In an exclusive interview with BlackAndGold.com, University of Nebraska football Offensive Coordinator Shawn Watson provides key information on why Carl Nicks will increase the Saints’ advantage in the trenches.

B&G.com:  Coach Watson, we really appreciate your taking the time to give us your “take” on Carl Nicks.

Coach Watson:  Glad to speak with you.

B&G.com:  Coach, do you have any “ties” to anyone affiliated with the Saints (past or present)? 

Coach Watson:  Yes.  Coach I was involved on the staff that recruited Sean Payton out of high school (to Eastern Illinois Univ.).  I also served with former Saints coaches Randy Walker and Dan Darylmple. 

B&G.com:   How did Carl Nicks get to be a Cornhusker?

Coach Watson:  Carl was actually a Junior College transfer (midway in the 2006 season).  He came in, and was a starter right away.

B&G.com:  What things would you say Carl has to improve on to be a serious contender for a roster spot?

Coach Watson:  Well, every player has room to improve (some more than others).  But if I had to offer advice, I’d say that he should apply himself day-in and day-out.  Now that this is the NFL, he’ll have to push hard to make the team, and be a good student of the game.  Learn from the veterans in camp; put time in doing homework (studying film and all that).  But again, it’s like the slogan:  “Some practice till they get it right.  Pros practice until they can’t get it wrong.”

B&G.com:  What was the most memorable performance you recall made by Carl Nicks?

Coach Watson:  There were several, but one that stands out in my mind was last year vs. Auburn.  He went head-to-head with Quentin Groves (who was taken as the 52^nd overall pick in by the Jaguars).  In that game, Nicks was dominant and Groves seemed to be frustrated.  Carl really likes intense matchups, and he brought his A-game that day.

B&G.com:  Should Saints fans expect Carl to ease his way in, or make an immediate impact?

Coach Watson:  For a man his size, he can do it all.  He has the right stuff upstairs, and when he puts his mind to it, he can be solid in pass protection, opening holes for the run, or blocking downfield second and third tier.  The key is for Carl to use the talent given him, and make it happen.  But know this… I and a lot of others will be rooting for him. 

B&G.com:  Where do you predict the Saints to finish this year?

Coach Watson:  One thing about a Sean Payton-coached team …don’t bet against him.  He’s got to be one of the brightest minds in the NFL in developing and using the talent on his roster.  He certainly gives his team a great edge from the sideline.  For that reason, I feel the Saints have as good a chance as anyone to go all the way.

B&G.com:  I know you’re on the road recruiting, and you schedule has to be hectic.  On behalf of BlackAndGold.com and Saints fans everywhere, thank you for this excellent interview.  All the best to the Cornhuskers in the Big-12 conference.

Coach Watson: You’re welcome; Go Saints!

Tags See All Tags

Carl Nicks  Dan Dalrymple  New Orleans Saints  Randy Walker  Shawn Watson  University of Nebraska