LOGAN — Year two of the Gary Andersen era at Utah State opens Monday with fall camp and a load of questions and a fair amount of uncharacteristic optimism.
After finishing the 2009 season with a 4-8 record but an impressive offense that ranked No. 12 in the nation with 439.3 yards per game, the Aggies hope the momentum and confidence they built a year ago takes another step toward a bowl game this year.
"We're excited to get going. Our complete recruiting class is here and ready to go," Andersen said. "I think our kids have done a nice job of preparing through all of their hard work in summer workouts, from what I've been told."
The Aggies return 20 starters but also boast a strong class of recruits and several players who redshirted last year and will challenge for starting positions and serious playing time.
A full offseason of conditioning drills has left Utah State bigger and stronger in most areas, but also came with a few unexpected bumps along the way..
Junior running back Robert Turbin and senior receiver Stanley Morrison will not be among the 45 letterman taking the field this morning. Turbin blew out his ACL during a simple running drill during the winter and may not return this year. Morrison broke his foot and will not play in 2010.
Still, Andersen said he's excited to see the team's strength.
"We'll get a full evaluation of how much work they did over the summer in the first couple practices," Andersen said, "but the kids and coaches are excited to start fall camp and prepare for the upcoming season."
The Aggies will continue practiing until the September 4 season opener at Oklahoma. A public scrimmage and Aggie Family Fun Day has been scheduled on Merlin Olsen Field at Romney Stadium on August 21 at 1 p.m.
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