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| Monday, May 7 Receivers a question mark in the spring By Brad Edwards Special to ESPN.com |
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Conference record: 7-1 (t-1st) Returning starters Offense: 5 Defense: 5 Kickers: 1 2000 statistical leaders (* - returners) Rushing: Ken Simonton* (1,559 yds) Passing: Jonathon Smith* (2,773 yds) Receiving: Chad Johnson (806 yds) Tackles: Darnell Robinson (80) Sacks: LaDairis Jackson (11.5) Interceptions: Jake Cookus* (5) What's new Who will Jonathan Smith throw the ball to? None of the players vying for receiver spots caught more than three passes a year ago. The returning receivers caught only eight of the team's 172 completions in 2000. The returning leader in receptions is RB Patrick McCall with six catches. Battling it out Jonathan Smith missed the entire spring with a broken bone in his non-throwing hand, which allowed Dennis Erickson to focus on finding a solid backup QB. The frontrunner is senior Nick Stremick, who is the only candidate with playing experience. Redshirt freshmen Ryan Kanekeberg and Adam Rothenfluh showed potential, however, and will remain in contention for the spot when practice resumes in the fall. Eye catcher: WR Shawn Kintner The 6-3, 204-pound junior caught 11 passes as a freshman but only two last year. This spring, though, he ran good routes and caught a lot of passes to earn the top spot on the depth chart at split end. He is a solid possession receiver and also has good leadership skills. Budding star: LB Richard Seigler Started as a freshman last season and recorded 72 tackles (2nd on the team), as well as three interceptions. He is undersized for a middle linebacker (215 pounds) but makes up for it with great speed and instincts. His aggressiveness provides an emotional spark for the rest of the defense. Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year. |
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