TP) - DT Nathan Kapongo - Graduation. (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - DT Lama Lavea - Graduation. (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - DT Zy Brockington - Graduation (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - DT Marcus Moore - TP = Purdue (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - DT Andre Proffitt - TP = (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (HS) -DE Tristen Graham - JUCO Removed During/After 2023 season: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - DE Ryan Johnson - TP = Southern Miss - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - DE Antonio Smith - TP = Valdosta State - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - DT Kyle Thomas - TP = Valdosta State - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - DE Julian Richardson - TP - Star Rating Take: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (TP) - DT Terray Jones - Graduation. - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (HS) - DT Devon Robinson - TP - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ NR - DT Tyler Carter - Graduation. - Star Rating Take: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ NR - DE LaJoshua Jackson - TP - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ Removed Before 2023 season: (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Victor Jones - Grad. - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Curtis Harper - Grad. - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Zach Morton - Grad. - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Logan Hawkins- Grad. - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.3) 2 ⭐️ - Ravontae Holt - Grad. - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ NR - Angelo Howze - Grad. - Walk-on (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Nazir Sy = TP Northwestern State - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.7) 3 ⭐️ - Curtis Fann = TP Western Carolina - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Bryce Wilson = TP Western Carolina - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Quevan Lawson - Retired. - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Ahmad Rabah - Retired. Before 2022 season: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Janirr Wade - JUCO - Star Rating Take: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ NR - David Hooks - Retired. - Star Rating Take: (5.2) 2 ⭐️

FBS coaches are usually looking for players 6-4 and up. Reasoning behind that is due to arm length and body type. It’s not an absolute, but there is a correlation between height and arm length. Arm length plays into striking and the ability to reach the defender. A taller frame allows more mass to be added without prohibiting movement. Center and guard don’t require as much arm length as tackle, but it’s still important. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule. Some players have arm length that is well beyond relation to their height. Also, just because a player may be 6-2, 6-3, doesn’t mean they can’t be successful. In this case, the previous staff clearly thought the current OL had what it took to be successful at this level.

Appreciate the feedback. You may be right. Time will tell. A new staff usually leans towards the players they recruited themselves. However, they aren’t going to play anyone who can’t get the job done. Experience, strength, and knowledge are very important. I made a focus on pulling/running ability as Moorhead’s offense does a lot of it. Some of the players struggle in that aspect, which may give the newcomers an opportunity. Many offensive linemen are redshirted their first year as you mentioned, but this is a team that won 2 games and although the OL performed well in some areas, it was by no means a top tier MAC offensive line. I wasn’t implying the returnees can’t get the job done, but for this program to get to the next level more talent is needed across the board. I think defense is where we’re hurting the most and I’ll dive into that this coming week.

The OL was better in 2023 compared to 2022, but still not where they needed to be. 2024 should be much improved. (IOL) Colin Lyons - [Redshirt Senior, Returning] - (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Interior lineman who also played defensive end in high school. Lyons brings Center to Guard value and saw action in just 4 games in 2022 before an abrupt injury ended his season. Lyons was the backup Left Guard in 2023, before sliding over to backup Right Guard. He played in 10 games and started the last 4 games of the season at Right Guard. Lyons graded out well in pass protection. He started at LG in the 2024 Spring Game. - HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD Amarie Archer - [Redshirt Junior, New] - NR (JUCO) / NR (Portal) - Transfer from East Carolina. JUCO FILM Alex Fox - [Redshirt Junior, Returning] - (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (JUCO) - JUCO transfer. Fox was a 1st Team JUCO All-American who brings positional flexibility. Fox is at his best when pulling as he has great feet and displays an explosive burst in short space. He also runs extremely well for a guy his size. Expect to see Fox compete for significant snaps at Center and Guard. Rivals missed the mark on his rating. Fox arrived after the spring. - JUCO FILM. * Keylen Davis - [Redshirt Junior, Returning] - (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Strong and agile interior lineman that brings Center to Guard value. Davis played in 1 game in 2022 before redshirting. He became the starting Right Guard in 2023 for 6 games and played through injuries the majority of the time. Similar to Tyhler Williams, Davis struggled in pass protection as a redshirt freshman and was better at run blocking. Davis started at RG in the 2024 Spring Game. - HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD Andrew “AJ” George - [Redshirt Junior, Returning] - NR (HS) / (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (Portal) - Transfer from Cincinnati where he was a walk-on. George has Guard to Tackle value along with size and reach. George did not see the field in 2023 and I did not notice him in the 2024 spring game. HUDL College Practice Film * Star Rating Take: TBD Delvin Morris - [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - (5.3) 2 ⭐️ - Late addition to the 2023 class and brings guard to tackle value. Morris is out of Texas and has a high level of athleticism for someone his size. He is raw, but has plenty of potential. If Morris develops, he will be considered a steal in the 2023 class. Morris played in 1 game in 2023 at Left Tackle and redshirted. He was the backup Left Guard in the 2024 Spring Game - HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD Kenneth McManus - [Freshman, New] - (5.6) 3 ⭐️ - HS FILM Max Mobley - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - NR - Walk-on. Mobley was the backup Center in the 2024 Spring Game. - HS FILM * (OT) Dayne Shor - [Redshirt Senior, Returning] - (5.6) 3 ⭐️ (HS) / (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (Portal) - Transfer from UCONN. Shor was an Alabama signee out of HS before transferring to UCONN. He was dominant at the HS level and has everything physically any team would want from an offensive lineman. That said, he has yet to be a productive player at the collegiate level. Shor has 3 years of eligibility remaining and did not play in the 2024 Spring Game. Darrell (DJ) Johnson - [Redshirt Senior, New] - (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (JUCO) / NR (Portal) - Transfer from Western Kentucky. Former JUCO that may have two years of eligibility remaining. JUCO FILM Javirea Moore - [Redshirt Senior, New] - Transfer from East Texas A&M. Jayme Motley-Simmons - [Redshirt Senior, New] - Transfer from North Alabama. Gregory Allen Jones - [Junior, New] - NR (HS) / NR (Portal) - Transfer from West Alabama (DII). Maasai King - [Redshirt Sophomore, New] - NR - JUCO FILM Jonas Mann - [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Mann was a long time Zips commitment who brings a huge frame to campus. He has Guard to Tackle value, but projects as a Right Tackle. Mann already has excellent size with long arms, solid feet, and will continue to reshape his body. It will take some time to adjust to the speed of college football, but Mann should become a contributor in a few short years. Mann did not see any action and redshirted in 2023. He was the backup Right Tackle in the 2024 Spring Game. - HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD Jon Gould - [Freshman, New] - NR - HS FILM Nick Stopiak - [Redshirt Junior, Returning] - NR - Big offensive tackle that moves well. He played OT and NG in high school and dominated, although he didn’t seem to play against great competition. He reportedly had a number of Division II offers coming out of HS. Stopiak did not play in 2022 or 2023. Former walk-on. HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD Jacob Kumfert [Redshirt Junior, Returning] - NR - Walk-on transfer from St. Francis. HS FILM * Jeremiah Ndiaga [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - NR - Walk-on. HS FILM * The OL was inconsistent last season due to injuries, quarterback play, lack of significant game experience at certain spots, and sometimes bewildering play-calling. Akron used the offseason to increase the overall athleticism and also bring in veteran players with proven success at various levels. A total of 8 new linemen have been added to the roster. There is no excuse for poor play from the OL this year as only one holdover remains from the previous regime. Depth and athleticism is the best it’s been since Moorhead’s arrival, although OL looked like it still needed much work during the spring game. That is not surprising as Akron’s defensive front should be one of the best in the MAC and it often takes the OL longer to gel. Since spring ended, two 1st Team All-American JUCOs and a 1st Team All-MEAC player have been added to the roster. The talent is in place to have a much improved OL. Scholarship Players: Keylen Davis Colin Lyons Jonas Mann Delvin Morris AJ George Dayne Shor Alex Fox Maasai King Jon Gould Kenneth McManus Darrell Johnson Amarie Archer Gregory Allen Jones Jayme Motley-Simmons Javirea Moore Added: Maasai King Jon Gould Kenneth McManus Darrell Johnson Amarie Archer Gregory Allen Jones Jayme Motley-Simmons Javirea Moore Removed: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Josh Blanchard - Graduation - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (TP) - Da’Quan Thomas - Graduation - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Eli Fields - Graduation - Star Rating Take: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - Jayvin James - TP = Maryland (5.6) 3 ⭐️ (TP) - Laurance Seymore - TP = Western Kentucky (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (JUCO) - Jerrod Burrell - TP = (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - Tyhler Williams - TP = Georgia State (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - Roosevelt Mitchell - TP = NR - Frank McClelland - Walk-on NR - Nathan Covert - Walk-on Removed Before 2024 Season: NR - Ben Frank - Graduation - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ NR - Barry Duff - Walk-on. (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Ronan Chambers - TP = Auburn - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Nate Williams - TP = San Diego State - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Tony Georges - TP = Kent State - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Brian Kilbane - TP = UMASS - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Alex Robarge - TP = Southern Illinois - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ NR - Keon Kindred - TP - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ NR - Issiah Walker - TP = West Florida (DII) Star Rating Take: N/A Removed Before 2023 Season: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Jordan Daniels - TP = UNC Charlotte - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.8) 4 ⭐️ - Anthony Whigan - Grad. - Star Rating Take: (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Xavior Gray - TP = Liberty - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Owen Murphy - TP = East Carolina - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Caleb Herring = TP? - Star Rating Take: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ NR - Ryan Beckman - TP = East Carolina - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ NR - Max Banes - TP = Houston - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Ka’Marii Landers = JUCO - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Jourden Hale-Frater = JUCO - Star Rating Take: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ Before 2022 season: NR - Canaan Sheets - Walk-on NR - Stefan Monahan - Walk-on

Looks like he’ll be a solid addition as he has a nice blend of speed and power. The OL he was running behind in high school opened up some massive holes and Price took care of the rest. Hudl film linked below: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/5663272/5ba28f2dbd6a6f0ef4b5b39b

Agreed Brank will certainly start out as the top guy. His blocking - especially as a puller on run plays - coupled with his receiving ability, will allow him to be used as a utility type player. I suspect the idea with Banks is to use him more split out or potentially off the LOS, in the slot, when attempting to take advantage of a mismatch. He’ll still need to improve his blocking as an in-line TE to avoid being a one trick pony. I think 4 of the tight ends are walk-ons (unless they were placed on scholarship without our knowledge), so there wouldn’t be any need to shed them. They should provide quality looks in practice and potentially contribute on special teams.

Thank you and well done! I’m sure that took some time and effort to track down that information. Have you considered posting it as a thread and then bumping it as updates are made?

Looking forward to seeing your scholarship breakdown. It’s a shame they don’t make a bigger deal of it and post on social media when walk-ons gain scholarships. Is this what you have so far? QB = 4 RB = 5 WR = 8 TE = 6

Zips used far more 12 personnel in 2023 than in 2022. Expect the offense to revert back to more single right end sets in 2024. Jacob Newell - [Redshirt Junior, Returning] - (5.6) 3 ⭐️ HS / (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (Portal) - Transfer from Arizona State where he had a few P5 offers. Newell provides a big target in the passing game with a large frame and excellent hand/eye coordination. He has tremendous upside and will be the top tight end heading into 2024. Newell finished 2023 with 13 catches for 124 yards and a touchdown. He was the starting tight end in the spring game as expected. HS FILM * Max Whisner - [Redshirt Junior, Returning] - (5.6) 3 ⭐️ HS / (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (Portal) - Transfer from Missouri. Whisner is more suited as an in-line blocking TE, but does have a decent catch radius. While he may not be as adept at gaining yards after the catch as some of the other TEs, he is a reliable target in the passing game. Expect Whisner to see significant playing time as he is more physically advanced than the other tight ends on the roster not named Newell. The (5.2) 2 ⭐️ rating is about as lazy as I’ve seen by a recruiting service. Whisner was in the competition to be a starter at Mizzou this time last year. HS FILM * Conner Cravaack - [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Cravaack played TE and DE in high school. He will provide a big target in the passing game and flashes surprisingly nimble feet for someone his size. As expected, Cravaack redshirted his freshman year. He played in the 2024 spring game and looks ready to contribute this season. HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD Khalil Witherspoon - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Witherspoon played on both sides of the ball in HS as a WR, TE, and DE. He runs well and has excellent hand/eye coordination. He already understands how to use his body to position himself to win contested balls. Witherspoon has the potential to eventually develop into an All-MAC player, but will likely redshirt his freshman year. HS FILM * Banks and Newell received nearly 100% of the snaps in 2023. Banks is now gone leaving Newell as the top option. Whisner will be the top backup and Cravaack should also work his way into some snaps. This is a talented and versatile group that will support in the run game and give the offense reliable options in the passing game. Scholarship Players: Conner Cravaack Jacob Newell Max Whisner Khalil Witherspoon Added: Removed: NR - Grant Gainer - Walk-on NR - Aiden Diaz - Walk-on Removed: (5.8) 4 ⭐️ (HS) - TJ Banks - Graduated. (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Brycen Yarmo - TP (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Nik Ognenovic - TP Removed Before 2023 Season: NR - Jacob Shaffer - Grad. - Walk-on (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Tristian Brank - Retired. - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Marquell Darnell - TP? - Star Rating Take: TBD. (5.7) 3 ⭐️ - Caden Clark - Retired. Before 2022 season: NR - Matthew Monaghan - Walk-on NR - Nick Dottore - (Morehead State) - Walk-on NR - Nate Amato - Walk-on

His technique isn’t too hot as an OL, but what he does display is transitional power needed to be successful in college. Meaning does he fall over, stumble, trip over himself? Or does he keep his balance and continue driving his man downfield while staying engaged? I hope we are recruiting him as a DL. With the way he moves and runs, I wouldn’t be surprised if he is being recruited to split time between DE and NG within the 3-4 scheme. The more I watch his film, the more excited I am about this pickup. He has natural gifts that can’t be taught. Getting stronger, refining technique, etc. is what our coaches will give him.

My guess is the kid hasn’t done any of the summer camps. That’s where many kids get noticed and receive star bumps. His head coach needs to submit information to the recruiting services so a profile can be made. The thing that immediately jumps out is how well he moves for a guy his size. That first highlight of him running is impressive! He may not be a four star player, but he has the makings of a kid with a high ceiling. There’s a lot of raw talent and athleticism there. Hard to believe he’s as coordinated as he is being that big and young.

Irons would be able to transfer out and play immediately, if he chose to do so. Since he came from a JUCO, that didn’t count as his free transfer. In Adams’ case, he would have to sit a year if he transferred to another FBS school since he already used his free transfer. The NCAA will continue to allow the one free transfer rule for the foreseeable future. Fall athletes have until May 1st to enter the portal, unless there is a head coach change - then they would have until July 1st.

Great pickup! Definitely a sleeper. Nice job by the staff getting in early on him. Hudl film linked below: https://www.hudl.com/video/3/16848795/617966bcbee0f606c4773b0c

Thank you and I appreciate the feedback! My best guess as to who our scholarship WRs are: SJL Adams Golden Grimes Singleton Walker Gathings Scippio I suspect we’ll see some roster turnover after spring ball. Moorhead has alluded to it already. We might even lose a handful of talented guys, but it’ll be for better in the end.

I don’t know the numbers for each team in college football. Nor do I know where I can find an accurate scholarship count for Akron - 247’s list is not correct. I know most Power 5 teams were/are over the limit due to last year’s senior class - and any players who were currently enrolled - getting an extra year of eligibility if they wanted it. The NCAA permits up to 25 scholarships to be given each year. For this year, each school received an extra scholarship to give for each player that transferred out up to 7 max. So if 7 or more players transferred out, a school would have up to 32 scholarships to give for this years class. However, not all schools give the full allotted amount every year as it is. As a way of getting around the numbers, blueshirting has gained popularity. It’s a way to add more players to the current year’s class, but the scholarship actually counts towards the following year.

Agreed. That was an excellent class that Arth brought in. As far as Singleton and Walker go, they really need to be pushing towards 185 lbs to give themselves their best chance to make it through an entire season. Golden is already in that range and could be an X-factor this year, depending on how the dominos fall. Im really excited about Adams as well. We may land a few more like him as all teams have to get down to the 85 scholarship limit before the 2022 season starts. So that means more talented players, that haven’t quite lived up to their potential, will be entering the portal after spring ball.

Thank you! I enjoy doing it and it helps me to get to know the roster more thoroughly. On a side note, I tried to like your post, but it looks like a technical glitch won’t let me. 😕

Receiver was again the deepest position on offense, but the struggles at QB prevented a higher level of production in 2023. Alex Adams - [Grad., Returning] - (5.7) 3 ⭐️ - Former transfer from LSU. Adams was an explosive player in high school that hadn’t lived up to his potential at LSU. In his first year at Akron, that explosiveness returned and he was voted 1st Team All-MAC. Adams played in 11 games in 2022 and collected 63 receptions for 855 yards and 9 touchdowns. Adams spent the majority of 2023 injuried and only caught 22 passes for 188 yards and 2 touchdowns. Adams was held out during the 2024 spring game. HS FILM * Star Rating Take: It’s still early for Adams, but he’s definitely trending towards his original (5.7) 3 ⭐️ status. Tim Grear - [Redshirt Senior, New] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (JUCO) / (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (Portal) - Transfer from Fresno State. Former JUCO that may have two years of eligibility left. Myles Walker - [Redshirt Senior, Returning] - (5.3) 2 ⭐️ - Walker exhibits a fluid stride and gets up to his top end speed quickly. He did not see playing time in 2022, but was the surprise of the receiving corps during the spring game in 2023. Walker finished the season with 8 receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown. Walker was a starter in the 2024 spring game and flashes the ability to runs solid routes and catch the ball when it comes his way. HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD Brandon “Bebe” Hills - [Redshirt Sophomore, New] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (HS) / (5.4) 2 ⭐️ Portal - Transfer from Washington State. Israel Polk - [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (HS) / ((5.5) 3 ⭐️ (Portal) - Transfer from Pittsburgh. Polk is a smooth strider with deceptive speed and excellent body control. He did not play much during his freshman year at PITT, but has the potential to develop into an All-MAC caliber player. There is a ton of talent at wide receiver, so it remains to be seen how quickly Polk pushes for significant snaps. Polk was a post spring roster addition. HS FILM * Jean Louis - [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - (5.3) 2 ⭐️ - Louis has great hands and excellent balance. He tends to make over-the-shoulder catches look easy when they can often be tricky. As expected, Louis redshirted in 2023. He looked like a receiver who is on the verge of being ready to contribute in the 2024 spring game. HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD Paul Davis - [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Davis is a former Duke commitment out of Georgia. He has a college ready frame at 6’0” 195lbs and is a strong athlete. Davis’ best traits are probably his body control and excellent hands. He flashes a large catch radius and attacks the ball in the air. Davis does not seem that fast on film, yet defenders have a difficult time both chasing him down and tackling him. Davis redshirted in 2023. Like Louis, Davis looked like he is in the verge of being ready to contribute during the spring. HS FILM * Star Rating Take: TBD Kyan Mason - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Mason is a long strider who has a lot of similarities to Shocky Jacques-Louis coming out of HS. He has sure hands, understands angles, and finds a way to get open. Mason also returned punts and kickoffs. He enrolled post spring. HS FILM * Cameron Monteiro - [Redshirt Freshman, New] - Transfer from Pittsburgh. Marcel Williams - [Redshirt Freshman, New) - Transfer from Marshall. Luke Sivon - [Freshman, New] - NR - Late addition to the early signing period and first prep signee by coach Brookhart. Sivon has excellent body control and great feet. He also has a smooth stride with seeming plenty of speed. It’ll be difficult for Sivon to crack the rotation as a freshman, but he may turn out to be a sneaky good pickup down the road. HS FILM Dominic Monds - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - NR - Walk-on. Troy Hazuda - [Freshman, New] - Walk-on. New wide receivers coach JD Brookhart has already made his mark on this group with the post spring portal additions of Granger and Polk. Wide receiver will likely prove to be the most talented position on offense again, but consistent QB play is needed to throw them the ball. - JUCO Jacobi Moore did not make it to campus. Scholarship Players: Alex Adams Tim Grear Myles Walker Brandon Hills Jean Louis Paul Davis Ahmarian Granger Israel Polk Kyan Mason Cameron Monteiro Marcel Williams Luke Sivon Added: Tim Grear Brandon Hills Cameron Monteiro Marcel Williams Luke Sivon Removed: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - Bobby Golden - TP = Louisville (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - Adrian Norton - TP = Marshall (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (JUCO) - Jarvis Rush - TP = (5.6) 3 ⭐️ (HS) - Phaizon Wilson - TP = (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (HS) - Ahmarian Granger - TP (?) = (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (JUCO) - Justin Campbell - Graduation (?) NR - Isaiah Jones - Walk-on Removed Before 2024 Season: (5.8) 4 ⭐️ (HS) - Daniel George - Graduation. - Star Rating Take: (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (TP) - Jasaiah Gathings - TP = UCONN - Star Rating Take: (5.4) 2 ⭐️ ️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Caleb Anderson - TP = Alcorn State - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (HS) (Walk-on) - Jax Smith - TP = Southwestern Oklahoma State Removed Before 2023 Season: (5.7) 3 ⭐️ - Shocky Jacques-Louis - Grad. - Star Rating Take: (5.5) 3 ⭐️ NR - Jalen Knight - Grad. - Walk-on NR - Shawn Naim - TP (12/31/2022) = Vanderbilt- Walk-on NR - Tony Grimes - TP (1/11/2023) = Slippery Rock - Walk-on NR - Jameel Williamson - TP? - Walk-on NR - Clayton Bone - TP? - Walk-on (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Dakota Thomas - TP (5/23/2023) = Southern Miss - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.6) 3 ⭐️ - Anthony Williams - TP (6/16/2023) = Alcorn State - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ Before 2022 season: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ - Oran Singleton Jr = Hutchinson CC - Star Rating Take: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ NR - Timothy Scippio - Walk-on NR - Alec LeSpina - Walk-on NR - Bryce Profitt - Walk-on

I rewatched Kellom’s film. I’m higher on him the second go round. I don’t think he’s at the same level as Norrils coming out of high school, but I think the staff landed a good one. I don’t know anything about Bone or Paxos, but I’m anxious to find out.

The running game has been mostly an afterthought during Moorhead’s tenure, but finally eclipsed the 100 yard per game mark in 2024. Jordan Gant - [Redshirt Junior, New] - NR (HS) / (5.5) 3 ⭐️ Portal - Transfer from Tennessee State. Gant was named a freshman All-American in 2023 before taking a reduced role in 2024. Gant does not have elite speed, but he is shifty and has excellent balance. He also sees the field well and is a solid receiver out of the backfield. Gant should be the starting running back this coming season. - Other Portal Offers: Bethune-Cookman Taven Curry - [Redshirt Junior, New] - Transfer from UL Monroe. Chris Gee - [Junior, New] - NR (HS) / NR (Portal) - Transfer from Colgate. Gee amassed 833 yards and 4 touchdowns over the past two seasons with Colgate. Gee is built in a similar vein to former RB CJ Price. He has a solid burst, quick feet, and can make the first defender miss. Gee will push for immediate playing time. Marquese Williams - [Redshirt Sophomore, Returning] - (5.7) 3 ⭐️ HS / (5.6) 3 ⭐️ Portal - Former transfer from Minnesota. Williams was a high producer in HS and had multiple P5 offers. Williams did not see the field at Minnesota and played less than 15 snaps this past season. Williams was not overly impressive during the 2024 spring game and will more developing before he claims a bigger role in the offense. HS FILM. * Sean Patrick - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Patrick is extremely shifty in the open field and understands how to press angles. He has a knack for making defenders miss with subtle movements. Patrick may not have elite speed, but his excellent feet and elusiveness in the open field makes up for it. Patrick redshirted in 2024 and will have a chance to secure a role this coming season. HS FILM * Fahrell Freeman - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - NR - Walk-on. HS FILM * Luke Reed - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - NR - Walk-on. HS FILM * Simmons and Kellom did a fine job replacing Lingard. Simmons parlayed his success into an opportunity with Ole Miss, while Kellom is still searching for a new home. The current running back corps has the ability to produce the same type of numbers if given the chance. That said, despite the best rushing season we’ve had under Moorhead, it was still bottom tier of the conference. Scholarship Players: Jordan Gant Taven Curry Chris Gee Marquese Williams Sean Patrick Added: Jordan Gant Chris Gee Taven Curry Removed: NR - Jordan Castleberry - Graduation (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - Charles Kellom - TP (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (TP) - Jordan Simmons - TP = Ole Miss Removed Before 2024: (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (TP) - Lorenzo Lingard - Graduation. (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (HS) - Drake Anderson - Graduation. (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - CJ Price - TP = Jackson State (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Blake Hester - TP Removed Before 2023 Season: (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Cam Wiley = West Texas A&M (DII) - NR - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ (5.4) 2 ⭐️ - Jonzell Norrils = Old Dominican (DII) - NR - Star Rating Take: (5.3) 2 ⭐️ NR - Anthony Stallworth - TP? - Star Rating Take: (5.2) 2 ⭐️ NR - Dae’Vontay Latimer - TP? - Walk-on

Quick note on these updates: Rivals was bought out by On3 and is still listed as Rivals, but the ratings are now using On3’s formula—so basically everyone and their brother is a 3-star. That being said, just ignore the star ratings I’ve listed below. I’m leaving them there for now until I decide whether to update everything using On3 or 247 moving forward. Neither site is all that accurate when it comes to MAC commitments or departures. Ben Finley - [Grad., Returning] - (5.7) 3 ⭐️ HS / (5.4) 2 ⭐️ Portal - Grad transfer from California, Finley committed to NC State out of high school before making the move out west. He was clearly the best QB on the roster during the 2024 spring game and went on to throw for 2,604 yards while completing nearly 55% of his passes. Finley posted a 16-to-9 TD/INT ratio and played a big role in the offensive line lowering their sacks allowed to 30 this past season. He’s been listed by some media publications as a preseason All-MAC selection and is back for his final year of eligibility. HS FILM. - Portal Offers: Utah State. * Michael Johnson - Transfer from Syracuse. Johnson originally committed to Penn State out of high school, later transferred to FAU, and eventually landed at Syracuse. Now, he’ll take over the role Tahj Bullock played last season and has more than enough ability to be effective in those same situations. So far in his college career, Johnson has rushed for 132 yards and passed for 31. Brayden Roggow - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - (5.3) 2 ⭐️ - Roggow is a tall quarterback with some mobility. He had a very successful high school career and throws a catchable ball. In the 2024 Spring Game, he looked solid (for a freshman) and came in as a more polished passer than Bullock or Wasel did out of high school. Roggow saw five snaps against Ohio State, completing 1 of 2 passes with an interception. Despite his upside, he didn’t seem to separate himself from Broughton during the 2025 spring game. HS FILM. Johnny Brookhart - [Redshirt Freshman, Returning] - NR - Walk-on. HS FILM Cibastian Broughton - [Freshman, New] - (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Broughton is easily the most gifted prep quarterback Moorhead has brought in. He’s got excellent vision as a runner and knows how to press angles and create opportunities for himself when scrambling. As a passer, he can throw effectively from multiple arm angles and has plenty of arm strength. One of his highlights even shows him flicking a 50-yard pass on the run. If he weren’t undersized, Akron probably has no business landing a recruit like this. If opportunities aren’t there at quarterback in 2025, Broughton may end up seeing snaps at receiver in his first year. HS FILM The QB room is in the best place it’s been since the current staff took over. Finley will have a chance at all-conference status if he can clean up his TD/INT ratio by 2 or 3. This also will be the first time a starting quarterback has returned in Moorhead’s system fully healthy at Akron. DJ Irons, never quite seemed 100% in 2023. Typically, quarterbacks take a step forward in their second year in any system, so there’s plenty of reason for optimism. Added: Cibastian Broughton Michael Johnson Removed Before 2025 Season: (5.5) 3 ⭐️ - Tahj Bullock - TP = Colorado State Removed Before 2024 Season: (5.5) 3 ⭐️ (JUCO) - DJ Irons - Graduation NR - Jeff Undercuffler - Graduation (5.2) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Dijon Jennings - TP = Weber State (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Ryan Jankowski - TP = UMASS (5.4) 2 ⭐️ (TP) - Steele Wasel - TP = Oklahoma (walk-on) Before 2022 season: NR - Calvin Cloud - Walk-on. (5.3) 2 ⭐️ - Joey Marousek - (Baldwin Wallace)