| | By Ed Graney
Special to ESPN.com
New Mexico Lobos
1999 record: 4-7, 3-4.
Coach: Rocky Long, third season, 7-16.
Starters returning: 12 (5 offense, 7 defense).
Outlook:
Life after Brian Urlacher begins at New Mexico. The former All-America defensive star and first-round NFL draft pick was the one bright spot in Long's first two years as coach. Now, the Lobos hope some of Urlacher's toughness and attitude rubbed off enough to make the defense better without him. It could happen.
Mike Barnett (112 tackles last season) is the leader at middle linebacker and the entire secondary returns. The Lobos will gamble less out of a 3-3-5 scheme, hoping safeties like senior Rantie Harper (who assumed Urlacher's rover spot the last week of spring ball) and sophomore Desmar Black have big years.
Offense is another matter. The Lobos have run everything from the West Coast attack to the option under Long, apparently settling on something in between. There is a new coordinator (Dan Dodd) and quarterback (whoever emerges between JUCO transfers Rudy Caamano and Jeremy Denson). Gone are wideouts Germany Thompson and Martinez Williams, who combined for 99 catches and 1,161 yards last year. Illinois transfer Larry Davis (5-10, 190) is one option who can also hurt opponents returning kicks. The line returns just one starter in sophomore center Rashad McClure (6-8, 285).
Keep an eye on:
Fullback Ted Iacenda. The senior who began his career at USC saw action in all 11 games last year. A versatile player who can line up at tailback, fullback or receiver, he ranked third on the team with 27 catches for 303 yards and three scores. The Lobos need production out of their backs as young quarterbacks develop, meaning Iacenda (6-0, 225) will be called upon for both leadership and results.
It's a good season if:
The Lobos match their conference win total of three from last year. Moving the ball will be difficult, although every non-conference game is likely winnable except one (Oregon State in Albuquerque). Bottom line: The Lobos to most opponents are like a group of 5-year olds dressed for Halloween. Nothing really scares you about them.
Ed Graney covers college football for the San Diego Union Tribune | |
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