Praise for Roche and other links

Pat Duquette took some time to talk about Tyler Roche and his impact on the team. Roche's season has been a microcosm of this year. He started well, but struggled with injuries and then finding minutes and his role. Now let's hope his solid play of late is the key to a strong finish.

The BC-Under Armour relationship got a small mention in this article on UA's continued growth.

Former BC Tight End and Jack SR son, Bob Bicknell joined Chan Gailey's staff in Buffalo.

As I tweeted yesterday, Chase Rettig is considered one of the sleeper QBs in this recruiting class.

Florida WR Curt Evans is one of BC's targets for 2011.

Basketball Season Grades: Tyler Roche

In an earlier Basketball Grades post, I referenced the rebirth of Tyler Roche. A few folks scoffed. I think I was on the mark. How else would you describe a guy who was ignored for the first few weeks by the coaching staff, written off by most BC fans and then became a solid contributor?

With the youth movement and Trapani's transfer complete, Roche was sitting on the end of the bench early in the season. As he would later tell the media, the former starter felt frustrated. He knew he could contribute. But I am sure the staff had many of the same old fears regarding Roche: can't make the shots in game and is limited defensively.

Eventually he got on the floor and stepped up. He started knocking down his 3s. He didn't shut anyone down, but became a serviceable and fundamentally sound defender. Although not as tall or as versatile as Trapani, Roche served as a good sub when Trapani needed a rest.

Now just because he improved doesn't mean he doesn't have flaws. He made some curious decisions inbounding and doesn't have a great handle.

Roche will never be an all conference player. But the grade is in part based on expectations. He exceeded them this season.

Season Grade: B