TCU Football: Sonny Dykes at Big 12 Media Day

Originally posted on FanNation Killer Frogs
By Ian Napetian | Last updated 7/12/23

Wednesday, Sonny Dykes took questions from members of the media at Big 12 Media Day at AT&T Stadium.

TCU saw eight of its players selected in the 2023 NFL Draft, including skill players such as Max Duggan, Quentin Johnston, and Kendre Miller. With changes to players and personnel, he spoke about the struggles of replacing such key players, but focused on the positives.

“We lost some significant weapons. The thing I love is the guys that are coming back.”

He emphasized the importance of the offensive line as well. With Steve Avila and Alan Ali pursuing careers in the NFL, there are two massive vacancies on the offensive line, but Dykes is excited to have both previous tackles for another year of Horned Frog football.

Andrew Coker and Brandon Coleman returning to TCU provides tremendous stability in the offensive line that will have to protect the pocket.

While the roster has changed drastically, Dykes gave credence to the maturity of the players and the culture of the football team that was largely responsible for keeping the squad firing on all cylinders in 2022.

“Our players did a remarkable job on just focusing on trying to get better every day… Our deal was, hey man, let’s control what we can control.”

Dykes explained the team’s mindset throughout the season was mainly due to being picked to finish 7th in the Big 12 Preseason Polls. “There wasn’t a lot of pressure, there wasn’t a lot of expectations, and we just got to go out and play every Saturday.”

He further highlighted the importance of leadership, and the struggles of replacing those leaders.

“Max was a tremendous, in some ways, a once in a lifetime leader, and Steve Avila was a world-class leader as well, and we just had guys that willed us to victory. And the challenge is going to be to find those guys. I think they’re in our program, but just like anything else, it’s our job to find that part of them out.”

Ultimately, while TCU Football’s successes were a tremendous feat, they are in the past. It’s a new team and a new season with a new offense headed by Kendal Briles.

While evolution took place on both the player and personnel front, Dykes is optimistic and eager for the 2023 campaign.

This article first appeared on FanNation Killer Frogs and was syndicated with permission.

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