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"I can't think of a better situation in terms of beginning my head-coaching career," said Kragthorpe, who inherits a program that went 7-28 in three seasons under former coach Keith Burns. "I've always dreamed of being a head football coach in the collegiate ranks and this is an answered prayer. There are some challenges in terms of where we are right now, but we are going to build a foundation here based on character, class and commitment." With 43 returning letterwinners, including seven starters on offense and five starters on defense, Tulsa has the opportunity to lay the cornerstones of that foundation this season. OFFENSIVE KEYS:
Kragthorpe was instrumental in the resurgence of Drew Bledsoe's career with the Bills. Now, the former Texas A&M offensive coordinator and veteran college assistant will try to work his magic on a Tulsa offense that struggled to get on track in 2002. While Kragthorpe doesn't plan to name starters at any position until late August, he was able to evaluate key players like running back Eric Richardson and receivers Romby Bryant and Montiese Culton during spring drills. DEFENSIVE KEYS: The secondary returns most of its key players and held its own in the pass-happy WAC last season. However, opponents didn't have to pass to beat the Golden Hurricane, as the team's run defense was one of the worst in the nation.Kragthorpe lured defensive coordinator Todd Graham away from West Virginia in an attempt to plug the gaping holes in the line. He has installed the 3-3 stack defense that the Mountaineers used to finish 30th nationally against the run last season. By switching to the rare defensive scheme, the Golden Hurricane will try to limit what opposing offenses can do by utilizing an attacking approach that "fits us and fits our personnel," according to Kragthorpe. Jorma Bailey likely will be the leader of the attack, as the former running back totaled 71 tackles from his linebacker position last fall. SPECIAL TEAMS: Both primary specialists return to the fold and should progress after a year of experience. Punter Cort Moffitt averaged 40.2 yards per attempt after transferring from New Mexico. Kicker Brad DeVault was steady inside 40 yards (6-of-8) and hopes to improve his accuracy on extra points (11-of-17 last season).FINAL ANALYSIS: Tulsa hasn't had a winning season since going 10-2 and winning the Freedom Bowl in 1991. However, there is reason for optimism as Kragthorpe's tenure begins. The arrival of the offensive-minded head coach should bring the excitement (and fans) back to Skelly Stadium, if he can convince his players that the recent turmoil they've experienced is a thing of the past.The loss of Gooch will be tough to recover from, but Kragthorpe hopes his recruiting class can be a partial solution to that problem. Tulsa's defense must improve dramatically for the Golden Hurricane to improve in the win column. • Click here for complete index of 2003 team previews
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