Spring practices along with the Blue and Gold Game may give us a look as to the replacement – or more appropriately - replacements for Michael Floyd, as it will probably take more than one player to fill his shoes. The wide receiver position will have a feel of true “tryouts” for playing and starting roles in this offense. It will be important for players wanting to be at the top of the depth chart in the fall to make good impressions in the spring. Even veteran players like Robby Toma and John Goodman will have to claw their way onto the field this fall; this by no means guarantees any younger players an easier road. After being switched from quarterback, Luke Massa needs to emerge as a college football player in a position other than what he came to South Bend to play, and at 6’4” and 220 lbs. he should be able to do it. Putting aside Eifert at tight end and the moving around of Riddick and George Atkinson III, most believe that T.J. Jones is the heir apparent. Some are a little down on Jones after his sophomore season did not live up to their expectations. T.J. had a solid freshman campaign but did not grow into an offensive leader at the wide out spot. Spring would be an opportune time to quiet his critics. I don’t think spring will give us any new insight on John Goodman as he has had four years to step up. Another question (two, actually) that will hopefully be answered is in regards to the development of our red shirts. First, can DaVaris Daniels use his great athleticism to get him playing time? As for Matthias Farley, will a year of redshirting help him grow enough (skill wise as his height was exaggerated out of high school) to contribute or will he possibly find his way to the defensive side of the ball?
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