Latest:
Rock Chalk Blog
Free use image courtesy of Wikipedia.com.
Football FeaturesKansas FootballRecruit Talk

An Offseason of Change for Kansas Football

Kyle Abbott

Since Kansas head football coach Charlie Weis was fired after the Jayhawks’ 23-0 loss versus Texas on September 27, University of Kansas football has gone through two coaching changes, a near upset of the Big 12 Conference co-champion, and a signing day. It has been an offseason of transitions and newfound enthusiasm for the KU football program. What does the future hold for the Jayhawks?

Defensive coordinator and former KU linebacker Clint Bowen took the reigns of the program after Weis’s firing, leading the Jayhawks to a 1-7 record, but garnering widespread praise for a 34-14 victory over Iowa State and a near-upset of No. 4 TCU. Among many KU fans, Bowen was the favored choice to replace Charlie Weis. KU showed improvement in all phases of the game after Bowen took over the coaching duties, and junior Michael Cummings claimed the starting quarterback job from sophomore Montell Cozart.

On December 5, after an extensive search led by KU athletic director Dr. Sheahon Zenger and former Big Eight and interim Big 12 conference commissioner Chuck Neinas, KU hired David Beaty as head football coach. A native of Texas, Beaty is widely regarded as an innovative offensive mind and a vaunted recruiter of Texas football talent. Beaty’s collegiate coaching career started at Rice University in 2006 as passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach. For the 2008 season, Beaty moved to Lawrence, serving as wide receivers coach under Mark Mangino. After moving back to Rice as offensive coordinator in the 2010 season, Beaty returned to KU in 2011 to serve as co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach under Turner Gill. From 2012 to 2014, Beaty coached wide receivers and was the recruiting coordinator at Texas A&M University.

[su_pullquote align=”right”]At his introductory press conference, Beaty laid out a multifaceted plan to resurrect the struggling KU football program.[/su_pullquote]

At his introductory press conference, Beaty laid out a multifaceted plan to resurrect the struggling KU football program. The first element was to bring in a young, aggressive, and talented staff to recruit and coach the players that KU needs to be competitive in the Big 12. Clint Bowen remains on staff as assistant head coach/defensive coordinator, and Rob Likens is KU’s new offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach. Bowen and Reggie Mitchell, running backs coach and recruiting coordinator, are holdovers from the previous staff. Most coaches on the new staff have reputations as great recruiters, especially in the state of Texas.

The staff appears to be focused on keeping the best in-state high school and junior college talent at KU. In recent years, much of the top-tier Kansas talent has gone elsewhere. Beaty addressed this problem at his introductory press conference.

“We also want to do a good job of keeping the best players in the state of Kansas right here at home at their university,” Beaty said. “That is top priority for us, and we do that by building relationships not only with them but with their coaches and their parents and the families and the fans. We want to develop a walk-on program because we only get so many scholarships a year, and there’s a lot of guys out there in the state of Kansas that want to be a part of our great program, and that walk-on program can be powerful. We want it to be the most powerful walk-on program in the country, and that’s a goal of ours. We want to open the doors to more than just 25 a year of the great athletes that there are here in the great state of Kansas. We truly want this to become a Kansas identity football team.”

[su_pullquote align=”right”]“We truly want this to become a Kansas identity football team.”[/su_pullquote]

Beaty and his staff are looking to change the offensive and defensive schemes at KU for the upcoming season. Beaty and offensive coordinator Rob Likens are practitioners of the Air Raid system, an up-tempo, aggressive passing offense ran to perfection by schools such as Texas A&M, California-Berkeley, Texas Tech, and Baylor. The Air Raid promises to be an exciting brand of offensive football and should be fun for fans to watch at Memorial Stadium this season. Defensive coordinator Clint Bowen will run an aggressive defense as well, one that seeks to create turnovers and extra possessions for the offense.

Beaty walks into a tough situation, as KU has gone 12-48 through the last five seasons. Compounding the problem, KU returns only eight total starters, the fewest of any Power-5 conference team. KU loses its five of its six leading receivers to graduation or the NFL, including All-Big 12 tight end Jimmay Mundine and wide receiver Nigel King. Defensively, the Jayhawks lose All-Big 12 linebacker Ben Heeney and All-Big 12 cornerback JaCorey Shepherd. Among the returning starters are senior quarterback Michael Cummings and senior linebacker Jake Love. There will be an intense competition to determine playing time at wide receiver and in the defensive backfield for the Jayhawks.

[su_pullquote align=”right”]The Jayhawks are counting on this class developing quickly to be competitive in the Big 12 this season.[/su_pullquote]

To fill out the roster with talented newcomers, Beaty and his staff traveled the country recruiting a new class of Jayhawks. In the 2015 recruiting class, the Jayhawks signed 26 players, including eight from the junior college ranks who will compete for immediate playing time. The class has two quarterbacks, two running backs, four wide receivers, one tight end, and six linemen on the offensive side of the football. Defensively, KU signed two defensive linemen, one linebacker, two safeties, and six cornerbacks. Among the highlights are defensive end Dorance Armstrong, a long, athletic player who can develop into a force on the defensive line. On offense, explosive junior college All-American Ke’aun Kinner could compete for a large role on offense and special teams as a return man. Offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Rob Likens has two more quarterbacks to work with, including Bishop Miege high school product Ryan Willis. Willis has a strong, accurate arm and could be KU’s quarterback of the future. The Jayhawks are counting on this class developing quickly to be competitive in the Big 12 this season.

2014 was a season of transitions for the Jayhawks, and 2015 brings a renewed sense of optimism and excitement around the KU football program. A new coaching staff,  a new style of play, and an infusion of talent brings uncertainty to Lawrence, but new blood and fresh ideas may mean a return of success to Memorial Stadium.

Kyle Abbott

Staff writer for Rock Chalk Blog. twitter.com/KyleTAbbott

You May Also Like

Photo by Ryan Landreth on March 3, 2015.

Kansas vs. Iowa State: Three Things to Watch

Kyle Abbott

KU vs. Central Michigan: Who are these guys?

Jake Smith

Game 3: Rutgers at Kansas – Preview and Prediction

Jake Smith

66 thoughts on “An Offseason of Change for Kansas Football”

  • Your method of describing all in this article is actually pleasant,
    all be able to easily know it, Thanks a lot.

  • I’m really impressed along with your writing abilities as well as with the structure to your weblog.
    Is that this a paid topic or did you modify it yourself?
    Either way keep up the excellent quality writing, it is uncommon to look a great weblog like this one today.

    My web page … Ice House Portable AC

  • Yeah bookmaking this wasn’t a bad conclusion outstanding post!

    Also visit my web-site: Infinuity CBD Gummies Cost (Christian)

  • Hi friends, how is the whole thing, and what you want to say on the topic of this piece of writing,
    in my view its truly awesome in support of me.

  • Nice read, I just passed this onto a friend who was doing a little research on that.

    And he actually bought me lunch as I found it for him smile So let me rephrase that: Thanks
    for lunch!

    Here is my web blog Niva CBD Gummies Reviews

  • Hi there! This article couldn?t be written any better!
    Looking through this article reminds me of my previous roommate!
    He always kept talking about this. I most certainly will forward
    this information to him. Fairly certain he’s going to have a great read.
    Thank you for sharing!

    my site :: Alvin

  • Very quickly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building visitors, due to it’s nice articles or reviews

  • Hey there would you mind stating which blog platform you’re working with?
    I’m planning to start my own blog in the near future but
    I’m having a hard time choosing between BlogEngine/Wordpress/B2evolution and Drupal.
    The reason I ask is because your design and style seems different then most blogs and I’m looking
    for something unique. P.S Sorry for being off-topic but
    I had to ask!

    Look at my web-site Vigor Max Male Enhancement

  • We are a bunch of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community.
    Your site offered us with valuable information to work on. You’ve performed a formidable process and
    our whole group shall be grateful to you.

    Also visit my web site … TetraMale

  • Thanks for any other informative site. The place else may just I get that type of information written in such
    an ideal way? I’ve a mission that I am just now operating on, and I’ve been at the look out for such information.

  • magnificent put up, very informative. I’m wondering why the other specialists of this
    sector do not understand this. You should proceed your writing.
    I’m sure, you’ve a great readers’ base already!

    Also visit my web page Wawza Apple Cider Vinegar

  • I was suggested this website by my cousin. I’m not sure whether this post is written by him
    as nobody else know such detailed about my problem. You are wonderful!
    Thanks!

    my website The Skin Company Cream

  • I truly wanted to write down a small word so as to express gratitude to you for the awesome pointers you are giving on this site. My time intensive internet investigation has now been honored with really good insight to go over with my pals. I would believe that most of us visitors actually are very much endowed to be in a good community with many marvellous individuals with good tips and hints. I feel really lucky to have encountered your entire web page and look forward to tons of more cool times reading here. Thanks a lot again for a lot of things.

  • I simply wanted to make a small comment to be able to appreciate you for the great advice you are giving here. My long internet look up has now been paid with good quality information to talk about with my classmates and friends. I ‘d express that we website visitors are definitely lucky to exist in a fabulous site with very many perfect professionals with useful suggestions. I feel rather fortunate to have encountered the webpages and look forward to so many more entertaining moments reading here. Thank you once again for everything.

  • A lot of thanks for your own work on this blog. My niece take interest in managing investigation and it’s really easy to see why. All of us know all regarding the compelling tactic you give invaluable strategies via your blog and in addition recommend participation from website visitors about this subject matter and our own simple princess is always being taught a lot of things. Have fun with the remaining portion of the year. Your carrying out a fantastic job.

  • I precisely needed to say thanks all over again. I’m not certain the things that I might have accomplished without the actual ideas contributed by you relating to such subject. It was an absolute fearsome issue in my position, but considering the skilled mode you processed that forced me to jump over gladness. I’m just grateful for this work and thus hope you recognize what a great job that you’re undertaking training the mediocre ones through your blog. Most probably you haven’t met any of us.

  • Some really fantastic articles on this website, appreciate it for contribution.

    Here is my web blog: Nick

  • Can I simply just say what a relief to uncover an individual who
    genuinely knows what they are talking about over the internet.
    You definitely understand how to bring a problem to light and make it important.
    More people need to read this and understand this side of your story.

    I was surprised that you aren’t more popular given that you
    most certainly have The Skin Company Skin Care Review gift.

  • F*ckin’ remarkable issues here. I’m very happy to peer your post.
    Thanks so much and i’m having a look ahead to contact you.

    Will you please drop me a e-mail?

    Also visit my web page Viritenz Reviews

  • I enjoy looking through a post that will make people think.
    Also, thanks for allowing for me to comment!

    Stop by my webpage :: Viking XL Keto

  • hi!,I really like your writing so so much! proportion we be in contact more approximately your article
    on AOL? I need a specialist in this house to resolve my problem.
    Maybe that is you! Taking a look forward to look you.

    Feel free to visit my web blog: A1 Keto

  • I think everything said made a lot of sense. But, think
    on this, suppose you were to write a killer post title?
    I am not suggesting your content isn’t solid, however suppose
    you added a title to maybe grab a person’s attention? I mean An Offseason of Change for Kansas Football
    – Rock Chalk Blog is a little boring. You ought to glance at Yahoo’s home page and note how they create post headlines to grab
    people to open the links. You might add a related video or a related
    pic or two to grab people excited about what you’ve written. Just my
    opinion, it could bring your posts a little bit more interesting.

    Check out my blog post – http://telibandh.in/udyog/user/profile/34638

  • I write a leave a response when I like a article on a site
    or I have something to valuable to contribute to the conversation. Usually it is caused by the passion displayed in the article I read.
    And after this post An Offseason of Change for Kansas
    Football – Rock Chalk Blog. I was actually moved enough to post a thought 😉 I do have a couple of questions for you if you don’t mind.
    Could it be just me or does it look as if like a few of the remarks appear like written by brain dead individuals?
    😛 And, if you are writing at other online social sites, I’d like to keep up
    with you. Would you list all of your communal pages
    like your Facebook page, twitter feed, or linkedin profile?

    Take a look at my blog post; indoor growing mini-course

  • Great post, I conceive website owners should
    acquire a lot from this web site its real user genial.
    So much superb info on here :D.

    My page; dosugmoscow.net

  • Greetings from Florida! I’m bored to tears at work so I decided to browse your website on my iphone during lunch
    break. I enjoy the information you present here
    and can’t wait to take a look when I get home. I’m amazed at
    how quick your blog loaded on my phone .. I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G ..
    Anyways, wonderful site!

    Also visit my website diets bullshit

  • Outstanding post, I conceive people should learn a
    lot from this weblog its very user pleasant.
    So much great information on here :D.

    Have a look at my page; prevent aging

  • Hello, Neat post. There’s a problem along with your web site in internet explorer, could check this?
    IE nonetheless is the market leader and a huge part of
    other people will pass over your magnificent writing due to this problem.

    Look into my site :: Cynthia

  • Hi there! I understand this is somewhat off-topic but I had to ask.

    Does managing a well-established blog such as yours require a lot of work?
    I’m completely new to operating a blog but I do write in my diary on a daily basis.
    I’d like to start a blog so I can easily share my experience
    and views online. Please let me know if you have any suggestions or tips for
    brand new aspiring bloggers. Thankyou!

    My web blog cholesterol diet

  • I’d like to find out more? I’d love to find out some additional information.

    My web blog … hotter sex

  • Post writing is also a excitement, if you be acquainted with then you can write or else it is complex to write.|

  • Hello! This is my 1st comment here so I just wanted to give a quick shout out and tell you I truly enjoy reading through your blog posts. Can you recommend any other blogs/websites/forums that cover the same topics? Thank you!|

  • Hi there, its fastidious piece of writing concerning media print, we all be aware of media is a impressive source of information.|

  • I loved as much as you’ll receive carried out right here. The sketch is attractive, your authored subject matter stylish. nonetheless, you command get bought an edginess over that you wish be delivering the following. unwell unquestionably come more formerly again since exactly the same nearly a lot often inside case you shield this increase.|

  • I have been surfing online more than 2 hours today, yet I never found any interesting article like yours. It is pretty worth enough for me. Personally, if all website owners and bloggers made good content as you did, the net will be much more useful than ever before.|

  • What’s up it’s me, I am also visiting this website regularly, this website is genuinely nice and the users are actually sharing nice thoughts.|

  • This piece of writing presents clear idea in support of the new viewers of blogging, that actually how to do running a blog.|

  • Wonderful blog! I found it while searching on Yahoo News. Do you have any suggestions on how to get listed in Yahoo News? I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there! Many thanks|

  • Good way of explaining, and pleasant post to obtain facts on the topic of my presentation subject, which i am going to present in college.|

  • Hey there, You’ve done an incredible job. I will certainly digg it and personally recommend to my friends. I am sure they will be benefited from this site.|

  • My wife and i ended up being quite more than happy that Peter could finish up his survey out of the ideas he got from your weblog. It’s not at all simplistic to simply find yourself handing out thoughts men and women could have been selling. And we remember we have got the blog owner to be grateful to for that. All the explanations you’ve made, the straightforward site menu, the friendships you make it possible to engender – it’s many terrific, and it is making our son in addition to the family consider that the matter is exciting, and that’s highly mandatory. Thanks for all the pieces!

  • Thank you so much for giving everyone an exceptionally nice chance to read in detail from this website. It really is very awesome and jam-packed with fun for me and my office co-workers to visit the blog at the least three times every week to find out the fresh guides you will have. Of course, I am also at all times satisfied with all the excellent techniques served by you. Certain 4 facts in this posting are completely the finest I’ve ever had.

  • Thank you so much for giving everyone remarkably breathtaking chance to read from this blog. It is always so beneficial and also packed with a lot of fun for me personally and my office mates to search your blog at least three times in one week to study the fresh guides you will have. And of course, I am just certainly motivated for the staggering solutions you serve. Selected 1 ideas on this page are rather the most impressive I’ve ever had.

  • I and also my pals have been studying the best guides from the blog then quickly got a terrible feeling I had not thanked the site owner for those techniques. These people became certainly happy to read all of them and now have absolutely been making the most of those things. Thanks for truly being really kind and then for deciding on this sort of smart subject matter millions of individuals are really needing to learn about. My very own sincere apologies for not expressing gratitude to you earlier.

  • I not to mention my guys were found to be looking at the best guides on your web page and so at once I had a horrible suspicion I never expressed respect to you for them. These guys ended up totally passionate to study all of them and have in effect really been having fun with these things. Thank you for being quite considerate and then for obtaining such brilliant topics most people are really wanting to understand about. My personal sincere apologies for not saying thanks to you sooner.

  • It’s great that you are getting ideas from this piece of writing as well as from our dialogue made here.|

  • I as well as my pals happened to be reading the best helpful tips found on your web page and quickly I had a terrible suspicion I had not thanked the web blog owner for those techniques. Most of the ladies were definitely certainly stimulated to study all of them and have truly been taking advantage of those things. Appreciation for genuinely simply accommodating as well as for finding variety of excellent ideas millions of individuals are really desirous to learn about. My personal honest regret for not saying thanks to earlier.

  • A lot of thanks for each of your labor on this web page. My mom really loves carrying out investigation and it is obvious why. We all learn all about the powerful manner you convey simple steps via this website and as well as cause contribution from people on that subject matter so our princess is always starting to learn a great deal. Take pleasure in the rest of the year. Your performing a good job.

  • Thank you for your whole work on this site. My mum takes pleasure in going through investigations and it’s really obvious why. Most people notice all of the dynamic form you offer effective suggestions by means of your website and therefore strongly encourage participation from other ones on that content and my child is really becoming educated a lot of things. Take pleasure in the rest of the year. You are carrying out a great job.

  • I needed to write you this bit of observation to give many thanks over again on your exceptional opinions you have documented in this case. It is really strangely open-handed of people like you to offer unhampered all that a lot of people could have supplied for an electronic book in making some dough for their own end, chiefly given that you could possibly have tried it in the event you decided. Those suggestions in addition acted to become easy way to fully grasp someone else have the same eagerness like my very own to know great deal more on the subject of this issue. Certainly there are some more fun opportunities up front for individuals who read your blog post.

Comments are closed.