Fall Camp Updates: Rhett Lashlee interview: Can the offense execute? Offensive line and Mark Pope improving

On Monday, offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee was the first to speak to the media.

“Our guys know what to do, after our scrimmages and practices,” Lashlee said. “Can they execute at a high level?

Lashlee’s offense last year at SMU was highly productive, ranking 7th in points per game (41.8), 13th in passing offense (309 yards per game), and 9th in total offense (489.8 yards a game).

“I think we’re going to play with more tempo than they did last year. If you’re going really fast and don’t execute, you’re going 3-and-out really fast.”

Then Lashlee was asked about quarterback D’Eriq King.

“I’ve learned he’s got really good instincts at quarterback,” Lashlee said. “He throws it well, he runs it well, but he has good intangibles, good instincts at the position. He’s a quick study.”

Then talking about his wide receivers, junior Mark Pope was the first one asked about.

“I think Mark’s been one of our guys that has gotten steadily better as camp has gone on. Success breeds confidence. He continues to gain confidence, and when you gain confidence, you play better.”

Pope is heading into a much anticipated junior season, catching passes in 2019, for 266 yards and 2 touchdowns.

The offensive line has obviously been on all Canes fans minds, and coach Lashlee was confidence in their growth.

“I think all those guys are improving. We’re going to need all those guys this year, with the way things could go with injuries and all the testing.” Lashlee mentioned several players who have improved, such as Ousman Traore, Jakai Clark and John Campbell Jr.

Then finally, coach Lashlee talked about the Hurricanes first game against UAB in 10 days.

I want our guys to play hard, play together, play tough and just play four quarters and find a way to finish,” said Lashlee.