Offensive improvement major focus for Cougars
The University of Houston begins training camp under first-year coach Major Applewhite on Monday. Here are a few things to know and keep an eye on as the Cougars prepare for the Sept. 2 season opener at UTSA.
Is there competition at quarterback?
Applewhite would like to name a starter shortly after the second scrimmage Aug. 12.
Kyle Allen is considered the front-runner; Kyle Postma and D’Eriq King will also get reps with the first-team offense in camp. Allen has the most meaningful game experience after starting parts of two seasons at A&M.
King is expected to see a majority of action at wide receiver again this season, although Applewhite said there will be a package specifically designed for him at quarterback.
A renewed focus on the ground game
After having the running game go through dual-threat quarterback Greg Ward Jr. last season, Applewhite said the Cougars need more production from the backfield.
The Cougars’ 1,912 yards were eighth in the American Athletic Conference and the team’s lowest total since 2012. Duke Catalon’s 528 yards were the fewest for UH’s leading rusher since 2000.
“There were a few times, not near enough, last year that we could run the ball from the tailback position and feel comfortable calling the run game when it didn’t go through Greg Ward.”
Catalon, Dillon Birden, Mulbah Car and Patrick Carr will compete for playing time in camp.
“Can we run the ball from the tailback position on a consistent basis?” Applewhite said. “The rubber needs to meet the road and we need to do that to be an effective offense.”
Oliver looking for continued growth
Bad news for the rest of the AAC: Ed Oliver was not happy with his performance after several games during his All-American freshman season.
“Actually I was upset after a lot of games,” said Oliver, who finished second nationally with 23 tackles for loss. “I actually didn’t think I played well in a lot of games.”
Oliver (6-2, 290) says it’s nothing new that teams will try to neutralize him. With that in mind, the Cougars plan to explore ways to move Oliver around, including using him up as a pass rusher on the outside.
“Anywhere you put me I’ll play,” Oliver said. “If it makes it easier for me I’m all for it.”
Injuries leave depth questionable
Three players will miss camp with injuries: defensive end Jerard Carter is recovering from a stress fracture in his foot, offensive lineman Kameron Eloph is dealing with a herniated disk in his back and running back Kevrin Justice has an ankle injury.
With Eloph out, the Cougars are expected to look at Auburn transfer Deon Mix at one of the guard spots. While defensive line is one of the team’s deepest areas the loss of Carter, who made eight starts last season, is a blow, but the signing of Texas A&M transfer Reggie Chevis should soften it.