UConn Football: Randy Edsall looks to take next step with Huskies

(Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images)
(Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Offense

Starts with the quarterback

As previously mentioned, David Pindell should be the starting quarterback for the Huskies this coming fall. This is expected because no other quarterback on the roster has any game experience and he is a senior.

The passing game was UConn’s only real form of offense last year. Coach Edsall will look to develop a balanced offense for the Huskies, which will require Pindell to compete against defenses much stronger than those he faced while at Lackawanna College. However, pressure on Pindell will be relieved if the run game can improve upon last year’s performance.

The backfield duo

The running back pair were the primary rushers last year as freshman. And although Kevin Mensah had 34 more carries than Nate Hopkins, this did not translate to more rushing touchdowns. Hopkins had seven rushing touchdowns compared to Mensah’s three. Hopkins is the bigger back and should be used in short yardage situations. Mensah is better suited as the early down back and used in passing situations.

Potential standouts

Pindell will have some descent assets to target this season. One receiver who is poised for a standout year is the 6-foot-5, 221 pound tight end, Aaron Mclean, who has recently switched from wide receiver. With great size and speed, look for Mclean to cause significant mismatches on either slower linebackers or smaller defensive backs.

Lastly, Coach Edsall will need to find a solid group of offensive lineman early on. Building rhythm and working as a unit is essential for an offensive line to play well. The leader on the offensive line will be Center, and rising senior, Ryan Crozier. With the most experience on the line, Crozier will need to ensure the rest of the line does a good job protecting Pindell.