San Diego State Aztecs
2000 overall record: 3-8
Conference record: 3-4 (t-5th)
Returning starters
Offense: 11
Defense: 8
Kickers: 1
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Larry Ned* (357 yds)
Passing: Lon Sheriff* (2,163 yds)
Receiving: J.R. Tolver* (808 yds)
Tackles: Jomar Butler* (112)
Sacks: Dylan Robles* and Amon Arnold* (4 each)
Interceptions: Will Demps* and Donte Gamble* (2 each)
What's new
In a welcome change from a year ago, SDSU has a lot of experience on defense. Last year, the Aztecs returned only one starter, but that defense spent a lot of time on the field and held its own in game situations. This year, there are eight returning starters, including three all-conference performers.
Battling it out
The cornerback position opposite Ricky Sharp is still up-for-grabs with several candidates to win the spot. Redshirt freshman Marviel Underwood has great talent but no experience. Donte Gamble started six games last year but has a size disadvatage. John Kent also has experience, having started two games in 2000. The x-factor is true freshman Hubert Caliste, who was an all-state performer in Louisiana with good speed and size.
Eye catcher: G Zac LaMonda
LaMonda was the starting center entering last fall but sustained an injured arch before the first game and missed the entire season. When he was moved to guard this spring, coaches weren't sure if he would be recovered well enough to contribute. He surprised everyone with excellent workouts, however, and is bracketed as a potential starter at quick guard.
Budding star: LB Jomar Butler
Just two years ago, Butler lost his scholarship after finding himself academically ineligible for the '99 season. But he stayed in school, paid his own way and walked back on in the fall of 2000. He earned a spot as a backup linebacker and was in the starting lineup by game three. Butler went on to lead the team in tackles, including three games with more than 15 stops. If he stays healthy, he should be one of better defensive players in the conference this season.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
