LAWRENCE — As Kansas football’s fall camp wraps up, head coach Lance Leipold reflected on the progress his team has made and the challenges that lie ahead. Leipold praised the team’s maturity and the way players have handled disruptions, such as the ongoing construction for the Gateway District project. He also noted the growth of younger players and the positive impact of recent transfers.
However, Leipold acknowledged that there are still areas that need attention, particularly situational football. Several position battles are ongoing, but the team is generally in good health as they prepare for the season opener on August 29 against Lindenwood.
With the 2024 season on the horizon, here are two reasons for optimism and two lingering questions for the Jayhawks:
Reasons for Optimism
1. Defensive Line Progress
Kansas is in a familiar situation with its defensive line, much like in the past two seasons. While the team had potential standouts in Austin Booker last year and Lonnie Phelps the year before, there were uncertainties about the overall performance of the defensive line. Both players excelled during their time at Kansas, with Booker even getting selected in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Leipold remains cautious, acknowledging that the true depth of the defensive line won’t be known until the games begin. However, he expressed confidence in several players this fall. Redshirt junior defensive end Dean Miller is poised for a breakout season, with senior defensive end Jereme Robinson also returning as a key contributor. Other players to watch include redshirt freshman Bai Jobe, redshirt senior Dylan Wudke, and freshman DJ Warner at defensive end. Along the interior defensive line, redshirt junior tackle Tommy Dunn Jr., redshirt senior lineman Ronald McGee, and redshirt junior tackle D.J. Withers are expected to play significant roles.
2. Experienced Roster
Kansas boasts a roster filled with experienced players, particularly on offense. Redshirt junior quarterback Jalon Daniels leads a unit that includes a strong duo of running backs and a trio of veteran wide receivers. The defense also has key returning players, including senior cornerbacks Cobee Bryant and Mello Dotson.
Jeff Grimes, Kansas’ assistant head coach and offensive coordinator, highlighted the rare luxury of having two running backs as talented as senior Devin Neal and redshirt junior Daniel Hishaw Jr. The challenge, according to Grimes, will be ensuring both get enough touches while maintaining a creative and dynamic offense.
Questions That Remain
1. Offensive Line Performance
A critical area of concern is whether Kansas’ offensive line can meet the team’s expectations. Grimes mentioned that they are close to deciding which tackle position senior Bryce Cabeldue and redshirt junior Logan Brown will occupy. This decision, along with others along the offensive line, is crucial as the team considers factors like communication and experience.
Despite some progress, Grimes reiterated that the offensive line is still a work in progress. He was hesitant to specify how many linemen he feels confident starting in a Big 12 game, indicating that the unit is not yet where it needs to be. Developing the leadership and communication that were strong points with former center Mike Novitsky, who graduated in 2023, remains a priority.
2. Developing In-Game Chemistry
Replacing the in-game chemistry provided by former center Mike Novitsky and linebacker Rich Miller Jr., whose college careers ended in 2023, is another challenge for Kansas. Both players were instrumental in leading the team to consecutive bowl games and acted as on-field coaches.
The responsibility to fill these leadership voids doesn’t fall solely on the players stepping into their positions. Redshirt senior offensive lineman Shane Bumgardner, redshirt junior lineman Bryce Foster, and redshirt senior linebacker Cornell Wheeler, among others, must continue to develop and contribute to the team’s success. Their growth will be essential as Kansas looks to build on its recent achievements.
As the Jayhawks prepare for the upcoming season, there is a blend of optimism and uncertainty. The team has the potential to make significant strides, but key questions need to be answered if they are to reach their full potential in 2024.
