IN THIS SECTION… 2004 Season Preview ...... 14-19 2004 Capsule Outlook ...... 20 Personnel Breakdown ...... 21 2004 Alphabetical Roster ...... 22-23 2004 Numerical Roster ...... 24-25 2004 Preseason Depth Chart ...... 26 2004 OUTLOOK

Michigan State will build its 2004 offense around a receiver corps that features three returning starters, including Kyle Brown who had 29 catches for 481 yards and three touchdowns in 2003.

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Michigan State returns 16 starters overall Dowdell, a fifth-year senior, has appeared in 16 POSITION-BY-POSITION BREAKDOWN from last year’s 8-5 team, including seven on games during his career, including six starting Second-year head coach John L. Smith takes a offense, seven on defense and two specialists. assignments. The three-year letterman has con- position-by-position look at the 2004 Spartans. The losses on offense are small in quantity but nected on 126-of-233 passes (.541) for 1,513 big in quality. Gone is second-team All-Big Ten yards, 12 TDs and six interceptions. He completed quarterback Jeff Smoker, who recorded 10 200- 24-of-48 throws (.500) for 219 yards, two TDs and yard passing games in 2003, along with three of The biggest challenge on offense is filling the two interceptions in four spring scrimmages. the offensive linemen that protected him. shoes of record-setting quarterback Jeff Smoker, “I’m worried about the lack of leadership on who completed 302-of-488 throws for 3,395 yards SMITH TALKS ABOUT THE : offense,” Michigan State head coach John L. and 21 touchdowns as a senior. Smoker led the Big “There’s no question that 2004 will be a transi- Smith said. “I’m sure the uncertainty at quarter- Ten in passing (261.2 yards per game) and total tion year on offense because it’s impossible to back contributes to the situation some, but we offense (252.2 ypg.) in 2003. A four-year starter, replace a seasoned veteran like Jeff Smoker need guys at other positions to step forward and Smoker won 21 of 37 career starts – the best total overnight. Jeff provided the one building block in take ownership.” in Spartan history. the spread offense because he gave us an opportu- On defense, the losses include some of the After serving as Smoker’s understudy last sea- nity to win every Saturday. 2003 team’s top playmakers, including linebacker son, (6-3, 225, So.) is the top candi- “This quarterback race will be determined on the Mike Labinjo (11.5 tackles for losses), defensive date to take over the starting role at quarterback field during preseason camp. I’m looking forward to end Greg Taplin (10 sacks) and defensive tackle in 2004. Stanton, who completed 2-of-3 passes watching these guys compete for the job. Matthias Askew (11 tackles for losses). for 39 yards in four brief appearances last year, “Drew Stanton got a little game experience last Despite those personnel losses, the Spartans participated in only non-contact drills during year as Smoker’s backup. I really like the way Drew return seven starters from a defensive unit that spring practice while continuing to rehab from takes care of business on and off the field. He led the Big Ten in sacks (45 for 299 yards), reconstructive knee surgery. He suffered the knee brings a level of calmness to the playing field. Drew takeaways (29) and interceptions (15). The injury covering a punt in the first quarter of the doesn’t do anything flashy, but he’s productive. He Spartans also ranked among the NCAA leaders against Nebraska. simply has a knack for moving the football. (27th) in rushing defense, allowing only 124.8 Other contenders for the starting job at quarter- “Drew is a great student of the game and even yards per game. back include Stephen Reaves (6-1, 206, R-Fr.) and though he didn’t take any live reps during the “I really like the way our defense runs to the Damon Dowdell (6-1, 222, Sr.). spring, he took plenty of mental reps. He has a football,” Smith said. “We don’t have to coax Reaves, who took the bulk of the snaps with solid understanding of the offensive system and a those guys any more because they know good the No. 1 offense during spring drills, completed great feel for knowing where to go with the foot- things happen when they fly to the ball. 49-of-90 throws (.544) for 472 yards, two touch- ball. The injury probably has forced Drew to “The defense will have to carry the team over downs and five interceptions in four spring scrim- become more of a pure passer. the first half of the season until the offense mages. The left-hander hit 15-of-26 passes for “Stephen Reaves made great strides during matures. We must come out of the blocks with a 184 yards in the final spring scrimmage while spring ball. We threw a ton of material at him and few wins.” directing four scoring drives. PREVIEW

Fifth-year senior Damon Dowdell expects to compete against Drew After serving as Jeff Smoker’s understudy last season, Drew Red-shirt freshman Stephen Reaves showed flashes of brilliance Stanton and Stephen Reaves for the starting job at quarterback in Stanton ranks as the top candidate to take over the starting role during spring practice, completing 15-of-26 passes for 184 yards 2004. Dowdell, who has six career starts to his credit, has pro- at quarterback in 2004. in the final scrimmage. duced three career 200-yard passing games. 2004 SEASON

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Junior Agim Shabaj again figures to be a key weapon in Michigan by the end of the spring, he was beginning to let the State’s offensive playbook in 2004. Shabaj led the team in recep- ed to get on the field because of his attitude and offense work for him. He’s an extremely competitive tions with 57 for 692 yards and five TDs in 2003. toughness. I really like his demeanor because he kid and at times, he’s his own worst enemy. wants to battle on every snap. Stephen’s got such a great release that he has to “I’m expecting big things from William fight the urge to throw the ball downfield. He’s still Whitticker. He’s back in the starting lineup and learning that there’s nothing wrong with dumping now, it’s time for him to produce on a consistent the ball off to a running back for a 6- or 7-yard basis and exert himself as a leader. If this unit gain, instead of throwing the ball up for grabs into is going to reach it’s full potential, William is coverage downfield. He’s a rookie, so it’s going to going to have to play a significant role in mold- take some time for him to learn the importance of ing it together. taking care of the football. “Sean Poole is another senior that has to step up “Stephen has the ability to ad-lib plays and to the plate and deliver consistently. get out of trouble when the pocket breaks down. “I look around and see some talented, but I hate to stereotype but like most lefties, he has inexperienced offensive linemen. Mike Gyetvai the ability to make big plays out of nothing. He has a chance to be an impact player right now has all the physical tools and I believe that he’s and before it’s all said and done, he could going to be a good player. become a great football player. I think he has “Damon Dowdell displayed a lot of maturity dur- what it takes physically and mentally to excel at ing the spring. Damon became focused on his obli- his position. gations away from football and produced in the “Pete Clifford is another promising young player. classroom, so he’s earned the opportunity to com- Pete has made great progress, especially in terms pete for the position. He got limited reps during the of improving his footwork. And his body has com- spring but I liked what I saw from Damon in terms pletely changed because he’s a workaholic. of his composure and leadership ability. “Gordy Niebylski is another guy that could fac- “Damon’s greatest asset is his athleticism. He tor in the mix up front. Gordy is a sharp player puts a lot of pressure on the defense because he’s who has worked hard to increase his overall such a threat as both a runner and passer.” strength and flexibility.” Chris Morris (6-4, 298, Jr.), a preseason candi- OFFENSIVE LINE date for the Rimington Trophy, anchors Michigan WIDE RECEIVERS State’s offensive line from the center position for One of the toughest obstacles is rebuilding the the second year in a row. Stefon Wheeler (6-5, Michigan State will build its 2004 offense offensive line that lost three starters. Left guard 330, Jr.) moves into his second season as the around a receiver corps that features three Joe Tate, right guard Paul Harker and right tack- starting left tackle, while Kyle Cook (6-3, 292, returning starters: Agim Shabaj (5-10, 195, Jr.), le Steve Stewart were responsible for 96 com- So.) is the heir apparent at left guard. William Aaron Alexander (6-5, 209, Jr.) and Kyle Brown bined starting assignments. Whitticker (6-5, 329, Jr.), a backup to Harker in (6-1, 208, Jr.). 2003, ranks as the team’s most experienced line- man, with 19 career starts to his credit, while the top candidate to fill the starting vacancy at right tackle is Sean Poole (6-7, 290, Sr.). Others who should figure in the offensive line playing rotation are left tackle Pete Clifford (6-7, 295, R-Fr.), right tackle Mike Gyetvai (6-7, 298, R- 2004 SEASON Fr.) and right guard Gordon Niebylski (6-3, 308, Jr.).

SMITH TALKS ABOUT THE OFFENSIVE LINE: “There’s no question that we lost some experi- enced, quality players from the offensive line but I think we have a chance to be more athletic up front in 2004. It’s critical that this unit quickly develop some cohesiveness. “Chris Morris provides a solid foundation to build around. Chris is a smart football player and all of the communication up front begins with him. He’s bigger and stronger than he was a year ago and we’re expecting him to assume a greater PREVIEW leadership role. “Stefon Wheeler is a talented tackle, with good feet. If he can keep his weight down and remain healthy, Stefon has a chance to become a special player. Junior Chris Morris has been a model of consistency at the center Junior wide receiver Kyle Brown came on strong at the end of the position, grading out 90 percent or better in 19 of 21 career “I’ve really been impressed by the development 2003 season, catching three passes for a career-best 126 yards games played. of Kyle Cook at left guard. He’s a guy that we need- vs. Penn State, including an 80-yard TD grab.

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The Spartan coaching staff is expecting big things from junior Brown finished fifth on the team in receptions Senior DeAndra Cobb will be expected to take on a greater role in wide receiver Aaron Alexander, who had 44 receptions for 522 with 29 for 481 yards (16.6 avg.) and three TDs. the Spartan running game in 2004. Last year, Cobb gained 172 yards and three touchdowns in 2003. yards on 38 carries. Matt Trannon (6-6, 217, Jr.) and Jerramy Scott (5-10, 188, So.) also are back in the fold, so two of those starting slots are up for grabs. Trannon had 28 catches for 259 yards (9.2 avg.) while Scott hauled in 19 passes for 212 yards (11.2 avg.) and two scores. Other contenders for playing time at wide receiv- er include red-shirt freshmen Terry Love (5-11, 174) and Irving Campbell (5-11, 185).

SMITH TALKS ABOUT THE WIDE RECEIVERS: “I honestly believe that we’re going to be a ton better at receiver in 2004 because across the board, we’re more athletic. The wide receivers had a great spring because they went to the field with the right attitude and played with confidence. That group has learned how to catch the ball with their hands instead of their chests. “In particular, I thought Kyle Brown, Matt Trannon and Jerramy Scott made great progress during the spring. “Kyle needs to step up and assume a leadership role on offense because he does everything the right way, both on and off the field. I really think that he’s capable of having a breakout season. Shabaj led the team in receptions with 57 for 692 SMITH TALKS ABOUT THE TIGHT ENDS: “Matt came out for spring ball with a rejuvenat- yards (12.1 avg.) and five TDs in 2003. His 57 ed attitude after spending the winter with the bas- “I’m expecting both Eric Knott and Jason Randall catches rank seventh on MSU’s single-season chart. ketball team. He also made great strides as a pass to have big senior seasons. Alexander ranked third on the team in receptions catcher in the spring. Matt could emerge as a bona “Eric has worked hard during the off-season to with 44 for 522 yards (11.9 avg.) and three scores. fide playmaker because he creates match-up prob- change his body type. He’s blessed with all the He played as well as anyone during the second half lems with his combination of size and speed. physical tools; he simply needed to sharpen them. of the 2003 season, catching 38 passes for 425 “Jerramy simply had a great spring, consistently Eric is extremely athletic for his size. He’s a big man yards and three TDs over the last eight games. delivering big plays. that can run and catch the football. He’s amazing “Aaron Alexander brings a lot of positives to the field. He adds some confidence and maturity to the lineup. Aaron also brings a ton of energy to the field because he loves to compete. “By the end of the 2003 season, Aaron might have been our best target. He has remarkable hands and wants the football – and I like that attitude a lot. “I think Terry Love and Irving Campbell have put themselves in a position to contribute this fall. Terry appears to do things so naturally when he’s on the field.”

TIGHT END PREVIEW The Spartans are well stocked at tight end, thanks to the presence of four returning lettermen, including Eric Knott (6-3, 249, Sr.), Jason Randall (6-5, 269, Sr.), Ryan Woods (6-4, 250, Jr.) and Matt Walters (6-2, 249, Sr.). Knott, who has shed 18 pounds from his frame since the conclusion of the 2003 season, finished fourth on the team in receptions with 31 for 306 yards (9.9 avg.) and two touchdowns a year ago. Randall had a career-best 21 receptions for 218 Senior Eric Knott figures to play a major role in Michigan State’s yards (10.4 avg.) and two scores in 2003. Red-shirt freshman Jehuu Caulcrick has been selected the preseason offensive game plan in 2004. Knott has 66 career receptions for Big Ten Offensive Newcomer of the Year by The Sporting News. Caulcrick 655 yards (9.9 avg.) and six TDs. rushed for 224 yards and two TDs in three spring scrimmages. 2004 SEASON

MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL • 2004 MEDIA GUIDE • MSUSPARTANS.COM 17 to watch after the catch because he simply uses his Senior Kevin Vickerson hopes to regain the form that made him one of the Spartans’ most productive defensive linemen in 2002. Vickerson brute strength to run over linebackers and defen- has 14 career tackles for losses, including four sacks. sive backs. My hope is that Eric will strive to be a more complete football player in 2004 by becoming a more physical blocker. “Jason has improved his skills as a pass receiv- er but he too needs to become a more physical blocker, especially in the running game. “Now that he’s healthy (missed eight games with a knee injury in 2003), Ryan Woods should push for more playing time in 2004. Ryan is a talented ath- lete who has a chance to be a major contributor.”

RUNNING BACK When Coach Smith elected to shuffle Michigan State’s top returning rushers from a year ago – Jaren Hayes (team-best 609 yards and 5 TDs) and Tyrell Dortch (279 yards and 3 TDs) – to the defen- sive secondary, he knew that he wasn’t leaving the cupboard bare at running back. DeAndra Cobb (5-10, 197, Sr.), who gained notoriety as an All-America kick returner in 2003, is the projected starter at running back. Cobb started two games at running back last year and finished fourth on the team in rushing with 172 yards on 38 attempts. This spring, he rushed for 297 yards on 54 carries (5.5 avg.) and scored on the team in rushing with 244 yards (5.2 avg.) “We’ve developed a solid 1-2 punch at running twice in four scrimmages. and scored three TDs in 2003, provides depth at back with DeAndra Cobb and Jehuu Caulcrick. Jehuu Caulcrick (6-0, 235, R-Fr.) figures to earn running back. “DeAndra is a big-play threat that can break any his share of playing time at running back in 2004 run and put it in the end zone. He not only has the after an impressive spring. Caulcrick rushed 33 SMITH TALKS ABOUT THE RUNNING BACKS: ability to make guys miss tackles, but he can break times for 224 yards (6.8 avg.) and two TDs in three tackles too when he runs with toughness. “The running game was a positive in the spring. scrimmages. He paced the running attack with 108 “Jehuu is a big, bruising back that has the abil- It’s going to be important that we get the running yards on 16 attempts in the final spring scrim- ity to punish tacklers. He’s a load carrying the foot- game going this fall, so we can take some pressure mage, including a 13-yard TD run. ball, especially when he runs with reckless aban- off of our inexperienced quarterbacks. Jason Teague (5-9, 193, Jr.), who ranked third don. He’s like having a battering ram at running back. Plus, Jehuu has the size to help protect the quarterback on passing plays. “Both of those guys need to work on catching the football out of the backfield.”

DEFENSIVE LINE 2004 SEASON The most difficult task on defense is retooling a defensive line that lost five lettermen, including three starters. Gone are defensive end Greg Taplin and defensive tackle Matthias Askew, who com- bined for 16 sacks (101 yards) in 2003. Clifford Dukes (6-3, 258, Sr.) anchors the defen- sive line from the RUSH end position. Dukes, a pre- season favorite for the Ted Hendricks Defensive End of the Year Award, produced 57 tackles in 2003, including seven sacks (32 yards). The projected starter opposite Dukes at STUD end is Clifton Ryan (6-2, 288, So.). In 2003, PREVIEW Ryan contributed 16 tackles, including two for losses (22 yards). The defensive tackle jobs belong to Kevin Vickerson (6-4, 295, Sr.) and Brandon McKinney (6- 3, 327, Jr.). Vickerson recorded 18 tackles in 2003, including six for losses (27 yards). McKinney, who started four games in 2002, missed 12 games last Senior Clifford Dukes finished second among Spartan defensive linemen in tackles in 2003, with 57 including seven sacks.

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Senior Ronald Stanley recorded a career-best 101 tackles in 2003, “What I like about Clifford Dukes is his motor. fantastic job making sure everyone else gets including five double-figure games. Cliff plays as hard and as fast as he can every aligned in the proper position. He seems to be a dif- snap. He has an infectious attitude that the other ferent player this year because he played hurt players really respond to. As the RUSH end, we’re (shoulder) most of last season. going to move Cliff around more and hopefully, he “Seth Mitchell is also a different player this year can be even more disruptive. because he’s finally healthy. Last year, Seth was a “Cliff isn’t the biggest, fastest or strongest situational player because of his knee injury. We guy on the field, but he’s a relentless competitor. didn’t ask him to drop back into pass coverage, so It’s amazing how many plays he runs down 10, he played almost exclusively in running situations. 20 yards down the field. He flies around the foot- He’s a physical player that adds a great deal of ball and that’s why he comes up with so many toughness to the lineup. big plays at crunch time. “I truly believe Tyrell Dortch is a wild card at the “I’d really like to see Cliff take the next step BANDIT position. I honestly can’t believe how quick- as a leader. There’s no question that he has his ly he’s picked up the system. It’s a perfect fit for teammates’ undivided attention on the field, but Tyrell because he’s physical enough and skilled I’d like to see him emerge as a leader off the enough to handle all the responsibilities. Tyrell field and in the weight room. doesn’t mind sticking his nose inside the box to “Clifton Ryan, a solid backup last year, showed deliver a hit. He also has the quickness and change great promise in the spring. of direction to help in pass coverage. Tyrell also “I’m counting on Kevin Vickerson to add some brings a lot of energy and emotion to the field. stability at defensive tackle. I truly expect him to “With our lack of depth, we’re certainly count- do many of the things that Matthias Askew did ing on Kaleb Thornhill to contribute some quali- for us last year. Kevin needs to take up space ty minutes.” and plug up the middle. “We really have to keep our fingers crossed on DEFENSIVE BACK Brandon McKinney, so that he remains healthy. He’s Michigan State will build its 2004 defense still struggling to get back into playing shape. season with a foot (stress reaction) injury. around its secondary that features eight return- Brandon needs to really emerge as a consistent Look for defensive tackle Joe Toth (6-2, 281, R- ing lettermen, including six players with start- contributor. Fr.) and defensive end Daryl Melvin (6-5, 258, R-Jr.) ing experience. “Joe Toth is a talented, young player. I really like to push for playing time. Free safety Jason Harmon (5-11, 202, Sr.) ranks his attitude, work ethic and toughness. And I think as Michigan State’s most experienced player in the Daryl Melvin adds some athleticism on the edge.” SMITH TALKS ABOUT THE DEFENSIVE LINE: defensive backfield, with 22 career starts. In 2003, Harmon led the Spartans in tackles (career-best “The defensive line scares me because we’re thin LINEBACKER 108), interceptions (3 for 74 yards), forced fumbles and inexperienced. We’re going to have to count on Ronald Stanley (6-0, 234, Sr.) and Seth Mitchell (4) and defensive production points (159). He truly some new faces to provide immediate help here. (6-2, 255, Jr.) are the mainstays at linebacker as the Spartans return two of three starters. Stanley, a four-year starter, ranked third on the team in tackles in 2003, registering a career-best 101 hits. He needs 86 tackles in 2004 to crack MSU’s all-time top 10. Mitchell finished second on the team in tackles with a career-high 103 stops, including seven for losses (24 yards). Former running back Tyrell Dortch (5-10, 208, Sr.) is penciled in the starting lineup at the BANDIT position. The spring experiment became a perma- nent move for Dortch after he consistently produced big plays from his new home. PREVIEW Kaleb Thornhill (6-1, 232, R-Fr.) also should fig- ure in the playing rotation at linebacker.

SMITH TALKS ABOUT THE LINEBACKERS: “We’re still a little thin at linebacker but over- all, we’re more athletic. This is certainly an area where true freshmen might be able to contribute right away. “Ronald Stanley is a stabilizing force on defense. Ronald plays hard every down and seems to make plays all over the field. He’s a smart player, who Junior Seth Mitchell led the Spartans in tackles in Big Ten play in simply doesn’t make mistakes. Ronald also does a Senior Jason Harmon played as well as anyone during the second half 2003, averaging 10.6 stops per game. of the 2003 season, averaging 9.5 tackles over the last eight games. 2004 SEASON

MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL • 2004 MEDIA GUIDE • MSUSPARTANS.COM 19 excelled down the stretch, averaging 9.5 tackles other corner position. I love the way he comes to the Sophomore Brandon Fields led the Big Ten and ranked No. 2 (76 total) over the last eight games. field and competes every day. Jaren adds a lot of nationally in punting with his 46.4-yard average in 2003. Eric Smith (6-1, 193, Jr.) enters his second season athleticism and quickness to the lineup. He still as the starting strong safety. Smith led the team in has a lot to learn about the position, but we feel tackles (68) and production points (119) through eight very comfortable with him on the field. The bottom games in 2003. Despite missing the final four games line — he’s a playmaker. with a knee injury, he finished sixth on the squad with “I also like Ashton Watson’s attitude. He isn’t 69 tackles, including five for losses (19 yards). going to relinquish that spot in the starting lineup The cornerback jobs belong to Roderick Maples without another battle in preseason camp. Jaren (5-10, 190, Sr.) and converted running back Jaren and Ashton have a healthy competition brewing.” Hayes (5-9, 186, Jr.). Maples produced 70 tackles, two interceptions and nine pass break-ups in 2003. SPECIAL TEAMS Next in terms of experience are cornerbacks Michigan State features one of the nation’s Ashton Watson (5-11, 180, Jr.) and Darren top kicking tandems, in punter Brandon Fields Barnett (6-0, 184, Jr.) and free safety Greg (6-6, 234, So.) and placekicker Dave Rayner (6- Cooper (5-11, 184, So.). 2, 209, Sr.). Fields, a second-team All-America selection SMITH TALKS ABOUT THE DEFENSIVE BACKS: by The Sporting News in 2003, led the Big Ten “The secondary showed the biggest improve- and ranked No. 2 in the NCAA with his 46.4-yard ment during spring practice. The confidence level is punting average. It marked the second-best sin- extremely high in the secondary. I really believe that gle-season punting average in Spartan history, we’re going to be able to be more aggressive in trailing only All-American Greg Montgomery who fall. DeAndra became a true home run threat rushing the passer this season because we’re averaged 47.8 yards in 1986. Fields hit 22 punts every time he touched the ball last season. He put skilled enough to cover receivers. 50 or more yards and had 17 kicks downed fear in the heart of plenty of kickers because he “We have two of the best safeties around in inside the opponent’s 20. has tremendous acceleration to and through the Jason Harmon and Eric Smith. Jason and Eric Rayner, a Lou Groza Award seminfinalist in 2003, hole. We really don’t expect teams to kick to provide consistent production. I’m looking for ranked among the NCAA leaders in field goals (tied DeAndra. If the kicker can’t put the ball through Jason to step forward and become more of a for 10th at 1.69 made per game) and scoring (28th the end zone, he’s probably going to keep it on the vocal leader this season. at 8.1 points per game). He led the team in scoring ground or pop it up high into the air. Regardless, “Roderick Maples is a solid corner, who has a with a career-best 105 points, hitting 22-of-29 field- we’re going to have to figure out a way to make chance to become a great player. I really like goal attempts (.759) and 39-of-40 extra-point tries something happen out of those chances. Roderick’s attitude. He’s worked hard to improve his (.975). His 22 field goals tied MSU’s single-season “We’re definitely going to try to get greater strength and he has the foot speed to cover some of record set by All-American Paul Edinger in 1998. production out of our punt return unit. We may the best receivers in this league. DeAndra Cobb (5-10, 197, Sr.), a first-team All- have to become more aggressive in attempting “Jaren Hayes came over and really solidified the America selection by Collegefootballnews.com, led to block more punts.” the Big Ten and ranked No. 11 in the NCAA in kickoff returns with his 27.2-yard average in 2003. His 763 kickoff return yards rank third on MSU’s single-sea- son chart. Cobb tied the NCAA single-season record by returning three kickoffs for touchdowns: 93 yards vs. Ohio State, 100 vs. Minnesota and 94 vs. Rutgers. 2004 SEASON SMITH TALKS ABOUT THE SPECIAL TEAMS “There’s no way we win eight games last year without the production of our special teams. We will continue to be aggressive on special teams in the hope of stealing a few more wins in 2004. “Dave Rayner has an opportunity to become a big-time weapon. There’s no question that he has the ability and leg strength to kick at the next level. Dave has worked hard to improve his accu- racy, and he’s improved his mental approach to the game. Also don’t be surprised to see Dave con-

tinue in his role as the rugby punter. PREVIEW “Brandon Fields put up some impressive num- bers last season. Brandon got off to a remarkable start and then trailed off at the end of the season. I don’t know if his leg got tired, but I’m expecting greater consistency from Brandon this fall. Junior Jaren Hayes adds athleticism, quickness and toughness to “I don’t imagine that DeAndra Cobb is going to Senior Dave Rayner already ranks among MSU’s all-time leaders the defensive backfield. Last year, Hayes led the Spartans in rush- get too many opportunities to return kickoffs this in extra points (fourth with 109 made), field goals (sixth with 40 ing yards (609), all-purpose yards (1,064) and TDs (8). made) and scoring (seventh with 229 career points).

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WR Aaron Alexander (44 catches for 522 yards and Secondary – Eight lettermen return in the defen- BASIC OFFENSE: Spread 3 TDs in 2003) sive backfield, including six players with starting BASIC DEFENSE: Multiple 4-3 TE Eric Knott (31 catches for 306 yards and 2 TDs experience. Free safety Jason Harmon led the 2003 RECORD: 8-5 overall, 5-3 Big Ten (t-4th) in 2003) Spartans in tackles (career-best 108), interceptions 2003 POSTSEASON: Lost to Nebraska (3-17) WR Kyle Brown (29 catches for 481 yards and 3 (3 for 74 yards), forced fumbles (4) and defensive in 2003 MasterCard Alamo Bowl TDs in 2003) production points (159) in 2003. LETTERMEN LOST: 22 (8 offense, 13 defense, TE Jason Randall (21 catches for 218 yards and 2 Special Teams – MSU features one of the nation’s 1 specialist) TDs in 2003) top kicking tandems, in punter Brandon Fields and LETTERMEN RETURNING: 43 (22 offense, C Chris Morris (13 career starts) placekicker Dave Rayner. Fields led the Big Ten and 19 defense, 2 specialists) LT Stefon Wheeler (13 career starts) STARTERS LOST: 8 (4 offense, 4 defense) ranked No. 2 in the NCAA with his 46.4-yard punt- FS Jason Harmon (2003 honorable mention All-Big ing average in 2003. Rayner ranked among the STARTERS RETURNING: 16 (7 offense, Ten; team-best 108 tackles and 3 interceptions in 7 defense, 2 specialists) NCAA leaders in field goals (tied for 10th at 1.69 2003; 22 career starts) made per game) and scoring (28th at 8.1 points per LB Seth Mitchell (career-best 103 tackles in 2003) OFFENSIVE STARTERS LOST (4): LG Joe Tate, game) in 2003. He led the team in scoring with a LB Ronald Stanley (career-best 101 tackles in career-best 105 points, hitting 22-of-29 field-goal RG Paul Harker, RT Steve Stewart, QB Jeff 2003, 33 career starts) attempts (.759) and 39-of-40 extra-point tries Smoker. DE Clifford Dukes (2003 second-team All-Big Ten; (.975). DeAndra Cobb led the Big Ten and ranked 7 sacks in 2003; 27 career starts) OFFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING (7): WR No. 11 in the NCAA in kickoff returns with his 27.2- RC Roderick Maples (70 tackles, 2 interceptions Aaron Alexander, LT Stefon Wheeler, C Chris yard average in 2003. Cobb tied the NCAA single- and 9 pass break-ups in 2003) Morris, TE Eric Knott, WR Kyle Brown, WR season record by returning three kickoffs for TDs. SS Eric Smith (69 tackles including 5 for losses in Agim Shabaj, RB Jaren Hayes. 2003) THE QUESTIONS: DEFENSIVE STARTERS LOST (4): DE Greg KR DeAndra Cobb (2003 Collegefootballnews.com; Taplin, DT Matthias Askew, DT Kyle led Big Ten and ranked No. 11 in NCAA in kickoff Quarterback – Gone is four-year starter Jeff Rasmussen, LB Mike Labinjo. returns with 27.2 avg. including 3 TDs) Smoker, who won a school-record 21 games. P Brandon Fields (2003 first-team All-Big Ten; led Smoker completed 302-of-488 throws for 3,395 DEFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING (7): DE Big Ten and ranked No. 2 in NCAA in punting with yards and 21 touchdowns as a senior. He led the Clifford Dukes, LB Ronald Stanley, LB Seth 46.4 avg. in 2003) Big Ten in passing (261.2 yards per game) and total Mitchell, LC Darren Barnett, FS Jason PK Dave Rayner (2003 Lou Groza Award seminfi- offense (252.2 ypg.) in 2003. The most experienced Harmon, SS Eric Smith, RC Roderick Maples. nalist; led team in scoring with 105 points includ- candidate for the position is Damon Dowdell, who ing school-record 22 field goals in 2003) has six career starts to his credit. STARTING SPECIALISTS RETURNING (2): PK Note: Positions listed according to the final 2003 depth chart. Dave Rayner, P Brandon Fields. Offensive Line – Gone are three starters, including TOP NEWCOMERS: left guard Joe Tate, right guard Paul Harker and right tackle Steve Stewart, who were responsible for WR/DB Sir Darean Adams (Fr./Prep Football Report 96 combined starting assignments. TOP LOSSES: All-American; accounted for 1,678 total yards and 27 TDs in 2003) Running Back – Top returning ballcarriers Jaren QB Jeff Smoker (2003 second-team All-Big Ten; WR Carl Grimes (Fr./SuperPrep and PrepStar All- Hayes and Tyrell Dortch, who combined to rush for 2003 Spartan MVP; led Big Ten in passing and total American; accounted for 1,200 all-purpose yards 888 yards and 8 TDs, have taken starting roles on offense; completed 302-of-488 passes for 3,395 in 2003) defense. MSU ranked last in the Big Ten and No. yards and 21 TDs in 2003; ranks fifth on Big Ten’s DL Domata Peko (Jr./JUCO All-American; 15.5 tack- 111 in the NCAA in rushing in 2003, averaging just all-time passing chart with 8,932 career yards; les for losses including 8.5 sacks in 2003) 97.4 yards per game. Spartan-record 21 career wins) WR Miles Williams (Fr./PrepStar All-American) Defensive Line – Gone are three of four starters, OG Joe Tate (2003 second-team All-Big Ten; 29 DL Daniel Zynn (So./24 tackles including 2.5 for including defensive end Greg Taplin and defensive career starts) losses in 2003) tackles Matthias Askew and Kyle Rasmussen. OT Steve Stewart (2003 second-team All-Big Ten; Taplin and Askew combined for 16 sacks in 2003. started 37 consecutive games) THE STRENGTHS: OG Paul Harker (2003 honorable mention All-Big OUTLOOK Ten; 30 career starts) Wide Receiver – Five lettermen return at wide POSITION CHANGES: LB Mike Labinjo (2003 honorable mention All-Big receiver, including three starters: Agim Shabaj Jehuu Caulcrick (from LB to RB) Ten; 11.5 tackles for losses with 5 sacks in 2003) (57 for 692 yards and 5 TDs), Aaron Alexander Kyle Cook (from C to OG) DE Greg Taplin (2003 second-team All-Big Ten; set (44 for 522 and 3 TDs) and Kyle Brown (29 for Tyrell Dortch (from RB to BANDIT) career highs with 14 tackles and 10 sacks in 2003) 481 and 3 TDs). Jaren Hayes (from RB to CB) DT Matthias Askew (11 tackles for losses including Tight End – Four lettermen return at tight end, Steve Kielp (from LB to DE) 6 sacks in 2003) including Eric Knott and Jason Randall, who DT Kyle Rasmussen (35 career starts) combined for 52 receptions for 524 yards and 4 TDs in 2003. TOP RETURNEES: Linebacker – Returning starters Seth Mitchell and WR Agim Shabaj (team-best 57 catches for 692 Ronald Stanley combined to account for 204 tack- yards and 5 TDs in 2003) les in 2003, including 13 tackles for losses. RB Jaren Hayes (team-best 609 rushing yards and

2004 CAPSULE 5 TDs in 2003)

MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL • 2004 MEDIA GUIDE • MSUSPARTANS.COM 21

Wide receiver Kyle Brown ranked fifth on the team in receptions with 29 for 481 yards (16.6 avg.) OFFENSE (9 LOST, 23 RETURNING) and three touchdowns in 2003. LOST POSITION RETURNING ...... X ...... AARON ALEXANDER (1) ...... Matt Trannon (1) ...... LT ...... STEFON WHEELER (2) ...... Gordon Niebylski (2) JOE TATE (4) ...... LG ...... Joe Brooks (1) ...... DeMarco Monroe (3) ...... C ...... CHRIS MORRIS (2) Andrew Petterson (2) ...... Kyle Cook (1) PAUL HARKER (3) ...... RG ...... William Whitticker (3) STEVE STEWART (4) ...... RT ...... Sean Poole (3) ...... TE ...... ERIC KNOTT (3) ...... Jason Randall (3) ...... Matt Walters (1) ...... Ryan Woods (3) Ziehl Kavanaght (4) ...... Z ...... KYLE BROWN (2) Dave Lesmeister (1) ...... SLOT ...... AGIM SHABAJ (2) ...... Jerramy Scott (1) JEFF SMOKER (4) ...... QB ...... Drew Stanton (1) ...... Damon Dowdell (3) ...... RB ...... JAREN HAYES (2) ...... Tyrell Dortch (3) ...... DeAndra Cobb (1) ...... Jason Teague (2) ...... Chad Simon (2) ...... K ...... DAVE RAYNER (3)

DEFENSE (13 LOST, 20 RETURNING) LOST POSITION RETURNING GREG TAPLIN (4) ...... RUSH ...... Clifton Ryan (1) MATTHIAS ASKEW (3) ...... DT ...... Brian Davies (1) Luc Mullinder (2) ...... KYLE RASMUSSEN (4) ...... DT ...... Kevin Vickerson (3) Greg Yeaster (2) ...... STUD ...... CLIFFORD DUKES (3) ...... Michael Bazemore (2) PERSONNEL BREAKDOWN Mark Goebel (4) ...... MIKE ...... RONALD STANLEY (3) ...... Eze Ejelonu (1) Mitch Herrema (1) ...... WHIP ...... SETH MITCHELL (2) ...... David Herron Jr. (1) ...... Marshall Campbell (1) MIKE LABINJO (4) ...... BANDIT ...... Steve Kielp (1) Monquiz Wedlow (4) ...... Robert Flagg (3) ...... Carlos Alexander (1) ...... LC ...... DARREN BARNETT (1) ...... Ashton Watson (2) ...... Kiel Beltinck (1) ...... FS ...... JASON HARMON (3) ...... Greg Cooper (1) ...... Anthony Belasco (1) Derron Ware (2) ...... SS ...... ERIC SMITH (2) Jeremiah McLaurin (3) ...... RC ...... RODERICK MAPLES (3) ...... P ...... BRANDON FIELDS (1)

2003 STARTERS IN ALL CAPS. (#) Indicates letters earned. Through eight games in 2003, strong safety Eric Smith led the Spartans in tackles (68) and Note: Positions listed according to the final 2003 depth chart. production points (119).

MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL • 2004 MEDIA GUIDE • MSUSPARTANS.COM 22

NO. NAME POS. HT. WT. CL. EXP. BIRTHDATE HOMETOWN (PREVIOUS SCHOOL)

14 Todd Acchione WR 6-0 181 Sr. SQ 1/1/83 Syracuse, NY (Solvay) 27 Sir Darean Adams WR/DB 6-0 223 Fr. HS 12/25/84 Bradenton, FL (Bayshore) 10 Aaron Alexander WR 6-5 209 Jr. 1L 12/12/83 Richmond, VA (Henrico) 52 Eric Andino LB 6-4 212 Fr. HS 10/16/85 Arlington Heights, IL (Buffalo Grove) 22 Darren Barnett CB 6-0 184 Jr. 1L 5/22/84 Cincinnati, OH (Princeton) 40 Michael Bazemore DE 6-3 256 Jr. 2L 4/10/83 Philadelphia, PA (West Catholic) 20 Ashley Beaudouin DB 6-0 200 Fr. RS 7/17/85 Lansing, MI (Eastern) 5 Anthony Belasco S 5-10 198 So. 1L 1/21/83 Cedar Grove, NJ (Bergen Catholic) 18 Mike Bell CB 5-11 187 Fr. HS 1/26/86 Shaker Heights, OH (Shaker Heights) 35 Kiel Beltinck DB 5-9 200 So. 1L 12/14/84 Mount Pleasant, MI (Mount Pleasant) 23 Bryan Brighton DB 5-10 187 Fr. HS 8/31/85 Allen Park, MI (Allen Park) 3 Kyle Brown WR 6-1 208 Jr. 2L 12/31/83 West Bloomfield, MI (West Bloomfield) 56 Brian Bury SN 6-0 240 So. SQ 9/17/83 Marion, OH (Harding) 19 Irving Campbell WR 5-11 185 Fr. RS 12/4/84 Lake Worth, FL (Santaluces) 53 Marshall Campbell LB 6-2 221 Sr. 1L 6/30/81 Gratiot, MI (St. Clair CC) 30 Jehuu Caulcrick RB 6-0 235 Fr. RS 8/6/83 Findley Lake, NY (Clymer) 75 Pete Clifford OT 6-7 295 Fr. RS 4/3/84 Salem, NH (Bridgton Academy) 21 DeAndra Cobb RB 5-10 197 Sr. 1L 5/18/81 Las Vegas, NV (Antelope Valley College) 74 Kyle Cook OG 6-3 292 So. 1L 7/25/83 Macomb, MI (Dakota) 29 Greg Cooper S 5-11 184 So. 1L 1/7/83 Flint, MI (Flint Northern) 38 Cole Corey S 5-10 190 Fr. RS 12/6/84 Tecumseh, MI (Tecumseh) 82 Deon Curry WR 6-1 205 Fr. HS 9/8/85 Oakland Township, MI (Detroit Country Day) 26 Tom Dance DB 6-1 189 Fr. HS 11/26/85 Erie, PA (Cathedral Prep School) 64 Brian Davies DT 6-5 264 Sr. 1L 12/24/81 Farmington, MI (Farmington) 80 Kellen Davis TE 6-6 230 Fr. HS 10/11/85 Adrian, MI (Adrian) 94 Hugh D’Imperio LB 6-4 229 Fr. HS 11/19/85 Sewell, NJ (Washington Township HS) 34 Tyrell Dortch DB 5-10 208 Sr. 3L 11/18/82 Hoboken, NJ (Hoboken) 7 Damon Dowdell QB 6-1 222 Sr. 3L 8/17/83 Detroit, MI (Henry Ford) 21 Kelvin Doyle CB 5-10 168 Sr. RS 8/8/82 Denver, CO (East) 59 Clifford Dukes DE 6-3 258 Sr. 3L 6/26/81 Lexington Park, MD (Great Mills) 58 Eze Ejelonu LB 6-1 232 Sr. 1L 4/25/82 Pontiac, MI (Ferris State) 8 Brandon Fields P 6-6 234 So. 1L 5/21/84 Toledo, OH (St. John’s) 60 Luis Fonseca OG 6-4 298 Fr. HS 7/14/85 Wixom, MI (Walled Lake Western) 11 John Goss K 6-3 215 Jr. JC 10/10/82 Grove City, OH (Scottsdale Community College) 11 Carl Grimes WR 5-9 180 Fr. HS 10/5/85 Detroit, MI (St. Martin De Porres) 66 Mike Gyetvai OT 6-7 298 Fr. RS 5/15/84 Old Castle, ONT (Sandwich Secondary) 24 Kevin Hall P 6-4 218 Fr. RS 4/24/85 Temperance, MI (Bedford) 25 Jason Harmon S 5-11 202 Sr. 3L 4/3/82 Ironton, OH (Ironton) 31 Jaren Hayes CB 5-9 186 Jr. 2L 1/13/83 Lebanon, PA (Cedar Crest) 41 David Herron Jr. LB 6-1 251 So. 1L 6/17/84 Warren, OH (Warren G. Harding) 24 Eric Hines DB 5-9 187 Fr. HS 10/5/86 Detroit, MI (St. Martin De Porres) 55 Dwayne Holmes LB 6-0 255 Fr. HS 7/30/85 Detroit, MI (Henry Ford) 37 Tony Howard DB 5-10 193 Fr. HS 11/17/85 Garfield Heights, OH (Garfield Heights) 17 QB 6-2 199 Fr. HS 10/31/85 North Olmsted, OH (St. Ignatius) 51 Derrick Johnson LB 5-9 226 Fr. RS 1/26/85 Southfield, MI (West Bloomfield)

ROSTER 83 Jamar Jones WR 6-3 207 Fr. RS 9/22/84 Arcadia, FL (DeSoto County) 68 Tom Kaczmarek OT 6-5 292 Fr. HS 1/21/85 London, ONT (Catholic Central) 95 Justin Kershaw DL 6-4 232 Fr. HS 9/18/85 Columbus, OH (Reynoldsburg) 16 Travis Key CB 5-10 175 Fr. HS 12/31/85 Three Rivers, MI (Three Rivers) 50 Steve Kielp DE 6-6 238 So. 1L 9/10/83 Riverside, IL (Riverside-Brookfield) 4 Eric Knott TE 6-3 249 Sr. 3L 1/18/82 Detroit, MI (Henry Ford) 86 Terry Love WR 5-11 174 Fr. RS 9/2/85 Bellwood, IL (Proviso East) 17 Roderick Maples CB 5-10 190 Sr. 3L 1/11/81 Detroit, MI (Cass Tech) 73 Roland Martin OL 6-5 335 Fr. HS 2/5/86 Chicago, IL (Harper) 54 John Masters C 6-4 274 Fr. RS 11/4/84 Carmel, IN (Carmel) 26 Kyle Mayer K 6-1 207 So. SQ 11/1/83 Grand Haven, MI (Grand Haven) 97 Dan McGarry DL 6-6 230 Fr. HS 11/12/85 Lowellville, OH (Poland Seminary) 88 Craig McGovern TE 6-3 231 Fr. HS 10/6/85 Lawrenceville, NJ (Hun School) 47 Tyrone McKenzie LB 6-1 225 Fr. HS 12/11/85 Riverview, FL (Riverview) 99 Brandon McKinney DT 6-3 327 Jr. 1L 8/24/83 Dayton, OH (Chaminade-Julienne) 98 Daryl Melvin DE 6-5 258 Jr. RS 7/18/82 Jersey City, NJ (Nassau Community College) 65 Jesse Miller OL 6-6 304 Fr. HS 9/27/85 Somerville, NJ (Somerville) 48 Seth Mitchell LB 6-2 255 Jr. 2L 5/29/82 Brandywine, MD (Gwynn Park) 51 Chris Morris C 6-4 298 Jr. 2L 2/22/83 Lambertville, MI (Temperance-Bedford) 67 John Mulroy OT 6-5 240 Fr. HS 12/16/84 West Bloomfield, MI (Detroit Catholic Central) 71 Gordon Niebylski OG 6-3 308 Jr. 2L 2/19/83 Farmington, MI (Birmingham Brother Rice) 2004 ALPHABETICAL

MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL • 2004 MEDIA GUIDE • MSUSPARTANS.COM 23

NO. NAME POS. HT. WT. CL. EXP. BIRTHDATE HOMETOWN (PREVIOUS SCHOOL)

96 Domata Peko DL 6-2 297 Jr. JC 11/27/84 Pago Pago, American Samoa (College of the Canyons) 33 Leon Pennington Jr. RB 6-0 228 Fr. HS 3/15/86 Fort Lauderdale, FL (Hallandale) 61 Tramonte Pointer DT 5-10 299 Fr. RS 10/15/84 Flint, MI (Northern) 79 Sean Poole OT 6-7 290 Sr. 3L 7/7/82 Flint, MI (Flint Central) 63 Devin Pritchett LB 6-2 234 Fr. RS 3/12/85 Alpharetta, GA (Centennial) 81 Jason Randall TE 6-5 269 Sr. 3L 12/26/82 Muskegon Heights, MI (Muskegon) 16 Dave Rayner K 6-2 209 Sr. 3L 10/26/82 Oxford, MI (Oxford) 9 Stephen Reaves QB 6-1 206 Fr. RS 12/5/84 Tampa, FL (Plant) 62 Charlie Rewoldt DT 6-2 283 Fr. RS 8/13/85 Ann Arbor, MI (Pioneer) 92 Clifton Ryan DE 6-2 288 So. 1L 2/18/84 Saginaw, MI (Arthur Hill) 87 Kyle Sackrider TE 6-2 224 Fr. RS 4/26/84 Battle Creek, MI (Harper Creek) 32 Jerramy Scott WR 5-10 188 So. 1L 4/7/83 Jupiter, FL (Dwyer) 2 Agim Shabaj WR 5-10 195 Jr. 2L 1/4/84 Farmington Hills, MI (Harrison) 13 Chad Simon RB 5-8 194 Sr. 2L 8/13/82 Saginaw, MI (Heritage) 36 Eric Smith S 6-1 193 Jr. 2L 3/17/83 Groveport, OH (Groveport-Madison) 93 Nick Smith DL 6-6 273 Fr. HS 12/30/85 North Canton, OH (GlenOak) 49 Maurice Smith-Davis DE 6-1 238 Fr. RS 6/7/85 Warren, OH (Howland) 44 Ronald Stanley LB 6-0 234 Sr. 3L 3/6/83 Saginaw, MI (Saginaw) 5 Drew Stanton QB 6-3 225 So. 1L 5/7/84 Farmington Hills, MI (Harrison) 28 Ron Stoops Jr. DB 6-3 195 Fr. HS 6/21/85 Boardman, OH (Cardinal Mooney) 20 Jason Teague RB 5-9 193 Jr. 2L 8/28/84 St. Petersburg, FL (Osceola) 39 Nick Thompson DE 6-3 238 Sr. SQ 9/1/82 Houghton Lake, MI (Houghton Lake) 43 Kaleb Thornhill LB 6-1 232 Fr. RS 1/11/85 Lansing, MI (Eastern) 70 Joe Toth DT 6-2 281 Fr. RS 3/9/84 Port Charlotte, FL (Port Charlotte) 6 Matt Trannon WR 6-6 217 Jr. 1L 7/22/83 Flint, MI (Northern) 18 John Van Dam QB 6-3 212 Fr. RS 8/18/84 East Lansing, MI (Okemos) 91 Kevin Vickerson DT 6-4 295 Sr. 3L 1/8/83 Detroit, MI (Martin Luther King) 85 Matt Walters TE 6-2 249 Sr. 1L 8/26/81 Clackamas, OR (Scottsdale CC) 12 Ashton Watson CB 5-11 180 Jr. 2L 6/28/83 Huber Heights, OH (Wayne) 72 Stefon Wheeler OT 6-5 330 Jr. 2L 9/17/82 Passaic, NJ (Milford Academy) 76 William Whitticker OG 6-5 329 Sr. 3L 8/2/82 Marion, IN (Marion) 84 Miles Williams WR 6-1 199 Fr. HS 7/11/86 Youngstown, OH (Austintown Fitch) 89 Ryan Woods TE 6-4 250 Jr. 3L 5/5/83 Florissant, MO (Christian Brothers College) 56 Jim Young LB 6-2 230 Sr. TR 4/27/82 Custer, MI (Mason County Eastern) 77 Daniel Zynn DL 6-2 305 So. JC 2/15/83 South Pasadena, CA (College of the Canyons) KEY – HS: High School; RS: Red-shirted; JC: Junior College; TR: Transfer; SQ: Squad member; L: Letters earned 2004 ALPHABETICAL

2004 MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL NUMERICAL ROSTER NO. NAME POS. NO. NAME POS. NO. NAME POS. NO. NAME POS.

2 Agim Shabaj WR 22 Darren Barnett CB 49 Maurice Smith-Davis DE 75 Pete Clifford OT 3 Kyle Brown WR 23 Bryan Brighton DB 50 Steve Kielp DE 76 William Whitticker OG 4 Eric Knott TE 24 Eric Hines DB 51 Chris Morris C 77 Daniel Zynn DL 5 Drew Stanton QB 24 Kevin Hall P 51 Derrick Johnson LB 79 Sean Poole OT 5 Anthony Belasco S 25 Jason Harmon S 52 Eric Andino LB 80 Kellen Davis TE 6 Matt Trannon WR 26 Tom Dance DB 53 Marshall Campbell LB 81 Jason Randall TE 7 Damon Dowdell QB 26 Kyle Mayer K 54 John Masters C 82 Deon Curry WR 8 Brandon Fields P 27 Sir Darean Adams WR/DB 55 Dwayne Holmes LB 83 Jamar Jones WR 9 Stephen Reaves QB 28 Ron Stoops Jr. DB 56 Brian Bury SN 84 Miles Williams WR 10 Aaron Alexander WR 29 Greg Cooper S 56 Jim Young LB 85 Matt Walters TE 11 John Goss K 30 Jehuu Caulcrick RB 58 Eze Ejelonu LB 86 Terry Love WR 11 Carl Grimes WR 31 Jaren Hayes CB 59 Clifford Dukes DE 87 Kyle Sackrider TE 12 Ashton Watson CB 32 Jerramy Scott WR 60 Luis Fonseca OG 88 Craig McGovern TE 13 Chad Simon RB 33 Leon Pennington Jr. RB 61 Tramonte Pointer DT 89 Ryan Woods TE 14 Todd Acchione WR 34 Tyrell Dortch DB 62 Charlie Rewoldt DT 91 Kevin Vickerson DT 16 Dave Rayner K 35 Kiel Beltinck DB 63 Devin Pritchett LB 92 Clifton Ryan DE 16 Travis Key CB 36 Eric Smith S 64 Brian Davies DT 93 Nick Smith DL 17 Roderick Maples CB 37 Tony Howard DB 65 Jesse Miller OL 94 Hugh D’Imperio LB 17 Brian Hoyer QB 38 Cole Corey S 66 Mike Gyetvai OT 95 Justin Kershaw DL ROSTER 18 Mike Bell CB 39 Nick Thompson DE 67 John Mulroy OT 96 Domata Peko DL 18 John Van Dam QB 40 Michael Bazemore DE 68 Tom Kaczmarek OT 97 Dan McGarry DL 19 Irving Campbell WR 41 David Herron Jr. LB 70 Joe Toth DT 98 Daryl Melvin DE 20 Jason Teague RB 43 Kaleb Thornhill LB 71 Gordon Niebylski OG 99 Brandon McKinney DT 20 Ashley Beaudouin DB 44 Ronald Stanley LB 72 Stefon Wheeler OT 21 DeAndra Cobb RB 47 Tyrone McKenzie LB 73 Roland Martin OL 21 Kelvin Doyle CB 48 Seth Mitchell LB 74 Kyle Cook OG

MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL • 2004 MEDIA GUIDE • MSUSPARTANS.COM 24

NO. NAME POS. HT. WT. CL. EXP. BIRTHDATE HOMETOWN (PREVIOUS SCHOOL)

2 Agim Shabaj WR 5-10 195 Jr. 2L 1/4/84 Farmington Hills, MI (Harrison) 3 Kyle Brown WR 6-1 208 Jr. 2L 12/31/83 West Bloomfield, MI (West Bloomfield) 4 Eric Knott TE 6-3 249 Sr. 3L 1/18/82 Detroit, MI (Henry Ford) 5 Drew Stanton QB 6-3 225 So. 1L 5/7/84 Farmington Hills, MI (Harrison) 5 Anthony Belasco S 5-10 198 So. 1L 1/21/83 Cedar Grove, NJ (Bergen Catholic) 6 Matt Trannon WR 6-6 217 Jr. 1L 7/22/83 Flint, MI (Northern) 7 Damon Dowdell QB 6-1 222 Sr. 3L 8/17/83 Detroit, MI (Henry Ford) 8 Brandon Fields P 6-6 234 So. 1L 5/21/84 Toledo, OH (St. John’s) 9 Stephen Reaves QB 6-1 206 Fr. RS 12/5/84 Tampa, FL (Plant) 10 Aaron Alexander WR 6-5 209 Jr. 1L 12/12/83 Richmond, VA (Henrico) 11 John Goss K 6-3 215 Jr. JC 10/10/82 Grove City, OH (Scottsdale Community College) 11 Carl Grimes WR 5-9 180 Fr. HS 10/5/85 Detroit, MI (St. Martin De Porres) 12 Ashton Watson CB 5-11 180 Jr. 2L 6/28/83 Huber Heights, OH (Wayne) 13 Chad Simon RB 5-8 194 Sr. 2L 8/13/82 Saginaw, MI (Heritage) 14 Todd Acchione WR 6-0 181 Sr. SQ 1/1/83 Syracuse, NY (Solvay) 16 Dave Rayner K 6-2 209 Sr. 3L 10/26/82 Oxford, MI (Oxford) 16 Travis Key CB 5-10 175 Fr. HS 12/31/85 Three Rivers, MI (Three Rivers) 17 Roderick Maples CB 5-10 190 Sr. 3L 1/11/81 Detroit, MI (Cass Tech) 17 Brian Hoyer QB 6-2 199 Fr. HS 10/31/85 North Olmsted, OH (St. Ignatius) 18 Mike Bell CB 5-11 187 Fr. HS 1/26/86 Shaker Heights, OH (Shaker Heights) 18 John Van Dam QB 6-3 212 Fr. RS 8/18/84 East Lansing, MI (Okemos) 19 Irving Campbell WR 5-11 185 Fr. RS 12/4/84 Lake Worth, FL (Santaluces) 20 Jason Teague RB 5-9 193 Jr. 2L 8/28/84 St. Petersburg, FL (Osceola) 20 Ashley Beaudouin DB 6-0 200 Fr. RS 7/17/85 Lansing, MI (Eastern) 21 DeAndra Cobb RB 5-10 197 Sr. 1L 5/18/81 Las Vegas, NV (Antelope Valley College) 21 Kelvin Doyle CB 5-10 168 Sr. RS 8/8/82 Denver, CO (East) 22 Darren Barnett CB 6-0 184 Jr. 1L 5/22/84 Cincinnati, OH (Princeton) 23 Bryan Brighton DB 5-10 187 Fr. HS 8/31/85 Allen Park, MI (Allen Park) 24 Eric Hines DB 5-9 187 Fr. HS 10/5/86 Detroit, MI (St. Martin De Porres) 24 Kevin Hall P 6-4 218 Fr. RS 4/24/85 Temperance, MI (Bedford) 25 Jason Harmon S 5-11 202 Sr. 3L 4/3/82 Ironton, OH (Ironton) 26 Tom Dance DB 6-1 189 Fr. HS 11/26/85 Erie, PA (Cathedral Prep School) 26 Kyle Mayer K 6-1 207 So. SQ 11/1/83 Grand Haven, MI (Grand Haven) 27 Sir Darean Adams WR/DB 6-0 223 Fr. HS 12/25/84 Bradenton, FL (Bayshore) 28 Ron Stoops Jr. DB 6-3 195 Fr. HS 6/21/85 Boardman, OH (Cardinal Mooney) 29 Greg Cooper S 5-11 184 So. 1L 1/7/83 Flint, MI (Flint Northern) 30 Jehuu Caulcrick RB 6-0 235 Fr. RS 8/6/83 Findley Lake, NY (Clymer) 31 Jaren Hayes CB 5-9 186 Jr. 2L 1/13/83 Lebanon, PA (Cedar Crest) 32 Jerramy Scott WR 5-10 188 So. 1L 4/7/83 Jupiter, FL (Dwyer) 33 Leon Pennington Jr. RB 6-0 228 Fr. HS 3/15/86 Fort Lauderdale, FL (Hallandale) 34 Tyrell Dortch DB 5-10 208 Sr. 3L 11/18/82 Hoboken, NJ (Hoboken) 35 Kiel Beltinck DB 5-9 200 So. 1L 12/14/84 Mount Pleasant, MI (Mount Pleasant) 36 Eric Smith S 6-1 193 Jr. 2L 3/17/83 Groveport, OH (Groveport-Madison) 37 Tony Howard DB 5-10 193 Fr. HS 11/17/85 Garfield Heights, OH (Garfield Heights) 38 Cole Corey S 5-10 190 Fr. RS 12/6/84 Tecumseh, MI (Tecumseh) 39 Nick Thompson DE 6-3 238 Sr. SQ 9/1/82 Houghton Lake, MI (Houghton Lake) 40 Michael Bazemore DE 6-3 256 Jr. 2L 4/10/83 Philadelphia, PA (West Catholic) ROSTER 41 David Herron Jr. LB 6-1 251 So. 1L 6/17/84 Warren, OH (Warren G. Harding) 43 Kaleb Thornhill LB 6-1 232 Fr. RS 1/11/85 Lansing, MI (Eastern) 44 Ronald Stanley LB 6-0 234 Sr. 3L 3/6/83 Saginaw, MI (Saginaw) 47 Tyrone McKenzie LB 6-1 225 Fr. HS 12/11/85 Riverview, FL (Riverview) 48 Seth Mitchell LB 6-2 255 Jr. 2L 5/29/82 Brandywine, MD (Gwynn Park) 49 Maurice Smith-Davis DE 6-1 238 Fr. RS 6/7/85 Warren, OH (Howland) 50 Steve Kielp DE 6-6 238 So. 1L 9/10/83 Riverside, IL (Riverside-Brookfield) 51 Chris Morris C 6-4 298 Jr. 2L 2/22/83 Lambertville, MI (Temperance-Bedford) 51 Derrick Johnson LB 5-9 226 Fr. RS 1/26/85 Southfield, MI (West Bloomfield) 52 Eric Andino LB 6-4 212 Fr. HS 10/16/85 Arlington Heights, IL (Buffalo Grove) 53 Marshall Campbell LB 6-2 221 Sr. 1L 6/30/81 Gratiot, MI (St. Clair CC) 54 John Masters C 6-4 274 Fr. RS 11/4/84 Carmel, IN (Carmel) 55 Dwayne Holmes LB 6-0 255 Fr. HS 7/30/85 Detroit, MI (Henry Ford) 56 Brian Bury SN 6-0 240 So. SQ 9/17/83 Marion, OH (Harding) 56 Jim Young LB 6-2 230 Sr. TR 4/27/82 Custer, MI (Mason County Eastern) 58 Eze Ejelonu LB 6-1 232 Sr. 1L 4/25/82 Pontiac, MI (Ferris State) 59 Clifford Dukes DE 6-3 258 Sr. 3L 6/26/81 Lexington Park, MD (Great Mills) 2004 NUMERICAL

MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL • 2004 MEDIA GUIDE • MSUSPARTANS.COM 25

NO. NAME POS. HT. WT. CL. EXP. BIRTHDATE HOMETOWN (PREVIOUS SCHOOL)

60 Luis Fonseca OG 6-4 298 Fr. HS 7/14/85 Wixom, MI (Walled Lake Western) 61 Tramonte Pointer DT 5-10 299 Fr. RS 10/15/84 Flint, MI (Northern) 62 Charlie Rewoldt DT 6-2 283 Fr. RS 8/13/85 Ann Arbor, MI (Pioneer) 63 Devin Pritchett LB 6-2 234 Fr. RS 3/12/85 Alpharetta, GA (Centennial) 64 Brian Davies DT 6-5 264 Sr. 1L 12/24/81 Farmington, MI (Farmington) 65 Jesse Miller OL 6-6 304 Fr. HS 9/27/85 Somerville, NJ (Somerville) 66 Mike Gyetvai OT 6-7 298 Fr. RS 5/15/84 Old Castle, ONT (Sandwich Secondary) 67 John Mulroy OT 6-5 240 Fr. HS 12/16/84 West Bloomfield, MI (Detroit Catholic Central) 68 Tom Kaczmarek OT 6-5 292 Fr. HS 1/21/85 London, ONT (Catholic Central) 70 Joe Toth DT 6-2 281 Fr. RS 3/9/84 Port Charlotte, FL (Port Charlotte) 71 Gordon Niebylski OG 6-3 308 Jr. 2L 2/19/83 Farmington, MI (Birmingham Brother Rice) 72 Stefon Wheeler OT 6-5 330 Jr. 2L 9/17/82 Passaic, NJ (Milford Academy) 73 Roland Martin OL 6-5 335 Fr. HS 2/5/86 Chicago, IL (Harper) 74 Kyle Cook OG 6-3 292 So. 1L 7/25/83 Macomb, MI (Dakota) 75 Pete Clifford OT 6-7 295 Fr. RS 4/3/84 Salem, NH (Bridgton Academy) 76 William Whitticker OG 6-5 329 Sr. 3L 8/2/82 Marion, IN (Marion) 77 Daniel Zynn DL 6-2 305 So. JC 2/15/83 South Pasadena, CA (College of the Canyons) 79 Sean Poole OT 6-7 290 Sr. 3L 7/7/82 Flint, MI (Flint Central) 80 Kellen Davis TE 6-6 230 Fr. HS 10/11/85 Adrian, MI (Adrian) 81 Jason Randall TE 6-5 269 Sr. 3L 12/26/82 Muskegon Heights, MI (Muskegon) 82 Deon Curry WR 6-1 205 Fr. HS 9/8/85 Oakland Township, MI (Detroit Country Day) 83 Jamar Jones WR 6-3 207 Fr. RS 9/22/84 Arcadia, FL (DeSoto County) 84 Miles Williams WR 6-1 199 Fr. HS 7/11/86 Youngstown, OH (Austintown Fitch) 85 Matt Walters TE 6-2 249 Sr. 1L 8/26/81 Clackamas, OR (Scottsdale CC) 86 Terry Love WR 5-11 174 Fr. RS 9/2/85 Bellwood, IL (Proviso East) 87 Kyle Sackrider TE 6-2 224 Fr. RS 4/26/84 Battle Creek, MI (Harper Creek) 88 Craig McGovern TE 6-3 231 Fr. HS 10/6/85 Lawrenceville, NJ (Hun School) 89 Ryan Woods TE 6-4 250 Jr. 3L 5/5/83 Florissant, MO (Christian Brothers College) 91 Kevin Vickerson DT 6-4 295 Sr. 3L 1/8/83 Detroit, MI (Martin Luther King) 92 Clifton Ryan DE 6-2 288 So. 1L 2/18/84 Saginaw, MI (Arthur Hill) 93 Nick Smith DL 6-6 273 Fr. HS 12/30/85 North Canton, OH (GlenOak) 94 Hugh D’Imperio LB 6-4 229 Fr. HS 11/19/85 Sewell, NJ (Washington Township HS) 95 Justin Kershaw DL 6-4 232 Fr. HS 9/18/85 Columbus, OH (Reynoldsburg) 96 Domata Peko DL 6-2 297 Jr. JC 11/27/84 Pago Pago, American Samoa (College of the Canyons) 97 Dan McGarry DL 6-6 230 Fr. HS 11/12/85 Lowellville, OH (Poland Seminary) 98 Daryl Melvin DE 6-5 258 Jr. RS 7/18/82 Jersey City, NJ (Nassau Community College) 99 Brandon McKinney DT 6-3 327 Jr. 1L 8/24/83 Dayton, OH (Chaminade-Julienne)

KEY – HS: High School; RS: Red-shirted; JC: Junior College; TR: Transfer; SQ: Squad member; L: Letters earned

2004 MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL ALPHABETICAL ROSTER NO. NAME POS. NO. NAME POS. NO. NAME POS. NO. NAME POS. 2004 NUMERICAL

14 Todd Acchione WR 34 Tyrell Dortch DB 17 Roderick Maples CB 2 Agim Shabaj WR 27 Sir Darean Adams WR/DB 7 Damon Dowdell QB 73 Roland Martin OL 13 Chad Simon RB 10 Aaron Alexander WR 21 Kelvin Doyle CB 54 John Masters C 36 Eric Smith S 52 Eric Andino LB 59 Clifford Dukes DE 26 Kyle Mayer K 93 Nick Smith DL 22 Darren Barnett CB 58 Eze Ejelonu LB 97 Dan McGarry DL 49 Maurice Smith-Davis DE 40 Michael Bazemore DE 8 Brandon Fields P 88 Craig McGovern TE 44 Ronald Stanley LB 20 Ashley Beaudouin DB 60 Luis Fonseca OG 47 Tyrone McKenzie LB 5 Drew Stanton QB 5 Anthony Belasco S 11 John Goss K 99 Brandon McKinney DT 28 Ron Stoops Jr. DB 18 Mike Bell CB 11 Carl Grimes WR 98 Daryl Melvin DE 20 Jason Teague RB 35 Kiel Beltinck DB 66 Mike Gyetvai OT 65 Jesse Miller OL 39 Nick Thompson DE 23 Bryan Brighton DB 24 Kevin Hall P 48 Seth Mitchell LB 43 Kaleb Thornhill LB 3 Kyle Brown WR 25 Jason Harmon S 51 Chris Morris C 70 Joe Toth DT 56 Brian Bury SN 31 Jaren Hayes CB 67 John Mulroy OT 6 Matt Trannon WR 19 Irving Campbell WR 41 David Herron Jr. LB 71 Gordon Niebylski OG 18 John Van Dam QB 53 Marshall Campbell LB 24 Eric Hines DB 96 Domata Peko DL 91 Kevin Vickerson DT 30 Jehuu Caulcrick RB 55 Dwayne Holmes LB 33 Leon Pennington Jr. RB 85 Matt Walters TE 75 Pete Clifford OT 37 Tony Howard DB 61 Tramonte Pointer DT 12 Ashton Watson CB 21 DeAndra Cobb RB 17 Brian Hoyer QB 79 Sean Poole OT 72 Stefon Wheeler OT 74 Kyle Cook OG 51 Derrick Johnson LB 63 Devin Pritchett LB 76 William Whitticker OG ROSTER 29 Greg Cooper S 83 Jamar Jones WR 81 Jason Randall TE 84 Miles Williams WR 38 Cole Corey S 68 Tom Kaczmarek OT 16 Dave Rayner K 89 Ryan Woods TE 82 Deon Curry WR 95 Justin Kershaw DL 9 Stephen Reaves QB 56 Jim Young LB 26 Tom Dance DB 16 Travis Key CB 62 Charlie Rewoldt DT 77 Daniel Zynn DL 64 Brian Davies DT 50 Steve Kielp DE 92 Clifton Ryan DE 80 Kellen Davis TE 4 Eric Knott TE 87 Kyle Sackrider TE 94 Hugh D’Imperio LB 86 Terry Love WR 32 Jerramy Scott WR

MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL • 2004 MEDIA GUIDE • MSUSPARTANS.COM 26

Here is the way Michigan State plans to line up when preseason camp opens for the 2004 season. This depth chart is based upon ratings at the conclusion of spring practice. It does not include incoming junior college transfers, freshmen or walk-ons.

OFFENSE DEFENSE X ...... 6 ...... Matt Trannon (6-6, 217, Jr.) RUSH ...... 59 ...... Clifford Dukes (6-3, 258, Sr.) 10 ...... Aaron Alexander (6-5, 209, Jr.) 98 ...... Daryl Melvin (6-5, 258, R-Jr.) 83 ...... Jamar Jones (6-3, 207, R-Fr.) 50 ...... Steve Kielp (6-6, 238, So.) LT ...... 72 ...... Stefon Wheeler (6-5, 330, Jr.) DT ...... 91 ...... Kevin Vickerson (6-4, 295, Sr.) 75 ...... Pete Clifford (6-7, 295, R-Fr.) 64 ...... Brian Davies (6-5, 264, Sr.) 68 ...... Tom Kaczmarek (6-5, 292, Fr.) DT ...... 99 ...... Brandon McKinney (6-3, 327, Jr.) LG ...... 74 ...... Kyle Cook (6-3, 292, So.) 70 ...... Joe Toth (6-2, 281, R-Fr.) 60 ...... Luis Fonseca (6-4, 298, Fr.) STUD ...... 92 ...... Clifton Ryan (6-2, 288, So.) C ...... 51 ...... Chris Morris (6-4, 298, Jr.) 40 ...... Michael Bazemore (6-3, 256, Jr.) 54 ...... John Masters (6-4, 274, R-Fr.) 49 ...... Maurice Smith-Davis (6-1, 238, R-Fr.) RG ...... 76 ...... William Whitticker (6-5, 329, Sr.) MIKE ...... 44 ...... Ronald Stanley (6-0, 234, Sr.) 71 ...... Gordon Niebylski (6-3, 308, Jr.) 43 ...... Kaleb Thornhill (6-1, 232, R-Fr.) RT ...... 79 ...... Sean Poole (6-7, 290, Sr.) WHIP ...... 48 ...... Seth Mitchell (6-2, 255, Jr.) 66 ...... Mike Gyetvai (6-7, 298, R-Fr.) 41 ...... David Herron Jr. (6-1, 251, So.) TE ...... 81 ...... Jason Randall (6-5, 269, Sr.) BANDIT ...... 34 ...... Tyrell Dortch (5-10, 208, Sr.) 4 ...... Eric Knott (6-3, 249, Sr.) 35 ...... Kiel Beltinck (5-9, 200, So.) 89 ...... Ryan Woods (6-4, 250, Jr.) LC ...... 31 ...... Jaren Hayes (5-9, 186, Jr.) 85 ...... Matt Walters (6-2, 249, Sr.) 12 ...... Ashton Watson (5-11, 180, Jr.) Z ...... 3 ...... Kyle Brown (6-1, 208, Jr.) FS ...... 25 ...... Jason Harmon (5-11, 202, Sr.) 86 ...... Terry Love (5-11, 174, R-Fr.) 29 ...... Greg Cooper (5-11, 184, So.) 19 ...... Irving Campbell (5-11, 185, R-Fr.) 38 ...... Cole Corey (5-10, 190, R-Fr.) SLOT ...... 32 ...... Jerramy Scott (5-10, 188, So.) SS ...... 36 ...... Eric Smith (6-1, 193, Jr.) 2 ...... Agim Shabaj (5-10, 195, Jr.) 5 ...... Anthony Belasco (5-10, 198, So.) CHART QB ...... 5 ...... Drew Stanton (6-3, 225, So.) or RC ...... 17 ...... Roderick Maples (5-10, 190, Sr.) 9 ...... Stephen Reaves (6-1, 206, R-Fr.) or 22 ...... Darren Barnett (6-0, 184, Jr.) 7 ...... Damon Dowdell (6-1, 222, Sr.) 18 ...... Mike Bell (5-11, 187, Fr.) RB ...... 21 ...... DeAndra Cobb (5-10, 197, Sr.) DEPTH 30 ...... Jehuu Caulcrick (6-0, 235, R-Fr.) SPECIALISTS 20 ...... Jason Teague (5-9, 193, Jr.) PK ...... 16 ...... Dave Rayner (6-2, 209, Sr.) 11 ...... John Goss (6-3, 215, Jr.) P ...... 8 ...... Brandon Fields (6-6, 234, So.) 11 ...... John Goss (6-3, 215, Jr.) SSN ...... 51 ...... Chris Morris (6-4, 298, Jr.) 56 ...... Brian Bury (6-0, 240, So.) LSN ...... 56 ...... Brian Bury (6-0, 240, So.) 51 ...... Chris Morris (6-4, 298, Jr.) 2004 PRESEASON

MICHIGAN STATE FOOTBALL • 2004 MEDIA GUIDE • MSUSPARTANS.COM