Patterson meets with the media to discuss Northern Illinois
12/14/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
Dec. 14, 2006
FORT WORTH, Texas -- In preparation for Tuesday's San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl match-up with Northern Illinois, TCU football coach Gary Patterson met with the local media Thursday.Included below are excerpts from Patterson's news conference in the John Justin Athletic Center.
What has been the practice schedule since you're in final exams?
"The players ran and lifted on their own the last two weeks. We had two bowl practices last Saturday and Sunday. We'll start back tomorrow after finals are done, and then we'll head to San Diego for practices four and five. The main thing we need to do is get our timing back."
How do you avoid a letdown playing a team that you're not very familiar with and you're considered the favorite?
"They have the leading rusher (Garrett Wolfe) in the nation, and their defense only allowed nine points per game in the last three contests. It wasn't about the teams we played this year but more what we were going to do. We have the opportunity to be on national television (ESPN2). A lot of people are going to watch the game to get a look at Garrett Wolfe and to see TCU play."
Can you compare Northern Illinois to anyone you've played this season?
"Not really. They'll play hard like New Mexico, who held us to under 200 yards. Offensively, we haven't played anyone that has a tailback like they do. The closest team would probably be BYU, who runs the ball even if they haven't had success early. Northern Illinois has a left tackle (Doug Free) who is possibly a first-round draft pick and that's who (TCU defensive end) Tommy Blake will face, so there will be some great match-ups."
How special is it to play in San Diego where (former TCU standout) LaDainian Tomlinson is having his record-breaking season?
"I think it's big, and don't forget that Michael Turner of the Chargers is from Northern Illinois. It's great for two teams to see their two star tailbacks in the NFL playing with the Chargers."
Will you get a chance to see LT play Sunday?
"I'm hoping. There are a lot of things to do with the team, but I would like to get a chance to watch on the sidelines. TCU comes first, but we'll be rooting for him."
On Northern Illinois running back Garrett Wolfe ...
"Great running backs have outstanding patience and vision, and he has both of them. He waits on his blocking schemes, has great feet and cutting ability. You have to be very accountable defensively."
What do you think quarterback Jeff Ballard's legacy will be at TCU?
"He has shown that a quarterback within our system can be highly successful. It reflects well on the coaches, the kind of players around him and the program we have here. The two games he wasn't healthy were the ones we lost. Jeff Ballard is very important to TCU, and it will be a challenge to replace him. He has set a benchmark for the guys who follow him."
