It is time for Tulane head coach Bob Toledo to turn the fortunes of the Green Wave program in a winning direction.
Toledo has by all accounts, recruited two solid classes. Toledo has changed defensive coordinators, and thrown his quarterback battle wide open. Tulane has won 6 games in two years. Time for the Wave to make a leap forward.
Spring practice begins Tuesday March 31st. Here's a pre spring snapshot.
Toledo thinks his defensive will improve under new defensive coordinator Steve Stanard. Stanard has 14 years of experience as a coordinator on the college level. Toledo said he was not happy with big plays given up last season that cost his team at least two games. Said Toledo, "we had a couple of games won at the end and we are trying to blitz six and play zero coverage without a free safety in the middle, and we gave up too many plays." Toledo said Tulane will bliltz , but play more zone behind it.
Toledo will throw his quarterback job open to competition. Kevin Moore, who started all 12 games last season, will battle backup Joe Kemp and redshirt freshman Ryan Griffin and DJ Ponder for the job. Toledo said he plans to name a starter by the end of spring.
Toledo said he lost 17 players to season ending injuries. Wide receiver Jeremy Williams (5 td receptions in 5 games) and running back Andre Anderson (864 yards rushing), both lost to season ending injuries, will practice in the spring, but not be exposed to contact.
Said Bob Toledo of '08, "I was embarrassed by it. It won't happen again."