KEVIN O’CONNELL – Page 11 – David Shama's Minnesota Sports Headliners

Collective Makes Significant Impact on Gopher Football

Posted on August 11, 2024August 11, 2024 by David Shama

Dinkytown Athletes, the official Golden Gophers collective involved with Name, Image and Likeness opportunities for University of Minnesota athletes, launched in July of 2022 and sold its first memberships to the public in September of that year. DA, led by Derek Burns and Robert Gag, faced a skeptical Minnesota sports public but interest in boosting the coffers of the collective is documented in a report shared recently with Sports Headliners.

Active paying members were up 156 percent year-over-year in the spring of 2023 and 180 percent in the fall of last year, per “The Dinkytown Difference Football Case Study.” The document doesn’t specify dollar amounts, but the opinion here is DA has become competitive with other collectives supporting major college football programs including many in the Big Ten. (Editor’s note: DA is a Sports Headliners advertiser.)

Darius Taylor photo courtesy of University of Minnesota

Without the growth in financial support for DA from contributors, the Gophers wouldn’t be returning 16 starters from last season’s team. Among returnees are standouts including sophomore running back Darius Taylor whose 799 yards rushing last season was fifth best in school history for a true freshman despite missed playing time when he was injured. Taylor’s NIL earnings are estimated at six-figures. For sure being rewarded, too, with NIL earnings are other Gophers including Aireontae Ersery, rated the best returning offensive tackle in college football by Pro Football Focus.

In a new era where players on the existing rosters of college football teams have to be re-recruited, the transfer portal window is an anxiety producing time as programs look to both retain and add personnel. For the 2023-2024 portal period the Gophers coaching staff led by P.J. Fleck lost three transfers to Power Five programs including starting quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis. Minnesota gained eight transfers, giving the Gophers a net gain of 94 games in playing experience, according to the Dinkytown difference document.

Rivals.com gave Minnesota the second highest grade among Big Ten teams last spring for its work in acquiring talent in the transfer portal. Minnesota’s B grade was surpassed only by Washington’s B+.

Minnesota’s eight transfers include promising running back Marcus Major from Oklahoma, former state No. 1 recruit and edge rusher Jaxon Howard from LSU, plus needed help at wide receiver where Cristian Driver from Penn State and Tyler Williams from Georgia. The biggest transfer prize looks like FCS transfer Max Brosmer from New Hampshire.

As a startup, founders Burns and Gag learned money needs to be in place before the transfer portal opens. In the 2022-2023 portal the Gophers lost 10 transfers to Power Five programs. Minnesota gained two transfers during that period resulting in a net loss of 115 games in Power Five playing experience, according to the document.

Among the players leaving the Gophers was cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr., who became a 2023 All-American at West Virginia. Austin Booker made all-Big 12 as a defensive lineman for Kansas. Defensive lineman Trill Carter was the Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year playing for Texas.

Worth Noting

Steve Erban said his company will be taking about 600 Gopher football fans to Minnesota’s October 12 UCLA game at the Rose Bowl. Creative Charters has almost sold out its availability.

Just added to the football fan travel lineup is a trip to the November 9 Rutgers game. Erban said the trip experience will include a visit to the Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange, New Jersey.

Speculation is Viking safety Lewis Cine, the team’s top draft choice in 2022, will not be a member of the team when roster cuts are made later this summer. Cine, selected last in the first round with the No. 32 pick, has been a disappointment during his career and appears to be way down on the safety roster in training camp.

In the 2022 and 2023 seasons, Cine played in three and seven games respectively, and started in none. It now appears that Cine, and cornerback Andrew Booth Jr., who was the team’s second player taken in the 2022 draft, will be draft busts. Booth Jr. was traded last week to the Cowboys for cornerback Nashon Wright.

The most important performance yesterday in the Vikings’ 24-23 closing seconds victory over the Raiders may have been the winning field goal by rookie kicker Will Reichard. In the opening preseason game for both teams the Vikings got a clutch 38-yard boot by Reichard who is trying to win the kicking job after Minnesota released veteran Greg Joseph in the offseason.

Adding to the drama at U.S. Bank Stadium yesterday, Reichard had his first field goal attempt as a pro blocked, and Raider kicker Daniel Carlson kicked three field goals including a 56-yarder. Carlson was released by the Vikings after his first two games as a rookie in 2018. He’s been with the Raiders ever since where he’s become one of the NFL’s best, and the hasty decision by the Vikings to cut ties remains among the worst in recent years for the franchise.

An interesting individual matchup in Viking training camp is rookie edge rusher Dallas Turner going against stud offensive left tackle Christian Darrisaw. Turner, a first-round selection, had a sack yesterday and looks like a game-changer.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell said after the game his top two quarterbacks, newcomers Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy, are “ahead of where I thought they would be at this point.” It’s believed that Darnold, an NFL vet going into his seventh season, is almost certainly the starter for the regular season opener at the Giants September 8.

Rookie McCarthy made a couple of underwhelming throws in the first half, including an interception. In the second half, he threw two touchdown passes with velocity and touch on the football. Darnold played only one series, the opening drive of the game.

The Twins finish their four-game series today against the Guardians who have lost two of the first three games against Minnesota at Target Field. Cleveland holds a 2.5 games lead in the AL Central Division but has lost seven of its last eight games and is 17-23 since June 26.

The Guardians are the smart choice to win today with ace starter Tanner Bibee going against Minnesota rookie David Festa. Last Monday, though, Festa impressed in a win over the Cubs, giving up two hits and no runs in five innings.

Twins president Dave St. Peter is a college football fan and will attend his first game at Michigan Stadium when Texas plays Michigan September 7. “Excited about it,” St. Peter said. “Never been to the ‘Big House’ so it will be a fun experience. I am certain of that.”

This will be the 14^th trip he and friends have made to well-known college football venues.

Target Field has a history of hosting college football games with regional teams and interest remains in future bookings, but St. Peter told Sports Headliners nothing is on the “calendar for the next few years.”

Look for Twins games to be on cable/satellite next season, plus directly to the consumer via streaming. Comcast viewers who finally have the Twins back on cable this summer by paying a higher monthly fee may have to pay more of the same for Timberwolves and Wild telecasts.

Owen Presthus, grandson of former Golden Gophers basketball captain Paul Presthus, is an outstanding soccer player and a few days ago was signed by Columbus Crew 2 to an MLS Next Pro contract.

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Here’s What’s Missing in WR Jordan Addison’s Statements

Posted on July 28, 2024July 28, 2024 by David Shama

Jordan Addison’s two road incidents within 12 months of each other raise “red flags” about his future with the Vikings and career in pro football. The Vikings’ 22-year-old starting wide receiver has a promising path on the field but a rocky track off it.

Addison, now in his second season with the team, was cited for speeding and reckless driving at 140 MPH on Interstate 94 in St. Paul a year ago. He later pled guilty to a misdemeanor speeding charge, $686 fine and had his license suspended for six months.

Earlier this month Addison was arrested by the California Highway Patrol on suspicion of driving under the influence. His car was reportedly found blocking traffic on I-105 near Los Angeles International Airport while he was asleep in the driver’s seat.

In statements following both incidents Addison didn’t reference the lives of people he potentially endangered. By the grace of God, or dumb luck, no one was killed, disabled for life, or suffered minor injuries. How horrible the outcomes could have been for Addison and innocent drivers or bystanders is not difficult to imagine. For those looking for cases studies, visit the Mothers Against Drunk Driving website to read about the heartbreak caused by tragedies on the road.

Troubling, too, is that after the 2023 incident Addison vowed to “make sure that won’t happen again.” But he didn’t make good on that commitment as the football world learned after his July 12 arrest this year.

At training camp last week, he spoke to the media and was contrite, saying he was disappointed in himself, and that the California incident was a learning lesson. He declined to talk in detail about the incident but regarding the future said he will “own up to everything.”

A former NFL executive with two different franchises said he found it “incredulous” that Addison’s incident happened just a short time after teammate Khyree Jackson died on July 6 in a car crash. Two others, both high school teammates of Jackson, were also killed in the crash. Initial reports were that alcohol may have been involved in the accident.

The death of Jackson, a rookie cornerback from Oregon, should have been a reminder to everyone on the team how immediately lives can be changed and lost. “It was always a very fearful time for me…during the summer break when guys go home, when they’re hanging out with their high school buddies, like Khyree Jackson was,” the former executive told Sports Headliners. “That it’s a very nerve-wracking period even though it is vacation time.”

The authority, who asked that his name not be published, said “athletes think they’re invincible.” He added that Minnesota head coach Kevin O’Connell told players at the end of minicamp to be careful what they did and who they spent time with during their break before training camp began which started last week.

With the California incident it’s fair to wonder why Addison chose to be behind the wheel and not arrange for a ride. “The guy is making plenty of money and so the expectation is (in protecting his career) that he should be smart enough to call for help…in a bad situation,” the authority said. “So that’s what’s really I think one of the big disappointments of the whole thing is that he hasn’t figured that out yet, shall we say.”

Despite the disappointments of the last two Julys the Vikings will stay committed to Addison. “I wouldn’t say he’s in danger of not being here (with the team), but I certainly would think they want to read him the riot act at this point,” the source said.

Jordan Addison image courtesy of the Minnesota Vikings

O’Connell and GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah talked last week about helping Addison become a better decision-maker. “I think their hope, obviously, is that he matures,” the source said.

It’s expected Addison will receive evaluation and counseling as part of a process that can help him. Input from teammates, including superstar wide receiver Justin Jefferson, may also have an impact on Addison.

“…You hope that you can educate him,” the authority said. “You hope you can get the team leaders to have him figure it out and that is the reality.”

The NFL is investigating the California incident and whatever action the Vikings take with discipline is expected to follow the league’s findings and actions. Addison could be fined or suspended from games.

If there is another incident would the Vikings move on from Addison? That would certainly depend on the seriousness of the incident, but the source quoted here said the draft investment in Addison, along with his importance to the team, will weigh heavily on any decision.

“The reality is a first-round pick is different. And a first-round pick that plays well like he did last year—and we presume he will this year—it’s just different.”

Addison had 70 receptions, 911 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns last season. The Pro Football Writers Association named him to its All-Rookie team.

“He kind of carried their receiver corps when Justin was out for seven games,” the former executive said. “They are potentially, the two of them, one of the best duos in the league. So that’s what you’re talking about here (regarding Addison’s importance).”

The former executive said “98 percent of the players” in the NFL are doing the right things in their lives including significant contributions to their communities. For those who are off track, the hope is they receive whatever help they need and figure things out.

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Vikings Must Count on KOC, Flores for Difference Makers

Posted on June 15, 2024June 15, 2024 by David Shama

A common wagering figure this spring is the 2024 Vikings will win seven to eight games (7.5). That prediction is likely more acceptable in other parts of the country than in Vikings land where expectations are more like nine or 10 wins.

Still, only the giddiest of Purple fans—perhaps high on too much aquavit—will argue their favorites have an uber talented roster. The production from the all-important quarterback position is unknown, while the output from the interior offensive and defensive lines, edge rusher and cornerback group belong in the uncertainty category as well. Go ahead, too, and throw in speculation about the quality of the punting and kicking specialists where newcomers loom. And, yes, the schedule is challenging.

There are excellent playmakers at wide receiver, tight end and running back who play with two potential All-Pro tackles in Brian O’Neill and Christian Darrisaw. Star power is lacking on defense where the unit’s biggest name from last season, pass rusher Danielle Hunter, left in free agency.

Scrutinize the roster and it’s evident if the Vikings exceed expectations the personnel will have to play beyond their potential. And that’s where head coach Kevin O’Connell, leading the offense, and defensive coordinator Brian Flores need to be difference makers.

There’s no questioning the coaching chops of either. In the two previous seasons leading the Vikings O’Connell proved his worth as an offensive schemer and play caller. Flores, in his first season leading the defense last season, lived up to his superb reputation after previous assignments as an assistant and head coach in the NFL.

Kevin O’Connell image courtesy of Minnesota Vikings

With two unproven quarterbacks in Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy, O’Connell will need to be efficient in devising an offense that makes a defense think, without being too exotic. This offense could be run focused to the extent the quarterback is asked to throw 22 to 26 passes a game.

Power running with multiple tight ends and even two running backs might be how the Vikings often line up. The addition of running back Aaron Jones, the free agent signee who three times in seven seasons with the Packers rushed for over 1,000 yards, could see the Vikings use him as a bell cow softening up defenses before Darnold or McCarthy hit wide receivers Justin Jefferson or Jordan Addison with a big pass play. Whatever the formation, with or without pre-snap motion, count on KOC to provide an edge in deception and play calling.

Variation of scheme and play calls are likely to be trademarks of Flores’ defense, too. It wouldn’t even be surprising if the unit lined up in a five-man front instead of a three. Flores’ blitzes will be part of the defensive package and expect him to mix his personnel to take advantage of individuals’ strengths and keep players fresh.

It looks like with the players the Vikings have added on defense in the offseason they will collectively be a faster unit than in 2023. That’s exemplified with new linebacker Blake Cashman, the 28-year-old former Gopher whose speed allows him to excel in pass coverage. Rookie Dallas Turner is 6-3, 247, but can motor and may make an impact next fall as a big play pass rusher.

When the Vikings open training camp late next month, the tutoring by O’Connell, Flores and the other coaches will begin as they work with a revamped roster that counts seven rookies and 12 key new NFL veterans. The time will go quickly and must be used wisely as the Vikings prepare for their regular season opener September 8 at the Giants.

A quote from O’Connell last week fit what lies ahead for the staff: ”…There’s an hourglass going for 32 teams the moment that we all come back to training camp and how we use that time—how we prepare the team, I’ve learned is a huge part of the early season.”

Worth Noting

Espn.com posted a story this week about the NFL’s highest paid players and the list included two Vikings and two others with Minnesota ties. Categories used were three-year average (APY) compensation and guaranteed money.

Viking wide receiver Justin Jefferson’s new deal has him at $35 million APY and an NFL record of guaranteed money for a non-quarterback—$110 million. Viking T.J. Hockenson, who agreed to a new deal last summer, is tops among tight ends in guaranteed money at $42.5 million and third in APY at $16 million.

Former Gopher All-American Antoine Winfield Jr., playing for the Bucs, is No. 1 among safeties with $21.03 million APY and $45 million guaranteed. Minnesota native Frank Ragnow, playing for the Lions, is tops among centers in both APY at $14 million and guaranteed money, $42 million.

The highly respected Phil Steele Publications has seven Golden Gophers among its college football preseason honorees. Offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery is a third team preseason All-American, while kicker Dragan Kesich made the fourth team.

Both Gophers are first team All-Big Ten selections along with wide receiver Daniel Jackson. Defensive lineman Danny Striggow and cornerback Justin Walley are second teamers, with linebacker Cody Lindenberg on the third team and punter Mark Crawford the fourth team.

Ryan Burns, the Gopher football authority from GopherIllustrated, counts cornerback transfer Ethan Robinson from Bucknell among new players he will analyze this fall. Burns told Sports Headliners Robinson had “copious amounts of opportunities” from other schools including USC.

Robinson will be a senior and figures to start with Walley, a three-year starter and senior. Burns said the potential is present to have “two play making corners there that’s going to help you immensely.”

Greg Gagne, son of former Gopher great and legendary pro wrestler Verne Gagne, is a partner and co-founder of PowerTown, a company producing “original collectible wrestling action figures comprised of legends of the sport from the past eight decades,” per the website. Greg wrestled for his father’s American Wrestling Association years ago and gained tag team wrestling fame with fellow Minnesotan Jim Brunzell. https://powertownwrestling.com/

Former Gophers public address announcer Dick Jonckowski reports he has been cancer free for about 18 months. He has battled and overcome non-Hodgkin lymphoma three times, and celebrates his 81^st birthday in October.

Jonckowski was honored earlier this year by the Minnesota State High School Baseball Coaches Association with its distinguished service award for his many years promoting the sport including as the public address voice at state tournaments.

The Twins could use a right-handed hitting corner outfielder as they try to overcome a disappointing start to the season and chase the Guardians in the race to win the Central Division title. Ironically, 29-year-old right-handed hitting outfielder Brent Rooker is in town with the lowly Athletics, and he is a club leader in home runs with 13 and 41 RBIs. The Twins drafted Rooker in 2017 but gave up on him after the 2021 season. Before the MLB trade deadline on July 30, he will be rumored to join a contending club.

Luis Arraez, the former Twin leading MLB in batting average at .329, can become the only player in the modern era to win three batting titles with three different teams. With Minnesota, Arraez won the American League championship in 2022, topped the National League last season with the Marlins and could lead that league again playing for the Padres.

Meanwhile, pitcher Pablo Lopez, who came from the Marlins in the Arraez deal, is struggling and not producing numbers like a staff ace. Lopez is 6-6 with a .533 ERA. In his last seven starts he is 3-4 with a 6.34 ERA.

The club’s best starter in 2024 is Joe Ryan, 5-5 and 3.24 ERA. In his last seven starts he is 4-3 with a 2.98 ERA.

Can’t beat these baseball names for pitchers: Scott Blewett and Janson Junk are two names brought to attention by friend Dave Mona. Blewett is one of the Saints’ better relievers with a 3-2 record and 2.41 ERA. Junk is also a reliever and the Brewers recently optioned him to their Nashville farm team after compiling a 9.00 ERA in three games and five innings.

That was Minnetonka High School graduate and Kansas senior Gunnar Broin impressing at the U.S. Open yesterday with a two-under 68 that enabled him to make the cut in Pinehurst, North Carolina. After two rounds he is in contention to finish as the low amateur. He played in the 2023 North and South Amateur at the Pinehurst Resort and Country Club so he is familiar with the course.

It was sad to hear of Jerry West’s death this week. The NBA icon was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers in 1960, shortly before the franchise moved to Los Angeles. West teamed with Elgin Baylor, who got his start with the Lakers in Minneapolis, to form one of the most prolific scoring duos in NBA history.

The Lakers picked up their legacy of great teams in Minneapolis after their move to California. During the 1960s their playoff games were sometimes televised back to the Twin Cities by owner Bob Short who used his trucking company, Admiral Merchants, as a sponsor.

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