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| Wednesday, May 9 Offensive line being rebuilt By Brad Edwards Special to ESPN.com |
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Conference record: 1-6 (9th) Returning starters Offense: 8 Defense: 5 Kickers: 1 2000 statistical leaders (* - returners) Rushing: Michael Wallace (1,157 yds) Passing: Joe Gerena (779 yds) Receiving: Omari Thompson* (451 yds) Tackles: Brian Zickefoose* (128) Sacks: Zickefoose* (3) Interceptions: Zickefoose* (3) What's new The offensive line is being rebuilt, with only one starter returning at the same position from a year ago. Left tackle Paul Henderson (a second-team C-USA selection) is the lone returner at his spot, while fellow starter Dustin Plumadore moves from guard to center. Overall, though, the line is more athletic and better suited to pull and pass protect. Battling it out A pair of seniors with differing styles are competing for the quarterback job. Chad Jenkins, who started at the beginning of last year before rolling an ankle, is more of a scrambler, while drop-back passer Curtis Zervic has also gained attention. Jenkins had the better spring and has the lead entering the fall. Eye catcher: RB Marcellus Chapman The sophomore did not appear in a varsity game last season but turned some heads with several long runs during spring scrimmages. Chapman is a small, quick runner and will challenge Josh Holden for the starting job. Budding star: OLB Ben Woodruff After starting his career as a quarterback, Woodruff played in all 11 games at free safety last year and recorded 23 tackles. This spring, he was moved to linebacker, where he impressed with his athleticism and coverage skills. He is listed as a starter entering fall workouts. Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year. |
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