Monday AM Update: Defense gets a boost

Today, Jaime Hill will get a better look at his defensive depth when Matt Bauman, the middle linebacker penciled in to start after spring practice, returns to the field after suffering a foot injury riding a scooter this summer.

Bauman said he expects to be on the field today during this morning’s session. The Cougars will have two practices today.

“I had a little accident. A guy in front of me slammed on his brakes really bad and I had to lay it down and skidded for about 10 yards or so,” said Bauman. “It was unfortunate it happened. I was lucky, it could have been worse.”

The way things turned out, however, may be a blessing in disguise for the football program, according to Bauman. Just like the receiver corps with Austin Collie out and guys like Luke Ashworth and O’Neil Chambers getting more reps to learn the system, the same thing has happened with the inside linebackers.

“It’s almost ideal,” said Bauman. “Matt (Ah You) has come in and received a lot of reps this first week. That is big because he’ll be rotating in for me and Shawn Doman at both positions and this gives him a chance to see the field and learn. He’s doing great and he’s going to be fine.”

Still, Bauman, who is known for his quick drop backs and speed in pass coverage routes in Hill’s zone formations, said sitting out and watching has been brutal. “I can’t stand it. I’ve been doing mental reps. I’ve been able to focus on every play. I’ve also tried to help the younger guys, the freshmen coming in and it’s been a good mental week for me.”

Another plus for Bauman has been the rest. Before the accident with the scooter, he was told by the medical staff to take 10 days off to let some things heal up. “The accident happened at the end of the 10 days, so it actually gave me some more time to completely get things right and now I’m ready to go, healthier than I would have been.”