I wonder if this is something of a preview of what the lineup will look like Feb. 9 at Johnny Unitas. At this point it appears as though Forry Smith is the third starting attackman. He and Epstein will platoon—perhaps all season, or perhaps until one of the two emerges as a more consistent option. Whoever is not playing attack could get some run through the midfield. I mostly disagree with this philosophy but it seems like what the coaches prefer. I am still of the mind that you put Epstein out there from day one but I suppose this wouldn't be a terrible alternative if Smith really has developed his game as the fall/winter reports suggest.51percentcorn wrote: ↑Mon Jan 28, 2019 2:26 pm Also, while I think DeSimone's goal was a 4th quarter goal, the starting attack, defense and goalie were gone by then. Smith started with William's and Marr and then Epstein played most of the 2nd and 4th and played some in the 3rd.
The pressure that Williams and Epstein on the field at the same time would exert on a defense is quite a handful to with. I can envision a lot of Marr 10-foot rips with his hands free if the D pinches in when they dodge from the wing/behind the goal. If they don't—especially with the new dive rules—I like Epstein's ability to get a step on most defenders. I've long admired Smith's savvy off-ball movement and finishing ability, but is that more valuable than having a second dodger on the field? Ideally Benson will find ways to have them in the lineup together.
I haven't seen any scrimmages in person with the shot clock so won't comment on how it affects the game but I'm pretty confident saying that a late January scrimmage is not the best way to judge. Things like communication, rhythm, decision-making...all at their lowest and most unrefined levels of the season. As play crisps up a bit I'd expect that playing WITH the clock, instead of against it, will improve as well.
Hope Coach gives the frosh a lot of reps.