Athletic prospect, Dontae Aycock looking to trim his list

If you go to Central Florida and mention the name Dontae Aycock, you’ll be hard pressed to find anyone who hasn’t heard of him.  Aycock plays for quarterback Chamberlain H.S. in Tampa, Florida and is often reffered to as a human highlight reel. He is rated the 65th best athlete in the class of 2009 by ESPN and projects by most scouts as a running back at the college level.

“Georgia Tech is the only team that’s recruiting me to play quarterback in that they run the option and that’s what I run in high school,” said Aycock during last evenings interview with BDN.  Aycock recently visited the Georgia Tech campus and was rumored by some to be a heavy lean towards the Jackets.  “I like the visit a lot, but as far as almost committing, I never said that.”

According to a recent article in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Tech Coach Paul Johnson had little contact with Aycock of late and they are rumored to have their eyes on another prospect.  Another recent AJC article feels that Duke and Tech are running even for the talented young mans services.

Aycock was first offered by Kansas, but 22 schools have now offered.  Among those are Duke, Rutgers, UCF, Illinois, West Virginia, North Carolina, Louisville and the aforementioned Georgia Tech.  Aycock said that Georgia Tech, West Virginia, Louisville and Duke were the most active schools regarding his services.

He then mentioned that Coach Johnson of West Virginia was the lead recruiter for the Mountaineers and different coaches from Tech and Louisville had called. 

When asked of Duke, Aycock replied, “I know they’re a great academic school and they’re a team coming up.”  He continued, “I actually just heard from Duke.  It was the first day they (teams) could call and I just got off the phone with them,” said Aycock. 

Aycock seemingly had high regard for the Blue Devils saying, “I’ve talked to all their coaching staff and I think all the coaches are nice … I like them.”  He also mentioned that Coach Jim Collins was the lead recruiter for Duke.

BDN asked one of our staple question in that we asked Aycock to describe himself in three words as a person.  “Fun, outgoing and determined,” he answered, while never hesitating.  When asked to describe his game in one word for those who haven’t seen him play, he said, “I would say exciting.”

His Chamberlain HS team won their recent Jamboree (exhibition) game and will kickoff the season this week.  He gained 1155 yards on 155 carries.  He passed for 941 yards last season connecting on 65 of 162 passes.

Aycock looks to narrow his long list to five schools he’d like to visit by the midway point of his high school season.  When asked of the most important factors that would go into his upcoming collegiate decision, Aycock replied, “The school environment, the academics and the coaching staff.”

Scouting Report – Aycock is a very shifty runner capable of breaking one any time he touches the ball.  Aycock will likely be a running back in college but has the tools to be a top notch safety as well.  Has the frame to carry about 210 pounds at the college level.  Has been clocked last season at 4.5.  His height will likely keep him from playing quarterback at the college level.  He was not very consistent with his passing last season and needs work on his mechanics.  Aycock is a solid student.    In short, he is an athlete who will make his way onto the field with his talent. 

If he ultimately chooses Duke – Should Dontae choose the Blue Devils, he will be attending one of the best academic institutions in America.  Aycock would be in a position to compete for immediate playing time on team that is clearly an up and coming program under first year Coach David Cutcliffe. 

Visits scheduled – None at this time.  He is expected to narrow his final list of schools in October.

Notes - His brother is is NFL veteran Dwight Smith, who is currently playing safety for the Detroit Lions.  Smith was the MVP in Super Bowl XXXVII.  His family was originally from Illinois before moving to Florida.  Aycock was also born in Atlanta where his Dad still resides, but moved to Detroit at a very early age.

Currently on Blue Devil Nation Premium

We’ve just put up the latest on commitment Andre Dawkins of Atlantic Shores who talked about Coach K and the Olympics and the desire to play with prospects Josh Hairston and Tyler Thornton.  Speaking of Josh Hairston a player Duke covets, we have an in depth interview with the prep star where he discusses his upcoming visit to …  You’ll get that and much more as a member where BDNP brings you the latest skinny.  Also up is and extremely in depth interview with another prep sensation Harrison Barnes.  We are in the process of moving the site, but if you want to join BDN Premium and read the lates offerings simply e-mail me at watzonebdp@gmail.com.

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Game Day – James Madison @ Duke – A dozen things to watch for on Saturday evening

1- Wear Blue! -The word is out and the word is blue!  Coach Cutcliffe spent the summer doing all he could to promote Duke Football.  The latest, if you haven’t already hear is to show up for the game wearing your Duke Blue.  “I expect to see a sea of blue,” said Coach Cutcliffe during his most recent press conference.  What to watch for-  The students have been moved back to the home side and will be behind the players for the first time in years.  It will be interesting to see if the cheers are coordinated in the sea of blue.

2- Get there early!  Duke is expecting a big crowd and more traffic than usual.  Duke will have a team walk from the Chapel to Wallace Wade, where fans are invited to get involved.  Duke will also have kid activities and music.  It’s always fun to walk about the multiple tailgates too.  It’s a new season and a new tradition and it starts with you, the Duke fan! What to watch for- Coach Cutcliffe has promised a new game day experience.  This includes a secretive new way of the team entering the stadium.  Stay late for fireworks and at halftime Coach K and Duke Olympians will be honored.   Also, the students are notoriously late in years past.  Will this change?

3- Concessions- Sounds odd?  Well, Duke has not been prepared for large crowds in the past and this year studies have been made to keep this from happening.  What to watch for – Will they run out of H20 before halftime in what might prove to be a humid evening?

4 – Atmosphere and Emotion- It’s clear that Duke wants the typical game day atmosphere you get at some other schools.  Much work has gone into the planning and you can bet there will be changes, perhaps even a little noise to elicit cheers.  This is not an opera folks!  So, don’t worry about the polite claps and feel free to let out a scream or two.  Bring your yahoo in and leave your worries of what others might think at the gate.  Crowd emotion drives the players, player emotion drives the crowd.  Let’s get emotional!  What to watch for – When it’s third and one on offense or defense, will the crowd be passive or a little amped up?

5 – James Madison- JMU has been known to hit a team square in the mouth from the outset.  They possess quickness and confidence and desperately want this win.  The Dukes are ranked no lower than 3rd in the country in any Division I-A poll and 1st in two.  Last years edition was one of the youngest under Coach Mickey Matthews and they all return.  This team lost by one point to Appalachian State in last seasons Championships and had it won if not for a late turnover.  What to watch for- Will JMU come into the game with a swagger?  More importantly, will they leave with one?

6 – James Madison on offense-  Expect to see an offense that spreads the ball around a lot.  Their backfield runs a lot of motion and fakes and is as hard to prepare for as the option.  Quarterback Rodeny Landers will run and run and run.  He’s big and hard to tackle and will be the center of attention at all times.    JMU has several players capable of making big plays with their speed.  What to watch for -If Duke shows the ability to contain the run, how accurate can Landers be in the air?  He completed 63% of his passes last season and threw for 12 scores.  Will Eugene TB Holloman run roughshod over the Duke defense?

7- James Madison on defense -These guys like to stack the box and try and shut down the run.  In last seasons loss to UNC, JMU effectively shut down the run, ultimately losing the game to turnovers.  This team will play a lot more physical than many expect.  What to watch for -JMU feels their secondary is a strength.  Can they shut down a Duke team that will likely pass more this season?

8 – Duke on offense -There is a new sheriff in town and he his own deputies in tow.  Duke will spread the ball around tmore this season and go to Eron Riley often.  Thaddeus Lewis has shown the ability to be a leader and the offensive line has improved.  Al eyes will be on the running game where there are depth issues and freshman or newcomers slated to get reps.  What to watch for -Coach Cutcliffe wants to see a crisp offense ran to precision.  Can Duke run the ball enough to take pressure off Thaddeus Lewis in the pocket and will the offensive line hold up?

9- Duke on defense- Duke has a pretty good starting lineup, but will be breaking in a new safety which is a critical position.  Depth as always is an issue.  Tackling has been better than I remember in the pre season and a slimmed down unit should be quicker to the ball.  During the pre season, Coach told the players to treat the ground like a hot stove.  “You can’t make a play if you are on your back,” said Cutcliffe.  The defense will be the most interesting said that it was not the attention of the media in the pre season.  What to watch for -Coach Cutcliffe knows there is little depth on the front and in the linebacker positions.  Will this unit hold up for an entire game?

10 – Special Teams -It got to the point last season where I would close my eyes on field goals and extra points.  Nick Maggio has proved to be consistent in practice and will get the call.  Punting has been a pleasant surprise in the pre season.  As for coverage, it will make or break a team in close contests.  What to watch for – Will Coach call upon Maggio in short yardage situations or elect to go for it.  This is one area that needs consistency for the teams confidence and to win close games.  How improved will this unit be under Coach Middleton?  A good kickoff or punt return could prove to be a huge spark.  As important, will they allow JMU good field position or the big play on the other end.

11- The fourth quarter - Much has been made about off season conditioning and Coach has alluded to having enough in the tank to be able to win a game in the fourth quarter and or finish.   What to watch for -A score.  Fourth quarter points were as scarce as sell outs for the past several seasons.  Can Duke take a game from beginning to end?

12- Intangibles -This category is perhaps the most important.  (A) Turnovers - This might decide the game on Saturday evening.  Duke must protect and value the ball.  (B) Clock Management – This always applies, but the NCAA has a new rule and Duke must get up to the ball in a timely manner (C) Penalties - Face it, Duke has not been disciplined in the past and shot themselves in the foot on many occasions.  Precision and attention will be important all season long. (D) The sidelines -   All too often in the past, the Duke sideline looked emotionless with many players hanging around talking about classes and after game affairs.  (E) Resilience – This is a key to being a winner.  Can Duke bounce back after being down?  Can they drive the nail into the coffin when they are up?  What to watch  for -  All of the above!

Game Week – Vince Oghobasse Interview

Game Week!

Yes sir!  Real pumped up and ready to get out there and go play some football.  We’re tired of going up against each other in practice.

Have you been watching a lot of film on James Madison?

I mean they’ve got a real good quarterback coming back from last year, very physical tough runner.  But as long as we execute our game plan, we’ll be fine.

I know everybody wants to mention weight loss all the time, but can you tell me how has it effected you?  Has your game improved and what ways has it improved?

I think from one standpoint, I’ll be able to play more snaps and catch my breath between the plays.  It’s really helped me out in that area.  As far as my speed and my quickness on my feet, that’s way, way better than what it was during the spring.  We’ll keep at it real hard in the weight room and working on on our conditioning.

So, you feel like you guys are going to be ready to go in the fourth quarter?

Oh yeah!  Most definitely.  The fourth quarter conditioning is not even a question this year.  Even when we get tired, we can push through that fatigue.

Do you consider yourself to be the leader on the defensive line?

Definitely.  I’m a third year starter and I’ve got to take those guys under my wing.  We’ve got Wes Oglesby and Akinbiyi on the front and I’ve got to make sure those guys are ready to go.

You’ve been going up against the offensive line all pre season.  Last year they had a hard time and didn’t quite come together.  What do you think of them this year?

They’re a lot better.  Coach Luke has them working hard and we are making them better.  This is alll about having heart.  If you have a great technique and a will to block a big lineman you can do it.

Vince, a lot has been said about the support around campus, can you just tell me a little about that?

The reason there is a lot is because what Coach Cutcliffe has done with going out and getting the community involved, speaking to students and getting them involved.  Coach Cutcliffe has really made the students and the staff (Administration) buy into the program.  He;s all over Durham in an effort to put Duke Football back on the map.

Talk of building a new culture …

Winning is not easy.  If winning was easy, everybody would be doing it.  Coach Cutcliffe has really go this home opner set for that to happen.  With all the people coming to the ball game, it’s going to be a record crowd for a home opener.

Coach Cutcliffe says he wants you to go in and enjoy the game.  Despite that, is there pressure to win this opener against a tough team?

You have to want to win and have the will to win.  It’s been so long since we’ve had a win.  It goes back to the win over Northwestern last year.  I think our guys want to have that feeling again.  I know I do.

Game Week – Cutcliffe talks to the media, part I

Coach Cutcliffe addressed the media today with the emphasis on changing the culture of Duke Football and asking the fans to be in the stands early.

Opening statements - We are going to have a Blue Out.  So, we want everybody to wear blue to the game.  We want to see a sea of blue in the stadium. 

Just evaluating our team, there are three phases that have happened already.  There’s winter conditioning, there is spring practice and summer conditioning work.  All three phases, we’ve gotten better.  Is it good enough?  I’m not saying that.  But we’re at a point of being so far away, that we have miles to go before we sleep, so to speak.  The fourth phase is the season.  It’s very obvious we are better as a team.  I can give some specifics. 

We are much better in the kicking game.  Again, consider where we were!  So, much better is not good enough to this point in my opinion.  But we are much better!  Our punting, our place kicking … our kickoff has been excellent.  I like our ability to be a good return team!  Our coverage has been much better than what it’s been.  I think we can make some things happen.  I think we can block some kicks.

As far as throwing and catching the ball — I was very concerned after spring practice.  They (team) struggled with that.  Our throwing and catching was really poor.  It has now reached the point where it is much better.  Again, it’s a little too inconsistent than what I like, but I’m pleased with the progress.

One of the areas I’m most pleased with is the pass coverage.  I think our secondary has done a tremendous job at this point.  I hope it is an indication of them improving, not our receivers not being able to separate.  There has been a tremendous job done by Coach Jones and Coach MacIntyre in that regard.

Our tackling has been better.  You can’t play good defense … the scheme doesn’t matter if you can’t tackle.  Our tackling is not where it should be at this time, but it is better than any point in spring practice.  If I had to lift something quickly right now, I would pray for great tackling.

The biggest concern I have, although there is improvement are both fronts.  Our front on defense is much better, but I have a major concern about depth there.  The offensive line is the same thing.  There has been drastic improvement, but it’s still not where it needs to be and the depth is horrendous at this point.

Overall, the thing that has helped us get better is better practice habits.  I knew the first time I saw this team that was an issue.  We sometimes try to revert back to 0-12, 1-11 habits.  That’s what we’re here for is to make them understand you practice with the same intensity and the same execution which never waivers and we lose focus.  Our jobs as coaches is to immediately correct that.  If we continue to do that through the season, by the time we get to November, we can be a good football team.  We are not the most talented team in the conference, but we need to be a good football team and if you are a good football team you can carry into the fourth quarter and win the game.

On the importance of a good showing on Saturday night …  Thank goodness there’s expectations.  I like that.  Obviously I know of the importance of going out and playing well and people coming back.  The biggest challenge is to generate the interest have some expectations.  If you don’t go in expecting to do well, you generally will not.

On changing the culture and the mentality of players -  We have them everyday since last January and we’ve made progress in that regard.  The thing we had to do was get the people enthused, get them in the stands, sell the stadium out.  There has been too much finger pointing when it comes to Duke Football.  We all have to take responsibility..  Our Administration has been a part of this and very supportive and they’ve declared that they want to change the culture of football at Duke and we are taking that serious.  I’m not going to be afraid to challenge people.  If it’s not good enough on their end then I need to let them know.  They can be mad if they want, but we are serious about changing the football program.

Part 2 is coming soon. Pictured is Coach David Cutcliffe and new Athletic Director, Kevin White. (copyright BDNP)

Duke Football Practice Report #3 – Fundamentals

The Duke Football Staff has taken a step back and gone into a teaching mode.  “I changed our schedule to do a lot more teaching, a lot more fundamentals.  We are where we will test offense versus defense in more situations in the next two days,” said Cutcliffe.

The team lined up the with DL’s and LB’s versus the offense early in the practice.  They were surrounded by five coaches which include Matt Luke, Kurt Roper, Zac Roper, Ron Middleton and of course Coach Cutcliffe.  It was obvious these guys had worked together and it was easy on the eyes to view the coaches at work.

Luke would bark orders just outside the trenches and Middleton stayed behind the offense, exhorting several players with Kurt Roper nearby.  Coach Cutcliffe was overseeing the whole scene with intensity, making the team run several players over.  Zac Roper, like Cutcliffe would push a linebacker in a certain direction from behind to either test the offense or to improve their skills aof perception.  In short, all the coaches were on the same page and they were trying to get the team that way.

A lot of emphasis was put on the throwing motion, stance and footwork of the quarterbacks.  The defensive linemen went one on two and one on three in drills.  Four or five players looked really good during these drills including offensive linemen, Goldberg and Roland.

The tight end position has has a lot of attention in that Brandon King has been out.  Cutcliife stated, “when we get this thing going rolling we will have two and three tight ends in the game at one  time.  We want guys who can stretch the field and are physical.  That’s a special position to go and recruit.  I think the guys we have now are capable, but I don’t think they are use to the versatility and what they are asked to do.

Notes- Duke will turn around and practice in the morning, for Cutcliffe has a speaking engagement at Tyler’s Tap House in Durham.  Duke will wear full pads tomorrow and hold a closed scrimmage on Saturday.  Coach Cutcliffe said the team was in as good of shape as he thought they were.  He wouldn’t go into individual players name but said the young guys are providing some speed and quickness.  He mentioned that his team needed to play lower which especially holds true for certain positions.  I noticed the same thing and it’s as if Coach read my mind.  Coach said, “the first thing out of my mouth tomorrow is to play lower.”  Coach also said his team could not afford to waste any reps.  He also mentioned that he liked seeing the stadium in the backdrop as Duke practiced.  Coach also said they have great respect for James Madison and their coaching staff, mentioning they were winners saying “we have a big challenge in front of us.”  Vinnie Rey took a big hit and was taking into the Yoh Building.  It is said it was not serious.

Duke Football ready to begin a new era under Cutcliffe

Duke Football is about to kick off the 2008 season under new Coach David Cutcliffe.  The Blue Devils held their annual picture day on Sunday in Wallace Wade Stadium and the Blue Devil Nation was there to cover the event.  We secured several interviews and will have articles almost daily leading to the home opener with Division II power, James Madison.  We will also be bringing you some coverage from football practices as Duke Football readies to embark on a new era.  As always the BDN will bring you plenty of illustration, so check back in for a photo gallery tomorrow and a one on one with new offensive coordinator Kurt Roper later today.  Until then, enjoy the links below.

Today’s Football Links -

Duke Football begins new era

WRAL Video

New staff determined to change the culture of Duke Football

Lewis talks of meeting the Manning brothers

Will a summer of hard work pay off?

Vegas links buffet – Boynton wows many!

Here is your daily platter of links from Las Vegas where the nation’s top basketball prospects are gathered.   Let’s start with the local paper the Las Vegas Journal Live.  Then there is this link at NBADraft.net followed by one of the better blogs around in Zags Blog.       

Let’s not forget Jeff Goodman of Fox and then there is the LATimes-Thompson says tournaments not so good  for prospect’s inflated egos.   Lastly, Jody Demling of the Louisville Courier has as a good report up.

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