C-USA Coaches' Weekly Teleconference: Charlie Taaffe Edition

Today Coach O'Leary was absent from the C-USA teleconference, and offensive coordinator Charlie Taaffe filled in to answer the media's questions. He did a great job, even if he did think his work was that of “the JV team." Here's what Taaffe had to say about Brynn Harvey, the offensive line, Brett Hodges, and more...

Coach Taaffe on Brynn Harvey vs. Memphis

“He had 41 carries on Saturday which was probably too much; but he got stronger as the game went on. It was an afternoon game so it was a bit warm, but he didn't seem to get tired. He's a great north and south guy with some great cuts. He's developing into one of the outstanding backs of this conference (C-USA).”

Coach Taaffe on the Offensive Line's Progress

“I've seen us improve each week. That was the case on Saturday. Ian Bustillo is doing a great job at center. The guards (Leggins and McCray) weren't even with us in Spring practice and have been slow in their development, but each week they get used to the calls that take place.

We are starting to see a lot more consistency. Our tackles have been solid, and Jah Reed has played really well. You don't rush that many yards without the guys up front, and they deserve that credit.”

Coach Taaffe on Brett Hodges and the Offense vs. Memphis

“He tried too hard not to make mistakes in the first half. Memphis had some things that they did differently. As the game went on, and the guys got what they were doing defensively, I think we were making good blocks after halftime and that helped out.

So much happens at the line of scrimmage as far as calls. It's a maturing process and the guys are getting used to playing together. Even at East Carolina I think we blocked really well.

We keep struggling with consistency and ability to move drives which knocks us off schedule (down-wise) but finally we got things going and we were able to have a good game.”

Coach Taaffe on the Red Zone

“We have missed plays, and (as a result) get behind on downs and distance. We would like more touchdowns than field goals and finally we switched degrees a bit. (Although) if we have a missed play we seem to have a hard time recovering from that.”

Additionally, there was no update from the team's medical staff on Corey Rabazinski's injury. Examiner.com Orlando's Jessica Reuter will keep the community posted on any injury releases.