The returning starters on Weber State's offense have already proven in years past that they can run, throw and block with the best in the Big Sky Conference. Catching the ball, on the other hand, is a whole different story this year.
Though personnel change is obviously common, the turnover in the Wildcats' receiving corps from last season is especially conspicuous. In 1995, WSU had the top trio of receivers in the nation with first team All-American Pokey Eckford, Joel Pelagio-Williams and Norvel Young. Matching, or even coming close to, their productivity level will likely determine the fate of the '96 Wildcats.That's not going to be an easy task, either. Consider this: the five returning wide receivers and tight ends from last year combined for one more reception than Eckford had by himself - 78 to 77.
Two of quarterback Roger Cook's favorite targets will be tight ends Lance Mimnaugh and Cam Quayle, who together had 50 receptions last season but just one touchdown.
Though untested for the most part, WSU's receiving corps has plenty of potential and blazing speed which could help make up for the inexperience. WSU's top returning receiver is junior Taurus McGhee, who had 16 catches for 270 yards and a pair of TDs. Senior Kyhaunn Woods and redshirt freshman Richard Clarke (if he's academically eligible) are the two other projected starters.
Here's a look how Weber stacks up at the other positions:
QUARTERBACKS
Cook, a 6-5, 215-pounder, returns for his senior season after playing very well in four starts at the end of '95. While at Dixie College, he was named the NJCAA offensive player of the year after the '93 season.
Though Cook lacks some mobility, he's an accurate and patient thrower with good range. He'll be a balancing factor with the inexperienced receivers.
"Cook had an excellent camp and looks to be on top of his game," said WSU coach Dave Arslanian.
Weber's No. 2 QB has a familiar name. Sophomore John Fassel, son of former Utah coach Jim Fassel, transferred to WSU this past spring after Pacific dropped its program. He was very impressive during the spring game and will be a strong backup.
RUNNING BACKS
The Wildcats aren't returning a starter, but they do have their best rusher back from last year's squad in Clemente Sainten. The 5-10, 195-pound Oregon State transfer led the 'Cats in rushing with 625 yards on 145 carries and six TDs. He's also a good receiving running back. JC transfer Marlon Pierre (6-1, 225) should contribute immediately with his physical style.
"People are going to get real tired of tackling those two," said Arslanian.
OFFENSIVE LINE
Size and experience will be Weber's strengths in the trenches. Co-captain Kyle Stephens (6-7, 295) will start at right tackle for the third consecutive season. The 'Cats are beefy at left tackle also with 6-8, 320-pound Kris Nelson starting.
Senior Scott Hale (6-4, 280) is a very versatile lineman and played two positions last year. Right guard Trevor Lynk (6-2, 310) is healthy again after injuring his hand last season. Also back is junior Kris Jackson, a 6-2, 260-pound center who missed all of 1995 with a knee injury.
SPECIAL TEAMS
The Wildcats will have a trump card in their kicking game. Sophomore Scott Shields returns after an incredible freshman season in which he earned second team All-American honors for making 16-of-18 field goals. He'll also handle the punting duties as well as start at free safety.
Sainten and sophomore Bryan Rubin will return kickoffs, while McGhee is the punt-return specialist.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Report Card: WEBER STATE VS. BIG SKY
DEFENSIVE LINEMEN B
LINEBACKERS B+
DEFENSIVE BACKS A-
QUARTERBACK A-
RUNNING BACKS B+
WIDE RECEIVERS C+
OFFENSIVE LINEMEN B+
SPECIAL TEAMS A-
OVERALL B+