Senior Eric Morris looks to take over the return duties and to be involved with the offense more. Especially in his new Elf Formation. Todd Walker could be the slot receiver for Tech and should play a bigger part in the offense other receivers as Detron Lewis and Tramain Swindall should see more catches.
The offensive line was strong last year as they kept Harrell upright most of the time. With Rylan Reed’s return and leaders like Stephen Hamby and Shawn Byrnes, they should be stronger than last year.
Since Ruffin McNeil took the reigns as defensive coordinator, the defensive line has improved tremendously. They came up with nine sacks in the spring game and have been intense in practice.
They should be even better this season with all the starters returning. Junior Rajon Henley and sophomore Cody Whitlock look to be the leaders on the defensive line, as both had strong performances in last season’s Gator Bowl. Brandon Sesay and Brandon Williams could also be threats for opposing offensive lines. Look for the defense to stop more runners in the backfield and produce more sacks.
The linebackers look to be strength for the defense. Junior Marlon Williams and sophomore Brian Duncan look to keep opponents from gaining first downs. Freshman Sam Fehoko should have more playing time this season. Fehoko came up with an interception in the spring game.
Opposing wide receivers could see less catches with Tech’s secondary. Sophomore Jamar Wall showed he could make plays in his freshman season and should be a bigger force in 2008. Senior Darcel McBath looks to be the leader for secondary at safety. Receivers and running backs should expect to be hit hard by McBath.
The Red Raiders special teams will have mostly new faces this season. Clutch kicker Alex Trlica graduated after two game winning field goals in his last two seasons and the game tying field goal in the Insight Bowl. Senior Cory Fowler and freshman Donnie Carona competed for the job in the off season.
Jonathan LaCour returns as starting punter and showed his determination after getting a punt off after a botched snap in last season’s Gator Bowl. With Danny Amendola, graduating and walking on with Cowboys look for Eric Morris to return punts. Edward Britton and Detron Lewis should be returning kicks again for the Red Raiders.
Therefore, if the Red Raiders are going to have a big season, this is the year to do it. After this season, it could be tougher with lots of key talent graduating or leaving early for the NFL Draft.
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