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Three to Tango San Diego State ('98: 7-5)
The Plot
The quarterback situation is still under discussion. JUCO transfer Jack Hawley, who appeared to have an open shot at the starter's job at the start of spring practice, did not step up and wrest the No. 1 spot away from incumbent junior Brian Russell, who had a solid spring after a poor bowl performance. Overall, the offense is clearly a bright spot, with nine starters returning, while the defense returns six starters, including an All-America candidate in Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila. The Aztecs should be one of three teams competing for the Mountain West's first crown. The DirectorTed Tollner -- 6th year, 32-26; 58-46-1 overall
StarringWR/KR Damon Gourdine -- Tiny (5'7", 160) senior ranked second in the nation with 18.4 yards per punt return and led the team with 680 yards receiving.DE Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila -- The two-time WAC first-teamer made seven sacks last season (and has 21 in his career) and is an All-America candidate.
Co-starringRB Jonas Lewis -- Led the Aztecs in rushing for the last two seasons (958 yards, 4.7 YPC in '98) but sat out spring practice after re-injuring his hamstring.LB Joe Mayo -- Made 86 tackles (second on the team) from his MLB spot and is the only returning starter among the linebackers. Why it will workSDSU, with some production out of Russell, can score with the best teams in the new conference. And the Aztecs, one of the Mountain West's top three teams, face the two others -- BYU and Air Force -- at home.
Why it won'tThe quarterback situation appears resolved on paper, but a few shaky starts from Russell could really disrupt the offense.
Our critics' review* * * |
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