tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55026707459162455552024-03-12T21:26:14.358-07:00The Bulldog BounceA day without any Fresno State info ... is a long day. And, as four guys who were raised on Bulldogs sports, we understand completely. Make no mistake, we're fans, but this isn't the place for a bunch of rah-rah homer talk -- we'll call it like we see it. In-depth analysis, insight, familiarity and interaction (yes, we look forward to hearing from you too). It's the Fresno State blog for the avid fan, by the avid fan.FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.comBlogger418125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-12066168557625192552012-10-05T14:26:00.001-07:002012-10-05T14:26:56.341-07:00Hit us on Twitter!Loyal Red Wavers, as many of you know, we have shifted to a microblogging strategy to spread Fresno State news and interact with fans. Please follow us @BulldogBornBred
For now, we will no longer be updating this blog with content. Thanks to you all for making our Twitter efforts so successful. We love the interaction we have with you all on Twitter, which is why we've decided it's more beneficial to focus efforts there than on this blog.
GO 'DOGS!!!
#BulldogBornBulldogBredFSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-52714867557904448692011-09-11T23:21:00.001-07:002011-09-12T01:09:41.374-07:00Grading the 'Dogs (0-2) at No. 10 nebraska (2-0)<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Quarterbacks: B+</span></strong><br />For Fresno State standards in recent years, this was an 'A' performance. But for sophomore Derek Carr, in just his second career start, it's clear he's capable of much more fine tuning. Carr was 20 of 41 for 254 yards and a touchdown in the loss. But most impressive, Carr seemed to will his team forward, even after the Bulldogs lost the lead for the first time during the third quarter. Carr's first quarter TD scamper, where he leaped over a nebraska defender near the sideline and reached out in mid air to get the ball over the goal line inside the pylon, was No. 2 on SportsCenter's Top 10 plays. Fresno State fans should appreciate the cool, calm, collected Carr when he steps to the line reading defenses and when he drops back or rolls out to pass. It's a true joy to see, especially from an inexperienced QB.<br /><br /><iframe width="420" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/czybwr0pyO4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Running Backs: A</span></strong><br />One of the most surprising tidbits of the young season is the amount of carries junior Robbie Rouse is getting. Rouse was the undoubted incumbent starter at the position, but there's such talented backups, who all shared in first-team reps during camp, that we expected to see more touches from them. ucla transfer Milton Knox is yet to get a carry. And A.J. Ellis has just one on the year. But a quick look at the stat sheet explains why. Against nebraska, Rouse had 36 carries for 169 yards (4.7 per carry). He didn't have a single carry for negative yardage. And he caught 3 passes for 28 yards. Against a nebraska defense considered one of the nation's best. Rouse's 36 carries were the most against nebraska since Ricky Williams in 1998.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Receivers: B-</span></strong><br />Quite a bit of improvement for the receivers from the season opener to now. But there's still a ways to go. The hot reads aren't coming as smoothly as they should, something that'll have to be done if the Bulldogs truly are going to go from good to great. Isaiah Burse has had a rough first two games -- definitely isn't playing like himself. This group has a lot of big play ability. We saw the special 26-yard TD catch in double coverage to redshirt freshman Josh Harper, and the 55-yard toss to sophomore A.J. Johnson, but are still waiting for Jalen Saunders to get going. Rashad Evans showed off the hands and provided the security blanket with 6 catches for 63 yards.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Offensive Line: A</span></strong><br />It was downright painful to listen to some of the local media the past week as they gave blame to the offensive line for the cal loss. While the line came up short, most media members were way off in their assessments, failing to recognize the strength of the run blocking. This week it was made painstakingly obvious. With starting center Richard Helepiko out with injury, and another key lineman going down at the start of the game in left guard Matt Hunt, Trevor Richter stepped in for his first career action and didn't skip a beat. Richter even pancaked one of the vaunted nebraska blackshirts on a key drive. Right tackle Cody Wichmann, in his first start, showed vast improvement from the cal game when he was forced into action. And how about Leslie Cooper, filling in for Helepiko at center and matching up with nebraska All-American Trevor Crick. At times, Cooper dominated Crick, answering his spin move and stopping him in his tracks. With Carr often rolling out to pass, the line gave Carr plenty of time and allowed zero sacks (we'll see how many times that happens to nebraska all year).<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Defensive Line: C-</span></strong><br />Though Fresno State was impressive most of the game in shutting down nebraska's offense, the Bulldogs were done in by allowing a handful of big plays. Against a one-dimensional QB in Taylor Martinez, the Bulldogs likely would have won if they were able to remain assignment sound and contain the edge when Martinez kept the ball and ran. The most costly came on third down and 3. A stop would have given the Bulldogs the ball back with plenty of time to go after the winning score, but instead, Martinez scampered right around the tackle and broke a long, game-clinching TD run. Give Logan Harrell and Chase McEntee credit for shutting down everything up the middle, but the edge of the line was inconsistent at best. Matt Akers had the only sack of the game for either team, and Tristan Okpalaugo showed some promising tenacity. But the Bulldogs have to improve in this area before games against utah state and nevada.<br /><br />Linebackers: C-<br />Though Kyle Knox was tied for the team lead with 8 tackles, he looked a step slow reacting to nebraska's option attack most of the game. Knox was caught out of position numerous times, something you don't want out of the senior leader of your defense. This group really has to work as one with the front four to become the type of defense capable of shutting down mobile QBs.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Defensive Backs: C-</span></strong><br />The Bulldogs cannot afford any more injuries at the safety position. Sophomore Derron Smith went down after a potentially game-changing play in the first half and missed about a quarter of action. That left Terrance Dennis and Zak Hill as the two safeties -- both are liabilities in coverage right now, though Hill has showed much improvement. Dennis tied for the team lead with 8 tackles, and is a big hitter, but has got to improve in man coverage. The Bulldogs were again burned over the top by an inaccurate QB. What happens when they play quarterbacks who can throw well (Kellen Moore anyone)? Smith's early interception could have led to a double-digit lead for Fresno State, but was negated when he didn't protect the ball, flailing his arm behind him without tucking it in, and got hit hard and fumbled it right back to nebraska. He'll learn from the mistake, but the Bulldogs just hope he's healthy.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Special Teams: C</span></strong><br />For the second straight week, special teams negated a great play -- or plays -- by giving up a crushing play. Devon Wylie opened up the scoring by returning a punt 67 yards for a TD. But the Bulldogs gave up a 100-yard kickoff return that completely shifted the momentum nebraska's way after Harper's big TD grab. That return may very well have cost Fresno State the win. On a positive note, Kevin Goessling got out of that brutal Candlestick wind and returned to normal, with three field goals of 22, 36 and 37 yards. Hold your breath though, punter and kickoff specialist Andrew Shapiro (who hasn't been much of a specialist when it comes to kickoffs) was injured on the 100-yard return. Goessling came in for the final kickoff and booted it deep into the end zone for a touchback, but the 'Dogs need Shapiro for punts.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Coaching: B</span></strong><br />Give Pat Hill and staff huge credit for designing a gameplan to render nebraska's pass rush useless. From the get-go, Fresno State rolled Carr out of the pocked, relieving pressure off of the offensive line and buying lots of time in the passing game. The Bulldogs dominated nebraska's defense for a quarter or more, but the problem, as is often the case with Hill's teams, was in-game adjustments. nebraska's adjustments outweighed Fresno State's and the Huskers fought back and eventually took the lead.FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-90228118187628025662011-09-06T10:31:00.000-07:002011-09-07T18:34:56.547-07:00Grading the 'Dogs (0-1) vs. cal (1-0)<strong>Quarterback: C+</strong><br />In his first career start, Derek Carr was impressive, making a couple of throws that Fresno State fans haven't seen from their QBs in years, if ever. More impressive than anything was how calm and poised Carr remained in the pocket throughout the game, despite pressure, dropped passes and at least one costly missed hot read by his receiver, who ran an in instead of an out. Carr had a high completion percentage (21 of 33) but didn't get to throw downfield as often as the coaches probably should have allowed. The one bad throw he made was the interception, where the indented target had no chance at the ball over top. But overall, Carr should have fans stoked that he's the new QB because he showed plenty of flashes of what's to come.<br /><br /><strong>Running Backs: B+</strong><br />Make no mistake about it, cal could not stop Robbie Rouse from running the football. He ate up chunks of yards en route to 86 yards on 17 carries (5.1 yards per attempt). Of course you still have the fans who complain about Pat Hill running too much, but this is one instance where he didn't run nearly enough. Because there's no argument the run was working better than the screen passes the offense kept calling. Fresno State never established a consistent running game, and all signs suggest they easily could have. It might have cost them the game, preventing the team from keeping its defense off the field and controlling time of possession to create sustained drives.<br /><br /><strong>Receivers: D+</strong><br />Part of the reason the receivers weren't successful was the coaches not putting them in position to win their matchups. But no matter how well Carr played, the Bulldogs were hurt by the lack of playmaking from their playmakers. TE Ryan Boschma dropped a wide open pass in his chest for a would-be first down. Rashad Evans got two hands on a low-thrown ball and dropped what would have been another first down. And Isaiah Burse dropped a hot read thrown right at the point where cal blitzed from that very well could have resulted in a long TD. Those plays were all drive killers, and kept the 'Dogs from taking control and building confidcence in their offense. The two bright spots were Devon Wylie's 56-yard catch and run and R-Fr Josh Harper's first career TD.<br /><br /><strong>Offensive Line: C-</strong><br />The offensive line looked very strong in the running game, but had more trouble pass protecting (as was predicted). When center Richard Helepiko left the game with injury, R-Fr Cody Wichmann got his first-ever game action at right tackle. Wichmann missed the block that led to Carr being stripped and cal picking up the fumble for a defensive TD. This unit gave up four sacks, continuing last year's downward trend of the offensive line. But keep in mind, two of those sacks were a slide by Carr on a bad spot where he could have run for the gain and risk being hit, and another was a play where Carr tripped over his center's foot and fell backward.<br /><br /><strong>Defensive Line: C</strong><br />While the unit got stronger as the game went on, and put more hurries on cal QB Zach Maynard, this group can do a better job finishing plays and applying pressure with the front four. Star DT Logan Harrell had a sack and two tackles for loss, and true freshman Donavon Lewis (Clovis West High) had a sack in his first college game. But there weren't many other bright spots. DE Matt Akers didn't have the same burst getting to the backfield as he showed in fall camp and Donavaughn Pritchett was less effective containing the QB than he was last season. DE Tristan Okpalaugo and redshirt freshman DT Tyeler Davison both got their first significant reps as Bulldogs -- expect good things from them before the year's over. DE Nat Harrison, who was supposed to have a breakout year, had virtually no impact on the game.<br /><br /><strong>Linebackers: C+</strong><br />Travis Brown tied for the team lead with 8 tackles and the entire unit was very active all over the field and in blitz packages. Sophomore Jeremiah Toma, in his first career start as Ben Jacobs' replacement, was uber impressive. He displayed better ball instincts and much more quickness than the Bulldogs previously had at the position. Toma finished with five tackles and Kyle Knox had four, including one for a loss, after an blindsided hit forced him to the sideline for a few plays. This group was a big reason why cal RB Isi Sofele averaged just 3.4 yards per attempt.<br /><br /><strong>Defensive Backs: D-</strong><br />There were two positives that can be taken away by this group. Sophomore L.J. Jones intercepted cal's first pass of the game and it led to a quick Bulldogs TD. And junior Terrance Dennis, who entered the game as the third-string strong safety behind Cristin Wilson and Zak Hill, broke out and left no doubt he deserves to start in place of the injured Phillip Thomas. Dennis, the son of former Bulldogs player Terry Dennis (1983-84) and cousin of former usc star Hershell Dennis, had five tackles and at least four big hits. Standout CB Jermaine Thomas gave up a couple big passes, including a long TD in blown coverage, raising concern he's still not fully recovered from last season's injury. The 'Dogs don't seem to have much to lose by playing tighter man coverage and getting physical with opposing receivers, because the cushion coverage wasn't working either.<br /><br /><strong>Special Teams: C</strong><br />Any time you miss a clutch 35-yard field goal, it can't be a great special teams performance, but the Bulldogs' Cody Wichmann blocked cal's first two PATs. Chalk up the missed field goal to that insane Candlestick wind, and expect a better performance vs. nebraska.<br /><br /><strong>Coaching: F</strong><br />Typically the fans who whine about playcalling make educated fans want to pull their hair out, but this time the criticism is fair. The Bulldogs seemingly pounded their collective heads into a wall the entire game. The screen pass never proved effective, yet, even on the final possession of the fourth quarter, the Bulldogs were still throwing to receivers behind scrimmage and still getting nowhere. That, coupled with the lack of recognition by coaches that cal was susceptible to Fresno State's running game, is beyond frustrating.FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-23643608329736649572011-09-02T22:59:00.000-07:002011-09-02T23:34:30.235-07:00Position Breakdown 2011: Defensive Backs<strong>Returning Lettermen</strong>: Jermaine Thomas, Isaiah Green, L.J. Jones, Derron Smith, Zak Hill, Terrance Dennis, J.B. Dock
<br /><strong>Newcomers</strong>: Charles Washington, Beau Fryer
<br /><strong>Lost</strong>: Desia Dunn, Lorne Bell, Justin Webber
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<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMWkjevLnws/TmHGAXGzTCI/AAAAAAAAAnY/9C8FJqUT454/s1600/green.isaiah.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648013117204155426" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMWkjevLnws/TmHGAXGzTCI/AAAAAAAAAnY/9C8FJqUT454/s320/green.isaiah.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Isaiah Green: Senior Not Green Anymore</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 5-10, 180
<br />Long Beach (Polytechnic HS)
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<br />Many fans still have nightmares about cornerback Isaiah Green being exposed in the embarrassing loss to boise state last season, but that’s not a true picture of Green’s ability. Green is one of the hardest workers on the team. He can be seen year-round in the grass lots surrounding Bulldog Stadium doing any number of drills, or just out with a couple teammates covering pass after pass. Green’s the defense’s fastest player, though he’s showed suspect hip flexibility in the past. As a senior, he’ll be expected to raise his level of play and that of his teammates, and should do a good job of it. Green had 34 tackles last season and ranked second on the team with 8 pass break-ups and 8 deflections (second only to Phillip Thomas, who’s out for the season with injury). For the Bulldogs to do everything they need to defensively, Green and his battery mates will have to be able to stick in man coverage, play fast and be aggressive. If they can’t, we’ll be looking at another subpar Bulldogs’ defense.
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EUNxQ6rk_p0/TmHF53Rq6SI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/CTFz2HuWu-I/s1600/jones.lj.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648013005580593442" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EUNxQ6rk_p0/TmHF53Rq6SI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/CTFz2HuWu-I/s320/jones.lj.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">L.J. Jones: Jonesin' for a Playmaker</span></strong>
<br />So, 5-11, 180
<br />Encino (Crespi Carmelite HS)
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<br />One guy who’s going to help make sure the defense is far from subpar is L.J. Jones, who got his first taste of big-time college football last season. Jones was good enough to play as a true freshman, but the team didn’t have a need for him until last season. And he didn’t disappoint. Last season was a learning experience that helped season Jones, and he can be expected to have a breakout year of sorts this season. Jones is athletic enough to jump routes and force turnovers. He’s got natural corner instincts and will be a lock among the Bulldogs’ top three at the position. Last season, he totaled 14 tackles (one for loss).
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<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ii9hYoTTThQ/TmHFysM1x4I/AAAAAAAAAnI/270jIs1Mvr8/s1600/thomas.jermaine.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648012882348459906" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ii9hYoTTThQ/TmHFysM1x4I/AAAAAAAAAnI/270jIs1Mvr8/s320/thomas.jermaine.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Jermaine Thomas: Recognizing the Game</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-11, 190
<br />Duarte (Duarte HS)
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<br />As is widely known, the Bounce has long been a Jermaine Thomas proponent. Thomas was injured against louisiana tech last season and is still battling back toward 100%. It’s unclear if he’ll be full speed during Saturday’s opener at cal, but he’s getting close. Thomas remains the team’s top cover corner. He quickly made that fact known last season in the opening win over cincinnati. If you’re lucky enough to catch a ball on Thomas, you’re probably not going to get many yards after the catch. Thomas had 25 tackles and an interception last year, along with 5 break-ups, 6 deflections and a fumble recovery. While his stats aren’t all that impressive, consider how much less opposing quarterbacks throw to his side of the field because of his lockdown coverage. Most folks around the nation and even the so-called WAC experts haven’t yet caught on to Thomas’ ability. If he’s healthy, it’ll be a huge boost for the Fresno State defense – and not only in the passing game. He’s also the Bulldogs’ best run support corner, though Isaiah Green is right there with him.
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<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eSfNP3WZ3qc/TmHFGt1G3eI/AAAAAAAAAmw/M3o93lHnFb4/s1600/smith.derron.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648012126871543266" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eSfNP3WZ3qc/TmHFGt1G3eI/AAAAAAAAAmw/M3o93lHnFb4/s320/smith.derron.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Derron Smith: Putting on the Pounds</span></strong>
<br />So, 5-11, 190
<br />Banning (Banning HS)
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<br />Talk about immediate impact. Derron Smith stepped right in as a true freshman and started at safety in the team’s third game last season at ole miss after an injury to now departed Lorne Bell. Smith had 29 tackles (one for loss) while playing in every game of his first season. Want more good news? He had a stellar fall camp – even more so than last year’s – and looks to have gained 15-20 pounds. Alongside Phillip Thomas, Smith made up half of an overwhelming safety duo. Now, he’s got to carry the flag and act like a veteran with Thomas injured. Smith’s greatest strength is in pass coverage, as a ball hawk. He didn’t get an interception last year, but there’s a good chance he’ll have multiple picks in his sophomore campaign.
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYo_Vy8xdJs/TmHFeOLW8mI/AAAAAAAAAnA/_-DoszV8Pfs/s1600/wilson.cristin.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648012530691797602" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYo_Vy8xdJs/TmHFeOLW8mI/AAAAAAAAAnA/_-DoszV8Pfs/s320/wilson.cristin.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Cristin Wilson: Carrying the Flag</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-8, 175
<br />Stockton (St. Mary’s HS)
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<br />Suddenly, walk-on Cristin Wilson is the guy everyone’s talking about. With Phillip Thomas injured, Wilson becomes the new starter at safety and he’s never suited up for a college game in his life. Fans better hope he has nerves of steel because it’s a big-time game in a bowl-like atmosphere that he’s stepping right in to. Making matters even worse, he only had two days to mentally prepare himself to start. That’s a quick turnaround. Wilson obviously impressed coaches in camp, to be chosen as starter of the coach’s son Zak Hill and ultra talented true freshman Charles Washington. Wilson gives up about four inches of height to Thomas and isn’t nearly the hitter, but is a converted cornerback who offers coverage ability. The looming question is can Wilson do enough to allow the Bulldogs to play as aggressively as they need to and would like to? We’re about to find out.
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<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nFu4x0ufbI0/TmHFUUVD-uI/AAAAAAAAAm4/KnqR0ouGnUQ/s1600/hill.zak.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648012360544418530" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nFu4x0ufbI0/TmHFUUVD-uI/AAAAAAAAAm4/KnqR0ouGnUQ/s320/hill.zak.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Zak Hill: Call Him the Doctor</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-2, 205
<br />Fresno (Clovis West HS)
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<br />After missing all of last season with an injury, Zak Hill returned to camp ready to go and was injured again, missing several days of practice. He’s expected to play Saturday in the opener, but it’s not clear how much. Hill received significant playing time two years ago and was a big liability in pass coverage. And if he’s lost any speed since his injury, that liability will only be magnified. On the plus side, Hill, coach Pat Hill’s youngest son, is a very smart kid and doesn’t make a lot of mental mistakes. He might be needed badly if Wilson falters.
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<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Davon Dunn: He's Dunn Sitting the Bench</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 5-11, 185
<br />San Diego (Lincoln HS)
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<br />Davon Dunn moved over to cornerback from wide receiver in the offseason and is one of the most gifted athletes Fresno State has had on defense in years. Dunn, the son of former Fresno State and NFL receiver David Dunn, originally committed to cal before changing his mind and choosing Fresno State. Having an athlete like him on defense is a sign the Bulldogs are putting more emphasis on shutting down opponents – great news. It was clear in spring camp that Dunn was good enough to be a starting corner right now. Fresno State is lucky enough to have three other deserving corners as well, but Dunn will be the fourth and will contribute. He’s a playmaker-type, who’s going to be aggressive going after the ball and cause a few turnovers in his career. And he’s also a dangerous return man.
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3BA0XYxqbjY/TmHE7mq3_xI/AAAAAAAAAmo/4bZ-WQxR8y8/s1600/dock.jb.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648011935971016466" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3BA0XYxqbjY/TmHE7mq3_xI/AAAAAAAAAmo/4bZ-WQxR8y8/s320/dock.jb.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>J.B. Dock: On the Verge of Playing Time</strong></span>
<br />So, 5-10, 170
<br />Ventura (St. Bonaventure HS)
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<br />More proof of how talented Davon Dunn is is that he leaped past elder J.B. Dock on the depth chart. Dock will still get plenty of reps this season and is developing quite nicely, but doesn’t have the size of Dunn. Dock is a great fifth corner and may very likely develop into a starter in the next couple years. And give him credit for continuing to work hard, while the other corner who was part of his signing class, Erik Brown, saw that he was third on the depth chart and transferred. Dock performed far better than Brown in the past few camps and created separation. Now, he’s got to focus on getting experience under his belt and stepping it up another notch.
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5AcQw_CrnkY/TmHEySPBEyI/AAAAAAAAAmg/QpuBAiOgrMs/s1600/dennis.terrance.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648011775866639138" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5AcQw_CrnkY/TmHEySPBEyI/AAAAAAAAAmg/QpuBAiOgrMs/s320/dennis.terrance.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Terrance Dennis: Injured No More</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-0, 180
<br />Pomona (Diamond Ranch HS)
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<br />Terrance Dennis was expected to have made an impact at safety by now, but he’s still third on the depth chart. A nagging injury set him back last season, as he recorded just four tackles, but Dennis is still intriguing. With the Phillip Thomas injury, he, too, might get a look at a starting job if the team is searching for the right fit. Dennis isn’t the biggest defensive back, but does lay some hits.
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<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KNPRvLKKkW8/TmHEjL0QdcI/AAAAAAAAAmY/ayic2UyAQtM/s1600/washington.charles.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648011516445750722" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KNPRvLKKkW8/TmHEjL0QdcI/AAAAAAAAAmY/ayic2UyAQtM/s320/washington.charles.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Charles Washington: It's Go Time</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 5-11, 190
<br />Encino (Crespi HS)
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<br />If you want the Bounce opinion, Fresno State has to do everything it can to get Charles Washington on the field right now. It’s difficult for most true freshmen to come in right away and play, especially in big, high-pressure games like Saturday’s, but Washington has a college-ready body and, on film, looks like a star in waiting. His film showed similar qualities to those of Derron Smith, but in a bigger body. Washington is sound in coverage and big enough to step up on the run. If he’s at all capable of digesting the playbook and learning the schemes well enough to play this year, the ‘Dogs would be wise to get him some experience before the boise state game and others against spread-it-out opponents.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--34N01KbF3Y/TmHEaKJamDI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/OBMSjB-_WKU/s1600/alston.sean.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648011361378801714" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--34N01KbF3Y/TmHEaKJamDI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/OBMSjB-_WKU/s320/alston.sean.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Sean Alston: In Good Hands With Alston</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 5-10, 175
<br />Alta Loma (Los Osos HS)
<br />
<br />Sean Alston is another impressive young corner who should battle for playing time as soon as this season. He was the star of his first spring camp with an interception, and shows coverage skills regularly that this team needs. With the lack of turnovers forced by the defense in recent years, the Bulldogs have to focus on getting guys like L.J. Jones, Davon Dunn and Alston on the field.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uvq7NqDf3i8/TmHES1rgNtI/AAAAAAAAAmI/DUvsmcLk5_U/s1600/riggins.anthony.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648011235625547474" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uvq7NqDf3i8/TmHES1rgNtI/AAAAAAAAAmI/DUvsmcLk5_U/s320/riggins.anthony.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Anthony Riggins: Dialing it Up</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 5-11, 185
<br />Fairfield (Rodriguez HS)
<br />
<br />Anthony Riggins improved by leaps and bounds this fall camp. He’s got track speed, and turned that into legit game speed if camp was any indication. Another young, talented corner, Riggins looked to have grown up right before our eyes. This secondary lacks seasoned veterans, but makes up for it in upside.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcUka8eesIE/TmHEKBLIRjI/AAAAAAAAAmA/ZSh3A7MNFdU/s1600/norton.jonathan.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648011084092163634" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcUka8eesIE/TmHEKBLIRjI/AAAAAAAAAmA/ZSh3A7MNFdU/s320/norton.jonathan.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Jonathan Norton: A Special Day at Camp</span></strong>
<br />So, 5-8, 185
<br />Moreno Valley (Moreno Valley HS)
<br />
<br />Walk-on Jonathan Norton might be little in size, but he capitalizes big on his opportunities. During a spirited practice during fall camp, Norton had two consecutive pick-six interceptions – against two different quarterbacks, Kelly O’Brien and Marcus McDade. The defense mobbed the young walk-on, and Pat Hill blew the whistle, letting the defense end on a high note. Norton won’t see the field this season, but keep an eye peeled.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FcEOL3-5UDM/TmHEBpTcUnI/AAAAAAAAAl4/T7tmwRGOpKg/s1600/fryer.beau.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648010940245627506" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FcEOL3-5UDM/TmHEBpTcUnI/AAAAAAAAAl4/T7tmwRGOpKg/s320/fryer.beau.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Beau Fryer: Who's the New Beau?</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-8, 185
<br />Manteca (Manteca HS)
<br />
<br />Walk-on Beau Fryer joined the team in spring camp, and didn’t get many quality reps with anyone but the scout team. He’s also undersized, but has enough ability to work towards developing into a guy who gets a good look. (And no, before you even ask, Fryer is not Dwight O'Neil's twin).
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P7NQnEe7TJk/TmHD5E6oNwI/AAAAAAAAAlw/HDfmchqf8v8/s1600/stirewalt.tyler.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648010793038919426" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P7NQnEe7TJk/TmHD5E6oNwI/AAAAAAAAAlw/HDfmchqf8v8/s320/stirewalt.tyler.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Tyler Stirewalt: He Converted</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-2, 200
<br />San Bernardino (Aquinas HS)
<br />
<br />Converted quarterback Tyler Stirewalt doesn’t have the speed or athleticism to be an impact safety at this level, but he gets a spot on the team – something many of us would and should covet.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UlMWTvGVgVo/TmHCoXuWNZI/AAAAAAAAAlo/OOzApx8PkkE/s1600/thomas.phillip.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648009406518277522" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UlMWTvGVgVo/TmHCoXuWNZI/AAAAAAAAAlo/OOzApx8PkkE/s320/thomas.phillip.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Phillip Thomas: He Will Be Missed</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-1, 205
<br />Bakersfield (Bakersfield HS)
<br />
<br />Fresno State received the most devastating defensive news it possibly could have late Wednesday, when its best player, best NFL prospect and potential leader Phillip Thomas was lost for 8-12 weeks on an injury in non-contact drills. Just how good is Thomas? The Fresno State secondary would get a 9 out of 10 rating with him. Without him, that rating drops to at least 7 of 10. You can’t help but feel bad for Thomas as a person. He was entering a season in which he would have likely gained national notoriety for his ability as hands down the best defensive back in the WAC and one of the best in the nation. Thomas does it all. He’s as good in coverage as the team’s best corners, and he’s as big a hitter with as good of instincts as the defense has had in years. And all that was obvious after his sophomore season – there’s no telling how much he would have turned up the dial in this, his junior year. Now that year will likely be lost. Thomas has already redshirted and greyshirted, and he won’t be eligible for medical hardship waiver.
<br />
<br /><strong>Position Rating</strong>:
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BlL_iLjE6L8/TmHCeTmfAwI/AAAAAAAAAlg/MSk4LrKqrl8/s1600/paw7.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 31px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648009233612866306" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BlL_iLjE6L8/TmHCeTmfAwI/AAAAAAAAAlg/MSk4LrKqrl8/s320/paw7.gif" /></a>
<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-51387280264067416422011-09-02T15:41:00.000-07:002011-09-02T16:08:31.684-07:00Position Breakdown 2011: Linebackers<strong>Returning Lettermen</strong>: Kyle Knox, Travis Brown, Jeremiah Toma, Patrick Su’a, ShaTwn Plummer, Daniel Salinas, Damion Whittington, Stephan Plevney
<br /><strong>Newcomers</strong>: Karl Mickleson, Jaamal Rose, Kyrie Wilson, Ejiro Ederaine
<br /><strong>Lost</strong>: Ben Jacobs (Browns), Sonny McCree
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3vmIoc54Fnw/TmFfIsIbsrI/AAAAAAAAAlY/J_Be74oI_zA/s1600/brown.travis.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647900010589434546" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3vmIoc54Fnw/TmFfIsIbsrI/AAAAAAAAAlY/J_Be74oI_zA/s320/brown.travis.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Travis Brown: No. 9, No. 9 ...</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-2, 235
<br />Fresno (Clovis West HS)
<br />
<br />After a freshman season spent mostly adjusting to the college game, Travis Brown emerged as a legit star last season. Brown, son of the late former Bulldogs defensive coordinator Dan Brown, is the team’s leading returning tackler with 79 stops (nine for losses), two sacks and an interception. He’s an all-around impact player who has the instincts and aggressiveness to get to the quarterback and the vicious hitting to be a force in the running game. Brown’s expected to step it up yet another level this year and contend for All-WAC honors in a conference loaded with linebackers. He continues to work on his speed, and last season became a playmaker while making strides in assignment discipline. And, of course, growing up in the Brown household, he’s developed a football mind and can lead this entire defense along with his top battery mate at linebacker.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A4uv0apHFhg/TmFfAskOA2I/AAAAAAAAAlQ/QYX5vG-V1NA/s1600/knox.kyle.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647899873267024738" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A4uv0apHFhg/TmFfAskOA2I/AAAAAAAAAlQ/QYX5vG-V1NA/s320/knox.kyle.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Kyle Knox: Kyle Knox You Out</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-1, 220
<br />Los Angeles (St. Bernard HS)
<br />
<br />That top battery mate is Kyle Knox, the most battle tested of the unit, and the team’s second leading returning tackler. Last season, specifically against nevada, Knox showed what he’s capable of. He’s always had the look, attitude, strength and athleticism to be a great linebacker, but struggled in years past to combine all those attributes with the decision making to excel. Last year, with the Bulldogs’ emphasis to turn the defense around against the dangerous WAC offensive schemes, Knox took assignment details to heart. Against nevada’s pistol read option, he stuck to his assignments and it paid off with a key 8-tackle performance that helped the Bulldogs do the best job they had against that offense in three years. And don’t discount the intangibles Knox brings to the team with his emotional leadership. He’s not afraid to stand up and let the team have it if he thinks they need a spark, as he did last season during a subpar practice.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ga6zQ0j_tY/TmFe4UNmatI/AAAAAAAAAlI/gBUJPaQNNAg/s1600/toma.jeremiah.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647899729290750674" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ga6zQ0j_tY/TmFe4UNmatI/AAAAAAAAAlI/gBUJPaQNNAg/s320/toma.jeremiah.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Jeremiah Toma: It's Not a Toma (Arnold Voice)</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-0, 215
<br />Sacramento (Grant Union HS)
<br />
<br />Typically when a defense loses a four-year starting middle linebacker it sends shock waves and takes a big adjustment for all involved. Well the Bulldogs just lost perennial All-WAC linebacker Ben Jacobs, but there’s no panic in sight. Jeremiah Toma showed he can compete at this level from the day he stepped foot on campus. He just had to wait for an opening. This is it, and he should have a stranglehold on the job from here on. Toma appears larger than his listed 215 pounds, with a strong, powerful lower body. But perhaps more importantly, Toma has the lateral speed and quickness that Jacobs never did. If he develops the same mind and plays with similar aggressiveness to Jacobs – which all signs suggest he will – Toma could actually be an upgrade at the position. Last season, with limited reps behind the proven Jacobs, Toma had 14 tackles.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-2kQaUYuos/TmFenM7ZRNI/AAAAAAAAAlA/3HkZK9PmVT0/s1600/sua.pat.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647899435277567186" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M-2kQaUYuos/TmFenM7ZRNI/AAAAAAAAAlA/3HkZK9PmVT0/s320/sua.pat.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Patrick Su’a: The Art of Kabooming People</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-2, 220
<br />Bakersfield (Highland HS)
<br />
<br />For now, Patrick Su’a’s biggest impact will be felt on special teams – but that’s a darn big impact. Last year, in his first season on the field, Su’a had four knockout blocks in kick coverage. No joke. Knockouts. Fresno State fans, or any college football fans for that matter, may have never seen a special teamer like this. Su’a is a load with monster calves and one of the toughest sons of guns you’ll ever see on a football field. He had just one tackle last season in limited time on defense, but should get a much bigger look this year. Like Jeremiah Toma, Su’a only needs an opening to prove he deserves playing time. After that, he’s likely to take over a position. For now, he’s backing up Travis Brown on the strong side.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I6O95qUKlG4/TmFeVhMPZlI/AAAAAAAAAk4/izloKVrcnYk/s1600/fifita.ofa.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647899131479287378" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I6O95qUKlG4/TmFeVhMPZlI/AAAAAAAAAk4/izloKVrcnYk/s320/fifita.ofa.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Ofa Fifita: Waiting in the Wings</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 5-11, 235
<br />San Bernardino (Arroya Valley HS)
<br />
<br />Remember former Fresno State standout middle linebacker Dwayne Andrews? Well, Ofa Fifita is Andrews reincarnated – and not just because he wears the same No. 51. Size-wise, Fifita is almost identical to Andrews. And like Andrews, Fifita has impressed coaches early in his career. The one difference is the Bulldogs’ linebacking corps is much deeper now than it was in the middle of the decade. Fifita sits second on the depth chart behind Jeremiah Toma in the middle. But with Toma’s quickness, it’s not out of the question he could slide over to the weak side next year if Fifita is impressive enough.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ym0B7erGyr8/TmFd681yW6I/AAAAAAAAAkw/1EKHRRs0Qig/s1600/dilihunt.ed.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647898675044834210" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ym0B7erGyr8/TmFd681yW6I/AAAAAAAAAkw/1EKHRRs0Qig/s320/dilihunt.ed.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Ed Dilihunt: What the Dealio with Dilihunt?</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 5-10, 195
<br />Tulare (Tulare Union HS)
<br />
<br />We at the Bounce scratched our heads when the coaching staff moved Ed Dilihunt from safety to linebacker in the spring. Safety was already the thinnest spot on the defense and this exaggerated the lack of depth there. With the recent injury to Phillip Thomas, it’s not out of the question Dilihunt could eventually move back to safety, but for now he’s the second-string weak side linebacker behind Kyle Knox. Dilihunt has impressive size and build for a youngster, and was a highly regarded recruit. That said, he was more of a natural offensively with the ball in his hands and has spent the past year trying to learn the nuances of the defensive side of the ball. His athletic ability points to this project ending well for both Dilihunt and the Bulldogs.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_pofBE-66k/TmFdsX47D0I/AAAAAAAAAko/ZL1MSV6GBEM/s1600/salinas.daniel.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647898424607706946" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_pofBE-66k/TmFdsX47D0I/AAAAAAAAAko/ZL1MSV6GBEM/s320/salinas.daniel.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Daniel Salinas: Dan the Man</span></strong>
<br />R-So, 6-0, 215
<br />Galena Park, TX (North Shore HS)
<br />
<br />Another promising young linebacker who plays with a mean streak, Daniel Salinas didn’t dress all of last season. But he got some reps the year before and showed glimpses of an effective middle linebacker who possesses speed, quickness and a fearless attitude. Now sitting third on the depth chart behind Jeremiah Toma and Ofa Fifita, Salinas will have to battle his way back up that ladder. Until then, he can be a big-impact player on special team. This guys loves to hit people.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h_1Xej_bDN8/TmFdeLGborI/AAAAAAAAAkg/ly-AMFIPv9w/s1600/mickelsen.karl.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647898180656538290" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h_1Xej_bDN8/TmFdeLGborI/AAAAAAAAAkg/ly-AMFIPv9w/s320/mickelsen.karl.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Karl Mickelsen: Soon to Be a Household Name</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-0, 215
<br />San Diego (Morse HS)
<br />
<br />Speaking of guys who love to hit people, from the first day we at the Bounce saw Karl Mickelsen’s high school film, we were ecstatic. Talk about a playmaker. Mickelsen, on film, is probably one of the five most impressive Bulldogs we’ve seen. Ever. He arrived banged up for fall camp and spent the first several days rehabbing injury, but almost shockingly took first and second team reps his first day in full pads. This guy is a player and coaches wanted to see him work with the vets right away. It’s not clear yet if he’ll play this season or redshirt, but he’s the type of guy who runs around with his hair on fire (and it’s a whole lot of hair) hitting people hard. He wears No. 43 and has Troy Polamalu-like hair. YouTube him immediately. You’ll be glad you did. Watch his nose for the football and ability to quickly shed blocks and move to the next assignment.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1gRAiY4v8LM/TmFdSeznigI/AAAAAAAAAkY/DYxUpQhEvxo/s1600/rose.jamaal.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647897979787905538" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1gRAiY4v8LM/TmFdSeznigI/AAAAAAAAAkY/DYxUpQhEvxo/s320/rose.jamaal.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Jamaal Rose: Roses Are Bulldog Red</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-2, 200
<br />San Jose (Valley Christian HS)
<br />
<br />A guy who wasn’t expected to make an immediate impact, but had a standout fall camp, is true freshman Jamaal Rose. Rose has height and strength and held his own against the veterans. He’s another newcomer with special teams potential right now, and it’ll be interesting to see how Pat Hill decides to use him.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zf99dToCNCQ/TmFdKhPd_fI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/x9D7HOAynsE/s1600/wilson.kyrie.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647897843002637810" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zf99dToCNCQ/TmFdKhPd_fI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/x9D7HOAynsE/s320/wilson.kyrie.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Kyrie Wilson: Hey Mr. Wilson!</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-3, 210
<br />Bakersfield (Ridgeview HS)
<br />
<br />Kyrie Wilson was a late surprise near signing day for Fresno State fans. The Valley native had committed to oregon and got a royal backstabbing before changing his commitment to Fresno State. The Bulldogs are glad to have him. Tall, big and built like a veteran, Wilson is another linebacker who had a superb camp. He was impressive on a consistent basis and was the highest rated recruit at the position. That said, the unit is so deep and talent laden that Wilson might be better off redshirting for a year.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pr_2NF-L8_Q/TmFdCHL2QBI/AAAAAAAAAkI/AqvBJVWtVc8/s1600/whittington.damion.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647897698569175058" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pr_2NF-L8_Q/TmFdCHL2QBI/AAAAAAAAAkI/AqvBJVWtVc8/s320/whittington.damion.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Damion Whittington: Is This the Year 'Dogs Get Whitty Wit' It?</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-1, 245
<br />Norco (Norco HS)
<br />
<br />Damion Whittington entered the program as a hyped recruit and is still among the biggest Bulldogs linebackers. But Whittington is battling a plethora of young talent at the position. We know what to expect from him in practice, but it’s time to see him in game action. Hopefully he’ll fight his way onto the field this season so we can see him do just that.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFl34Ud3BXg/TmFc5CtouQI/AAAAAAAAAkA/RNa-7DbfGC4/s1600/plevney.stephan.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647897542749894914" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFl34Ud3BXg/TmFc5CtouQI/AAAAAAAAAkA/RNa-7DbfGC4/s320/plevney.stephan.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Stephan Plevney: Walk-on Hangs Strong</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-2, 215
<br />Palmdale (Knight HS)
<br />
<br />Walk-on Stephan Plevney might be the team’s fastest linebacker, but he’s also one of the slimmest. Plevney had his first career tackle last season, and got some quality second-team reps in practice throughout camp. He’s definitely in the mix of guys battling for playing time, and his speed works in his favor during an era in which fast, hybrid linebackers who can cover a spread or option offense are invaluable.
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ycD-YJPZRAk/TmFcu6S4PDI/AAAAAAAAAj4/IrIhFKqGh8w/s1600/plummer.shawn.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647897368691489842" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ycD-YJPZRAk/TmFcu6S4PDI/AAAAAAAAAj4/IrIhFKqGh8w/s320/plummer.shawn.jpg" /></a>
<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Shawn Plummer: A One-Year Hiatus</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-0, 210
<br />Clovis (Clovis HS)
<br />
<br />Shawn Plummer still isn’t 100% from an offseason injury and is likely to redshirt this season. The would-be senior would have been second-string behind Kyle Knox, as he’s been for several years now. Already one of the team’s fastest linebackers and possibly the best in pass coverage, Plummer bulked up big-time this offseason and should come back from the injury ready to give it his best shot.
<br />
<br /><strong>Position Rating</strong>:
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<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TpU1rsv65jg/TmFcmQFyF8I/AAAAAAAAAjw/J4cVjaJduHk/s1600/paw8.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 31px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647897219923318722" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TpU1rsv65jg/TmFcmQFyF8I/AAAAAAAAAjw/J4cVjaJduHk/s320/paw8.gif" /></a>
<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-32804101410033681302011-09-02T11:04:00.000-07:002011-09-02T11:27:28.443-07:00Q&A Battle at the Bay with California Golden BlogAs we continue to break down Fresno State, position by position, here at Bulldog Bounce, it's time to split our focus to the opponent as well for Saturday's opener at Candlestick Park. Fresno State and cal fans have long had a hate-hate relationship on message boards over the years, rarely agreeing on anything. So we thought it'd be fun to keep it respectful -- as it should be -- and really dive in to the mindset of some of cal's most educated fans.
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<br />And don't forget to see the Q&A we answered over at <a href="http://www.californiagoldenblogs.com/">California Golden Blog</a>.
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<br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Bulldog Bounce: Fresno State has long fought the perception that it can't compete with the state's Pac-12 schools. And now the 'Dogs are 2-0 vs cal, have won 2 straight vs ucla and are 1-1 vs usc, while stanford still wants no part of the schedule. Do cal fans respect Fresno State as a university and a football program?</span></strong>
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<br /><em>Norcalnick</em>:
<br />I don't want to devalue Fresno State's last win over Cal, but it was a Tom Holmoe coached team. It's like getting a win over San Jose St! As for Cal fan's perception of the Fresno State program? I think you'll find universal respect for the attitude and ethos that Pat Hill has instilled in the Valley, and if they are being honest they know Fresno has a solid chance to beat the Bears. I know the bloom has come off a bit on Hill over the past few years because of the Boise problem, but that doesn't mean he isn't a good coach in the right situation. Actually, sounds similar to how most Cal fans feel about Jeff Tedford. As for Fresno St. as a university? I can't say I know anything about Fresno State beyond 'it's a state school', but let's just say we Cal grads can be a little insufferable about our academic reputaton.
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<br /><em>Atomsareenough</em>:
<br />We certainly respect the Fresno State football program. In fact, there's been quite a bit of hand-wringing over the fact that the Bulldogs might very well take this game, because they're a good team, but the fact that they get little respect from the rest of the college football world means that even if the Bears do manage to come away victorious, we won't get a lot of credit for it. Playing you guys is a high risk, low reward proposition for a BCS conference team. As a resident of California I think most of us recognize that the Cal State system is a valuable and important aspect of the state's higher education system. I can't say that I know a ton about the Fresno campus in particular, though.
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<br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3qldpMLj390/TmEfZ0GOLuI/AAAAAAAAAjo/LRuDf1_C7lE/s1600/wylie.davis_villa.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 222px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647829936041242338" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3qldpMLj390/TmEfZ0GOLuI/AAAAAAAAAjo/LRuDf1_C7lE/s320/wylie.davis_villa.jpg" /></a>Bulldog Bounce: Pat Hill expressed desire to play 1-2 in-state games vs Pac-12 schools each year. Would cal fans enjoy playing Fresno State regularly?</span></strong>
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<br /><em>Norcalnick</em>:
<br />Probably not. Fairly or unfairly, there isn't much upside to playing Fresno State. Beating them gets you less respect than it should, and losing obviously isn't any help. Plus, for better or for worse, Cal's last trip to Fresno in 2000 was evidently a disaster both on the field and in the stands, and I'm told alumni have basically begged our AD to never schedule a road game in Fresno ever again.
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<br /><em>Atomsareenough:</em>
<br />No offense, but I'm doubtful. As Nick said, and as I mentioned in my answer to Question 1, it's not a very good value proposition for Pac-12 teams. Maybe if Fresno State were part of a BCS-qualifying Mountain West or something, the equation might change. Then again, I don't know if too many Bay Area- or SoCal-residing Berkeley folk really relish the idea of a regular road trip to Fresno. Many don't have very fond memories of the last trip down there.
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<br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Bulldog Bounce: What type of offense will cal run with Zach Maynard at QB? Any indication schemes will change much?</span></strong>
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<br /><em>Atomsareenough</em>:
<br />From all reports so far, it's the same pro-style Jeff Tedford Cal offense that we've seen, though they've usually added a couple of new wrinkles every year. Perhaps Maynard's running ability might result in a few more designed QB run plays. Mostly though, we're hoping it means that when the original playcall is busted, Maynard can pull the ball down and scramble for some extra yards rather than having to throw the ball away or take a sack.
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<br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>Bulldog Bounce: What is the defense's gameplan likely to be? Will cal focus on stopping the run? Will it be an aggressive blitzing scheme?</strong></span>
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<br /><em>Kodiak</em>:
<br />Cal's defensive gameplan will probably be aggressive and oriented towards shutting down Robbie Rouse while putting a lot of pressure on Carr. We have two solid corners in Anthony and Williams (both former US Army All-Americans) and Coach Pendergast doesn't mind leaving his defensive backs on an island. He'll mix things up, though. There will be plenty of pressure, plenty of blitzes, and plenty of zone blitzes. I think he'll throw a variety of looks to try to confuse Carr into making mistakes. There's a big emphasis this year on having the secondary (and the defense as a whole) cause more turnovers. So, the corners and safeties will be attacking the ball more. The downside of this aggressive defensive is that Fresno State will have their chances to pop some big plays if they can handle Cal's pressure. We have some young players scattered throughout the defense, so double-moves, play-action, and misdirection could result in big payoffs. Of course, the classic tight end down the middle on 3rd and long is apparently something that Cal will traditionally leave wide open.
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<br /><em>Berkelium97</em>:
<br />Our second-year defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast loves to make opposing QBs uncomfortable. With four new starters on the Fresno State O-line and a new QB under center, you can bet Clancy will design all sorts of pressure packages. Cal runs a 3-4 defense, so trying to identify that fourth or fifth potential pass rusher is always tough for a QB, particularly one making his first start. It's not immediately clear whether this pressure-heavy scheme will pick up where it left off last season. We lost a first round pick in defensive lineman Cameron Jordan and we are breaking in two new starting outside linebackers. We also lost our defensive anchor Mike Mohamed to the NFL Draft. There is plenty of talent and experience in the front seven, so the shuffling of roles should not have a major impact on our defense. Still, we cannot immediately expect to be as productive and disruptive as last season.
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<br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">BUlldog Bounce: How would you rank each FBS football program within the state looking at the past decade as a whole, 2000-2010?</span></strong>
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<br /><em>Norcalnick</em>:
<br />1. USC
<br />2. Cal
<br />3. Fresno St.
<br />4. UCLA
<br />5. San Diego St.
<br />6. San Jose St.
<br />7. UC Davis
<br />8. Stanfurd
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<br />At first I had UCLA over Fresno St., and then I looked at UCLA's record, realized they had only one season with more than 7 wins, laughed at how hard the southern branch had fallen, and moved Fresno up. I guess you could argue Fresno should be above Cal based purely on W/L records, but I think it's disingenuous to suggest that the WAC is the same as the Pac-10.
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<br /><em>Atomsareenough</em>:
<br />Mine is similar to Norcalnick's ranking, but I'll be a little more objective and say that Stanfurd (yes, that's how it's spelled) probably deserves to be closer to #5 or #6 based on the turnaround they've seen the past few years.
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<br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>Bulldog Bounce: Which matchup within the game favors cal most? Which favors Fresno State most?</strong></span>
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<br /><em>Norcalnick</em>:
<br />I think Cal's front seven vs. Fresno St.'s offensive line is Cal's biggest advantage. Cal has a ton of depth in their defensive line and linebacking corp, and that could be decisive if Fresno St.'s relatively inexperienced line isn't ready. I think Logan Harrell vs. Cal's interior line is Fresno St.'s biggest advantage. Cal didn't have a ton of success running on the inside last year and there are some question marks at the guard position.
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<br /><em>Kodiak</em>:
<br />Anything involving running water or electricity favors Cal. Anything involving the best porn 'stache favors Pat Hill and FSU. On the field, Fresno State's best match-up is probably Logan Harrell against Justin Cheadle. Until proven otherwise, Cal's offensive line is still a question mark. Cheadle, in particular, had trouble standing his ground last year against dominant defensive tackles. I'd guess that they'd have to double-team Harrell all day. Cal's best match-up is Coach Clancy Pendergast's defensive scheme against an inexperienced David Carr. Coach Pendergast likes to bring pressure from different areas, different looks, and different players. If Carr doesn't make the right read or holds onto the ball too long, he could have a rough day.
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<br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>Bulldog Bounce: What do you expect from Isi Sofele? How does he compare to other recent backs at cal?</strong></span>
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<br /><em>Kodiak</em>:
<br />He's short, but he's not small. Although he had the rep as a speedster when he came in, he's put on some muscle and has been compared to trying to tackle a human bowling ball. He's been working hard to change his running style to be more upfield than juking/dancing. If the Oline can hold up, he should be fine. He may not have Jahvid Best's unworldly speed, Shane Vereen's balance/vision, Marshawn Lynch's power, but he could be similar to a Justin Forsett type of back who does a lot of things well. I expect that he'll platoon with Covaughn Deboskie-Johnson and CJ Anderson. Whichever runner emerges as the most consistent will likely end up taking most of the snaps.
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<br /><em>Berkelium97</em>:
<br />This is an issue that has worried Cal fans all offseason. Typically, our second running back gets around 100-150 carries and is an integral part of the offense. Although he was our second string last season, Sofele was not as involved with the offense mostly due to Vereen's extreme durability and reliability. We simply do not know what to expect from him. We have tremendous confidence in our running backs coach Ron Gould, but we have not seen Sofele take on as much responsibility as he will this season. He will be productive, however. He's small, he's shifty, and he breaks tackles. When he is not running the ball, Covaughn DeBoskie Johnson will run. CDJ has played a bit of garbage time in years past, but this offseason he obviously did his homework and is in the best shape since he's been at Cal. Again, having only seen him in garbage time, we do not have a great idea what to expect from him against first-team defenses. Behind CDJ is a new face in CJ Anderson, who will mainly be brought in for short-yardage situations. As you might expect, he's the low-running, bruising type of back (something we have not really had at Cal since Marshawn Lynch back in 2006). Whether he will be productive remains to be seen. The biggest question in our running game, however, is blocking. We fired our abysmal offensive line coach after last season and rehired Jim Michalczik, whose offensive lines at Cal from 2002 to 2008 ranged from solid to dominant. We're looking forward to some much-improved run blocking and pass protection.
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<br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>Bulldog Bounce: Which cal offensive and defensive players should most concern the Bulldogs?</strong></span>
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<br /><em>Atomsareenough</em>:
<br />On offense: I'd say Keenan Allen and Zach Maynard. Maynard because I think the Bulldogs are going to have a hard time knowing what to expect from him. Heck, we barely know what to expect ourselves at this point. Fresno State is going to be the first team play Cal with Maynard, and they'll have the least film to go on, so it will be tough to gameplan for him. Allen should concern you because he is a very exciting talent and if he's healthy he can be a gamechanger. He tantalized us last year but then was banged up for most of the season. We're hoping for big things out of him this year.
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<br />On defense: Mychal Kendricks, and pretty much the entire D-line. We're really excited about our D-line, especially the young players who are raw but oozing with potential. Mychal Kendricks is the team's leader on D now that Mike Mohamed is gone. He's moving to ILB and will captain the defense. We need a big year out of him.
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<br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Bulldog Bounce: Would you like to predict a score?
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<br /><em>Atomsareenough</em>:
<br />Sure. I think it's going to be a competitive game, but Cal will come out on top, 34-21.
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<br /><em>Berkelium97</em>:
<br />Bears 21, Bulldogs 10
<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-6143989843047567952011-09-01T01:28:00.001-07:002011-09-01T08:37:56.625-07:00Position Breakdown 2011: Defensive Line<strong>Returning Lettermen</strong>: Logan Harrell, Chase McEntee, Nat Harrison, Matt Akers, Donavaughn Pritchett
<br /><strong>Newcomers</strong>: Donavon Lewis, Mershad Dillon, Todd Hunt, Maurice Poyadue, Suli Faletuipapai, Ronald Ussery
<br /><strong>Lost</strong>: Chris Carter (Steelers), Cornell Banks (Bengals), Chris Lewis, Mark Roberts
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-USCkMbTdlFE/Tl-jwZsbbiI/AAAAAAAAAjg/g94cYmjeiU8/s1600/harrison.nat.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647412509672173090" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-USCkMbTdlFE/Tl-jwZsbbiI/AAAAAAAAAjg/g94cYmjeiU8/s200/harrison.nat.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Nat Harrison: Filling some BIG Shoes</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-2, 240
<br />Fresno (Edison HS)
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<br />Local product Nat Harrison has by far the biggest shoes to fill on the team, replacing WAC Defensive Player of the Year Chris Carter at weak defensive end. Carter led the WAC in sacks last season, and was a mismatch for every opponent on Fresno State’s schedule. Harrison won’t provide that type of presence for the Bulldogs right away, but even Carter himself said his successor is a breakout player in waiting on the defensive line. In nine games last season, Harrison recorded nine tackles and a sack. Like Carter, he was a high school linebacker, and is trim for a defensive lineman, but he’s got the tools Pat Hill loves in his edge rushers.
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NJ2yKzbJ3wA/Tl-jc0YNfpI/AAAAAAAAAjY/75EKBVgu2iU/s1600/mcentee.chase.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647412173237747346" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NJ2yKzbJ3wA/Tl-jc0YNfpI/AAAAAAAAAjY/75EKBVgu2iU/s200/mcentee.chase.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Chase McEntee: The Chase is On</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-2, 275
<br />Galena Park, TX (North Shore Senior HS)
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<br />Chase McEntee was quietly one of the most improved players on the team last season. With the emergence of battery mate Logan Harrell, casual fans didn’t notice McEntee’s growth, but he turned into quite the playmaker himself, taking advantage of his playing time. Out of his 16 tackles last season, four were for losses, including 1.5 sacks. McEntee played as a true freshman, and will have his best year yet during this, his senior season. And with the suspension of Anthony Williams, McEntee has a handle on the full-time starting gig.
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1TShRMmbCg/Tl-jQkBVFzI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/StpxJjV9Q-Y/s1600/harrell.logan.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647411962688378674" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1TShRMmbCg/Tl-jQkBVFzI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/StpxJjV9Q-Y/s200/harrell.logan.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Logan Harrell: All-America Confidence</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-2, 275
<br />Santa Margarita (Santa Margarita HS)
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<br />Wow. After two years of so-so performance, Logan Harrell club, rip, cross-faced his way into the WAC and national spotlight. As one of the nation’s sack leaders last season with 10.5, Harrell was a key part of the attitude change displayed by the Bulldogs defense. They went back to playing hard-hitting, aggressive “Bulldog Football” last season, and still have lots of room to improve. This year, Harrell will face far more attention from Bulldogs’ opponents, but he’s built the confidence in himself to sustain a high level of play. He had 46 tackles last season, including 14 for losses – huge numbers for an interior lineman. And this year, to help keep opposing offenses off balance and free Harrell from double teams, he’ll rotate back and forth at tackle and end. That versatility makes him an NFL prospect, and WAC Defensive Player of the Year candidate.
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GqXNB50zFbI/Tl-jCvkh9YI/AAAAAAAAAjI/2__ufvEEYrU/s1600/akers.matt.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647411725270644098" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GqXNB50zFbI/Tl-jCvkh9YI/AAAAAAAAAjI/2__ufvEEYrU/s200/akers.matt.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Matt Akers: On the Rise</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-2, 245
<br />Bakersfield (Liberty HS)
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<br />Like Logan Harrell, Matt Akers was a highly touted prospect out of high school. Neither looked like they were going to live up to the hype until Harrell burst onto the scene last season. Akers didn’t even dress last season after playing a reserve role his first two years. Then, in spring camp, he had a coming out party of his own, taking the No. 1 spot on the depth chart at strong defensive end. Akers looked even better in the fall, consistently making offensive linemen look foolish while coming around the edge and getting to the quarterback. Akers is another guy Chris Carter pegged as having breakout potential, and it looks like Carter was right on the money. It’s almost hard to believe how much improvement Akers has shown, the motor he plays with now and the size he’s added.
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<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yRq7jNKz-yU/Tl-i1vs83wI/AAAAAAAAAjA/0d2YV5UyySw/s1600/pritchett.donavaughn.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647411501967662850" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yRq7jNKz-yU/Tl-i1vs83wI/AAAAAAAAAjA/0d2YV5UyySw/s200/pritchett.donavaughn.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Donavaughn Pritchett: Donnie Bark-o</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-5, 280
<br />Santa Rosa (Santa Rosa JC/Santa Rosa HS)
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<br />Before Matt Akers’ uprising, Donavaughn Pritchett was set to be a darn good starter for the ‘Dogs. Pritchett played in 12 of 13 games last season, and started when Chris Lewis was lost to injury. He proved to be an upgrade over Lewis, who went half-speed on too many plays. Pritchett plays hard, and has the prototypical defensive end body – tall and strong with long arms. He finished last season, his first in major college football, with 13 tackles (4.5 for losses and 2 sacks). Perhaps most impressive was his discipline in containing the edge and staying assignment specific – not the norm for first-year players. Even if Pritchett isn’t named a starter this season, he’ll be on the field often as the defensive line is a constant rotation of personnel groupings.
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dNJk7NBr1Bc/Tl-ih2lsDRI/AAAAAAAAAi4/_iT35ld-2Xc/s1600/okpalaugo.tristan.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647411160218864914" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dNJk7NBr1Bc/Tl-ih2lsDRI/AAAAAAAAAi4/_iT35ld-2Xc/s200/okpalaugo.tristan.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Tristan Okpalaugo: It's Really Not That Hard to Pronounce His Name</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-5, 240
<br />Livermore (Granada HS)
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<br />By far the biggest vocal presence throughout fall camp, former walk-on Tristan Okpalaugo could start to see significant game action. He’s listed as a possible starter behind Nat Harrison at defensive end. Okpalaugo came on as a project player who hadn’t played much organized football in his lifetime. If he continues to develop and add a tad more size, he could make an impact with the Bulldogs.
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<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oyvzOl9thRo/Tl-iR6pjyTI/AAAAAAAAAiw/dwcfuCuTDXU/s1600/davison.tyeler.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647410886430935346" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oyvzOl9thRo/Tl-iR6pjyTI/AAAAAAAAAiw/dwcfuCuTDXU/s200/davison.tyeler.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Tyeler Davison: Really Big Man on Campus</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 6-2, 305
<br />Scottsdale, AZ (Desert Mountain HS)
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<br />When the man-child Tyeler Davison arrived on campus last fall, he was already one of the most physically imposing players on the team. That fact remains. He’s got perhaps the thickest, strongest legs on the Bulldogs, and is ready to take the starting nose tackle role when the time is right. Davison showed a lack of quickness and iffy footwork last year at the start of fall camp, but had already made strides before the camp was over. This fall, he stood out throughout, and has silenced any doubt about his potential. While he won’t bust into the backfield the way Logan Harrell can, Davison might be the best run-stuffing interior lineman since Jason Shirley and Louis Leonard.
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJQlDKKppbY/Tl-h_ZvW6yI/AAAAAAAAAio/RPRRyL84I3s/s1600/jennings.andy.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647410568359242530" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJQlDKKppbY/Tl-h_ZvW6yI/AAAAAAAAAio/RPRRyL84I3s/s200/jennings.andy.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Andy Jennings: A Project No More</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-3, 280
<br />Turlock (Pitman HS)
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<br />Recruits who are brought in as project players to develop aren’t supposed to be game-ready this soon. But Andy Jennings has coaches very excited. With a powerful lower body outdone only by Tyeler Davison, Jennings is Logan Harrell’s primary backup and will be a serious contender for a starting job next season. He’ll get plenty of experience this year as part of the regular rotation, along with Davison.
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--X_q4pMnscc/Tl-hs4w4C-I/AAAAAAAAAig/GGdj1e8XsDs/s1600/lewis.donavon.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647410250269592546" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--X_q4pMnscc/Tl-hs4w4C-I/AAAAAAAAAig/GGdj1e8XsDs/s200/lewis.donavon.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Donavon Lewis: Earning Some True Playing Time</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-3, 240
<br />Fresno (Clovis West HS)
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<br />Chris Lewis graduates and little brother Donavon Lewis jumps right in. In the second week of fall camp, it was clear Lewis was standing out amongst his peers, as coaches sent him across the field to work with the veterans group in the middle of a drill. On his first play, he got offensive lineman Cody Wichmann off balance and tagged the quarterback for the would-be sack. It’s still uncertain if Lewis will play as a true freshman, but there’s a high likelihood he will become part of the regular rotation. And don’t be surprised if he passes up someone like Tristan Okpalaugo on the depth chart during the year.
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J6w905w0EKQ/Tl-hNP9AQ2I/AAAAAAAAAiY/rAI6A2llSgM/s1600/dillon.mershad.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647409706738664290" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J6w905w0EKQ/Tl-hNP9AQ2I/AAAAAAAAAiY/rAI6A2llSgM/s200/dillon.mershad.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Mershad Dillon: An Immediate Impact?</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-1, 260
<br />Santa Maria (Santa Maria HS)
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<br />On signing day, Pat Hill was already making the Mershad Dillon comparisons to former Bulldogs standout Jason Stewart, another 6-1 defensive tackle with a wide body. Dillon actually played quarterback in high school and was part of his track relay team in the 4 x 400. He’s a serious athlete with the size to compete at this level immediately. The two-deep on the roster, however, is very solid. But with two other defensive tackles ineligible, Dillon could very well have an opportunity to play as a true. He was certainly one of the most impressive newcomers in fall camp and will be on the travel squad for the opener.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4pJqnjqcLw/Tl-g7G9OLSI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/yGtNbi3H6dE/s1600/hunt.todd.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647409395086011682" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4pJqnjqcLw/Tl-g7G9OLSI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/yGtNbi3H6dE/s200/hunt.todd.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Todd Hunt: Hunt for a Hidden Gem</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-2, 245
<br />Anaheim (Mater Dei HS)
<br />
<br />Todd Hunt was not expected to contend for immediate playing time, but he’s doing just that. With the versatility to play end or tackle, Hunt was a unique prospect who signed weeks after signing day. Usually a player who signs that late isn’t the immediate impact type of guy. But Hunt had the size and presence from Day 1 of camp that made his stand out. And coaches noticed. He’ll also be on the travel squad with the season opener, so stay tuned.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SCKrIETI890/Tl-gsuHz5qI/AAAAAAAAAiI/QNIGV9gZ8gw/s1600/nduke.ibe.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647409147901372066" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SCKrIETI890/Tl-gsuHz5qI/AAAAAAAAAiI/QNIGV9gZ8gw/s200/nduke.ibe.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Ibe Nduke: Leveraging His Options</span></strong>
<br />So, 5-11, 240
<br />Etiwanda (Etiwanda HS)
<br />
<br />Talk about an undersized defensive tackle. Height-wise and weight-wise, Ibe Nduke is far from the typical interior lineman. But he’s been at the position since spring camp (after converting from fullback) and has the lower body strength and leverage to make up for some of the size he’ll give up to every opponent he faces. Nduke isn’t likely to see much playing time this season, but could be used in certain schemes aimed at defending the spread and getting as much speed as possible on the field.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p-Er8-pNX6U/Tl-ga7xvEmI/AAAAAAAAAiA/b4P_qLNZ42c/s1600/letcher.ben.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647408842329231970" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p-Er8-pNX6U/Tl-ga7xvEmI/AAAAAAAAAiA/b4P_qLNZ42c/s200/letcher.ben.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Ben Letcher: Hannibal Letcher</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-3, 240
<br />Corona (Centennial HS)
<br />
<br />Ben Letcher is still a bit of a mystery. He passes the eyeball test with flying colors, with a physique that screams star player. But Letcher has no experience and spent much of fall camp on the sidelines rehabbing a nagging injury. That kept him from taking valuable reps to determine where he falls in the mix of defensive ends. But because of his obvious dedication in the weight room, he’s a guy to watch for.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sedWBzQT-_0/Tl-gJEcP1-I/AAAAAAAAAh4/UlRzWYa0dig/s1600/poyadue.maurice.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647408535417378786" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sedWBzQT-_0/Tl-gJEcP1-I/AAAAAAAAAh4/UlRzWYa0dig/s200/poyadue.maurice.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Maurice Poyadue: Only a Matter of Time</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-2, 280
<br />Martinez (Alhambra HS)
<br />
<br />Another true freshman defensive lineman with the size to play right away is Maurice Poyadue. Pat Hill made no secret on signing day that he was excited to land this one. And it was apparent why when he fit right in size-wise with the vets during camp. Poyadue held his own in drills and gives the ‘Dogs another young, exciting prospect at defensive tackle. Depth continues to be a strength of this unit.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u48cPS2wak4/Tl-flUMZ7zI/AAAAAAAAAhw/3Tq0m7pLWSc/s1600/faletuipapai.suli.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647407921170607922" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u48cPS2wak4/Tl-flUMZ7zI/AAAAAAAAAhw/3Tq0m7pLWSc/s200/faletuipapai.suli.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Suli Faletuipapai: Just Call Him Suli</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-3, 220
<br />Gardena (Junipero Serra HS)
<br />
<br />One guy who is nowhere near size-ready is Suli Faletuipapai. He looks flatout skinny compared with the other defensive linemen and has his work cut out for him. His ability could be big-time if he develops the size and strength needed at this level, but that’s at least a year or two away from happening.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j60fUzeL35M/Tl-fEfX4dQI/AAAAAAAAAho/tkF-38clKEY/s1600/ussery.ronald.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647407357235852546" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j60fUzeL35M/Tl-fEfX4dQI/AAAAAAAAAho/tkF-38clKEY/s200/ussery.ronald.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Ronald Ussery: Finding a Use for Ussery</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-3, 230
<br />Encino (Crespi HS)
<br />Ronald Ussery was one of the most impressive recruits on film this season. His lack of size wasn’t nearly as noticeable when he was lined up against other high school players last season, but now it’s obvious. There’s no doubt Ussery can be a strong pass rusher if he puts on 10 to 20 pounds in the offseason.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKa234K6AfU/Tl-eUJT_0EI/AAAAAAAAAhg/lMGGskljV0g/s1600/williams.anthony.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647406526680256578" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKa234K6AfU/Tl-eUJT_0EI/AAAAAAAAAhg/lMGGskljV0g/s200/williams.anthony.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Anthony Williams: Big Dub a Big Loss</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-2, 300
<br />Humble, TX (Atascocita HS)
<br />
<br />There’s no specifying what Anthony Williams did to get suspended for a year by violating team rules, but it’s a big loss for the ‘Dogs. The Bounce said during Williams’ freshman season that he was the most impressive newcomer on the defensive line and could play right away (that group included Logan Harrell, Chase McEntee and Matt Akers). But Williams got injured and had to redshirt. He finally got quality playing time last season and had 16 tackles (3 for losses) and 2 sacks. Hands down the strongest player on the team, Williams was set to battle McEntee for a starting job. But now that’s out the window and so is an experienced backup for the ‘Dogs – until next season.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2XBfZ7XMt4U/Tl-eKtzf-MI/AAAAAAAAAhY/wQnZzwfz57M/s1600/motta.nikko.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647406364677372098" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2XBfZ7XMt4U/Tl-eKtzf-MI/AAAAAAAAAhY/wQnZzwfz57M/s200/motta.nikko.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Nikko Motta: See Ya Next Year</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-3, 265
<br />Sanger (Sanger HS)
<br />
<br />Nikko Motta’s case is different. He too is out for the season, but Motta’s situation is because of his grades. Bad grades don’t just sneak up on a student, it's a shame he didn't get himself eligible, and it’s a shame Motta will be lost. He’s a versatile player who can fill in at end or tackle. With 11 tackles (2.5 for losses) and a sack last season, Motta flashed his potential. .
<br />
<br /><strong>Position Rating</strong>:
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tX7xCMrmLN0/Tl-ds-PUFZI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/9lLwAfWKfIQ/s1600/paw7.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 19px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647405853692925330" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tX7xCMrmLN0/Tl-ds-PUFZI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/9lLwAfWKfIQ/s200/paw7.gif" /></a>
<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-22972056312946313892011-08-31T23:31:00.000-07:002011-09-01T00:08:44.156-07:00Position Breakdown 2011: Offensive Line<strong>Returning Lettermen</strong>: Bryce Harris, Matt Hunt, Richard Helepiko, Leslie Cooper, Austin Wentworth, Trevor Richter, Max Devlin, Lars Bramer
<br /><strong>Newcomers</strong>: Allen Brown, John Archuleta, Justin Northern, Bo Bonnheim
<br /><strong>Lost</strong>: Andrew Jackson (Falcons), Kenny Wiggins (49ers), Joe Bernardi
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bn2iBPJZ3k0/Tl8rycXScXI/AAAAAAAAAhI/07WDyorBXQg/s1600/harris.bryce.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647280603353215346" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bn2iBPJZ3k0/Tl8rycXScXI/AAAAAAAAAhI/07WDyorBXQg/s200/harris.bryce.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Bryce Harris: Harris-ing Defenders</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-6, 300
<br />Tulare (Tulare Union HS)
<br />
<br />Bryce Harris is the veteran leader of an offensive line undergoing a lot of change. Harris has started 26 straight games and enters his third year as the key cog at left tackle. And that cog is more key than ever this year, as Harris will now be protecting quarterback Derek Carr’s blind side. Last year’s quarterback, Ryan Colburn, was left-handed, so it’ll be an increase in responsibility for Harris, an All-WAC selection last season. That said, we at the Bounce thought Harris was a bit overrated last season, especially in pass protection, but he made strides during the offseason. In fall camp, Harris was a force, consistently dominating his matchups. He’s definitely turned up the dial, and the ‘Dogs need him to assume that leadership role.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URiIM-4Wt0o/Tl8rqrYVmfI/AAAAAAAAAhA/vKYKBbM_uHA/s1600/hunt.matt.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647280469945194994" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URiIM-4Wt0o/Tl8rqrYVmfI/AAAAAAAAAhA/vKYKBbM_uHA/s200/hunt.matt.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Matt Hunt: Hunt for Starting Role is Complete</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-2, 315
<br />Carson (Carson HS)
<br />
<br />Matt Hunt replaces big Devan Cunningham as the starting left guard. Hunt has had the ability to start since he arrived on campus, and can turn into a mauler-type guard if he keeps the motor revving at full speed. He’s potentially deadly pulling in the run game – much the style of former Bulldogs standout Cole Popovich. Hunt’s also one of the strongest players on the team, and started two games last season. He’s plenty seasoned enough to make for a smooth transition into a full-time starting job.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d_q6g4PZMGM/Tl8rhxlOo8I/AAAAAAAAAg4/uS1RE-iddEA/s1600/helepiko.richard.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647280316991054786" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d_q6g4PZMGM/Tl8rhxlOo8I/AAAAAAAAAg4/uS1RE-iddEA/s200/helepiko.richard.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Richard Helepiko: Get Ready to See Hella Helepiko Snaps</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-2, 300
<br />Moreno Valley (Moreno Valley HS)
<br />
<br />Richard Helepiko also started two games last season at center, in place of the injured Joey Bernardi. Helepiko was impressive, with few issues, and entered the offseason as the undoubted starter for 2011. Besides the two starts, he got plenty of game action rotating with Bernardi and was also able to learn from the veteran presence who is now a grad assistant at tennessee. Bernardi was like having a coach on the field and the hope is a lot of that rubbed off on his successor, Helepiko.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cXwaupHblzs/Tl8rU8bXwBI/AAAAAAAAAgw/y9vubh9QDcI/s1600/cooper.leslie.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647280096564199442" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cXwaupHblzs/Tl8rU8bXwBI/AAAAAAAAAgw/y9vubh9QDcI/s200/cooper.leslie.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Leslie Cooper: Hangin' With Coop</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-4, 320
<br />Compton (Dominguez HS)
<br />
<br />Leslie Cooper has put on quite a bit of size since arriving on campus five years ago, when he had the speed to play defensive line if he needed to. Cooper still has solid speed for his size, but is somewhat lacking in the stamina department. He was thrust into a starting role early last season when NFL draftee Andrew Jackson (Falcons) went down with injury. Cooper started six games at right guard and the team didn’t miss Jackson much. As a pulling guard, Cooper has a big impact in the running game. His happy-go-lucky nature (one of the team jokesters who wore turquoise socks with white stripes throughout fall camp) is the opposite of his gameday personality of delivering blocks with an attitude. The ‘Dogs need their linemen to quickly adopt that swagger and impose their will on opponents.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RkqeKc-luMI/Tl8rM2XOLQI/AAAAAAAAAgo/0BqyZMyut_k/s1600/wentworth.austin.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647279957497228546" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RkqeKc-luMI/Tl8rM2XOLQI/AAAAAAAAAgo/0BqyZMyut_k/s200/wentworth.austin.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Austin Wentworth: Wentworth Well Worth His Scholarship</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-5, 305
<br />Rocklin (Whitney HS)
<br />
<br />The most versatile of the starting linemen, Austin Wentworth started once last season at right guard but will play right tackle this year. He can be plugged in at either spot equally well, and is one of the unit’s biggest talents. The line’s improvement was immediately noticeable last season when he debuted – part of the reason he earned a start the following week. Though he’s the least experienced starter, fans should be as excited for Wentworth’s potential as anyone’s.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0fYfWk_gyT8/Tl8q7qoCn7I/AAAAAAAAAgg/khb4BfLHeSs/s1600/wichmann.cody.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647279662288773042" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0fYfWk_gyT8/Tl8q7qoCn7I/AAAAAAAAAgg/khb4BfLHeSs/s200/wichmann.cody.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Cody Wichmann: Burning the Wich at Both Ends</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 6-5, 310
<br />Mariposa (Mariposa County HS)
<br />
<br />It will be critical for the Bulldogs to keep the line healthy this season, but if anyone does go down, young Cody Wichmann is the sixth man, so to speak. The last guy Fresno State recruited from the Mariposa area turned out pretty good – Logan Mankins (a first-round pick of the Patriots and the highest paid guard in the NFL). Wichmann is just as much of a project as Mankins was, but already ballooned in size during his redshirt year. Listed at 310 pounds, Wichmann looks solid and muscular with broad shoulders and big arms (characteristics Pat Hill loves in his linemen). He made a special first impression in fall camp, but definitely still has room to develop. There were days he was beaten in drills by young defensive linemen. The encouraging thing is coaches immediately let Wichmann know about his mistakes and he corrected them on the spot. If he is forced into action, Wentworth will likely slide over to a guard spot.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GuslFAxIGiQ/Tl8qznqfKHI/AAAAAAAAAgY/2jRdZTKEZ08/s1600/gustafson.andrew.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647279524054771826" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GuslFAxIGiQ/Tl8qznqfKHI/AAAAAAAAAgY/2jRdZTKEZ08/s200/gustafson.andrew.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Andrew Gustafson: And You Thought Arizona Made Good Iced Tea</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 6-6, 285
<br />Scottsdale, AZ (Chaparral HS)
<br />
<br />Andrew Gustafson was part of the same recruiting class as Wichmann, and has also shown great potential. With Bryce Harris graduating after this year, Gustafson and Wichmann are the likely replacement candidates. Based on size, Wichmann ranks as the favorite right now, but Gustafson is right there with him in technique. He’s listed as the backup left tackle, and it would be wise of Pat Hill to find some playing time for the redshirt freshman as soon as possible to start seasoning him for when his number is called.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IycaLoUvTAI/Tl8qsAcbWuI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/gmyhNh3Jitw/s1600/richter.trevor.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647279393267735266" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IycaLoUvTAI/Tl8qsAcbWuI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/gmyhNh3Jitw/s200/richter.trevor.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Trevor Richter: Registering on the Richter Scale</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-4, 280
<br />El Segundo (El Segundo HS)
<br />
<br />Coaches weren’t happy with Trevor Richter’s level of progress coming into the year, and paid him special attention during fall camp. He was expected to be capable of starting by this point in his career, and while he’s not there yet, he did make strides in the offseason. Richter is listed as the second-string right guard and will have a big opportunity to step into a starting role next year when Leslie Cooper graduates. That said, he’ll need to be prepared right away in case the need comes this year. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gUYrkp_8Ohw/Tl8qj1ZGvqI/AAAAAAAAAgI/Mk76uCbzWtE/s1600/devlin.max.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647279252862058146" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gUYrkp_8Ohw/Tl8qj1ZGvqI/AAAAAAAAAgI/Mk76uCbzWtE/s200/devlin.max.jpg" /></a>
<br />
<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Max Devlin: Max Effort Could Put Devlin In Position for Future</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-3, 275
<br />Windsor (Windsor HS)
<br />
<br />As part of the same recruiting class as Trevor Richter, Max Devlin is slightly more game-ready, but still a bit of a mystery. The most fame Devlin has experienced to this point was having his jersey No. 68 used as the photo opp example the day of the team’s fashion show for its new Nike Pro Combat Elite uniforms. Devlin is another guy the Bulldogs need to get on the field for limited reps right away to have him seasoned in case he’s needed this year, or even for next season.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uQcXIVwH4xQ/Tl8qbgtrq9I/AAAAAAAAAgA/2Ae-zi67rng/s1600/bramer.lars.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647279109872266194" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uQcXIVwH4xQ/Tl8qbgtrq9I/AAAAAAAAAgA/2Ae-zi67rng/s200/bramer.lars.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Lars Bramer: Lifelong 'Dog Fan Second on Depth Chart</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-5, 280
<br />Clovis (Buchanan HS)
<br />
<br />Local product Lars Bramer is the backup center. He continues to add size little by little each year he’s been in the program, but the team still has way too many botched snaps in practice when Bramer is at center. He hasn’t gotten much opportunity to take reps with starting QB Derek Carr, being that Leslie Cooper and Matt Hunt can also slide to center if need be. Bramer’s growth throughout this season and in the offseason will be critical in deciding how big a role he’ll have the rest of his career.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gfJo5xx9YXc/Tl8o1w3WlZI/AAAAAAAAAf4/50nJCtrQxSI/s1600/henderson.kameron.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647277361861137810" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gfJo5xx9YXc/Tl8o1w3WlZI/AAAAAAAAAf4/50nJCtrQxSI/s200/henderson.kameron.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Kameron Henderson: It's Kameron with a 'K'</span></strong>
<br />R-So, 6-2, 285
<br />Moreno Valley (Moreno Valley HS)
<br />
<br />Walk-on Kameron Henderson put up a good fight for a backup guard spot, but didn’t quite win out. He’s a big body who can pave some ground, but will have to really steal the show with his reps in practice to ever jump to the top of the depth chart. He’s come a long way since last season, though, and will be a guy worth keeping tabs on.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l8ArByvu3CM/Tl8ouL7DgVI/AAAAAAAAAfw/h-MAUMxiDTg/s1600/archuleta.john.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647277231685468498" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l8ArByvu3CM/Tl8ouL7DgVI/AAAAAAAAAfw/h-MAUMxiDTg/s200/archuleta.john.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">John Archuleta: Looking to Next Year</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-4, 270
<br />Chandler, AZ (Hamilton HS)
<br />Recognizing the lack of depth among the offensive line, Fresno State recruited a few prospects this season, but none who are ready to make an immediate impact. John Archuleta had the best chance to do so, but didn’t make the two-deep. Size-wise, he’s the most prepared for this level of play, and looked the best in fall camp.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KH3V4gfT04w/Tl8olOHEBdI/AAAAAAAAAfo/2dT3j-WdmgU/s1600/brown.allen.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647277077653882322" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KH3V4gfT04w/Tl8olOHEBdI/AAAAAAAAAfo/2dT3j-WdmgU/s200/brown.allen.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Allen Brown: What Can Allen Do for You?</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-4, 265
<br />San Dimas (San Dimas HS)
<br />
<br />Allen Brown didn’t look far behind John Archuleta. Though he’ll have to really
<br />work on adding size in the offseason, he showed a frame that looks like it can handle putting on a lot of weight. Brown was impressive at times early in fall camp, but can’t be considered an up and comer until he gets bigger.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCofCqLYLpw/Tl8ocShO5BI/AAAAAAAAAfg/xCMu9egJsUQ/s1600/northern.justin.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647276924218565650" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCofCqLYLpw/Tl8ocShO5BI/AAAAAAAAAfg/xCMu9egJsUQ/s200/northern.justin.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Justin Northern: Northern Settles in Central Valley</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-4, 270
<br />Lakewood (Mayfair HS)
<br />
<br />The same holds true for Justin Norther, who was also recruited by oregon. Northern looked significantly smaller than the guys he’s competing with on the line and will need to put on weight and muscle for next year. He is definitely skilled and should be considered a prospect a year or two down the road.
<br />
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-228L3DDvEHw/Tl8oS4WeidI/AAAAAAAAAfY/8haH01AN40E/s1600/bonnheim.bo.jpg"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647276762575309266" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-228L3DDvEHw/Tl8oS4WeidI/AAAAAAAAAfY/8haH01AN40E/s200/bonnheim.bo.jpg" /></span></strong></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Bo Bonnheim: Bo Knows Walking On</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-2, 260
<br />Paso Robles (Paso Robles HS)
<br />
<br />Walk-on Bo Bonnheim is in the same boat, needing to add size. He had some ball security issues in his limited reps during camp, but the Bulldogs won’t rush his development. If he turns into a contributor two or three years from now, his career will be a success.
<br />
<br /><strong>Position Rating</strong>:
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z6s1pZ9xG78/Tl8m6bGuEKI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/Ae7vE-ovoUM/s1600/paw6.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 19px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647275242896101538" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z6s1pZ9xG78/Tl8m6bGuEKI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/Ae7vE-ovoUM/s200/paw6.gif" /></a>
<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-77906316046784317902011-08-29T23:49:00.000-07:002011-08-30T00:16:46.176-07:00Position Breakdown 2011: Receivers<strong>Returning Lettermen</strong>: Devon Wylie, Rashad Evans, Jalen Saunders, Isaiah Burse, A.J. Johnson, J.J. Stallworth, Mathew De Los Santos, Taylor Stewart
<br /><strong>Newcomers</strong>: Davante Adams, Gerome Surrell, Gerald Nutt
<br /><strong>Lost</strong>: Jamel Hamler, Matt Lindsey
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VT70aVump1s/TlyLZ64mXOI/AAAAAAAAAfI/qiOFOaXzeS4/s1600/wylie.davis_villa.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 138px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646541310235401442" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VT70aVump1s/TlyLZ64mXOI/AAAAAAAAAfI/qiOFOaXzeS4/s200/wylie.davis_villa.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Devon Wylie: Wylie Wiggles Away from Injury</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 5-9, 185
<br />Roseville (Granite Bay HS)
<br />
<br />The Fresno State receiving corps is super deep and talented. And Devon Wylie might be the most talented of them all. Last year was supposed to be Wylie’s final at Fresno State, but he was lost for the season after an injury in the opening win over cincinnati and later was granted an extra season of eligibility by the NCAA. Wylie has never made it through a full season injury-free, but so far so good in fall camp. His situation is a bit reminiscent of former Bulldogs star running back Clifton Smith (Pro Bowl as rookie with the Bucs). Smith battled injuries throughout his career until finally staying healthy as a senior and blossoming into the team’s MVP. Wylie had 2 catches for 39 yards and a touchdown in the opener last season before getting hurt. In 2009, Wylie had 259 yards in 10 games, but played sparingly in several of those because of nagging injuries. Health aside, Wylie is the fastest receiver in Fresno State history – clocked at a 4.27 40-yard dash. With superb route running, great leaping ability and dependable hands, Wylie has to be part of the opposing defense’s game plan. Problem is, most teams don’t have a corner who can cover him one-on-one, especially if the quarterback has time to let the route develop. If Wylie stays on the field for the full year, there’s a good chance he’ll lead the team in receiving yards and be on his way to the NFL. He often gets the Wes Welker comparisons, but Wylie is a bigger deep threat with more speed. Durability is literally his only question mark.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPGwx5v6Jeo/TlyLNGkzNGI/AAAAAAAAAfA/FjrPnplzPDo/s1600/evans.rashad.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646541090035283042" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPGwx5v6Jeo/TlyLNGkzNGI/AAAAAAAAAfA/FjrPnplzPDo/s200/evans.rashad.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Rashad Evans: Putting up the Ultimate Fight</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-9, 180
<br />San Jose (James Logan HS)
<br />
<br />Rashad Evans is the Bulldogs’ leading returning receptions leader after Jamel Hamler left early for the NFL (Broncos). Evans had 39 catches for 424 yards and 4 touchdowns despite missing two games with injury. He’s about the same size as Wylie after putting on quite a bit of size over the past couple years. Evans’ hands are perhaps the best on the team, and he’s capable of doing it all – possession receiver, deep threat, slot. It’s not too important who wins starting jobs within this unit because at least eight guys will see significant playing time. The thing to watch for with Evans this season is whether he steps up in Hamler’s absence and assumes more of a go-to role as the team’s top receiver. But there are multiple others with that same potential. Evans, a former high school quarterback, also offers the added benefit of running the team’s hound formation.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XbPET9gFuBk/TlyLEEUFvpI/AAAAAAAAAe4/6MVsDk0iBVE/s1600/saunders.jalen.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646540934809501330" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XbPET9gFuBk/TlyLEEUFvpI/AAAAAAAAAe4/6MVsDk0iBVE/s200/saunders.jalen.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Jalen Saunders: It's Saunders with a 'U' Coach Hill</span></strong>
<br />So, 5-9, 160
<br />Elk Grove (Pleasant Grove HS)
<br />
<br />Quite possibly the most dangerous wideout on the team is Jalen Saunders. Though he was not as highly rated as a couple of the other true freshmen receivers from last season’s jackpot recruiting class, Saunders quickly showed in his first fall camp that he was an up and comer. Lo and behold, Saunders played as a true and is Fresno State’s leading returner in receiving yards. His freshman campaign was good for 30 catches for 462 yards and 3 toucdowns, including a 78-yard reception. Saunders also rushed for 166 yards on 19 carries, proving to be an all-purpose threat. He averaged 23.2 yards per kick return. While Saunders isn’t quite as fast as Wylie, he’s right behind him, also running a sub-4.4 40-yard dash. Fresno State didn’t have the luxury last year of having both Saunders and Wylie on the field – a combination that no one in the nation should be able to cover man-to-man.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iduWFqdY1Ak/TlyKy4yPEbI/AAAAAAAAAew/X7pZ6hAO-i0/s1600/burse.isaiah.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646540639656939954" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iduWFqdY1Ak/TlyKy4yPEbI/AAAAAAAAAew/X7pZ6hAO-i0/s200/burse.isaiah.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Isaiah Burse: Burse-ing Onto the Scene</span></strong>
<br />So, 5-11, 180
<br />Modesto (Modesto Christian HS)
<br />
<br />Another true freshman who played right away last season was Isaiah Burse, who finished the year with 13 catches for 190 yards and 2 touchdowns. As the team’s top hound quarterback, Burse, who won a state title as a high school QB, completed 1 of 2 passes for 43 yards and a touchdown, while also rushing for 71 yards and a score. The most impressive aspect of Burse’s game is his hands. Burse is the team’s most reliable possession receiver, fearless across the middle. He came in with a college-ready body, and has the speed and agility to be a big-play threat. His production should only go up in the coming years.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZiJhnZn9m0/TlyKf_XBUPI/AAAAAAAAAeo/5ZQxj6TC-rs/s1600/johnson.aj.jpg"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646540315004326130" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZiJhnZn9m0/TlyKf_XBUPI/AAAAAAAAAeo/5ZQxj6TC-rs/s200/johnson.aj.jpg" /></span></strong></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">A.J. Johnson: We Love Us Some Bakersfield</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-0, 180
<br />Bakersfield (Highland HS)
<br />
<br />The same holds true for A.J. Johnson. As a redshirt freshman last season, Johnson had 20 catches for 241 yards and a touchdown, and is only getting more comfortable. Johnson has the height the team’s top three receivers (Wylie, Evans and Saunders) do not. He was a favorite target near the sideline and on fade routes. With all the competition in camp, these wideouts will be hard pressed to earn playing time, but all the competition should breed improvement and a very high level of play.
<br />
<br />
<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qhMvTxTd5FM/TlyKMgMgbyI/AAAAAAAAAeg/AS_jN0k-oKs/s1600/stallworth.jj.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646539980221214498" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qhMvTxTd5FM/TlyKMgMgbyI/AAAAAAAAAeg/AS_jN0k-oKs/s200/stallworth.jj.jpg" /></a>J.J. Stallworth: No Stalling Here, J.J. Impresses in Camp</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 5-11, 185
<br />Sacramento (Grant HS)
<br />
<br />J.J. Stallworth has accepted his role as a possession receiver and hasn’t seen the ball yet his first three years on the field. But the younger brother of NFL wideout Donte Stallworth emerged early in fall camp with several straight days of standout performances. It was refreshing to see Stallworth’s attitude and the excitement he got each day after a good practice. He seemed to play better and better as he built his confidence. Unfortunately, he had a so-so first scrimmage and didn’t maintain that high level of play toward the end of open camp. But he’s got enough experience and knowledge to keep his coaches’ confidence. That said, he caught just 2 passes for 23 yards last season. That number will go up this year unless some younger receivers outplay him and surpass him on the depth chart.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KwxJ9nkuNZQ/TlyJ7jxMfyI/AAAAAAAAAeY/cBVlYY3i1ns/s1600/harper.josh.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646539689122627362" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KwxJ9nkuNZQ/TlyJ7jxMfyI/AAAAAAAAAeY/cBVlYY3i1ns/s200/harper.josh.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Josh Harper: Hyped for Harper</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 6-1, 185
<br />Stockton (St. Mary’s HS)
<br />
<br />Josh Harper is the biggest threat to the veterans’ playing time. Harper was the team’s highest rated recruit at the position last season but redshirted. Now, with Hamler leaving, Harper is expected to fill his shoes as a wideout with size. And he’ll do a nice job. Harper gets after it, as his two spectacular catches against tough coverage in the first fall scrimmage showed. He’s not as well built as Hamler yet, but he’s got similar talent with more speed. His hands are developed beyond his years, and the crispness of his routes have improved since a season ago. Don’t be surprised if Harper breaks into a starting role before all is said and done. Much of the fan excitement this offseason has been about Victor Dean, but Harper is much more game ready right now.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LveERw5z-cg/TlyJno81RgI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/WBSchN4Al_o/s1600/dean.victor.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646539346916230658" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LveERw5z-cg/TlyJno81RgI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/WBSchN4Al_o/s200/dean.victor.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Victor Dean: He's Taller Than You</span></strong>
<br />R-Fr, 6-5, 200
<br />San Diego (Lincoln HS)
<br />
<br />Victor Dean is definitely an exciting prospect. While his route running is a bit behind the other youngsters, the uniqueness of his game could prove to be a real weapon for Fresno State. Believed to be the tallest receiver in school history, Dean can flat out-jump defenders for the football. He dominated the Spring Game with three fade route touchdowns. If the ball is thrown on the money, he’s a huge mismatch for most defensive backs. There’s not a lot a guy can do matched with Dean’s size and leaping ability. Dean was hampered missing all of fall camp with injury, but is expected back by October. When he returns to action, he’ll be more of a role player than an all-around receiving until he develops more fluidity in his routes and learns how to get open faster.
<br />
<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Davante Adams: Can't Wait to Hear the Band Play "Addams Family"</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-2, 200
<br />Palo Alto (Palo Alto HS)
<br />
<br />Talk about an exciting prospect. The one new receiver of this year’s class is Davante Adams, who flatout has an imposing build. He’s one of the team’s tallest and biggest receivers – and he’s just out of high school. Adams had to sit the start of fall camp with NCAA clearinghouse issues, but that’s all been squared away and he was impressive the moment he hit the field. A big, strong receiver with body control and a knack for finding the football. The unit is probably too loaded to justify burning a year of Adams’ eligibility now, but he is definitely good enough to play right away. But it’s more likely he’ll be redshirted and have a bigger impact next season when Wylie and Stallworth are gone.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQy6FZFfdF0/TlyJO8h7L7I/AAAAAAAAAeI/RTGd1UAnYyo/s1600/delossantos.mathew.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646538922675351474" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQy6FZFfdF0/TlyJO8h7L7I/AAAAAAAAAeI/RTGd1UAnYyo/s200/delossantos.mathew.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Mathew De Los Santos: A Bulldog Insider</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-11, 180
<br />Ventura (St. Bonaventure HS)
<br />
<br />Mathew De Los Santos is the top walk-on within an absolutely loaded unit. On one side, that’s an accomplishment to be proud of. On the other, he knows he won’t get much playing time for the foreseeable future. But he gets to wear the Bulldog Red uniform proudly and does indeed have limited game experience – which he may get again this season. De Los Santos is a dependable receiver, who the ‘Dogs know they can count on in a pinch. While he isn’t blessed with the same talent as many of the unit’s stars, he practices hard and works on improving his game.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-llmlJ8gTQRI/TlyJCLvm5NI/AAAAAAAAAeA/uKRHbFrE3R0/s1600/stewart.taylor.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646538703420974290" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-llmlJ8gTQRI/TlyJCLvm5NI/AAAAAAAAAeA/uKRHbFrE3R0/s200/stewart.taylor.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Taylor Stewart: Sweating Less Than His Dad at Practice</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-0, 175
<br />Fresno (Buchanan HS)
<br />
<br />Taylor Stewart is in a very similar situation as a walk-on. The son of defensive coordinator Randy Stewart, Taylor Stewart has had limited game experience and has shown he’s a capable reserve in a pinch. Like De Los Santos, he frequently gets quality reps in practice and makes plays – just not at the same level as the team’s top wideouts.
<br />
<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Gerome Surrell: Springing Into the Competition</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-11, 200
<br />Stockton (St. Mary’s HS)
<br />
<br />Gerome Surrell walked on and joined the team in spring camp. That’s got him a bit of practice experience under his belt, but he’s still got a long way to go to see game time. It almost assuredly won’t happen this season with all the depth the team has, plus he’s behind De Los Santos and Stewart in the receiving ranks.
<br />
<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Gerald Nutt: Busting Into the Mix</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-0, 166
<br />Fresno (Clovis West HS)
<br />
<br />Gerald Nutt is the newest walk-on of the group, a local product who could also play cornerback, and still might switch down the road. Nutt showed flashes of ability during fall camp, even catching a mid-range touchdown pass in the first fall scrimmage. He’s almost a lock to redshirt this season, so it’ll be a while before we find out his true potential.
<br />
<br /><strong>Position Rating:</strong>
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CjapwLK3e8Y/TlyIT_NU6RI/AAAAAAAAAd4/DfWcwZln8TU/s1600/paw8.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 19px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646537909781981458" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CjapwLK3e8Y/TlyIT_NU6RI/AAAAAAAAAd4/DfWcwZln8TU/s200/paw8.gif" /></a>
<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-48258361466038371562011-08-27T15:52:00.000-07:002011-08-27T16:08:56.329-07:00Position Breakdown 2011: Tight Ends<strong>Returning Lettermen</strong>: Ryan Skidmore, Tapa Taumopeau, Marcel Jensen, Ryan Boschma, Michael Butler
<br /><strong>Newcomers</strong>: None
<br /><strong>Lost</strong>: Vince Pascoe
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fX2coLHJXNY/Tll2v8lj3EI/AAAAAAAAAdo/lZZNJD81DZI/s1600/skidmore.ryan.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645674173975223362" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fX2coLHJXNY/Tll2v8lj3EI/AAAAAAAAAdo/lZZNJD81DZI/s200/skidmore.ryan.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Ryan Skidmore: Better Late Than Never</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-5, 250
<br />Bakersfield (East HS)
<br />
<br />He’s had to wait his turn a long time, but as a senior Ryan Skidmore looks like he’ll finally get significant playing time. Since the day he signed with Fresno State, Skidmore was considered a big threat in the passing game, with the speed and deep threat ability more closely resembling a wideout. But his blocking was lacking, and in a system like Fresno State’s where blocking is the most critical piece of a tight end’s arsenal, that left Skidmore buried on the depth chart. His only two career catches both came against wisconsin as a redshirt freshman. Skidmore showed up to fall camp with added bulk, and while the extra pounds might slow him a bit, it should help him become the blocker the Bulldogs need and stay on the field longer. The other clue that Skidmore might have a vastly increased role is the fondness new quarterback Derek Carr has for him. Carr likes having a tight end he can rely on in the passing game, and the two have seemed to connect in camp each of the past three years.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YCH7qGEFDLo/Tll2mHhS04I/AAAAAAAAAdg/VaaGR289tY8/s1600/jensen.marcel.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645674005111427970" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YCH7qGEFDLo/Tll2mHhS04I/AAAAAAAAAdg/VaaGR289tY8/s200/jensen.marcel.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Marcel Jensen: Third Position's the Charm</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-6, 255
<br />Fairfield (Rodriguez HS)
<br />
<br />Marcel Jensen is easily the most intriguing prospect at the tight end position. Jensen was recruited as a development project simply because Pat Hill was enamored with his size, long arms and big hands. He was brought in as a defensive end before a devastating injury curtailed him for the better part of two years. Jensen moved to the offensive line as he lost speed and mobility from the injury, but finally looks like he recovered and has been working as a tight end the past year. He’s got a massive body for a tight end, and presents a major challenge for linebackers or defensive backs in coverage. What he lacks in speed, he makes up for in height and reach. And though he’s still learning the position, he flashed evidence of good hands with some nice catches in camp. The comforting thing about Jensen is he’s had work on the offensive line, and in a year the Bulldogs’ line is an unknown, Jensen can come in for packages and act essentially as a sixth lineman. Blocking isn’t a concern with him.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrkVHwmPInA/Tll2XT2InbI/AAAAAAAAAdY/RCQP2T9SR_k/s1600/boschma.ryan.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645673750722026930" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrkVHwmPInA/Tll2XT2InbI/AAAAAAAAAdY/RCQP2T9SR_k/s200/boschma.ryan.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Ryan Boschma: Da Boschma</span></strong>
<br />So, 6-4, 240
<br />Bakersfield (Bakersfield Christian HS)
<br />
<br />How impressive was Ryan Boschma’s progress last season? The guy comes into camp as a virtually unknown walk-on wearing No. 85, which was previously worn by one of the school’s best tight ends of all-time Bear Pascoe (Giants). Not only does Boschma play as a freshman, he even earned a start in midseason. Though he’s listed at 240 pounds, about 20 pounds less than Pascoe, Boschma looks quite similar to him in stature on the field. But he’s far from proving he can be a receiving threat. With no catches last season, Boschma’s blocking is his strength and should again earn him playing time. He sat out much of fall camp with an injury after a scuffle with a teammate and definitely lost valuable reps. But he’s showed he can be a quick learner.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Fi8SM42pF8/Tll2E7wHavI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/-gf40TtN-d4/s1600/butler.michael.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645673435016686322" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Fi8SM42pF8/Tll2E7wHavI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/-gf40TtN-d4/s200/butler.michael.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Michael Butler: Working to Emerge from the Crowd</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-2, 250
<br />Fresno (Sunnyside HS)
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<br />Local product Michael Butler is right in the mix, battling with all the rest of ‘em for playing time. The tight end position, more than other other, has parity. And until someone steps up and separates himself from the rest of the pack, the depth chart will vary. Butler is more proven as a blocker right now, but made one of the most memorable plays of fall camp during the first scrimmage when he caught a pass from Derek Carr, turned around without knowing a defender was fast approaching and leveled him, strictly off momentum. Butler has the versatility to line up at the H-back position as well. And there’s no denying he’s the ultimate team player with his pro-Fresno State attitude and ability to get others around him excited about Bulldog Football.
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<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MfvlNEiqS4o/Tll3UfrDlxI/AAAAAAAAAdw/2YZio97oKzE/s1600/taumoepeau.tapa.jpg"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645674801868805906" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MfvlNEiqS4o/Tll3UfrDlxI/AAAAAAAAAdw/2YZio97oKzE/s200/taumoepeau.tapa.jpg" /></span></strong></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Tapa Taumopeau: Wishing a Speedy Recovery</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 6-3, 235
<br />Euless, TX (Trinity HS)
<br />
<br />By far the Bulldogs’ most experienced tight end, Tapa Taumopeau was lost for the season to injury early in fall camp. Taumopeau had 7 catches for 38 yards and 2 touchdowns last season, lining up as both an H-back and on the line of scrimmage. His presence would have given the ‘Dogs at least one tight end with significant experience, but now they’ll have to quickly find a replacement.
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<br />Position Rating:
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<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3B34VAVCkKk/Tll1lkU7nII/AAAAAAAAAdI/xihEMsmUUxw/s1600/paw6.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 19px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645672896152706178" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3B34VAVCkKk/Tll1lkU7nII/AAAAAAAAAdI/xihEMsmUUxw/s200/paw6.gif" /></a>
<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-39593606315925584462011-08-26T17:16:00.001-07:002011-08-26T22:38:27.137-07:00Position Breakdown 2011: Fullbacks / H-backs<strong>Returning Lettermen</strong>: Austin Raphael
<br /><strong>Newcomers</strong>: Malique Micenheimer
<br /><strong>Lost</strong>: None
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<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8xT0AgQyuM/TlhNH1ehwYI/AAAAAAAAAdA/ADTaGbFCfqs/s1600/raphael.austin.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645346929918460290" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8xT0AgQyuM/TlhNH1ehwYI/AAAAAAAAAdA/ADTaGbFCfqs/s200/raphael.austin.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Austin Raphael: Ready to Go Out with a Bang</span></strong>
<br />Sr, 6-2, 225
<br />Jamestown (Sonora HS)
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<br />After years of trying to find the right position fit, Austin Raphael has settled in nicely at the fullback/H-back spot. Raphael absorbed the responsibilities and welcomed the role, becoming quite the team player. He caught 6 passes for 79 yards last season, including a touchdown at ole miss. The Bulldogs won’t need him much in the passing game, but if he can get open in a couple of crucial situations each game it will suit the offense perfectly. As is the case with most Fresno State fullbacks and tight ends, the main task is blocking and opening holes for the skill position guys.
<br />
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ErjdNofc51M/TlhMLhuxUdI/AAAAAAAAAc4/fHmvt_vgZFQ/s1600/barnes.riley.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645345893825728978" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ErjdNofc51M/TlhMLhuxUdI/AAAAAAAAAc4/fHmvt_vgZFQ/s200/barnes.riley.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Riley Barnes: A Barnes Burner
<br /></span></strong>R-Fr, 6-3, 220
<br />Tulare (Tulare Union HS)
<br />
<br />Valley walk-on Riley Barnes has quickly ascended the depth chart and put in a serious battle for playing time. An impressive spring camp left coaches and fans thinking he could play an impact this season – and he may – but Barnes’ first couple of weeks were so-so. Not the type of performance he’d need to beat out veterans like Raphael for reps. That said, Barnes is more of a ‘tweener at the position and could also see time as a true tight end lining up on the line of scrimmage. The biggest concern with Barnes right now is his hands. He was inconsistent catching the ball from tight end and H-back in fall camp, but it’s obvious coaches expect a lot out of him with the attention and detail given to his assignments at practice.
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<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Malique Micenhemier: More than Merely a Freshman</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-1, 225
<br />Stockton (McNair HS)
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<br />In one of the biggest moves of fall camp, true freshman Malique Micenheimer was moved from linebacker to fullback after Tapa Taumopeau’s season-ending injury. Micenhemier is a promising young linebacker, and one of the Bulldogs’ best looking recruits. He looked to have the potential to play linebacker as a true, but the move to fullback helps the Bulldogs at a position with far less depth. Micenheimer quickly got the comparisons to former ‘Dog great Lorenzo Neal because he’s also wearing No. 22, but it’s far too early for that. Neal was a premier ball carrier in college – something no fullback has been under Pat Hill. But Micenheimer did get a few carries in camp, and showed he can catch the ball out of the backfield and deliver blows. He’s a big, strong kid with a lot of promise at either position. And get this – he even took some first-team reps. It’s very likely he could play right away and also make an impact on special teams. Keep an eye on No. 22.
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<br /><strong>Position Rating</strong>:
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-At_aG8OHdqE/TlhLodqG5VI/AAAAAAAAAcw/QBJBzppc7i8/s1600/paw7.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 19px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645345291437008210" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-At_aG8OHdqE/TlhLodqG5VI/AAAAAAAAAcw/QBJBzppc7i8/s200/paw7.gif" /></a>
<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-15252716666176441522011-08-25T23:44:00.000-07:002011-08-26T00:01:41.974-07:00Position Breakdown 2011: Running Backs<strong>Returning Lettermen</strong>: Robbie Rouse, A.J. Ellis, Michael Harris
<br /><strong>Newcomers</strong>: Darryl Cash, Dillon Root
<br /><strong>Lost</strong>: Tracy Slocum
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQohcD6hw14/TldCz8ah1QI/AAAAAAAAAco/aGl3S_VZsEg/s1600/rouse.09.05.09.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 188px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645054118090364162" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZQohcD6hw14/TldCz8ah1QI/AAAAAAAAAco/aGl3S_VZsEg/s200/rouse.09.05.09.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Robbie Rouse: Back He Comes to Save the Day!</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-7, 185
<br />San Diego (Madison HS)
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<br />Those who doubted Robbie Rouse last season, saying he was too small to be the featured back and absorb a full season of hitting, were authoritatively silenced. Rouse led Fresno State with 1,129 yards and 8 touchdowns (5.5 yards per carry) and proved to be one of the top backs in the WAC if not the nation. Though he’s short in stature, Rouse can be a physical, heads-up runner with his stocky, powerful frame (part of the reason the band plays the “Mighty Mouse” theme every time he makes a big play). But even more key to Rouse’s ability is his elusiveness. Rouse has immense experience for a player just going into his junior season, and has entrenched himself as the starter, while continually developing into a team leader. The well-spoken, determined junior exemplifies Bulldog Football and has shown more progress in his receiving abilities during fall camp. Rouse was already an above average pass blocking back, meaning he can be on the field in a variety of game situations. That said, he might get fewer carries than last season based on the addition of a brand new weapon in the backfield.
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XPTIacd09YQ/TldCoiBFujI/AAAAAAAAAcg/veG7Fymulrc/s1600/knox.milton.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645053922025781810" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XPTIacd09YQ/TldCoiBFujI/AAAAAAAAAcg/veG7Fymulrc/s200/knox.milton.jpg" /></a>
<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Milton Knox: Two Knoxes are Better than One</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-9, 210
<br />Van Nuys (Birmingham Senior HS/UCLA)
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<br />If teammate Robbie Rouse is the WAC’s best running back, newcomer Milton Knox might be its second best. Knox’s high school credentials outweigh any of his other teammates. Parade All-American. USA Today All-American. Four-star recruit. LA Times back of the year. The list goes on for the much ballyhooed prospect who originally signed with ucla before transferring to Fresno State and sitting out last season. But it was clear even last year in practice Knox is a special talent. He’s a couple inches taller than Rouse, but is also stocky and physical with speed. In Fresno State’s fall camp last season, no one had more impressive runs, and that was the case this year as Knox seemingly broke at least one big run (or more) per practice. Whether Rouse or Knox is the team’s leading rusher simply depends on who gets more carries. Rouse is more proven – Knox had just 134 yards as a redshirt freshman at ucla – but all Knox needs is the opportunity. There’s no doubt he’s capable of being a 1,000-yard rusher at this level, and having a guy who hits the hole hard and can put game-breaking moves on defenders will be a great benefit for the Bulldogs. Knox saw some time in wildcat formations at ucla and has spent a lot of time practicing the same in Fresno State’s hound packages.
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<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tHqgaaBlULA/TldCbHvEj3I/AAAAAAAAAcY/wtyuoYtvK0g/s1600/ellis.aj.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645053691632586610" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tHqgaaBlULA/TldCbHvEj3I/AAAAAAAAAcY/wtyuoYtvK0g/s200/ellis.aj.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">A.J. Ellis: Weightlifting Does a Body Good</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-11, 195
<br />San Jose (Andrew Hill HS)
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<br />A.J. Ellis, the team’s slashing back and best receiver out of the backfield, made himself known early last season with a 165-yard outburst at utah state. But an injury derailed his momentum as he finished with 281 yards and 3 touchdowns on the year. Ellis noticeably hit the weights hard in the offseason, working to better condition his body for the grind an upper echelon running back takes at the highest level of college football. His upper body now looks more like former Fresno State star Ryan Mathews than the Ellis of old. Mathews put in the same offseason weight room work leading up to his junior season to protect against injury and ended up as the nation’s leading rusher. The same might not hold true for Ellis, who will battle for carries with two other very good backs, but he’ll definitely play a large role on the team. Ellis is the best option in many shotgun formations, especially on passing downs. He had 13 catches for 88 yards and 2 TDs last season, and he also should be harder to take down with his improved strength.
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<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9hmNe5QXTWk/TldCNxv_PeI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/cbX_hudxMkU/s1600/harris.mike.sjsu_villa.jpg"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 178px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645053462392552930" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9hmNe5QXTWk/TldCNxv_PeI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/cbX_hudxMkU/s200/harris.mike.sjsu_villa.jpg" /></span></strong></a><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Michael Harris: Harris Ready to Get Interactive</span></strong>
<br />Jr, 5-11, 200
<br />Chino Hills (Chino Hills HS)
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<br />The talented Michael Harris already seemed frustrated at times last year with his lack of playing time, and has just as much competition this time around. His level of mental toughness and determination to keep fighting to get on the field will determine how many carries he gets. Harris showed up to fall camp looking a bit more explosive and faster than in 2011, when many thought he could emerge as a featured back. He’s still got the talent to go off for 100 yards on a given night, which is a good problem to have if you’re the Fresno State coaching staff. Harris finished with 101 yards and 2 TDs on 27 carries last year and had a big impact on special teams.
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<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Daryl Cash: ‘Dogs Newest Play Call is Straight Cash Homie</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 5-10, 190
<br />Pomona (Diamond Ranch HS)
<br />
<br />Perhaps the biggest surprise during spring game, at least offensively, was walk-on back Darryl Cash. Where’d this guy come from? A bowling ball of a rusher, Cash had a 20-yard touchdown run in the Spring Game. How unknown was he at the time? He was referred to as “Darren” on the gobulldogs.com news release after the scrimmage. Cash didn’t stand out as much in fall, but that wasn’t expected with A.J. Ellis and Michael Harris returning from injuries that kept them out all of spring camp. Still, he’s a guy who could make an impact in the next year or two – a walk-on to keep an eye on.
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<br /><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645053052110358594" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uhy0yF1Ve40/TldB15VFyEI/AAAAAAAAAcI/vlqacqaGM_w/s200/kelly.jerry.jpg" /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Jerry Kelly: This Walk-on Doesn't Do Much Walking</span></strong>
<br />So, 5-7, 170
<br />Lancaster (Paraclete HS)
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<br />Speaking of walk-ons to watch for, Jerry Kelly had quite a Spring Game of his own with a 51-yard touchdown scamper, the longest of the scrimmage. Kelly is the team’s smallest back, but has showed the spirit and effort to fight for a spot on the team. He’s also shown flashes of big-play ability in scrimmage situations, but hasn’t faced first-string defense.
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<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Dillon Root: Digging in for the Future</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-0, 180
<br />Visalia (Redwood HS)
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<br />It’s just as clear now as it was the first day of fall camp – Dillon Root has a long way to go to adjust to big-time college football. Pat Hill gave him some personal one-on-one instruction during drills on the opening day of fall camp, and Root was responsive. But his footwork and fluidity are far behind the more developed backs who have been in the program longer. Though Hill says Root is the fastest back on the team, his game speed is nowhere near Rouse, Knox, Ellis or Harris. And his sleight build will need a lot of work to become the sturdy back the Bulldogs think he can be – he even drew a few Mathews comparisons around signing day.
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<br /><strong>Position Rating</strong>:
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<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cJiUhCxQQJ0/TldBFOoSkXI/AAAAAAAAAcA/bGHiHqX0bAE/s1600/paw9.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 31px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645052216014442866" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cJiUhCxQQJ0/TldBFOoSkXI/AAAAAAAAAcA/bGHiHqX0bAE/s320/paw9.gif" /></a>
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<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-74894491854080260112011-08-24T23:02:00.000-07:002011-08-24T23:51:10.816-07:00Position Breakdown 2011: Quarterbacks<strong>Returners</strong>: Derek Carr, Greg Watson, Kelly O’Brien
<br /><strong>Newcomers</strong>: Marcus McDade
<br /><strong>Lost</strong>: Ryan Colburn
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<br />
<br /><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cYZ0TsmOGz4/TlXvfp829SI/AAAAAAAAAb4/UhlMRn4Z1uI/s1600/carr.derek.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644681035094881570" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cYZ0TsmOGz4/TlXvfp829SI/AAAAAAAAAb4/UhlMRn4Z1uI/s200/carr.derek.jpg" /></a>Derek Carr: New Carr Key to ‘Dogs Offense</span></strong>
<br />R-So, 6-3, 205
<br />Bakersfield (Bakersfield Christian HS)
<br /></div>
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<br />Fresno State fans have been waiting for 2011 for a long time – for two years since another quarterback with the iconic Carr name landed on campus and hit the Bulldogs’ practice field. Even as a true freshman, it was clear Derek Carr was outperforming others at his position in practice (even if Pat Hill denied it back then). And he’s much more fine-tuned now than he was then. But there’s always something to say for actual game experience, which Carr doesn't have much of, completing 10 of 14 passes for 112 yards in limited action as a true freshman. He might surpass that total in the first half of his first start against cal on Sept. 3. It’s easy to see what makes Carr a special talent. Line him up next to a group of other QBs and watch the night-and-day difference in ball speed as he turns the entire field, sideline to sideline, into his personal playground. A quick sideline pass looks much easier than it actually is. It’s a dangerous pass that can be devastating if a defender jumps the route for a pick-six, which is why not every QB can throw those routes. But Carr excels at it with his velocity, and the decision-making should come with experience. Carr is the type of QB who can develop into a guy who carries teams on his back. And that’s what is needed at QB to win at the highest level. He’s got the maturity, game knowledge, leadership , respect of teammates and is the fastest starting QB in school history (4.6 40-yard dash). And believe this – if players are impressed and excited with a teammate’s ability, there’s a good reason why.
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<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GlaBElCmJeQ/TlXvH3Wkx4I/AAAAAAAAAbo/m9klvEBmlaM/s1600/watson.greg.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644680626375542658" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GlaBElCmJeQ/TlXvH3Wkx4I/AAAAAAAAAbo/m9klvEBmlaM/s200/watson.greg.jpg" /></a>Greg Watson: Watson it for me?</strong></span>
<br />R-Fr, 5-11, 200
<br />Rancho Cucamonga (Rancho Cucamonga HS)
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<br />While the Bulldogs are stoked about the starting QB, developing a viable backup is a concern. Coaches recognized something in Greg Watson right away when the undersized newcomer arrived on campus last fall and decisively beat out junior college transfer Kelly O'Brien for the backup job as Carr was redshirting. But Watson still has a long ways to go. The good news is he showed progress toward the end of fall camp, completing some nice deep balls with touch in the first scrimmage. But he struggled to accurately hit open receivers in the early stages of camp, and also had too many passes batted down by taller defensive linemen. Watson has solid speed, and can scramble to make plays, but if he’s ever to be a starter for the Bulldogs he has to develop his passing game a great deal. And judging by his Twitter posts, the maturity level needs to rise as well. Read on to learn about the fierce competition he’ll have for the backup job come spring 2012.
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<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5LtKGrviENA/TlXu5JZizYI/AAAAAAAAAbg/E0BwbI1I0wA/s1600/obrien.kelly.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 105px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644680373521796482" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5LtKGrviENA/TlXu5JZizYI/AAAAAAAAAbg/E0BwbI1I0wA/s200/obrien.kelly.jpg" /></a>Kelly O’Brien: Trying to Reach New Heights</span></strong>
<br />R-So, 6-7, 200
<br />Manhattan Beach (Foothill JC)
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<br />Kelly O’Brien faces a similar issue to Watson – he throws many more inaccurate passes than pretty completions. And O’Brien, with far less mobility and speed than Watson, will be third in line unless that changes. O’Brien has the arm to go deep, but gets into trouble with the short and mid-range passing game, often throwing with low velocity and little crispness. But his physical size, lineage (his dad Ken O'Brien is a former NFL starting QB) and flashes of ability make him a player worth developing. Unfortunately though, neither Watson nor O’Brien are ready to start now if need be. That means the 'Dogs desperately need Carr to stay healthy behind an inexperienced offensive line.
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<br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Marcus McDade: The Quarterback of the McFuture</span></strong>
<br />Fr, 6-3, 190
<br />Stockton (St. Mary’s HS)
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<br />
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<br />From the first day of fall camp, it was painstakingly obvious who the second most talented QB on the roster is – and for now he’s taking fourth-string reps. But that won’t last long. Marcus McDade is poised with confidence in his cannon arm and is physically built as well as any freshman QB since Pat Hill has been head coach. Coming out of high school in 2010, McDade played a major role in "The Ride," an online reality show about high school QBs. He was ranked fifth nationally in arm strength, and signed with Fresno State. But he didn’t meet all the university requirements and had to go to prep school for a year. After interest from miami and virginia, McDade stuck to his original commitment and stayed in the Valley. And from everything we saw in fall camp, he’s got the tools to be the next Bulldogs starter in 2013 or 2014 after likely redshirting this year. McDade does still have a ways to go adjusting to the decision-making piece of the game, making a few questionable throws that resulted in interceptions in camp, but his tool set is similar to Carr’s as far as arm strength, velocity, speed and physique. Expect McDade to push for the No. 2 job next season.
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<br /><strong>Position Rating</strong>: <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UY6GnhjY_-g/TlXqsBR-4HI/AAAAAAAAAbY/nyZDleup7gQ/s1600/paw7.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 19px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644675749957787762" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UY6GnhjY_-g/TlXqsBR-4HI/AAAAAAAAAbY/nyZDleup7gQ/s200/paw7.gif" /></a>
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<br />FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-41506103193719466252010-12-31T18:55:00.000-08:002010-12-31T18:55:17.996-08:00The Bulldog Bounce in 2011 ...<i>The year 2011 is only hours away, so I'll take this chance to cap the 2010 blog campaign.</i><br />
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There are a lot of directions the blog can go next year and beyond, and here's what I can tell you:<br />
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It's no secret the sheer frequency of blogs this year didn't measure up to what the hardcore Fresno State fan craves. Behind the scenes, myself and FSDogs1 have been chipping away at some fun and exciting ideas and plans for the blog, all the while also pursuing and planning for current and future personal ventures. What that will translate to for the blog is to be determined.<br />
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What I do know is this — the fire to discuss/obtain new info/spread Fresno State news etc, will continue to burn greater than ever in your blog hosts. It's something we do often, be it over text or dinner with friends. We realize the knowledge, information and opinions we've shared have proven to have great value and offer insight to Fresno State fans, and we're happy to share it.<br />
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In the meantime, keep up with us on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/bulldogbounce">@BulldogBounce</a>. Browse our feed, our followers, who we're following and get on board with the best way to stay up to the second with news and opinions. We'll continue to be very active there and have found it to be a great way to blast very useful tidbits to those interested.<br />
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Here's to 2011 for you, us and Fresno State.DaCohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02019175335097954259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-4170506199693273612010-11-22T23:26:00.000-08:002010-11-22T23:38:55.227-08:00Idaho "playing for everything"idaho men's football coach Robb Akey is hyped. And he's gearing his team up to play with its collective hair on fire Saturday at Bulldog Stadium. His vandals are 5-6 with two games remaining, meaning they have to win out to become bowl eligible at 7-6(their final game is home against perennial doormat san jose state).<br /><br />“Hey, we’re playing for everything right now,” Akey said, in this <a href="http://m.spokesman.com/blogs/sportslink/2010/nov/22/akey-were-playing-everything/">write-up</a>, “a lot more than they’re playing for.”<br /><br />Umm, excuse me Robb with two b's -- Fresno State is playing for a ton. A seventh win guarantees the 'Dogs a bowl bid and a winning record in the WAC.<br /><br />Anyway, let's get to the point. It's always fun to listen to manly man Robb Akey talk in his deep, gravelly voice. And ever since he was hired at idaho a few years ago I've been trying to place why he sounds so dang familiar. Nothing a little YouTube search can't solve (is there such a thing as a voice doppelganger?):<br /><br /><object width="240" height="192"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/QbjMz5umC7E?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/QbjMz5umC7E?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="240" height="192"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="240" height="192"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/n3wuSO59OdM?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/n3wuSO59OdM?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="240" height="192"></embed></object>FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-19655254219069666102010-11-22T22:30:00.001-08:002010-11-22T23:14:03.732-08:00Fresno State's Got TalentThe strangest thing happened today. During the Pat Hill Show on KMJ 580 (which should be uploaded to <a href="http://kmj580.com/pages/bulldogs_podcasts"target=_blank>podcast</a> by tomorrow), Hill said boise state is more talented than Fresno State. Just about the time I realized what he'd said, and concluded that I must have misheard, he alluded to it again. And from the sound of things, he didn't think it was very close.<br /><br />In the past, that's never been the case. The Bulldogs have almost assuredly had more talent than the Broncos 8 of the past 10 years. And with what seems like a loaded Bulldogs roster this season, it was someone surprising to hear Hill talk as if the talent difference is an issue.<br /><br />But let's look deeper. And yes, this blog post required my visiting the official boise state athletics site to make sure I had the most up to date stats. I don't make a habit of visiting such sites, and am all for parents blocking said site from their children by any means necessary. So I quickly looked at the stats, cleared my browser history and ran to the bathroom to wash my hands -- twice.<br /><br />So, is boise state really THAT much more talented than Fresno State right now...?<br /><br />Obviously, and this is probably the most painful sports-related thing I've ever written, QB Kellen Moore is the best player in the country. He puts balls in his receivers' hands ever so gently, and right on the mark -- every time. No matter how tight the coverage (ask Isaiah Green) the ball is always catchable. Fresno State QB Ryan Colburn (a sixth-year senior counting the greyshirt year) struggled mightily on Friday night, completing just 6 of 23 passes for 76 yards with 2 interceptions. And, once again, looked miserable in blitz situations and delayed in decision-making. So that's one big edge for boise state.<br /><br />But Fresno State's Robbie Rouse, 12th in the nation in rushing yards per game, is as good as anyone boise has and the wide receiving corps is ridiculously deep. The Bulldogs don't have anyone as dominant as Titus Young or Austin Pettis right now, but have an NFL-caliber target in Jamel Hamler and are far superior in depth at the position.<br /><br />That brings us to the offensive line, which might be the answer. Fresno State is traditionally among the nation's leaders in sacks allowed, but this season has given up a whopping 25 sacks in 10 games. For a team that only passes 41% of its plays, and was projected as one of the nation's top lines in the preseason, that's insanely high. In comparison, boise state's line has given up 5 sacks on the season. Now, granted, part of that can be attributed to Moore make better, quicker decisions under pressure than Colburn does -- but part is also due to protection and picking up blitzes. boise state also averages 5.3 yards per carry, while Fresno State is at 4.3. Pat Hill use to preach that games are won and lost in the trenches, and he might still say that. If so, a lot of blame for Friday's 51-0 debacle lies here.<br /><br />While boise state's defensive line is incredible, and leads the nation with 39 sacks, the Bulldogs also boast a very good defensive front (27 sacks). Chris Carter is perhaps as good any player on either line, and is tied for the WAC lead in sacks with teammate Logan Harrell (9 each). The difference is boise state has four dominant defensive linemen, while Fresno State has two, an above average DT Cornell Banks and an average Chris Lewis at the other DE spot (he was injured vs. boise).<br /><br />Both teams have comparable linebackers, and Fresno State's Travis Brown is perhaps the best of any of them. Defensive backs are also comparable, with Phillip Thomas perhaps the best safety and Jermaine Thomas the best CB (although he missed the game with injury). That said, Will Venable is a force at whatever they call his hybrid position.<br /><br />It'd be wonderful to hear Hill break down the talent difference by position (we won't hold our breath), but analyzing the rosters makes one wonder if he's really talking mostly about the QB position, with the offensive line a close second...?<br /><br />Or is the real difference in how the two teams are coaching their talent...?FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-13814755798992627122010-11-19T14:50:00.000-08:002010-11-19T14:52:14.795-08:00Returning the favor: Interview with a bronco (OBNUG)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">How hard is it to like anything boise state? 10 out of 10 doctors say it's impossible. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">But the closest thing to an exception comes via OBNUG, the boise state-themed blog led by Kevan Lee (to which I explained our relationship in a <a href="http://bulldogbounce.blogspot.com/2010/11/bulldogs-arrive-in-boise-walk-on-water.html">previous blog</a>). OBNUG produces a generous amount of boise state-related content, which is generally pretty entertaining until they get to talking Fresno State. Then the double standard kicks in. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;">It has become OBNUG tradition to Q&A and blog bet opposing teams throughout the football season. We accepted the opportunity exchange opinions on our programs, but said no thanks on the blog bet (for which we have several reasons, none of which is fear of an opposing blog appearing here). </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;">Kevan posted my answers in his <a href="http://www.obnug.com/2010/11/18/1817383/interview-with-a-bulldog-five-questions-and-a-blog-bet-with-bulldog">Interview with a Bulldog</a> blog yesterday, so check that out. (We appreciate his compliment that we cover FS athletics from a smart fan's perspective.)</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 13px;">Today I share Kevan's answers to our set of questions. So take your preemptive does of Pepto Bismol and stomach the continued humility and thrown your way from the perspective of a boise state fan. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>The Q&A:</b></span><br />
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<div class="im" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #500050; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><b>1. What is the perception of Fresno State athletics in boise? Perception of Fresno in general?</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><b></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">I don't think I would be understating myself in saying that Boise State fans do not think too highly of Fresno State football. I assume you meant football when you said athletics because, as a Bronco fan, I am not aware that any other sports exist.</span></div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
For quite some time, we Bronco fans harped on the "overrated" Fresno State teams that always seemed to be ranked preseason Top 25 and favored to win the conference. Those days are gone, so I think the resentment has softened. Like I've seen you mention on your site, Fresno is not lacking talent, and Bronco fans are aware of that. So our new thing is ripping the Bulldogs for underperforming every year. And of course we can't stand Pat Hill. But I hear that neither can you.<br />
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Fresno in general gets a bad rap in Boise because of the Fresno fans. They come across as arrogant, rude, offensive, inconsiderate, and poor sports. And yes, I recognize the irony in a Boise State fan saying all those things (really though, Boise State fans come in all shapes and sizes and it just so happens that the poorly shaped and poorly sized ones make the most noise nowadays).<br />
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<b>2. What things do you like and/or respect about Fresno State? Things you hate?</b><br />
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<b></b>Things I like:</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
Recruiting and community involvement. I hear these are the only things keeping Pat Hill around, so he must be good at it. Maybe it's just me, but it seems like every year Fresno beats out USC for a high school player. Gotta respect that.<br />
Old-school offense. I am a traditionalist, so I appreciate that Fresno hasn't completely abandoned a semi-traditional approach to offense. Yet.<br />
Checkerboard end zones.<br />
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Things I hate:<br />
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The V on the helmets. I just don't get it. I mean, I know what it stands for, but I just don't get it.<br />
Whining about Boise State. Seems like Fresno fans hate on our schedule, our players, our fans, our city, etc. It just gets tiring.<br />
Fresno blowing games they should win. Sometimes it is incredibly enjoyable. Other times, it is infuriating.<br />
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<b>3. What is the difference between Fresno State's and boise state's football programs right now?</b><br />
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<b></b>I think the difference is in leadership. Coach Pete trumps Pat Hill a thousand times over with his management of the team, his football coaching, and his considerable god-like qualities. Boise State really hit the jackpot with Petersen. I don't think that the Bulldogs should fire Hill and go out and get a Petersen of their own because I don't think that other Petersens exist. But the Hill-Pete dynamic is going to keep the two programs apart as long as the two coaches stay at their respective schools. Now, that isn't to say that Fresno won't beat Boise ever over the next decade, but from a macro level, the two teams will remain quite different.</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
<b>4. Flip-flop the successes and failures of Fresno and boise since 2001. What is a boise fan's evaluation of the broncos in the current state Fresno State is in?</b><br />
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<b></b>If I read the question right, you want me to pretend that Boise State is Fresno State? OK. If I have to.</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
Fresno seems to have better inroads with nonconference scheduling, and I wouldn't mind that at all. Anyone, anywhere, anytime is really the only way that a non-BCS school can overcome its conference schedule.<br />
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Attendance seems about on par with Boise State's, although you do have us beat on stadium capacity. A 41,000-seat stadium in Boise would be sweet.<br />
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Fan support in Fresno appears, to an outsider, to be kind of depressing. You don't like your coach. You are tired of underwhelming seasons. It doesn't sound like much fun to be a Fresno fan.<br />
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Perhaps the biggest thing I wouldn't like is the athletic budget and state deficit. That would be very hard to work with.<br />
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Other than that, Fresno isn't in too bad of a place. You recruit good athletes, you play a decent schedule. The losing would get tiring, but if I get to bring Coach Pete with me, we could fix that.<br />
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<b>5. From an opposing fan's perspective, what does Pat Hill appear to do well, and what does he appear to do poorly? If he was the boise coach, at what point, if at all, would he no longer be your coach (or would he still be), all things considered?</b><br />
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<b></b>It's hard to tell what it would take to get a coach fired at Boise State these days. I can't remember the last one who got booted. Most seem to leave for better opportunities. I guess that the one area that would be taboo is losing fan interest. That's what happened to the men's basketball program and Greg Graham got the boot because of it. Of course, fan interest is tied to wins and losses and performing as expected, so I'd say that a decade worth of Pat Hill mediocrity would be enough to lose fans and get fired.</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
Like I said above, I believe Hill recruits well and has cultivated a strong tie to the community. I don't believe he coaches football well. In fact, he reminds me a little of Dan Hawkins in that regard. Hawkins was a great motivator and great recruiter, but he lacked a certain something on gameday. Fortunately for him (and for Hill), much of a college coach's job extends beyond gameday.<br />
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<i>This next portion includes some of Kevan's questions posed to me, which subtle changes in the details for certain questions:</i><br />
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<b> 6. Describe your team's season to date in 100 words or less. "Just turns me on" must be four of those words.</b><br />
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<b></b>Hearing poll results just turns me on. Not! Boise State has done everything as expected this year - great QB play, stellar offense, dominating defense - but the overarching theme has always been the polls. It's too bad. This Bronco team may be the greatest in school history. Fans have learned (or are learning) to appreciate that and block out the rest.</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
<b>7. If Fresno State could pick one player from your team to come play with them, who would it be? If you could pick one Fresno State player to go play for your team, who would it be? Explain.</b><br />
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<b></b>I'd give Fresno Austin Pettis. Partly because I'm mad at him right now for dropping some balls, but mostly because he is an offense's best friend and someone who could keep drives alive by moving the chains and making solid catches. He's like a better version of Devon Wylie.</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
I'd take Ben Jacobs if I were Boise. The Broncos lost Byron Hout for the season and could use some depth at linebacker, especially a player of Jacobs' caliber.<br />
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<b>8. Imagine for a moment that your team is ESPN's college football coverage. What part is Ron Franklin and what part is Pam Ward? (In other words, strengths and weaknesses.)</b><br />
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<b></b>Ron Franklin: Defensive line. It is incredible.</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
Pam Ward: Personal foul penalties. We get a lot of them.<br />
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<b>9. On a scale of boy bands, with O*Town being not at all and N*Sync being supremely, how confident are you that your team will win on Friday?</b><br />
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<b></b>I have what you would call cautious optimism. Or cynical realism. Or tempered pessimism. I guess there's really no easy way to explain it. I have every belief that the Broncos will pull off the win on Friday night, considering how thoroughly they have beaten teams this year and how completely in control they were against Hawaii. In my opinion, Fresno is not as good as Hawaii. Now that doesn't mean that the Bulldogs won't play the Broncos closer than the Warriors, but it does mean I'd be shocked to see FS win outright.</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
Mark me down as a Backstreet Boys in confidence this week. But not the bad Backstreet Boys, the good ones. Like the "Backstreet's back" Backstreet Boys.<br />
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<i>We thank Kevan for his contribution and for his continuous respect and support of our blog</i>.<br />
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</div>DaCohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02019175335097954259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-90643843281686016762010-11-18T13:58:00.000-08:002010-11-18T13:58:38.994-08:00Bulldogs arrive in boise, walk on water marked with yard lines in walkthroughFresno State has finally arrived to the land of better-than-you, where pinky fingers aren't allowed near the drinking glass and the manliest man is the one who thumbs his nose up first to pick up the tab.<br />
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However, Kevan over at OBNUG and myself have created sort of a weird "<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0204946/">Bring it On</a>" mutual respect sort of thing. Kevan just recently posted my answers from our recent Q&A exchange <a href="http://www.obnug.com/2010/11/18/1817383/interview-with-a-bulldog-five-questions-and-a-blog-bet-with-bulldog">over on OBNUG</a>, with his answers to our questions to follow shortly here on our blog.<br />
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In the meantime, Kevan and the guys over at OBNUG have been talking 'Dogs/broncos all week and the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obKLdou0LH0&feature=related">rimshots</a> are working overtime in the comment section to try and keep up.<br />
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Check back soon for Fresno State vs boise state related updates, but for now, feel free to praise my connections to the underground. Exclusively for Bulldog Bounce readers, a portrait of a young Kellen Moore. Amazing what a simple set of donkey ears can achieve.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kellen Moore as "Donkey" from Shrek</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Halloween 2001</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>DaCohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02019175335097954259noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-21588252971219961902010-11-10T23:10:00.000-08:002010-11-10T23:57:31.653-08:00Keys to beating nevada downLet's talk keys to the game. And understand, Saturday is a big, big game. The type of game the lowly nevada program is not used to. The type of game the drunken morons sitting behind the end zone cheering for the wolf pack in last year's debacle won't be able to comprehend.<br /><br />No. 21 nevada, in its highest ranking since the 1940s, visits Bulldog Stadium. Last year with Colin Kaepernick at QB. Coming off two straight wins over Fresno State for the first time (ever?) and last year's beatdown when Ryan Mathews was lost to injury.<br /><br />Comment and let us know what you think the keys are? Here's how we break it down:<br /><br /><strong>Will Ault be 'Colin' passing plays?</strong><br />A somewhat overlooked stat from the past two meetings between these teams is Kaepernick's lack of passing prowess. He's 13 for 29 with 173 yards. Numbers like that remove the cape from Kaep and make it a wonder how he could be a legit Heisman candidate. If Fresno State makes nevada pass, the 'Dogs win the ballgame.<br /><br /><strong>Can Fresno State make nevada pass?</strong><br />The answer the past two years has been overwhelmingly no. But make no mistake, this year's Bulldog defense is a far cry from the last two years' (and they made us cry a lot those two years). DE Chris Carter and DT Logan Harrell are both among the top six sack leaders in the country. That bodes well if nevada is forced to pass, but can it be forced? Perhaps. Travis Brown is a huge upgrade at LB, Phillip Thomas is one of the WAC's best players at S. The Bulldogs have playmakers throughout the defense now. But S Lorne Bell, who doesn't have top end speed, will have to be near flawless in his assignment discipline to prevent the giant runs nevada rode to victory last year. It helps that the Bulldogs' defense has played so many running QBs (cincinnati, utah state, ole miss, cal poly) but the one opponent that ran nevada-esque plays was ole miss -- and the 'Dogs got burned multiple times on big runs, including a read option up the middle for a huge gain. Another X-factor on defense would have been CB Jermaine Thomas, but the 'Dogs could be without him for the rest of the year after he was injured on the final play at louisiana tech.<br /><br /><strong>Can 'Dogs replace J.T.?</strong><br />Jermaine Thomas is really, really good. Most in the local media don't realize how good. Maybe no one in the local media does. Thomas is the best CB the team has had in years, and is not only lockdown capable in pass coverage, but has helped in the run-stopping game, namely against cincinnati. Think about it -- how many times have you seen Thomas while watching TV this year? It's rare -- because opposing QBs don't even throw to his side of the field. He usually goes unnoticed with his side of the field locked down (save for the TD he gave up to that ole miss receiver who was like 8-foot-6). Replacing Thomas in the lineup on Saturday will be either Isaiah Green or L.J. Jones. Green has lots of experience, and is one of the team's fastest players. But as recently as the san jose state game, he got burned for a big play TD pass. Can't have that this week. The good news on Green is he's a very sure open field tackler, something the 'Dogs will need. Jones is less experienced but will be a very impactful player before his career is over.<br /><br />What other keys would you add...?FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-45669186924003237752010-10-27T00:35:00.000-07:002010-10-27T16:03:58.840-07:00Red-White Scrimmage Round-up"Meet the Bulldogs" has never been so perfect a saying for Fresno State's basketball team. It's easier this year to name who all is returning than who all is incoming. And all the new faces made the Red-White Scrimmage extra fun and intriguing Tuesday night.<br />
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There was a decent turnout compared to last year, but if you were one of those who missed it, you came to the right place for a breakdown of what you missed.<br />
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The White team, which seemed to consist at least mostly of reserves, jumped/ran/bolted/shot its way out to a 19-0 lead en route to a 30-12 win in the 12-minute, running-clock scrimmage. The White consisted of newcomers Kevin Olekaibe, Tyler Johnson, Bennie Rhodes, Givon Crump and Bracken Funk. The Red started Tim Steed, Garrett Johnson, Jonathan Wills, Ned Golubovic and Greg Smith, with Steven Shepp subbing in.<br />
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<strong>0, Jerry Brown, So, F (6-7, 205):</strong> "The Governor" (let's hope this name doesn't stick after the next couple weeks) sat out the scrimmage still recovering from a back injury that coach Steve Cleveland said happened months ago. The 'Dogs will need him for the season, as he's a potential starter or first forward off the bench.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">DaCo:</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><span style="color: red;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Word is he's improved a lot too, but we didn't get a chance to see. Hopefully there's little rust to brush off when he's ready.</span><br />
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<strong>22, Givon Crump, So, F (6-7, 210):</strong> Now that we heard Coach Cleve say it, we know his first name is pronounced "Jivon," which will come in handy the next three years. Crump has to sit out this season after transferring from Baylor, but has the ability to be an immediate starter and impact player as soon as he gets on the court. He participated in the scrimmage on the winning team, but didn't get a lot of chances on the offensive end with all his teammates scoring. He did make a brilliant pass down low to Bracken Funk for a wide-open layup.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">DaCo:</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Strength of game and preference appears to be as a sniper for 3s. He does handle the ball well for his size and made fundamental passes. Good stamina, good energy and good complement to the rest of the team.</span><br />
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<strong>45, Bracken Funk, Fr, F (6-7, 240):</strong> The wait for the two-year LDS missionary is over as Funk took the floor tonight as the White team's starting center. He's not likely to play that position much if at all during the season, but was forced to tonight because of John Ryan's injury. Funk's role has been a bit of a mystery thus far, but he was one of the eye openers in the scrimmage, showing more speed than expected and a motor that should rub off on teammates. He goes hard every play, offense of defense, and doesn't give up in transition. He looks shorter than his listed height, probably closer to 6-foot-5 or 6-6, but has a wide body that allowed him to hold his own guarding Greg Smith in the post. Cleveland wasn't kidding when he said Funk will remind fans of a Utah State-type player. And that's a darn good asset for this team.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Always nice to get a pleasant surprise like this. Love the hustle, love the scrappiness. There are going to be so many potential scorers on the floor, but he is perfectly happy to fill a role of defense, rebounding, screening, etc. Does have that strong body that plays bigger than he looks, and could easily be one of the new fan favorites, not only because of his game, but because of his big personality as well.</span><br />
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<strong>15, Ned Golubovic, Sr, F (6-8, 240):</strong> We knew Ned had an improved physique this season, but didn't realize he'd lost 25 pounds and chiseled up so much, as Cleveland told the crowd Tuesday. The Bulldogs' lone senior and team captain and Academic All-American supposedly shed the weight to improve his defense. That, along with rebounding, is what the 'Dogs need most from him. If he can establish himself as another low-post threat alongside Smith, he'll likely hold onto the starting job. He was quiet all around in the scrimmage, as he's had a history of on-again, off-again nights, but the good thing is this year's team has the pieces to mix and match until it finds a combination that works and a guy with the hot hand on a given night.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">I didn't notice 25 pounds of difference, but part of that is because he leaned up and added a lot more muscle mass, in addition to an apparent tan. His leadership and coach on the floor knowledge are his best traits, but I'm hoping Funk's game rubs off on Ned as much as possible. How that his hands/wrists are healthy, his shooting ability should come back into play as well, which is clearly a good thing.</span><br />
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<strong>20, Garrett Johnson, So, G (6-4, 195):</strong> Cleveland called G. Johnson the most improved player on the team. He received sparse minutes as a freshman last season but showed the ability to play at break-neck speed tonight. He has the skill to be a 3-point threat, but will have to prove himself in game action before he sees a big increase in playing time.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Biggest thing for Johnson appeared to be his comfort with this level of ball now. He handled the ball fine, to where there wasn't a noticeable concern with it in his hands, and seems more capable with his shot. He missed a bad layup on a contested fastbreak, where he over-thought the defender's play on the ball, but that's not likely to be a plaguing recurrence.</span><br />
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<strong>25, Justin Johnson, So, F (6-6, 205):</strong> J. Johnson, son of NBA great Eddie Johnson, was in his team-issued warm-ups for the third straight year. Cleveland told the crowd Johnson has had his last surgery and is still fighting to overcome injury and that we'll learn this year whether it'll be something he can bounce back from. Fans still have little to no idea what this Johnson is capable of.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">If you assume the worst case, at least we only have one player who is not good/able/whatever. Even if he recovers from this injury, he'll still be the 15th-best player on the team, which for the first time speaks to the rest of the talent rather than his lack of still-to-be-determined ability.</span><br />
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<strong>3, Tyler Johnson, Fr, G (6-2, 170):</strong> After one night, T. Johnson is the early leader for the Most Likely Johnson to Make an Impact Award. The freshman is a bit scrawny (think Brandon Sperling only WAAAAY more athletic and skilled), but plays the game at a relentless pace and can jump out of the gym. Guys his size aren't supposed to jump like that, says the law of physics. But he does -- he proved it with two breakaway dunks and a couple leaps into passing lanes on defense. If Johnson sustains this type of effort, there's nothing stopping him from becoming a dominant defender at the college level with his quickness and athleticism. Whatever he does on the offensive end will be a bonus.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">I definitely wouldn't go as far as the Sperling body comparison. Sperling was straight frail. Johnson lacks muscle but at least has the capacity to add muscle if he works hard in the weight room. I still like my comparison to Devon Wylie on the basketball floor, as they have similar athletic ability and directional cuts and movements. He is a very scrappy, energetic, non-stop effort player. Hands are always active on defense, and on offense has a very nice little left-handed jump shot.</span><br />
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<strong>1, Kevin Olekaibe, Fr, G (6-1, 165):</strong> First things first, Olekaibe (or K.O. as they call him) is not 6-foot-1 as listed. He's probably not even 6-foot. There's no doubt the freshman has scoring potential, but after seeing his small frame, it's hard to imagine him playing any position other than point guard. If he does, he'll be presented with some tough matchups physically. Olekaibe showed range and an enthusiastic spirit that makes you want to root hard for him on the court. He can shoot the 3 and can push the tempo. Too early to tell what type of ball-handling and passing ability he has.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Also so much to like with KO. He's a rare confident freshman, and he often smiles and enjoys his time on the floor. KO handles the ball very well and shoots an outstanding 3 ball. Passing ability in the half court offense is still a mystery, but like Funk, has the potential to be another fan fave.</span><br />
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<strong>11, Bennie Rhodes, Jr, G (6-6, 190):</strong> Arguably the most impressive player of the night, the San Francisco City College transfer and former SMU recruit put on a show. Early in the scrimmage he took a questionable shot or two, but as soon as he started letting the offense develop he was unstoppable, hitting from inside and out, making passes and "wow" plays. And he knocked down a deep 3 to make it 19-0 White. Rhodes looks like the type of player who is comfortable being the go-to scorer. Can't wait to see how he performs with Smith (the two were on different teams for the scrimmage). Oh, and did we mention Rhodes had hands down the dunk of the night, reaching down with both hands below his feet for a power jam from just a foot or two in front of the free throw line? The dunk drew all 10s from the five judges.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Starting with my concern first, I hope Rhodes is cool with being a selfless player as well, because he seemed to want to take over the scrimmage. His skills are undeniable, however, and he seems like a huge steal at the moment. Rhodes loves the 3 ball, but goes hard to the basket on fastbreaks as well, where he had what I thought was the most impressive dunk of the night, launching from outside the key past one defender and over another on a powerful tomahawk jam. Rhodes is a pure scorer with shooting ability as well. If he molds comfortably into a team system, this team can grow much faster.</span><br />
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<strong>32, John Ryan, Fr, C (6-10, 270):</strong> One of the guys we were most looking forward to seeing, the big man sat out the evening recovering from a broken nose. He doesn't look to be anywhere near the listed weight of 270 since dropping some weight in recent months, but is a big body who should provide valuable bench minutes in relief of Smith. If he can handle the role as a freshman, he'll be a huge asset for this squad.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">It could have been eye foolery, but Ryan appeared to be the tallest member of the team. Since he didn't play in the scrimmage, it's hard to tell if he has skill on either side of the ball, but his body and low post presence is a need for the team.</span><br />
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<strong>12, Steven Shepp, Jr, G (6-2, 175):</strong> Shepp sat most of the scrimmage before coming in for the Red team, trailing 19-0, and sparking four straight points. The returning starting point guard is academically ineligible until December. It'll be interesting to see if he still has a starting job after Steed or Olekaibe get a crack at it the first handful of games.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">The surrounding talent should make Shepp a better player, considering his up-tempo style and preference to pass the ball to others to score. Those scorers appear to be in much larger numbers this year. It'll be interesting to see how Shepp competes with KO and maybe Steed when he becomes eligible.</span><br />
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<strong>4, Greg Smith, So, C (6-10, 250):</strong> Smith, the Preseason First-Team All-WAC selection, is a physical specimen who Cleveland called one of the great big men in the nation. While true, Smith has a lot of room for improvement after last year's inconsistencies. But he also has the upside and potential to be the catalyst for returning Fresno State to basketball relevance on a national level. Especially if they get him to stay beyond this season and solidify the core of the program. With his Red team trailing 19-0, Smith still had not touched the ball, a major concern. The Bulldogs have to become experts at working the ball inside to their best player or they'll be denied that way all season by opponents. Smith finally took his frustration out down low, bumping Funk back with his butt to clear space before turning around and delivering a trademark power jam.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Good big men are rare, but a blast to have and watch on your team when you have one. Smith has low post skills galore, can run the floor and can defend. Fresno State needs to find a way to use Smith as a force and intimidator for other teams, before he resorts to his kryptonite of not being fully matured yet, which means occasional pouting and reduced effort.</span><br />
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<strong>5, Tim Steed, Jr, G (6-4, 215):</strong> We're looking forward to seeing more of what Steed can do on offense. For now, it looks like he'll be the starting point guard in the exhibition season opener against Fresno Pacific on Nov. 6, with Shepp out. Steed made a nice play to the basket late, but didn't have a lot of other opportunities before that. The most encouraging thing from him, though, was a powerful physique and business-like demeanor on the floor.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Steed is the kind of player I love having on a basketball team. He is athletic, muscle-bound and skilled, but he's business-like, a leader and tough as nails. Steed is not the best at any one thing, but he's reliable at everything. And he dunks with power.</span><br />
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<strong>2, Jonathan Wills, Jr, G (6-6, 185):</strong> Wills, the New Mexico transfer who sat out last season, has been much ballyhooed by Cleveland, who said last season he was the second-best player on the team. Wills was fairly quiet offensively tonight but has immediate starting potential and will play a large role on this team.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: red;">DaCo: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Wills has been touted as a true scorer, but didn't break out on the scoreboard in the scrimmage. That said, you could see his ability to run the floor and handle the ball while running the floor. Wills worked hard and was very active, and won the men's side of the 3-point contest with a very nice score of 17. Once he finds his comfort zone on this team, there's no doubt he can be very productive.</span>FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-68617798144477773142010-10-22T23:39:00.000-07:002010-10-23T01:38:27.681-07:00'Dogs headed for unofficial 8th home gameOn a sunnyish, shadyish, hotish, coldish fall day in beautiful Fresno, your friendly neighborhood bloggers were gchatting it up about Fresno State football and other things of that nature. The convo went a little something like this ...<br />
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FSDogs1: Hey DaCo, what's blueish, yellowish, has 22 hands in its starting lineup and stinks...bad?<br />
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DaCo: You know what, I think I know where you're going with this, and I have to say, I think it's rather insensitive in today's world to make fun of what I can only assume is a team with special needs.<br />
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FSDogs1: You know what? You're right. That was insensitive of me and I apologize. San Jose State does have many special needs -- offense, defense, special teams...<br />
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DaCo: Let me stop you right there. It's clear that my time is of no value to you, otherwise why would you jump into a list that quite possibly, might never come to an end? We are talking about a team whose head coach admits to fielding a JV squad you know.<br />
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FSDogs1: This is true. Let's just hope Pat Hill & Co. see to it that Fresno Sate pounds this opponent like a JV squad, unlike last week when they essentially sat on the ball the entire second half and let it look closer than it ever was against New Mexico State.<br />
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DaCo: (Pause for reader chuckling and that'll be the day thoughts ... ... ... OK that's enough)<br />
I understand there is a vicious game of paper rock scissors going on already between Rouse, Harris, Slocum and Ellis to see who gets the chance to do some stat-padding against the team from the valley of stuff used for fake boobs.<br />
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FSDogs1: Speaking of Rouse, Harris, Slocum and Ellis, what's the deal with the RB situation? Isn't it pretty obvious, despite Rouse's recent big game, that Slocum or Harris should get starting carries with Rouse sprinkled in? That's obviously when he's most effective.<br />
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DaCo: Now it's getting serious. And there's no easy answer, which is mostly due to the running backs not taking the job and making it easy. I agree with the Rouse sprinkling, or change of pace theory if you want to call it that (which I do). He's essentially play-action for the run game. That adds more danger to his dangerous potential. On a side note, here's yet another reason not to keep teams "in the game" by running and punting to preserve leads. Reserves lose time to show gamer ability for upcoming games and seasons. Gamer ability > other time ability.<br />
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FSDogs1: Absolutely. I was just pondering this over my Chipotle burrito today at lunch. Why does Boise State seemingly have the same team each year? Same abilities, same talent, same strengths? It's because they play all their players. They get big, huge leads and put in everyone they can. Players get used to executing in live game situations and when it's the reserves' turn to be starters, they have that maturity.<br />
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DaCo: I lost you after Chipotle burrito. All I saw was Chipotle burrito blah blah bloo bloo blee blee. Nevertheless, I agree with that. To bring myself back on track, I'll say this about the game this weekend — there is a bottom line to the result. A good win against the spartans will be one where their weaknesses are exposed, where Fresno State's will is imposed and an obvious butt-kicking ensues, both on the scoreboard and on the video proof. I tried to make that somewhat generic, so you can have fun filling in the blanks in between those generalities with as many hypothetical's as your imagination will allow. Ah, Devan Cunningham touchdowns...<br />
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FSDogs1: Speaking of imagination, was it my imagination or did we see the Swamp Thing lurking around Spartan Stadium back in the day when it was a soggy, muddy mess there? It could be a mess again, with a 30% chance of rain Saturday. I hear they have Field Turf now though -- I guess those hippies from up the road at Cal weren't too worried about destroying Swampy's natural habitat...<br />
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DaCo: I have a few thoughts and theories about that, you know. Wasn't it only fitting that a team that consistently played like crap had a muddy field that resembled ... well, poop? I'm guessing Fresno State finally had enough of playing road home games on a mixture of chocolate milkshake and wheat grass, and told the sparta AD to use the ticket revenue from Fresno State fans to install turf. It's OK though, because we still have those flexible wooden aisle steps and PlaySkool benches to enjoy before, during and after the game. Hooray luxury!<br />
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FSDogs1: OK, OK, I can see this convo has turned to poop, which I think is our cue to wrap it up and head to the game. My only question is, which quarter are the wooden trampolines which they call stadium stairs going to snap and break from the Red Wave celebrating all the looming touchdowns?FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-61328952680861425082010-10-18T00:29:00.000-07:002010-10-18T17:55:40.465-07:00Grading the 'Dogs (4-2, 2-1) vs. New Mexico State (1-5, 0-2)FRESNO STATE 33, New Mexico State 10<br />
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Quarterback: C-<br />
After wowing fans through the first four games, Ryan Colburn looks to have regressed in the past two. Hopefully that trend ends next week, because 12 of 20 for 132 yards doesn't cut it -- certainly not when he's struggling with accuracy. Colburn missed a wide-open Rashad Evans behind the entire defense for a would-be TD, threw nowhere near a wide-open Vince Pascoe squatting in between coverage and was late in his progressions on numerous other throws. He's better than that. And coaches didn't help him by sitting on the ball much of the second half.<br />
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Running Backs: B+<br />
Mighty Mouse Robbie Rouse returned to a form we hadn't seen since last year en route to 150 yards and 2 TDs on 16 carries. But the fact the team struggled to overpower New Mexico State in the second half was disappointing, as were Michael Harris' 1.3 yards per carry.<br />
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Receivers: B<br />
The wideouts just didn't really get a chance to do much. The highlight was a double "reBurse" to Isaiah Burse for a 30-yard TD. Another true freshman, Jalen Saunders, led the team with 64 yards receiving on 3 catches. Tight end Tapa (I won't attempt spelling the last name) had the only TD catch.<br />
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Offensive Line: B<br />
The first half was flatout impressive -- the second half was far from it. Granted, the Aggies knew the run was coming when the 'Dogs were being overly nice to not run up the score, but this unit should have been able to manhandle its counterpart. Overall, it was still a very strong performance with the backs averaging 6 yards per carry as a team. Also good to see Matt Hunt and Richard Helepiko get valuable time. Unfortunately, Helepiko's time came after an injury to C Joey Bernardi.<br />
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Defensive Line: A<br />
On Chris Carter's performance alone, this group deserves an A. Carter earned national defensive lineman of the week honors with 9 tackles, 3 sacks, 4 tackles for loss and 2 forced fumbles. Beastly. Logan Harrell and Chris Lewis also teamed up on a sack, as the 'Dogs deployed constant pressure on the young, inexperienced Aggies QBs.<br />
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Linebackers: A-<br />
The unit helped hold New Mexico State to 30-something yards rushing in the first three quarters before the reserves entered. Kyle Knox turned in a stud performance before an injury cut his night short. Still, he finished with 7 tackles and 1 for loss. The Aggies averaged 3.1 yards per carry as a team.<br />
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Defensive Backs: A-<br />
Starting QB Andrew Manley had just 1 yard passing, while backup Matt Christian, the former Fresno State walk-on, had 155 (most in garbage time). In his first career start, in place of safety Phil Thomas, true freshman Derron Smith was tied for second on the team with 7 tackles and 1 for loss. His development will be a big plus as the season continues.<br />
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Special Teams: B-<br />
Against a good team, Rashad Evans' first quarter botch of a punt, when he fumbled the ball away, could have been far more costly. Luckily, the Aggies couldn't capitalize. Andrew Shapiro was money on all but one punt, which took a favorable Aggies bounce. He's quietly having a heck of a season.FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-68210357572311159382010-09-24T17:06:00.000-07:002010-09-24T17:06:12.207-07:00Pre-game Walkthrough: Collecting our thoughts as the 'Dogs take on The Grove<div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Fresno State's annual hold-your-breath game with utah state is over and done with, complete with a new breakout star and all. </span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The Bulldogs' attention has now turned to ye olde Miss, thee of the SEC. It's a good thing Fresno State coach Pat Hill and co. enjoy playing the toughest possible games, because the Rebels will be as dangerous as can be this weekend.</span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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</span> </div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">What would a 'Dogs game be without an opponent at its best?</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">You might have noticed the labeling of the Rebels above as "as dangerous as can be." That's because quarterback Jeremiah Masoli is just one hole punch away from filling up his frequent visitor card and getting a free, all expenses paid night in the slammer. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">OK, so maybe the Rebels (1-2) present two kinds of danger. They also present a daunting on-field task this week. The rationale? It's do or die for the Rebels. With losses already to an FCS team in Jacksonville State and a usual SEC doormat in Vanderbilt, Ole Miss already has an uphill climb just to become bowl eligible. A loss to Fresno State may very well bury the spirit of the Rebels, making this game the potential turning point in their season and thus, making them as dangerous as they're gonna be.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The stupid elephant in the room</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">There is one BCS conference left in the world that hasn't been blessed with a loss at the hands of Fresno State — the SEC. That's right, of all the "helmet scalps" the Bulldogs have collected and displayed on the walls of their football complex, none come from the dirty south.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">That seems to be a valid enough reason to identify the elephant, who probably has a secret or two to share with Kool-Aid on how to enter a room quietly.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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</span> </div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Rebel depression: what Ole Miss fans are saying</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The words Fresno State haven't been thrown around much this week by the Rebel faithful. When they have, it is usually as the final accessory to a full-fledged meltdown. Good news san jose state fans, you no longer have to feel alone.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Message boards are full of "what if we fire this coach" topics, I give up claims and overall general confusion about the current state of the Rebels.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The flagship blog for Ole Miss is </span><a href="http://www.redcuprebellion.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Red Cup Rebellion</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> of the SB Nation family of blogs. Nowhere have the losses to Jacksonville State and Vanderbilt been more heartfelt than by the younger community of Rebels. All week long, these guys have been sorting through the debris of depression, hoping to find the source of the wildfire. The result has been almost a week's worth of ignoring the opponent that will provide them with the toughest, most physical game they will play all year.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">To get an idea of exactly how much these guys new about Fresno State this year, I tuned into their weekly </span><a href="http://www.redcuprebellion.com/2010/9/22/1704730/red-cup-radio"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Red Cup Radio podcast</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">. Essentially, during the Fresno State portion of the show, the guys read off stats from the stat sheet and declared which players are starters and what they're capable of based on this. That led to them thinking things like A.J. Ellis missed last week's game and that Ryan Colburn is a dangerous dual threat quarterback. Still, they're probably more reliable than Wes Bunting.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">All in all, Rebel fans are dazed, confused and talking each other off of the ledge that each of them is standing on. An Ole Miss win will bring hope. An Ole Miss loss will produce record alcohol sales.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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</span> </div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Fresno State players with extra important roles</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Ryan Colburn + </span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">A.J. Johnson/Jalen Saunders/Matt Lindsey</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">: Colburn will need to find at least one other go-to receiver to distribute the ball to in this game, as Devon Wylie remains out and Rashad Evans is doubtful for this game. Colburn is also facing a defense that has struggled defending the big play at times, and like the Bulldogs defense, has yet to intercept a pass this season.</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Jermaine Thomas and/or Desia Dunn</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">: Thomas and Dunn are each responsible for their respective sides of the field, so whomever receives the assignment of the Rebels' Markeith Summers has his work cut out. Summers is a 6'3" big-play receiver who has 10 catches for 235 yards and 2 touchdowns this season.</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Fresno State offensive line</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">: Ole Miss is giving up more than 140 rushing yards per game, an average accumulated by the trio of Jacksonville State, Tulane and Vanderbilt. The Bulldogs have yet to have true success running the ball in their previous SEC meetings, and will need to do so this game to keep the defense fresh and out of the humidity, maintain possession and provide the option for big plays in the run game should Colburn fail to find suitable receiving options. The Bulldogs will also plug in Leslie Cooper — who is replacing All-American Andrew Jackson — at right guard for his first start of the 2010 season. Those nervous about Cooper's performance need not worry, you don't name a man Leslie unless you know he can physically dominate other humans or that he'll be the future star of The Naked Gun series.</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">*Wildcard pick — Derron Smith</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">: Fresno State strong safety Lorne Bell practiced all week, but without contact. His status is still unknown for this game and his replacement is a true freshman in Derron Smith. Smith is faster than Bell and a better defender against the pass, but he has never seen game action for the Bulldogs as a safety. If Smith's first plays at SS come on the road in an SEC venue, his performance will be something to keep an eye on.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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</span> </b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Intangible factors</span></b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Some of the intangible factors for a Fresno State game are constants, but the significance of their role varies from game to game and opponent to opponent. Come to think of it, that's probably the reason they're called intangibles.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Fresno State players live for games like this. Fans like me live for every game, meaning I also live for games like this. What does that mean? It means I, along with however many Fresno State players, coaches and fans in Mrs. Sippi, will be oozing with the bravado and machismo Fresno State is known for. Fear, confidence and effort will not be a factor. That can't be a bad thing right?</span><br />
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<b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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<b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Both Fresno State and Ole Miss combine for a grand total of 0 interceptions through five games. However, Ryan Colburn and Jeremiah Masoli have combined to throw 6 this season. A struggling Rebels team could use the extra possessions to get right and a resurgent Bulldogs defense could use the turnovers to get over a major turnover hurdle. Does this stat even matter? And if so, who needs it more?</span></span></div></div></b></div></b></div></b><br />
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<b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
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<b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><div style="display: inline !important; font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="display: inline !important;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">On offense and defense, Fresno State's strengths and weaknesses have been the exact inverse of the Ole Miss strengths and weaknesses. The Rebels have been stronger in the first half on all accounts, while Fresno State has largely been a second half team. This trend offers an interesting contrast in styles. </span></span></div></div></b></div></b></div></b><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"></span></b></span><br />
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<b>The Ole Miss tangible factor</b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Jonathan Cornell</b>: The senior from California has been a one man wrecking crew on defense. How the Bulldogs handle him could determine how well-oiled the offense can be. So far this season, Cornell has collected 27 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 2 pass break ups and 1 forced fumble. </span></div><div><b><br />
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</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Vaught-Hemingway Stadium: Home of the Rebels</span></b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Ole Miss is best known for having the best tailgating experience around in The Grove. Fans dress up and congregate in huge numbers, in a nice setting, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Grove_(Ole_Miss)">doing fun things</a>, apparently. </span><br />
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Vaught-Hemingway Stadium seats 60,580 fans. <a href="http://blog.philsteele.com/2010/08/09/2010s-homefield-edges/">According to Phil Steele's 2010 homefield advantage formula</a>, that number is part of what makes up a 3.75 point homefield advantage for the Rebels, good for 62nd-best in the country.<br />
In contrast, Fresno State's Bulldog Stadium is credited with a 4 point homefield advantage by Steele, 46th-best in the country.<br />
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The stadium does, however, possess a 48 ft x 84 ft video board, a $6 million dollar gem that should provide great high-definition replays of the SEC officiating crew's homer-jobs. The Rebels also play on an artificial FieldTurf surface, one of the few teams in the SEC to do so.<br />
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Bottom line: Fresno State has played in the toughest stadium's in the country, and Vaught-Hemingway isn't one of them. Noise won't be a factor, and intimidation won't be a factor. But at least the Fresno State fans making the trip to Oxford have a nice place tailgate right outside of it.</div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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</div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Injuries Schminjuries</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Out:</b></span></div><div><ul><li><b>Devon Wylie</b>: Wylie injured his foot in the opener, and has since had surgery to correct the problem.</li>
</ul><ul><li><b>Andrew Jackson</b>: Jack suffered a high ankle sprain against utah state and also had minor surgery.</li>
</ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Doubtful:</b></span></div><div><ul><li><b>Rashad Evans</b>: Shad has been nursing a hamstring injury all week. He's been practicing this week, but only minimally, and hasn't tested it with the same explosiveness he uses in games quite yet.</li>
</ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Questionable:</b></span></div><div><ul><li><b>Lorne Bell</b>: Bell appears to be making a quick recovery from a shoulder injury, also against the aggies. He says he'll be good to go, but coaches haven't confirmed it quite yet. He'll be evaluated in Mississippi when the team arrives to see if he's a go.</li>
</ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>In:</b></span><br />
<ul><li><b>Robbie Rouse</b>: Mighty Mouse has been practicing at full speed after taking much of the last two weeks off to recover from shoulder and ankle injuries. Rouse will be ready to go, and at best will share carries with A.J. Ellis and Tracy Slocum.</li>
</ul></div></div>DaCohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02019175335097954259noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-19731312331127454162010-09-16T23:33:00.000-07:002010-09-24T12:09:31.815-07:00FRESNO STATE (1-0) at Utah State (1-1)<div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_HO0-G13C0tI/TJMN9S9nY-I/AAAAAAAAAa8/BtGHVDoKw9A/s1600/CR2G0245.small.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517769315172443106" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_HO0-G13C0tI/TJMN9S9nY-I/AAAAAAAAAa8/BtGHVDoKw9A/s320/CR2G0245.small.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a> Bulldogs at Aggies<br />
Saturday, 5 p.m.<br />
Romney Stadium (25,513)<br />
<div align="center">TV: KAIL</div><br />
<div align="left"><strong>Quarterbacks</strong><br />
It’s far too early to talk about national stats leaders, but Fresno State senior QB Ryan Colburn (6-3, 220) leads the WAC and is second in the NCAA with a 208.1 passer rating after one game. It was well documented during fall camp that Colburn looked different — improved passer with more command — in practice and if the season-opening 28-14 win over two-time defending Big East champ Cincinnati is any indication, those observations were correct. Colburn was 18 of 24 for 247 yards, 4 touchdowns and an interception. Last year he was a manageable QB – this year he might be the type of QB who can carry a team to victory.<br />
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It’s widely known by now how lethal senior Diondre Borel (6-0, 190) can be, especially for a defense like Fresno State’s that has traditionally struggled against mobile QBs. And Borel is as mobile as they come – even on a ‘Dogs schedule that also includes Zach Collaros (Cincinnati), Jeremiah Masoli (Ole Miss) and Colin Kaepernick (Nevada). But Borel can also throw it, as his 596 yards and 3 touchdowns in two games this year shows. He’s completed 61% of his passes, but has tossed 3 picks. The Bulldogs’ defense is familiar with what Borel can do (he’s caused it fits two straight years) and have a lot of respect for his ability. Last year against the ‘Dogs, Borel threw for 240 yards and ran for 105. This game will go a long way toward determining which school has the better QB.<br />
<em><strong><span style="color: #999999;">Edge: Even</span></strong></em><br />
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<strong>Running Backs</strong><br />
The Bulldogs endured some tough-to-swallow news this week when Pat Hill announced starting RB sophomore Robbie Rouse (5-7, 185) won’t play on Saturday because of injury. Rouse had a disappointing opener, averaging just 2 yards per carry, but that may have been more the fault of the offensive line than Rouse. With one elusive sophomore sidelined, another elusive sophomore gets his first career start in A.J. Ellis (5-11, 180). Ellis had 1 carry for 6 yards out of the “hound” formation (Fresno State’s wildcat) in the opener, and has just 3 runs for 13 yards in his career. He spent most of camp as the fourth-string back, but is a danger in the passing game, especially out of shotgun formation. Thanks to being healthier than his teammates on the unit, he’s shot up the depth chart and will have a chance to emerge as an every-down runner. That said, expect senior Tracy Slocum (5-10, 205), a Fresno native who transferred from Cal, to get his first action in Bulldog Red. He sat out the opener with turf toe but is expected back for Utah State. Slocum rushed for 125 yards in 2008 for Cal. Slocum’s power running game should be the perfect ingredient to mix in with Ellis’ speed. Sophomore Michael Harris (5-10, 200) is the other back to keep an eye on. He’s been a stud the past two years in scrimmages, and should see his most significant playing time. Harris had 11 carries for 26 yards against UC Davis last year.<br />
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Utah State also has been hit hard by injury at RB, as returning 1,000-yard rusher Robert Turbin (138 yards against the ‘Dogs last year) is out for the season. There’s no doubt the Aggies would like to establish the run on Saturday, something they haven’t been as successful with as they’d like. But the cupboard’s not empty – in fact, it’s running back by committee. Senior starter Michael Smith (5-9, 195) leads the team with 134 yards rushing (6.7 per carry) and senior Derrvin Speight (5-9, 209) isn’t far behind with 121 yards (4.2 per carry). Second-string sophomore Kerwynn Williams (5-9, 185) has just 32 yards on 7 rushes.<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: #999999;">Edge: Even</span></em></strong><br />
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<strong>Receivers</strong><br />
The injury bug hit Fresno State even harder at WR, though there’s more depth. Senior Devon Wylie (5-9, 185), the fastest WR in school history with a 4.25 40-yard dash, had foot surgery and could miss half or all of the season. Wylie made two spectacular catches in the opener, including a 28-yard, leaping touchdown in double coverage. The most comparable replacement option, as far as skill set, is true freshman Jalen Saunders (5-9, 160), who had an 18-yard grab in his first college game. Saunders doesn’t quite have Wylie speed (in the 40 at least), but he’ll be one of the school’s fastest ever by the time his career is over, and is already a major deep threat. Redshirt freshman A.J. Johnson (6-0, 180) and junior J.J. Stallworth (5-11, 185) are the other options. Neither has a college catch yet, but Hill is very high on Johnson’s potential and Stallworth has the bloodlines (younger brother of NFL’s Donte Stallworth). The two sure things for the ‘Dogs will be junior Jamel Hamler (6-2, 195) and sophomore Rashad Evans (5-9, 180). Hamler had a highlight touchdown grab in the opener, jumping backward in traffic in the corner of the end zone, and Evans sprinted up the seam for a 59-yard score of his own. The two combined for 9 catches and 124 yards. Hamler was second on the team with 503 yards and 5 touchdowns last season.<br />
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Junior Utah State WR Matt Austin (6-2, 198) was expected to be Borel’s top target this season but was lost to a knee injury against Oklahoma after making 1 catch for 59 yards. Austin was predicted as WAC newcomer of the year by Blue Ribbon’s preseason magazine. Now, the Aggies will roll with sophomore Dontel Watkins (6-2, 193) and junior Xavier Martin (5-11, 195), who lead the team with 139 and 114 yards respectively. Each had a touchdown. Watch also for freshman Travis Reynolds (6-0, 169) who has 7 catches for 70 yards. This group came up with some big catches against Oklahoma’s secondary, but may have tougher sledding against a Bulldogs unit that looks much improved in press coverage and tackling.<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: red;">Edge: Bulldogs</span></em></strong><br />
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<strong>Offensive Line</strong><br />
The biggest shock of the opener was the line’s poor performance in the running game, allowing the team to rush for just 1.6 yards per carry – when’s the last time that happened? With five returning starters, and a boatload of depth returning, don’t expect to see that again. The line has three legit first-team All-WAC candidates in RG Andrew Jackson (6-6, 295), RT Kenny Wiggins (6-7, 315) and C Joey Bernardi (6-2, 285). Jackson was a first-team honoree last season and is an All-America candidate, while Wiggins earned second-team All-WAC.<br />
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Utah State’s line is holding up well after two games, helping the rushing attack average 4.2 yards per carry and allowing just 4 sacks. And that’s with two seniors, two juniors and a freshman, Tyler Larsen (6-4, 298), starting at center. The biggest question is whether the Aggies tackles can slow Fresno State’s edge pass rush. And Larsen will have his hands full with the Bulldogs’ big, veteran interior linemen.<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: red;">Edge: Bulldogs</span></em></strong><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_HO0-G13C0tI/TJMOc4kF5MI/AAAAAAAAAbE/UFdqugMniYM/s1600/CR2G0483.small.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517769857841882306" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_HO0-G13C0tI/TJMOc4kF5MI/AAAAAAAAAbE/UFdqugMniYM/s320/CR2G0483.small.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 214px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 320px;" /></a><strong>Defensive Line</strong><br />
If the defensive front continues to play with the type of tenacity it had against Cincinnati, the Bulldogs are on their way to a big, big season. Junior DT Logan Harrell (6-2, 275) had one of the most unsuspected breakout performances in Hill’s tenure, recording 3.5 sacks and 4.5 tackles for loss against mobile Cincinnati QB Zach Collaros. Senior DE Chris Carter (6-2, 240) was just as ruthless with 3 sacks and 3 tackles for loss. Both also forced fumbles. Carter will be a mismatch for his counterpart all season with his speed off the edge, and Harrell should have opportunities with the amount of attention senior DT Cornell Banks (6-3, 310) will command at scrimmage. And if senior DE Chris Lewis (6-3, 260) plays with a high motor, this front four will rival Boise State’s for best in the WAC. A leaner Lewis added 0.5 sacks and 3 tackles in the opener.<br />
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To put into perspective how well the Bulldogs front four played in their opener, Utah State’s front four combines for just 1.5 sacks – less than two individual Bulldogs have on their own in one game. Though senior DT Sean Enesi (5-11, 286) is a team captain, his battery mate senior DT Daniel Gurrola (6-1, 282) has been the most impressive so far with 8 tackles and a sack. Enesi has four tackles, but will try to clog the middle against a Bulldogs’ offensive line that owns a tremendous size advantage.<br />
<em><strong><span style="color: red;">Edge: Bulldogs</span></strong></em><br />
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<strong>Linebackers</strong><br />
Another breakout occurred at LB with a speedier, lean sophomore SLB Travis Brown (6-2, 235), a former four-star recruit who played as a reserve as a true freshman last season. Brown was second on the team with 8 tackles in the opener, including a sack for an 8-yard loss out of zone coverage. His closing speed in reacting to developing plays is night-and-day from last season. And, of course, Utah State will have to deal with returning first-team All-WAC senior MLB Ben Jacobs (6-4, 240), who had 7 tackles against Cincinnati and has more than 300 in his career.<br />
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Another hard-hit injury position could be LB for the Aggies, with standout junior Junior Keiaho (6-3, 243) in doubt for Saturday. Keiaho has 5 tackles, a sack and a pick this year. Junior rover Bobby Wagner (6-1, 230) leads the team with 18 tackles and junior Kyle Gallagher (6-0, 214) is tied for second with 13 stops.<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: red;">Edge: Bulldogs</span></em></strong><br />
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<strong>Defensive Backs</strong><br />
Another position, another breakout performance – and this one was predicted many months ago by The Bounce. Sophomore CB Jermaine Thomas (5-11, 190) emerged as the team’s first true lockdown corner in years. He’s strong enough to play physical, press coverage that ‘Dogs fans aren’t used to seeing and had 5 tackles in his first career start. When his man makes a catch, Thomas makes the tackle – and quick. His own team often avoided throwing his way throughout fall camp scrimmage situations. And how ‘bout senior CB Desia Dunn (5-9, 195) showing he could get up to scrimmage and play physical at times too? Dunn led the team with 11 tackles and delivered the biggest hit of the night, popping his own helmet off in the process. The ‘Dogs are very strong at safety as well, with the run stuffer and hardest hitter in senior FS Lorne Bell (5-10, 210) and sophomore SS Phillip Thomas (6-1, 205), who has good enough coverage skills to play nickelback. Thomas is an upgrade over the departed Moses Harris, who was a two-time All-WAC honoree.<br />
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A local native has emerged as one of Utah State’s top CBs in senior Curtis Marsh (6-1, 193) of Golden Valley High-Merced. He has 8 tackles along with senior CB Chris Randle (5-11, 187), who also has 0.5 sacks and an interception. The Aggies have 4 picks on the young season. Junior SS Walter McClenton (5-11, 193) is tied for second on the team with 13 tackles. The Aggies like to play physical, pressure defense against the pass, a characteristic of coach Gary Andersen, and will challenge the Bulldogs wideouts early.<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: red;">Edge: Bulldogs</span></em></strong><br />
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<strong>Special Teams</strong><br />
With Wylie out in the return game, true freshman WR Isaiah Burse (5-11, 180) is listed as kick returner along with Hamler. Hamler is likely to be used as a blocker. Evans will assume punt return duties (as he should have in the first place). After one game, the ‘Dogs have to be pleased with P Andrew Shapiro, who averaged 40 yards on 8 punts, including 2 inside the 20. It was also encouraging to see LB Kyle Knox flying downfield in kick coverage and making big tackles. That enthusiasm is contagious. Junior K Kevin Goessling didn’t attempt a field goal in the opener, but Utah State fans remember him well for nailing a game-winning 58-yarder (Fresno State all-time record) in the Bulldogs’ last trip to Logan in 2008. Goessling is up for the Lou Groza Award once again this year as the nation’s top kicker.<br />
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Utah State boasts perhaps the WAC’s most powerful punter in senior Peter Caldwell (6-4, 228), who averages 46.3 yards per attempt and has booted 4 of 9 punts more than 50 yards and placed 4 inside the 20. Caldwell is 2 of 4 on field goals, with a long of 40 yards. Kerwynn Williams averages 28.7 yards per kick return, and 11 yards per punt return. It’ll be interesting to keep an eye on him as the Bulldogs shut down Cincinnati in kick and punt coverage. If the game comes down to a field goal, it’ll be the Bulldogs’ advantage.<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: red;">Edge: Bulldogs</span></em></strong><br />
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<strong>Coaching</strong><br />
Fresno State coach Pat Hill is the grandfather of WAC coaches in his 14th season at Fresno State, and has won 101 games. He has a ton of respect for Utah State after seeing them play the ‘Dogs so closely the past two seasons and should have the team amped up for the game. Utah State coach Gary Andersen has this program looking better than it ever has in the WAC – which has never been good – in just his second season. His a defensive-minded coach and nearly led the Aggies to a season-opening win at Oklahoma.<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: red;">Edge: Bulldogs</span></em></strong><br />
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<strong>Intangibles</strong><br />
If ever there were some intangibles to talk about – whew! With Fresno State accepting an offer to join the Mountain West Conference, Utah State and the other remaining WAC schools feel betrayed. And the ‘Dogs better believe they’ll use it for motivation, and the fans will feed off it in Logan. Romney Stadium seats only 25,513, but the students are great fans at Utah State and will make plenty of noise to create a hostile road environment. That said, Fresno State is well aware of how dangerous the Aggies’ offense can be, and won’t be caught off guard. There’s a lot on the line for the Bulldogs, who could very well move into the Top 25 with a win (they’re currently 27th in the AP poll).<br />
<strong><em><span style="color: #663366;">Edge: Aggies</span></em></strong> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><em>**Photos by Cary Edmondson</em></div></div>FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5502670745916245555.post-33014332999631629232010-09-16T21:42:00.000-07:002010-09-16T23:53:48.595-07:00Ryan Mathews is the next American IdolWith this sterling rendition of "Fight Varsity," the storied Fresno State fight song, how could he not be!? Fast forward to 1:16 to see Mathews and avoid the sucky parts of the video.<br /><br /><object width="320" height="193"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cKC8srWDzJg&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cKC8srWDzJg&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="320" height="193"></embed></object><br /><br />Now, strike up the music:<br /><br /><object width="320" height="193"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/67J-sS9nz30?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/67J-sS9nz30?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="320" height="193"></embed></object>FSDogs1http://www.blogger.com/profile/09476196337163506808noreply@blogger.com0