A freshman is usually not going to be mentally prepared for either position, but a corner is much more exposed, and much more 1 on 1. He can individually win or lose a ball game with one step. Thats why they are more of a comodity in the NFL and why the average corner gets paid more. Either way though, it is a tremendous feat to even have a possibility at starting at either position as a freshman.
I would have to disagree with that...sorta. Almost any defensive coach is going to tell you that CB is more demanding and more difficult in coverage because they get isolated often. When its a true freshman getting isolated that is tough. A safety may need to learn more and read and react like a defensive backfield QB and in that sense the CB's job is more straight forward but you dont see many CB's starting as true freshman because of the intense coverage demands.
According to an article I read, Steven Ridley didn't gain many yards. Did he play tailback, fb or both? Has he gained any size? His listed size does not seem to reflect a power back or fullback type even though that seemed to be our expectations. Just wondering how he was progressing and wondering if that tied in to our interest in acquiring another FB this year.
I knew Johnson/ Peterson would be starting simply after watching the Army game practices. Dude has crazy hips, awesome technique, and flat out blankets his man. This kid is the real deal.
I'm no expert but I remember a discussion on this subject by some of the ex NFL players. They agreed that corner back is one position where a young guy can come in and start immediately. It's a position of reaction and if you don't have the body for it you will never be able to play the position. This brings back memories of the CBs that Saban inherited. Our pass defense was crap. When they were replaced by Daniels and Webster the defense tightened up immediately. Daniels saved us in the SECC game as a true freshman by breaking up a couple of passes.
Corners can make or break a defense...especially one that plays a lot of man. For reference, see the New Orleans Saints.
