That [Hakim Jones injury] is when the game turned. Pratt is not ready, not sure he ever will be. There’s a reason why a 6’3? 234 lb sophomore safety hasn’t been getting much meaningful playing time, and it’s not because he doesn’t have the physical tools. He was immediately abused, including VT’s first TD. He not only made mistakes on 3 of their big plays in the 2nd quarter, but he took out teammates while doing it.
I don’t think this is getting enough attention. Without the injury, State beats VT. That’s not to excuse the loss, however.
Doeren and Haynes discussed this themselves on Doeren’s radio show last night. I don’t like to call out specific student athletes by name, but I emailed in a deftly worded question regarding the injury and subsequent play at the position and the associated issues on D in the 2nd quarter.
Although I did not hear it answered in the Q&A part of the show, Doeren directly addressed it later, mentioning Pratt by name, saying that Pratt was unprepared, embarrassed, and referenced previous practice habits that were left wanting.
The detrimental effect was compounded because that position is the “QB” of the defense and Pratt’s unpreparedness and confusion, his delays, and failure to make the right calls, had the expected results on the entire defense.
Doeren went on to say that Pratt recognized this as a wake up call and felt he let team down. DD used it as a teachable moment about practicing the correct way and always being prepared.
Anyway, wanted to share to highlight the effect of the injury for those truly at a loss for what happened Friday. It doesn’t explain the offensive woes, but it was the catalyst of the change in Big Mo’ that led to the 21 point 2nd quarter.
I also shared to note that those who can see beyond the obvious tend to have valid contributions to share. Given our similar but different backgrounds, Ive come to accept that if CD and I both see the same thing, it’s generally what is.
