Mullen's Take: Week one press conference
Dan Mullen started this week's press conference by giving is best wishes to the people of Houston and others areas devesated by Tropical Storm Harvey.
On the topic of his football team Mullen said they are really to transition into game week as they prepare for the season opener against Charleston Southern.
"Our guys have to do a great job of transitioning. Training camp went well. The extra time we had allotted for training camp really cut down on injuries and was really a big help for player safety,' he said.
Facing a first year coach has Mullen and his staff guessing at what they will face. He feels Charleston Southern will have a talented team, led by one of the top quarterback in FBS. "You want to see how they adjust and come at you," he said.
He's impressed with the team's execution of the offense. "You’ve got to be very, very gap sound against the option and defend every phase of it, the dive the quarterback and the pitch. What makes them different to me is they throw the ball," he added.
On defense the opponent's experience has caught Mullen's attention. "A very experienced group. Two straight conference championships. It's a huge challenge for us to come out and play some young guys for their first game in the stadium and against a quality opponent," he said.
On the injury front little has changed. Malik Dear remains out for this week and Harry Parker should return to practice today.
Several true freshmen are getting looks at playing time. "I want to see how they handle this week of practice. I know Willie Gays in the rotation. Tucker Day is competing to go play," Mullen said.
Also there has been no decision yet on JUCO defensive end Chauncy Rivers' eligibility. The staff is hoping to know something later this week on his waiver.
Mullen feels more comfortable with Nick Fitzgerald this season. His experience and ability to adjust to game planning and preparing himself to play on a high level.
Jokingly the head coach said Fitzgerald needs to learn to keep his helmet on after struggling with that last year. "That doesn't happen to big time guy," he said.
Asked about Donald Gray the coach offered his thoughts, "He's stepped up as a leader. You see a guy that has always had a good work ethic," Mullen said.
