Southern Utah University enters a new football era this season, beginning competition as an NCAA Division I-AA contender in the newly-created American West Conference. Head Coach Jack Bishop is optimistic his squad will enter the era with a bang.
Even with a tough road schedule and just four games at home, SUU was picked to take the AWC title by the organization's coaches. The other four conference members are from California at UC Davis, Cal Poly SLO, Cal State Northridge and Sacramento State."We've got a tough schedule, but I think it will be a good one," Bishop said. "I think we have an excellent chance to take the first conference championship."
Bishop's confidence lies with one of the deepest offensive teams in his 12 years at SUU. Returning starters include the entire front line and a slug of talented runners and receivers.
Calling signals will be sophomore Rick Robbins, who led the team through his first season to a 6-5 record. The Millard High School standout will rely on a strong backfield, including Daniel Harris, who ended last season with 613 yards and seven TDs as the team's second-leading rusher. Also pushing for backfield time will be Adrian Steen, Benji Hoskins, Curtis Lindsay and Joe Dodgeson, as well as Dixie transfer Wilson Kavauka ahd Cedar High's Andy Nelson.
SUU's receiving corps is also stacked, with Aundra Johnson and Austin Day vying for tight end, and wide receivers Kevin Cuthbertson and Daniel Rederford. Add to that list Melvin Lowe, Tony Evans, Anthony Johnson and Sean Jones, who are all ready to step in, Bishop says.
The T-Birds' main concern is a young defense. Having lost a good share of last year's 26th-ranked squad, SUU's success may fall on some smaller shoulders this year. Bishop says his defensive team will have to rely on speed and teamwork over size.
Not to be overlooked on the defensive end, however, are all-conference linebacker Jared Hunsaker and lineman Kris Kruger. Hunsaker led the team with 103 tackles last year, and Kruger brought down 51. Cornerbacks John Banks and Randy Roskelly are returning starters, along with deep backs Duston Connaughton and Joe Straw.
Seven place-kickers turned out for spring practice, led by Jason Parsons. The T-Birds have four hopefuls to punt.
SUU begins its season Sept. 4 at home against Northern Arizona.