UConn interim coach T.J. Weist says Casey Cochran's first week of practice as the starting quarterback has gone well. It's a small-but-encouraging sign in a season without much to celebrate. Of course, any true progress will be measured Saturday when Cochran faces SMU in his first college start.
"He's done a good job, he's thrown the football well, he's handled the offense well," Weist said, via the Hartford Courant. "He's been efficient. I've been pleased with their effort and physicality of practice."
Weist said true freshman Tim Boyle will be Cochran's backup. Boyle started the previous four games and struggled mightily. To be fair, the offense's shortcomings weren't entirely his fault; the offensive line and the running game sputtered, too.
As for Boyle's demotion, he admits it was tough to hear.
“I am a competitor, there is always going to be competition at the quarterback and they made a decision that is best for the team,” he said earlier this week, via SNY.com. “I can’t dwell on it. I have to move forward. My job is to help Casey as best as I can. ...
“I think the decision was made because I wasn’t performing at the level they wanted me to. I am disappointed in that. That is best for the team. I can only look forward. Accuracy, speed and getting accustomed to the speed is a challenge for me. I can’t hold a grudge against Casey. If he is putting us in the best position to win, I am fine with it.”
Weist has praised Cochran's ability to process information during games.
“He’s made smart decisions,” the coach said. “He’s shown ability to handle pressure and handle efficiently and make good decisions."
We'll see just how well Cochran is this Saturday when he tries to help the Huskies to their first victory of the season.
