Houston Cougars DT Ed Oliver reacts to Tom Herman news
By Carly Regehr
Houston Cougars DT Ed Oliver jokes about entering the NFL Draft following HC Herman’s departure.
Although it’s not a big surprise that Tom Herman left for Texas, the fanbase in Houston is starting to wind up. Some are calling the decision an act of betrayal. Even the players are chiming in, including defensive tackle Ed Oliver. He sounded off on Twitter Saturday afternoon about the situation, citing disappointment.
Im declaring for the draft fk it lmao
— Ed Oliver (@Edoliver_11) November 26, 2016
A freshman from Westfield High School (TX), Ed Oliver is nowhere near draft eligibility. But the disdain he would feel leading up to his coach’s departure is universal at the moment. It’s also clear cut that Oliver isn’t looking forward to Herman’s replacement. Since Herman’s arrival, the team’s racked up a 22-4 record.
Currently, Oliver’s 6-foot-2, 290 pounds and at that size, he’s been able to complete the necessary task of tackling opponents. Up to Week 11, Oliver has accrued 60 total tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. He would experience double-digit days in consecutive weeks against Navy (11 tackles) and Tulsa (12 tackles). In terms of sacks, he had his best performances where it mattered, against Oklahoma (2) and Louisville (2).
Like most high school recruits, Houston wasn’t Oliver’s only option. Oddly enough, LSU and Texas were also on Oliver’s radar. So when the time comes, Oliver could mirror what Houston QB Kyle Allen plans to do, transfer to Texas to join Herman. Current Houston RB Duke Catalon, a sophomore, could also join the crew, if all things worked out like a fairytale. It would be a family reunion worth watching, but Texas already has an established RB in D’Onta Foreman.
Next: Houston QB Kyle Allen to Transfer to Texas?
Houston’s not just willing to hire outside of the organization. Both their offensive and defensive coordinators are being considered. Otherwise, names like West Virginia’s Dana Holgorsen, Cal’s Sonny Dykes and Tulsa’s Philip Montgomery are popping up. Either way, it’s definitely a hard act to follow considering the deed Herman has done for the university.