"It's a matter of those guys developing. Last year we had a lot of freshman playing receiver, and most of the time you don't just come in as a freshman and produce," said Taggart. "Those guys have been working really hard with the quarterbacks in the off season, and it shows with the execution we've had so far in practice."
Youth Gaining Experience - Taggart was not exaggerating when he referred to his receiving corp as young. In fact, 12 of the 17 wide receivers in camp are either freshmen or sophomores. But again, the Hilltopper head coach is hopeful that the talent - along with the work put in during the summer - can carry that group over the top.
"We've definitely got some young guys stepping up," said Taggart. (True freshman) Austin Aikens had a great practice yesterday. The kid was making plays all over the field. Boe Brand was a big-time recruit for us that showed from flashes last year as a freshman, and he's another guy having a great camp. Having Willie McNeal back this year is big, and Joel German is another guy that is having a really good camp."
Vasquez Working His Way Back - Perhaps the most veteran member among the receivers is still looking to get back out and make an impact with the younger group. Senior Marcus Vasquez is continuing to work his way back from two knee surgeries after an injury cut his 2011 season short after just three games.
"Marcus isn't ready yet," explained Taggart. "He's itching to get back out there with the guys, but this is his last go-around, so we need him 100 percent."
"My knee feels good, but I've got to get myself back into the flow of thing," said Vasquez. "It's been frustrating being on the sidelines and not being able to get out there and work with the rest of the guys, but I'm just trying to encourage these young guys to preform every day and practice their hardest to earn a starting spot."
Earning The #1 Spot - While four retired jerseys hang on the side of Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium, only one number is considered "retired" by the Hilltopper football program - the number 66 of Jimmy Feix. However, over the past three season the number 1, which was worn by Taggart during his All-America career, is now a number that must be earned. Sophomore defensive back Jonathan Dowling is currently wearing that number in practice, but his head coach has no ready to release the number for Saturdays just yet.
"I told Jonathan he has to do something and be consistent with doing things the right way. And he's on his way to doing that," explained Taggart. "He's another guy that had a great practice yesterday, just flying around the field. My intention tonight in our team meeting is to show our entire defense the way you are supposed to run around a football field."
Family Fun Day Set For Aug. 25 - The fourth annual Family Fun Day will be held on Saturday, Aug. 25 from 4-6 p.m. (CDT) at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. The free event will give WKU fans and opportunity to interact and get autographs from Hilltopper players and coaches. There will also be a Fun Zone set up for kids with activities including inflatable and face painting. Free Coke products and popcorn will also be provided to the first 500 fans.
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