I observed the try outs first hand. It was very apparent that these try outs were held as a formality. Coach Tidwell told the young men at the beginning that they only had 4 or 5 spots, and unless they could get more spots opened up via the title 9 concerns that would be it. Many of the 60+ players were "invited" to try out by one of the coaching staff. Those that made the team had worked out with the current players during the spring/summer and were known to coaches. IMO the short list was in place prior to the try out and the coaches were just looking for a sleeper, some 6'9" 300lb lineman, that they did not already know about. To make a D1 team you have to work the system and get the coaches familiar with your abilities - No Matter What Your Name Is!