Defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys stepped in as acting head coach during a critical juncture in the Gophers football program's progression and helped launch a four-game winning streak that altered the course of last season. With spring practice set to begin Tuesday, Claeys spoke to the Star Tribune's Michael Rand:
Q News came out recently that head coach Jerry Kill got a new deal, but included in that was an increased pool of money for assistant coaches. I don't imagine it changes how you work, but what does it say to you?
A We're very appreciative of what President [Eric] Kaler and [athletic director] Norwood Teague have agreed to do. ... We feel good that there's a mechanism in there now that allows us to be competitive with our peers. … It continues to show the commitment to build a Big Ten championship type of football program. That commitment, in the eyes of people on the outside, hasn't been there in the past.
Q There was a lot of turmoil last year. With how Jerry is doing now, does this feel now more like business as usual as you head into spring ball?
A There is no question. ... It's great that they've gotten things worked out with [Kill's] situation and the energy he has. He's been tremendous, and it really started back in December. As a staff, we were a little concerned once he started with all the travel again and if he'd get worn down, but he's had more energy than he's had in the last few years.
Q How do you replace a potential first-round draft pick, and what is Ra'Shede Hageman's NFL ceiling?
A I think he could go as high as No. 15. When he does personal workouts, he'll continue to climb. … You get a guy like that once every five years. With Ra'Shede, maybe it's one in every 10 years just because of his size and athletic ability. ... We'll need a little more out of all of them. But Cameron Botticelli played awfully well. Scott Ekpe had a great year with the reps he took. I think we have the kids to do it, but we're not going to have that one dominating guy.
Q Were you surprised by quarterback Philip Nelson transferring?