I hold a unique distinction over my fellow UConn football media beat writers.

Not one of them has ever watched a freshman football game from “the moon” — the Huskies' old practice field adjacent to Memorial Stadium. It was aptly named because a few precious strands of grass remained by mid-October, leaving white yard-line markers in perfect contrast with the hard, brown (and often slippery) dirt surface.

Of course, that also means I'm a lot older than my media friends, too, which is probably why my lack of technological skills has kept me from joining the blogosphere.

Until today.

Today, I begin sharing some thoughts, observations and facts about the UConn football program as it prepares for Saturday's opener at Ohio University, and then right on through the season, which the Huskies hope culminates in their third consecutive bowl bid.

Since returning to the football beat in 2003, I can't remember a preseason with this much anticipation.

Thank new offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead for that. From the moment he arrived from Akron in January with his new no-huddle, up-tempo multiple offense, fans have eagerly awaited its debut.

It's going to be a joy to watch — especially with the influx of talent at the receiving positions — but I urge fans to be patient … at least for one week. Remember, UConn will be far from the finished product at Ohio, and I actually see that as a good thing for two reasons:

1. UConn has consistently been able to wear down Mid-American Conference teams in recent years by punishing them with its size up front and running the football. Look no further than the International Bowl victory over Buffalo for your evidence.

2. If you are Randy Edsall, and you can be successful controlling the line of scrimmage by running the football, why unveil the entire playbook against Ohio when you can save a few tricks for the home opener against a better opponent, nationally-ranked North Carolina, a week later?

Now I know what your thinking … we don't want to see that same one-trick pony again in 2009.

You won't. This team is still developing its new personality behind Moorhead and new quarterback Zach Frazer. And from watching UConn during training camp, there is more talent at every position than ever before.

So get ready for the journey, ride right alongside of me, and don't hesitate to bring your own thoughts and comments along for the ride.

Talk to you again Saturday from Athens, Ohio.