22014014 MMontanaontana StateState BBobcatobcat FootballFootball

Senior captain Na’a Moeakiola (left), 2013 All-America return specialist Shawn Johnson (right) Since the addition of Bobcat Stadium’s north end zone complex (top), Montana State University has been ranked at or near the top of Division I FCS attendance standings. From the revelry of pre-game tailgating to the exhilerating game day atmosphere and tradition of Bobcat Football, Bobcat Stadium offers one of college football’s unique experiences and environments. 22014014 BBobcatobcat FFootballootball QQuickuick FFactsacts MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY Name (Founded) ...... Montana State University (1893) Location ...... Bozeman, MT Enrollment ...... 15,500 President ...... Dr. Waded Cruzado Athletic Director .... Peter Fields (Maine-Presque Isle/’79) ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS Assistant AD, Media Relations/FB Contact ...Bill Lamberty Offi ce/Cell Phone ...... 406/994-5133, 406/580-6781 E-mail Address ...... [email protected] Sports Information Director ...... Tom Schulz Offi ce/Cell Phone ...... 406/994-5130, 406/580-6786 E-mail Address ...... [email protected] Assistant Director/New Media ...... Leslie Masterpaul Offi ce Phone ...... 406/994-5349 E-mail Address ...... [email protected] Athletics Fax Number ...... 406/994-2278 2013 REVIEW Web Site ...... www.msubobcats.com Record Overall/Conference ...... 7-5/5-3, T4th # Weeks Ranked ...... 15 TEAM INFORMATION Final Ranking ...... 20/20 Affi liation/Conference ...... NCAA DI FCS/Big Sky FCS Playoffs ...... none Nickname ...... Bobcats Colors ...... Blue, gold 2013 RESULTS Stadium ...... Bobcat Stadium Aug 29 Monmouth W 42-4 21,007 Capacity ...... 17,777 Sept 7 at SMU L 30-31 15,107 Turf ...... FieldTurf Sept 14 Colorado Mesa W 26-0 17,847 Primary Offense/Defense ...... One-back/4-3 Sept. 21 at Stephen F. Austin L 38-52 9,433 Sept. 28 *at North Dakota W 63-20 8.899 COACHING AND SUPPORT STAFF Oct. 5 *Northern Arizona W 36-7 21,027 Rob Ash (Cornell, Ia., ‘69) HEAD COACH Oct. 19 *at Weber State W 34-16 5,616 Overall Record: 233-126-5, 34th yr at MSU: 57-27, 8th yr Oct. 26 *UC Davis W 34-17 18,627 Jamie Marshall (Drake ’99) Def. Coord./Secondary (8th) Nov 2 *at Northern Colorado W 35-28 3,478 Tim Cramsey (New Hampshire ‘99) Off. Coord./QBs (2nd) Nov. 9 *at Eastern Washington L 29-54 10,223 Daniel Da Prato (UL-Monroe ‘04) Special Teams/TE (3rd) Nov. 16 *Southern Utah L 14-22 18,187 Jason McEndoo (Wash. St. ‘98) Offensive Line (12th) Nov. 23 *Montana L 14-28 21,527 Cody Kempt (MSU ‘10) Receivers (1st) Michael Pitre (UCLA ‘08) Running Backs (2nd) 2014 SCHEDULE (Mountain time unless noted) Bo Beck (Colorado St. ‘02) Def. Line/Recr. Coord. (7th) Aug 30 at Arkansas State ...... 5 pm MT/6 pm CT ESPN3 Kane Ioane (MSU ‘05) Linebackers (9th) Sept 6 Black Hills State ...... 7:05 pm Cowles Brandon North (SFA ‘03) Cornerbacks (3rd) Sept. 13 Central Arkansas ...... 3:35 pm Cowles Michael Rider (MSU ‘11) Linebackers Asst. (2nd) Sept. 20 Eastern Washington ...... 1:10 pm ROOT Craig Ashworth (MSU ‘14) Defensive Intern Sept. 27 *North Dakota (Homecoming) ...... 2:05 pm Cowles Jake Flaherty (Bucknell, ‘14) Offensive Intern Oct. 4 *at Sacramento State 7:05 pm MT/6:05 pm PT Cowles Oct. 11 *at UC Davis ...... 5:10 pm MT/4:10 pm PT ROOT Offi ce Coordinator Colleen Reyes Oct. 18 *Weber State ...... 3:35 pm Cowles Video Coordinator Garrett Becker Oct. 25 Open Athletic Trainer Rob Higgs Nov. 1 *at Cal Poly ...... 7:05 pm MT/6:05 pm PT Cowles Equipment Manager Scott Gifford Nov. 8 *Portland State ...... 2:05 pm Cowles Nov. 15 *Idaho State ...... TBA ROOT Nov. 22 *at Montana ...... TBA ROOT 2014 PERSONNEL BREAKDOWN Starters Returning: Offensive/Defensive/ST ...... 6/6/0 Offensive Lettermen Returning/Lost ...... 14/6 Defensive Lettermen Returning/Lost ...... 19/6 Specialist Lettermen Returning/Lost ...... 1/0 22014014 BBobcatobcat FFootballootball - OOutlookutlook BBigger.igger. BBetter.etter. BBobcatobcat SStadiumtadium PProvidesrovides CCatat FFansans TThrillinghrilling EnvironmentEnvironment Table of Contents In the three seasons since renovating Bobcat Stadium, the Media Information ...... 2 Montana State University football program has reaped the Outlook ...... 3-9 benefi ts. Position Capsules ...... 10-12 Th e Bobcats have consistently fi nished among the Notebook ...... 13 nation’s top fi ve in average attendance, total attendance, Roster ...... 14-15 and percentage of capacity. Th e passion for Bobcat football Depth Chart ...... 15 among the program’s fans has been stoked to a fervor never Coaches ...... 17-21 before seen. Adding the Sonny Holland Zone complex, Players ...... 23-43 Bobcat Stadium has become one of the FCS’ most colorful and formidable game day environments. Personnel Breakdown What a fantastic last 1,000 days Bobcat Football has Reno H. Sales Stadium, enjoyed! 2014 RETURNER SUMMARY upon completion in 1973. Since the beginning of the 2011 season, MSU has won Starters Returning: Offensive/Defensive/ST ...... 6/6/0 34 football games overall and 120 on its home turf, captured two Big Sky Championships, and Offensive Lettermen Returning/Lost ...... 14/6 presented some of the program’s greatest players ever. It felt like a new era of Bobcat football Defensive Lettermen Returning/Lost ...... 19/6 began when Bobcat Stadium’s Sonny Holland End Zone complex opened in 2011, and that Specialist Lettermen Returning/Lost ...... 1/0 era’s fi rst three seasons have been an unqualifi ed success. OFFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING During the Stadium’s current epoch, Bobcat fans have voted enthusiastically with their Quinn Catalano, OG 6-4/300/Sr HM All-Big Sky, 2-year starter feet. Just a shade under 18,000 fans per game have matriculated through Bobcat Stadium in the Brian Flotkoetter, WR 6-3/211/Sr ‘13 HM All-Big Sky, 530 rec yds last three seasons, and MSU has fi nished fi fth nationally in total attendance in aech of the last JP Flynn, OG 6-5/304/So 3rd Team All-Big Sky two seasons. Th e Cats stand 15 at home in the last three years. Kyle Godecke, OG 6-5/315/Jr 2013 starter Th e Bobcats christened the newest iteration of Bobcat Stadium that day with a 38-14 win Tiai Salanoa, TE 6-3/257/Jr 2nd Team All-Big Sky over future Big Sky rival UC Davis in front of the largest crowd in school history. Th e Sonny John Weidenaar, OT 6-7/280/Jr 2-year starter, HM All-Big Sky Holland Zone stadium expansion project, initiated just more than a year earlier, presented a modern and beautifully simple design that gives Montana State among the fi nest football DEFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING stadiums in the FCS while moving the program’s stadium Taylor Dees, NT 6-2/273/Sr ...... Two-year starter evolution light years from its humble beginnings. Deonte Flowers, CB 5-11/183/Sr ...... 2nd Team All-Big Sky After playing at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds Rob Marshall, S 6-0/200/Sr ...... 2 Int, 1 FF in 2013 in the 19th century Montana State football moved to a Na’a Moeakiola, LB 5-11/220/Sr ...... HM All-Big Sky in ‘12 Cole Moore, LB 6-2/220/Sr ...... HM All-Big Sky fi eld on the north end of campus, then in 1930 dedicated Alex Singleton, LB 6-2/240/Sr ...... HM All-Big Sky Gatton Field to Bobcat great and World War I casualty Cyrus Gatton. After four decades playing on the current SPECIALISTS RETURNING site of MSU’s physical education complex, across the street None from Romney Gym, the Cats played in 1972 at Bozeman High’s Van Winkle Stadium, moving to the Stadium’s current site across Kagy Boulevard into the Reno H. Sales Stadium the next season. Credits The 2014 Bobcat Football Guide was written by MSU MSU’s new football home was seen as befi tting a Bobcat legends Max Worthington, championship-caliber program in the early ‘70s, and was Sports Information Director Bill Lamberty, with copy edit- Tom Parac and Sonny Holland check ing by Tom Stuber. Photography by Dean Hendrickson, named for a man tied deeply to the University and its foot- out the result of the ‘98 renovations. Tina Haines, and Mark MacLeod. ball program. Reno H. Sales was a member of the school’s fi rst graduating class and fi rst football team, and after relocating to Butte upon graduation be- came a world-renowned geologist. His generous gift helped fund construction of the Stadium. Bobcat Football’s 41 seasons at 11th and Kagy have provided MSU fans a lot of thrills. Th e team has won 10 Big Sky crowns at its current location, and the program’s leading rusher, passer, receiver and tackler all called that site home. In 1998, the renamed Bobcat Stadium received extensive renovations that modernized an aging facility by adding 32 sky suites, a new press box, team houses in the north end zone, and restroom and concession areas. Th e upgrade created recruiting and competitive boosts that led to Big Sky titles in 2002, 2003 and 2005.

BBobcatobcat SStadiumtadium AAttendancettendance RRecordsecords Kevin Frey Year Record ...... Total Average Rank* 1. 2013 4-2 ....118,222 19,704 5th 2. 2012 6-2 ....141,016 17,627 8th 3. 2011 6-1 ....119,499 17,071 13th 4. 2010 6-1 ....100,089 14,298 17th 5. 2007 4-2 ...... 85,472 14,245 13th 6. 2005 6-0 ...... 82,262 13,710 15th 7. 2008 4-2 .....80,433 13,406 16th 8. 2009 4-2 ...... 79,696 13,283 16th 9. 2006 3-3 .....89,309 12,758 19th 10. 1993 4-2 ..... 58,522 12,617 --- *-NCAA FCS standing in average attendance MMontanaontana StateState University’sUniversity’s BBestest ofof thethe BBestest Rob Ash Alex Willcox 2012 AFCA Region 5 Co-Coach of the Year 2012-13 Samson Equipment FCS Strength 2011 Liberty Mutual FCS Coach of the Year Coach of Year  With 57 career victories, Rob Ash is  Bobcat Strength and Conditioning Coach Alex now the all-time wins leader at all three of Willcox was named FCS Strength Coach of the Year by his head coaching stops - MSU, Drake, and Samson Equipment Juniata  Willcox played football at Iowa, and entered the  Rob Ash is the third coach in Bobcat strength training profession at that school history to win three Big Sky titles, although no one else has led the program to three  He is credited for improving MSU’s strength train- consecutive crowns ing program markedly  Bobcat Football compiles over 1,000 community service hours each season Peter Fields 2011 NACDA Division I FCS West Region AD of the Year  Rob Ash served as American Football Coaches Association President in 2011  MSU has won six conference football championships during his 12 years as Director of Athletics, and fi ve Big Sky titles in other sports Jason McEndoo  Bobcat student-athletes combined to win the 2011 Big Sky Presi- 2011 AFCA Assistant Coach of Year dent’s Cup and the 2012 Big Sky Men’s All-Sports Trophy  Jason McEndoo begins his 12th season  Montana State has won Big Sky titles in football, track, tennis and at Montana State having coached 10 women’s basketball since Fields was hired at MSU First Team All-Big Sky players and eight Has served as President of FCS Athletic Directors and College All-Americas  Athletics Business Management As-  One of McEndoo’s off ensive linemen sociation during his career, in which has served as a team captain in 10 of his 12 seasons he has worked at Toledo, Kent State, and Missouri  A former Pac 10 student-athlete at Washington State, McEndoo played for the New Orleans Saints and Seattle Seahawks in the  Named College Athletics Busi- NFL, and former Bobcat off ensive lineman Mike Person cur- ness Management Manager of the rently plays for the Seahawks Year in 2004, and serves on numer- ous NCAA and Big Sky committees PPreseasonreseason HHonorsonors CCandidatesandidates AAlexlex SingletonSingleton DDeonteeonte FlowersFlowers LLinebackerinebacker CCornerbackornerback  Preseason CFPA Watch List  Preseason First Team All-Big Sky

 Second among active Big Sky players in  Second Team All-Big Sky, 2013 tackles-for-loss  Tied for fi rst in pass breakups and tied G TT TL S INT PB H FR FF BK for third in passes defended in the Big Sky 2013 12 110 16.5 1.5 3 4 1 0 2 2 2012 13 23 6 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 during 2013 season 2011 5 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 G TT TL S INT PB H FR FF 2013 12 53 1 0 1 12 0 0 0 2012 13 56 1.5 0 0 4 0 1 0 2011 13 39 3 0 1 8 0 0 0 PPreseasonreseason HHonorsonors CCandidatesandidates SShawnhawn JJohnsonohnson QQuinnuinn CatalanoCatalano RRunningunning Back/ReturnerBack/Returner OOffensiveffensive TTackle/Centerackle/Center  Honorable Mention All-Big Sky, 2013  All-America, 2013 (2nd Team-Beyond Sports/3rd  Team captain, third-year starter Team-Sports Network)

 1st Team All-Big Sky, 2013  Preseason All-Big Sky & All-America, 2014 JJPP FFlynnlynn  Averaged 10.5 yards every time he touched the OOffensiveffensive GGuarduard football in 2013  Preseason All-Big Sky  Third Team All-Big Sky, 2013

G Rushes Yds TD 2013 12 104 609 6 2012 13 31 176 0 2011 13 12 59 0 38 147 844 6 TTiaiiai SSalanoaalanoa Rec Yds TD TTightight EndEnd 2013 28 243 1 2012 9 155 2  2nd Team All-Big Sky, 2013 2011 0 0 0 37 398 3  Preseason All-Big Sky PR Yds TD 2013 16 222 1 2012 25 220 1 2011 18 125 0 1,123-713-31 .635 KR Yds TD 2013 22 683 2 2012 15 331 0 2011 18 352 0 55 1,366 2 CChampionshiphampionship TTraditionradition It seems like many things changed in Big Sky Conference football in the recent past, with the league welcoming four new football members in 2012 season.SATURDA At Montana State,Y though, there is a sense of stability. The Bobcats shared threeI straightS leagueFO titlesR from 2010-12, posted a program-best 12 straight winning seasons, and capped a long string of consecutive weeks in the top 10 and top 25 last fall FOOTBALL Rob Ash offi cially arrived as Montana State’s football The national profi le of Bobcat Football took a coach in June of 2007. But in reality, Ash arrived on a dramatic step forward last December, when senior blustery November afternoon in 2012, when he was defensive end Brad Daly (right) became MSU’s sec- carried off the fi eld on the shoulders of his players with ond straight 2012 Buck Buchanan Award winner as the school’s career wins record in his hip pocket. Ash the top defensive player in the FCS. Daly joined 2012 posed with Sonny Holland, the man he fi rst joined then winner Caleb Schreibeis, and the parallels between replaced on the top of that list, but importantly Ash the two are uncanny - both are native Montanas took a step toward being embraced as a great fi gure with a brother who proceeded him as a Bobcat in the program’s history by insisting that no one will team captain. Daly’s father also served in that capac- ever replace the beloved Holland. Ash now stands ity, and his brother Bobby was an All-America line- atop the coaching wins list at three diff erent schools. backer for the Cats. Brad Daly led the nation in sacks last season, a year after Schreibeis led the FCS in forced fumbles. until his sensational senior season.

Consecutive Big Sky titles from 2010-12 attest to Montana State’s success on the fi eld, but you don’t even have to get inside Bobcat Stadium on a home game weekend to see the loyalty and passion of Bobcat fans. Thousands fl ock to the Stadium early Saturday - some on Friday night - to revel in the fantastic home atmosphere of Bobcat games.

Montana State’s football tradition reaches across the centuries, but since Bobcat Title Timeline World War II the Bobcat program has produced excellence on the fi eld Posting a In spite of non-league losses 1-1-1 mark to Oregon, BYU and Hawaii, against the Gridcats rolled over their conference only two league rivals. Although rivals, Rocky Mountain offi cials initially Montana ruled that the league title was State unclaimed because no team claimed its Montana State unveiled the played enough games, the RMC fi rst league currently lists the Bobcats as Montana State fi nished the season with a 4-0 crown ‘T’ formation for the fi rst mark in the Rocky Mountain Conference, and time in the school’s annals, 1947 champions although it fell one game short of qualifying for and behind quarterback a league championship the Bobcats enjoyed Gene Bourdet clinched the their best conference season in the league’s RMC title with a season- confi guration that included Colorado, Utah, BYU ending win at Colorado and Wyoming Mines

1926 1938 1946 1947 SATURDAY the state of Montana has ever produced; “Our goal has always been to run a good IS FOR and Brad Daly led the nation in sacks. program, where every year players are ready to step in where they’re needed.” Those four have moved from leaders to leg- FOOTBALL ends. In their place, a cast of players recruited with the promise of challenging those achieve- OFFENSE Rob Ash is leaving nostalgia and remi- ments stand ready. Shawn Johnson awaits an Tomorrow is here. niscence to others. He relies on a tried expanded role at running back, Brian Flot- and true lesson he has It was easy to interpret blustery early learned many times over winter weather in Bozeman on football his three-plus decades as Saturday’s last year as the winds of change. a college football coach. MIKE BASHOR MIKE Because everyone knew it was coming.

“When a new player is “It’s amazing to think about those individ- forced into action, regard- uals,” Ash says of the offensive trio of quar- less of the circumstances, terback DeNarius McGhee, running back the only person not Cody Kirk and receiver Tanner Bleskin, each surprised when he does among the most decorated and productive well is him,” Ash says. players at their position in school history. “He knows how hard he’s Their departures (each graduated) leaves worked, he knows that he’s holes on the depth chart, but also sharp prepared, and he’s confi- competition and, ultimately, opportunity. dent in his own ability.” “You always look for chances to get That scenario has played better, and I’m always a glass-is-half- out many times in Ash’s full guy,” Ash says. “When great play- seven seasons at Montana ers finish their careers good programs State, but the eighth stands Running back Gunnar Brekke (Dean Hendrickson) have others that have waited their turn. as one of that concept’s We have players that are ready.” most pronunced examples. Gone are some of the program’s greatest koetter - like Bleskin a Montana prep product One such player is junior Tanner Roder- players ever, and ready to fill those spots - slides into the role as lead receiver. Jake ick. MSU’s 2014 season gained momentum are student-athletes that have excelled on Bleskin, Tanner’s brother, joins Dakota Prukop, - and clarity - in late July when he moved special teams and worked hard in practice. Tanner Roderick and Quinn McQueary in the from quarterback back to receiver, his 2013 battle for starting quarterbck honors. Odin Coe position. Last year, Roderick’s campaign Bobcat fans know the numbers chapter moves to the Bandit positionand is ready to was marked by both injury and progress. and verse, but as a primer: DeNarius Mc- become the program’s next great pass-rusher. Ghee was one of the greatest dual threat That move made the fall camp quarter- quarterbacks in college football history, At other spots across the depth chart, back battle easier to manage and evalu- having reached the rare 10,000 yards pass- new players stand ready to return to the ate, narrowing the field to Jake Bleskin, ing/1,000 yards rushing mileston; Cody Kirk championship chase that led MSU to con- Dakota Prukop and Quinn McQueary. It was a battering ram running back whose secutive Big Sky titles from 2010-12. also added what amounts to a talented work ethic and attitude will positively af- and athletic returning starter at receiver. fect the program for years; Tanner Bleskin “There’s a difference between good is one of the two most prolific pass-catchers teams and a good program,” Ash said.

1954 team captains Tom Parac and Bill Roney (left) The 1956 Bobcat national champions

Led by a “Iron Tumbleweed” bruising line, Bobcats claim fi rst Big Sky Don Haas anchored by Championship in league’s second all-league season under direction from Don Hass, Twice was nice picks Ron legendary coach Jim Sweeney MSU’s in 1967, as MSU Warzeka and legendary Iron ran to a second Ray Schoessler, Tumbleweed, straight Big Sky MSC rolled up rushed for title on the strength an 8-1 record Montana State wins Rocky Mountain Conference title in its last year in that league, and 1,460 yards to of All-America and a Rocky lead MSU to a tailback Don Hass’ Mountain title after a tie in the fi rst ever NAIA National Championship game, the Aluminum Bowl, earns school’s fi rst national championship Big Sky title second straight 1,000-yard rushing season 1954 1956 1964 1966 1967 aerial attack. The anticipated four-way spring Even as the Bobcats move toward showdown really boiled down to a battle of more of a spread offense, Ash attrition between Jake Bleskin and Dakota maintains a simple and time-tested Prukop. Both showed major positives - Bleskin philosophy. “I’ve always said that I threw the ball well, Prukop proved explosive want to run the football, and you have running it - but neither dominated the compe- to be good up front to do that,” Ash tition. Redshirt Quinn McQueary rejoins the said. “I don’t care what the scheme fray after missing the spring with an injury. is or how you try to dance around it. I really hope these guys are big Ash’s plan for settling things once fall and strong enough to knock people camp convenes is to spread reps out be- off the line of scrimmage. That’s tween the three for about two weeks, then still the best way to win games.” decide and ride. “We can’t continue that all the way to the season’s start, but we want The other side of the run game to give it a good look early,” Ash said. Preseason All-Big Sky Tiai Salanoa (Daryn Hendrickson) equation also comes into clearer focus, even with roles up for “Tanner is a fabulous athlete,” Ash said, some definition during August. “and his talent makes it important that he is “I think it’s a clean slate going in” to fall on the field. This cleans up fall camp for us at camp, Ash said. “In all honesty, we start quarterback because evaluating three quarter- with Shawn Johnson. The offense is built backs is possible, where four is really difficult. around him. (Junior college transfer) And it gives us a talented, experienced player, Anthony Knight is probably the key piece basically a returning starter, at receiver.” to the puzzle to evaluate in August.”

“Tanner is valuable regardless of his Johnson’s versatility gives Ash and position,” Ash said. “Moving him to re- Bobcat offensive coordinator Tim ceiver makes our offense better.” Cramsey plenty of options, and is likely to give opposing defensive coordinators While everyone’s attention was and will be headaches. “Shawn is multi-dimensional. trained on the quarterback position between He won’t just be on the perimeter and McGhee’s last snap and his successor’s he won’t just be in the backfield. We’ll first one, positives abound on the offen- do a lot of different things with Shawn.” sive side of the ball for MSU. The program’s After Johnson, and upon the assign- most emphatic strength may lie up front. Shawn Johnson ment of Knight’s role, the Bobcats sit on “I’m very happy with our offensive line,” a couple of tandems. Sophomores Gunnar Ash says. “We’re finally in a position where Brekke and Chad Newell form a speed- One thing Ash is certain of regarding the we have a solid group of veterans. Hope- power duo, as do Nick LaSane and Brandon quarterback position is its ability. “I like the fully (offensive line coach Jason McEndoo) Davis, who were each injured last season. athletic ability and the leadership ability of will finally start the season with the same Unlike recent seasons, when the run game all four of these guys. I think they’re each group he ended spring with for the first time. was constructed around the strength and talented, and it’s a strong position for us.” We are a little thin on experienced depth, determination of Cody Kirk, the hallmarks but the six guys fighting for five start- of this squad are versatility and depth. The equation for finding MSU’s quarterback ing spots are very capable players, and is finite. That for identifying those catching we have a group of young players that will While August intrigue is minimal in the the passes this fall is nearly infinite. “To me be solid when they develop physically.” ground game, that is not the case for the

Led by quarterback Dennis Erickson, In Sonny MSU captures three straight Big Sky Holland’s Championships, the fi rst league team crowning with that distinction achievement, Montana State won the Big Sky and NCAA Division II championships In Sonny Holland’s second season, and playing home games in Bozeman Sonny Lubick High’s Van Winkle rides a Stadium, the Cats sensational 6-0 storm to a 5-1 start in league league record and play to his only the conference crown as MSU’s championship head coach

1968 1972 1976 1979 receiver is “When you’re filling the five offen- SATURDAY the biggest sive positions other than quarterback question and linemen, you don’t have to use IS FOR mark on any particular distribution among those the entire positions,” Ash said. “You have to put FOOTBALL team,” your five best playmakers on the field. Ash said. So a different approach to our wide “Tanner (Roderick) moving there changes receiver position is to use guys from it for the positive quite a bit, but between other positions at some of those five spring injuries and graduation and attrition, it’s spots. So we’re committed to getting anybody’s guess how things will shake out.” our best five players on the field.”

Brian Flotkoetter is a second-year starter That statement leads the conversa- with experience and proven success, with tion back to Johnson, possibly the Junior quarterback Jake Bleskin enters 2014 in a four-way battle for starting quarterback honors (Dean Hendrickson) nearly 1,000 career receiving yards. Mix most versatile offensive player in the in a dash of David Dash, who has consid- Big Sky Conference. The senior aver- The ability of Johnson and Brekke to play erable experience at the inside position, aged 10.3 yards every time he touched the outside the box allows Cramsey to uti- and add returning reserves Mitch Griebel, ball in 2013, including 6.5 yards per scrim- lize either - or both - in two-back sets and Manny Kalfell and Will Krolick to Roder- mage play. That points to his effectiveness both traditional and non-traditional pass- ick, and the group suddenly looks solid. in a wide range of roles last year, and not game roles. Chad Newell, a different type Redshirt Jayshawn Gates and a talented just in the kick game. He found the end of back from Johnson and Brekke, is also group of new freshmen - particularly Justin zone 10 times on the season, including four versatile and talented carrying and catch- Paige - punctuates the receiver position. different ways (six rushing TDs, one as a ing the ball. Nick LaSane and Brandon receiver, two on kick returns and one on a Davis also stand to contribute offensively. Significantly, says Ash, so too do punt return). He was the team’s second- some creative personnel groupings. leading rusher, fourth-leading pass-catcher, Ash and Cramsey can also plan on of- and arguably the top return man in the FCS. fensive production - both obvious and hidden - from the tight end position. Through three “The basic idea of (offensive seasons as an athletic pass-catcher bothered coordinator Tim Crasmey’s) offense occasionally by injuries, Tiai Salanoa has re- is to threaten the full field, side- mained a productive receiver while improving line to sideline and down the field,” every season in the blocking role so crucial Ash said. “Spreading people out to the tight end position in MSU’s offense. He with all the different possibilities of returns for his senior season as a captain, and the scheme creates running lanes. joins Lee Perkins - always a physical blocker We need the ability to run the ball in the run game but now a true receiving vertically after we stretch people threat, as well - to form a dynamic tight end out, and you need good weapons combination. And that doesn’t even take into to do that. We won’t just use our account the presence of Austin Barth, who speed on the perimeter, we’ll use showed his athleticism as a redshirt freshman the speed of Shawn Johnson and last fall while continuing to develop physically. Gunnar Brekke vertically to make plays going north and south.”

Quinn Catalano (79) anchors MSU’s off ensive line (Kevin Munger)

Montana State’s magical 1984 season ended in Charleston, S.C., with a national Less than 20 championship, and along the way MSU won a share of its fourth Big Sky crown in the months after previous nine years fi nishing an 0-11 2000 season, Montana ascendedd to the top of the Big Sky in 2002 on the strength Doug Graber’s of a 10-7 win in only season as Missoula. Fueled Montana State’s by Corey Smith’s head coach touchdown return off produces a 5-2 the opening kickofff conference in MSU’s win over record, good the Grizzlies, the for a co- Bobcats won their championship second straight Big Sky crown in 2003.

All-Americas Jon Montoya (left, ‘02) and Corey Smith (‘03) 1982 1984 2002 and 2003 Taken as a whole, Montana State’s of- over the last five seasons the fense appears talented and reasonably deep, Bobcat defense has produced a athletic and versatile. The question boils total of 18 First or Second Team down to one two-parter: who will throw the All-Big Sky selections. Eight of ball and who will catch it, and how well? those have played on the de- fensive line, four at linebacker, and six in the secondary. DEFENSE Next. Man. Up. The dispersement of tal- ent on the 2014 defense, It may be a sports cliche in the 21st century, at least at its dawn, reflects but as a developmental philosophy ‘Next Man that trend. Cornerback De- Up’ has served the Bobcat defense well. onte Flowers and linebacker Na’a Moeakiola are the most Lose a Big Sky MVP defensive end? Find decorated returners on the one at linebacker, and develop another end. defense, each having earned Odin Coe moves into MSU’s Bandit end position (Dean Hendrickson) Lose a Buck Buchanan winner at end? Plug in second team all-league honors another. It’s a plan far easier to concoct than in the past, but those looking to execute, but when everyone believes, and for breakout candidates can the best out of his guys so we can ex- it works, some impressive things can happen. find them at each position group. pect this to be a productive position.”

“When you look at the amount of individual Up front, Odin Coe takes over at the Bandit Bobcat linebackers coach Kane Ioane talent that has moved through our defense end position that has produced three All- began this summer with arguably the best in recent years,” Ash said, “it’s amazing that Americas in the past six seasons. Bobcat group in the conference, but that was the we’ve maintained coaches consider him a fitting heir, and while case last year, too. Then summer surgery such a high he flies somewhat below the radar due to ended the seasons of linebackers Na’a performance level missing his entire redshirt freshman season Moeakiola and Aleksei Grosulak, and in on that side of the with an injury his production bears out lofty spite of a solid effort by Michael Foster the ball. It’s a tribute expectations. In limited playing time last year, team never operated at full capacity. So, to the talent of he logged 7.5 tackles-for-loss, including a pair while Moeakiola joins returning starters the players, the of sacks, while hurrying the quarterback three Cole Moore and Alex Singleton, Ash knows belief system times and forcing one fumble. Zach Hutchins, better than to take anything for granted. of the players, who also missed his redshirt freshman season and the quality Eryon Barnett (Kelly Gorham) (ineligible), plays the end position opposite “This is a very talented group,” Ash said, of coaching and Coe, and showed well in the spring. Inside, “and each of the starters fits their role very learning environ- Taylor Sheridan and Taylor Dees are joined well. Na’a is strong, physical player with ment the assistant coaches have cre- by reserves Nate Bignell and Connor Thomas great instincts who makes plays against ated. It’s been impressive, and it’s hap- to form a strong, experienced rotation. the run and the pass, and he’s the perfect pened for a long enough period of time Mike from a mental standpoint - he’s calm, that it shouldn’t be seen as an accident.” “It’s going to be a matter of effort and cool and collected. Cole wants to be on the hard work and desire with those guys,” Ash field, he does not want to come off (on third While superstar play from Bobcat Bandit said. “Depth is a worry. We need to stay down), so he has really worked to improve ends - from Dane Fletcher through Caleb healthy after we lost Robert Wilcox and Dal- his speed and agility to stay on the field in Schreibeis and most recently Brad Daly - has las Hayes. This is a position where some third down situations. In our system a lot of been a program hallmark, a look at the pro- young guys coming in this fall might have plays are funnelled to the Will backer, and gram’s perception on a conference-wide basis to play, but Coach (Bo) Beck always gets Alex is the prototype guy for that position.

In the fi nal game for Travis Lulay and Jeff Bolton in the Blue and Gold, Montana State won the Big Sky Championship with a memorable 16-6 win over the Grizzlies in Bobcat Stadium

Jeff Bolton, top Montana State capped its fourth championship of the young century by beating Montana in Washington-Grizzly Stadium (left), and Right, Travis Lulay the encore last fall included inspiring and inspired efforts by seniors such as Elvis Akpla (left) and Casey Dennehy is carried into Bobcat immortality by the crowd 2005 2010 2011 2012 He’s be able to cover people man-to-man,” Ash big, said. “I think we’ll also be able to do some ag- zone blitzes, where guys are responsible for areas but will have to melt to men in those areas. I think we have guys who are veteran enough to float in areas, find receivers and make plays that less experienced guys aren’t able to make. So I think we have options, it’s not just about being able to play man.”

Taylor Dees anchors the middle of MSU’s line The secondary stands as a metaphor for All-league kick teams performer Chad Newell (Kelly Gorham) the personnel picture across the defense - the season. In addition, Mitch Griebel returns excellent front-line talent, a limited number at holder after taking over that spot when of position questions to answer, but some Tanner Roderick was injured, and coverage gressive, gets off blocks, and makes plays.” very real and legitimate concerns about stalwarts such as Chad Newell also return. depth. “I think most teams have the same If charged with the task of picking MSU’s kind of concerns as we do, and the minute Where things get interesting, though, is in lead position group on defense, linebacker you’re not worried about depth things hap- the kicking part of the kick game. “There’s wouldn’t be a difficult choice. If charged pen to change that,” Ash said. “We’ll sort a possibility we’ll have true freshmen at with the task of picking a lead dog among those things out. As we’ve shown, if we need punter and kicker,” Rob Ash says simply. the linebackers, the process would be to plug in young players and newcomers.” painstaking. Moeakiola and Moore en- That easy notion was complicated dur- ter the season as captains. Singleton was ing spring drills. First, Jake Bleskin began the most productive underclassman line- dabbling with his punting. The more he backer in the league last year, and Moore’s kicked, the better he looked, to the point combination of strength and ability to play KICK TEAMS where the team’s potential starting quar- in space make him a unique figure. Hello, My Name Is... terback in the fall could also be its start- ing punter. “I heard a conversation in the In terms of depth, Rhett Young brings ...stickers might not be quite necessary spring where someone asked Jake about experience to the middle, while Wyatt Chris- in the Bobcat kicking game early in 2014, the quarterback battle and without missing tensen, who was injured midway through but that’s not too far off the mark. Trevor a beat he said, ‘Even if I’m not the starting his true freshman season, and redshirt Mac Bolton returns as the team’s roll punt and quarterback I’ll be the starting punter.’ He’s Bignell have each shown well enough to kickoff specialist, but every other kick teams very quick-witted, obviously, but he also has inspire confidence from the coaching staff. role will be held down by a different player that kind of confidence, and having a good than at the start of the 2013 season. quarterback at punter is very intriguing.” Still, the conversation at linebacker comes back to the starters. “In their own While Montana State’s kicking game will The kicking situation in the spring was way these guys are each great leaders,” see plenty of change in 2014, the foundational equally undefined until the final moments, Ash said. “They also fit their position and pieces remain. Redshirt freshman Rocky when Luke Daly put on a sparkling perfor- role extremely well. It will be exciting to Hogue - whose injury late in camp last year mance in Bobcat Stadium. “With people watch those three guys this season.” sent MSU’s long-snapping situation into watching and everything on the line he turmoil - has that position nailed down after an made six out of seven kicks that day and MSU’s secondary is anchored by a pair of exceptional spring, and the fruits of last year’s looked very good, so I was happy with that.” talented cornerbacks, one returner in Second tumult leaves the team with extreme depth Ash also indicated that Bolton’s role in the Team All-Big Sky choice Deonte Flowers, and there because Austin Barth and Nate Bignell competition during fall camp is assured. a newcomer, Nevada transfer Bryson Keeton. both grew into that role under the rigors of Flowers is a known commodity, a third-year Even with the spring’s positive develop- starter whose effervescent personality and ments, the kicking game’s 2014 success ability in coverage both stand out, but Keeton may hinge around the performance of is less known. He showed athleticism, a newcomers. Matt Stewart “is a sensa- physical presence combined with speed and tional punter, and it will be interesting to see agility, during spring drills. Identifying depth at how he does this fall,” Ash said. Likewise, corner and a nickel back - veteran James Nel- kicker Trevin Thompson “will have a chance. son is a candidate for both spots, along with I look forward to seeing what he can do.” Trace Timmer - stands as a priority in August. However the personnel shakes out in Senior Rob Marshall took a big step forward the next six months, replacing Rory Perez last fall, moving from unknown to prospect to will be no small task. Although his ac- key contributor in what seemed like a flash. colades never caught up to his perfor- He holds down the top spot at the strong mance, Perez’s steady excellence as MSU’s safety position. Eryon Barnett enters the fall punter for four years (and as an accu- as the starting free safety, and looks for a full, rate place kicker) set a high standard. healthy season. Redshirt Khari Garcia and veteran Cody Cleveland add depth at safety.

Ash likes his secondary, particularly the coverage flexibility that comes with veteran cornerbacks. “We feel very confident that we’ll TThehe BBobcatobcat ExperienceExperience The Straight Physical defense. Wide open offense built on leaders in attendance throughout Ash’s tenure, a sound running game. Passion from outside a trend that has continued even after a stadium the program, and inside. Commitment to de- expansion added more than 7,000 seats. and Narrow veloping both elements of the student-athlete. Through it all, Ash has enjoyed work- Season-by-Season MSU TD/Int Ratios Montana State Football’s principles are ing with his players. “I really like coaching as easy to spot as they are tried and true. Montana kids,” he said. “The kids we’ve Ash has instilled these principles as foun- recruited from the state are dedicated, Year TD/Int Diff. Record dational in the program’s most successful era they love football, they do what you want 2013 14/8 +6 7-5 during his seven years. On-fi eld personnel them to do. It’s been a lot of fun.” changes, but the results have remained similar Ash’s recruiting sweet spot begins at homes, 2012 24/11 +13 11-2 - each of Ash’s teams have posted winning and extends nationally. “Whether they’re from 2011 24/14 +10 10-3 records, the longest streak of any Bobcat coach, Texas or California or wherever, we’ve identifi ed 2010 26/7 +19 9-3 with three Big Sky crowns along the way. the type of person we want in this program, Ash’s philosophy has re-ignited Bobcats fans’ and the staff and players have done a great 2009 14/10 +4 7-4 passion. MSU has been among the national job convincing the best of them to come.” 2008 14/19 -5 7-5 2007 15/14 +1 6-5 2009 ...... 1st ...... 343.9 2006 17/19 -2 8-5 Consistent Excellence 2008 ...... 1st ...... 314.1 2005 17/10 +7 7-4 Big Sky Conference Total Defense Ratings 2007 ...... 3rd ...... 366.9 2004 15/9 +6 6-5 th 2003 14/13 +1 7-6 2013 ...... 4th ...... 372.5 2006 ...... 4 ...... 306.8 st 2002 23/9 +14 7-6 2012 ...... 1st...... 316.4 2005 ...... 1 ...... 332.2 th 2001 19/17 +2 5-6 2011 ...... 2nd ...... 329.7 2004 ...... 4 ...... 382.8 st 2000 8/13 -5 0-11 2010 ...... 5th ...... 384.8 2003 ...... 1 ...... 298.4 2002 ...... 1st ...... 306.8 1999 12/11 +1 3-8 1998 22/8 +14 7-4 1997 22/9 +13 6-5 Trending Up 1996 11/12 -1 6-5 Winning Seasons by Bobcat Head Coaches (since 1950) 1995 5/14 -9 5-6 Coach Years # Seasons # Winning Seasons 1994 17/13 +4 3-8 1993 14/12 +2 7-4 Rob Ash 2007-present ...... 7 ...... 7 1992 7/10 -3 4-7 Mike Kramer 2000-06 ...... 7 ...... 5 1991 12/25 -13 2-9 Cliff Hysell 1992-99 ...... 8 ...... 4 1990 12/24 -12 4-7 E. Solomonson 1987-91 ...... 5 ...... 0 1989 8/13 -5 4-7 Dave Arnold 1983-86 ...... 4 ...... 1 1988 7/17 -10 4-7 Doug Graber 1982 ...... 1 ...... 1 1987 5/12 -7 1-10 Sonny Lubick 1978-81 ...... 4 ...... 2 1986 23/12 +11 3-8 Sonny Holland 1971-77 ...... 7 ...... 6 1985 29/19 +10 2-9 Tom Parac 1968-70 ...... 3 ...... 1 1984 32/24 +8 12-2 Jim Sweeney 1963-67 ...... 5 ...... 4 1983 7/15 -8 1-10 Herb Agocs 1958-62 ...... 5 ...... 5 1982 14/18 -4 6-5 Wally Lemm 1955 ...... 1 ...... 0 1981 8/17 -9 3-7 Tony Storti 1952-54, 56-57 ...... 5 ...... 3 Big Sky Conference Year-by-Year League Records Since 2002 Coach...... UM MSU EWU NAU WSU SAC PSU ISU 2013...... 6-2 5-3 8-0 7-1 1-7 3-3 3-5 1-7 Composite Big Sky Record 2012...... 3-5 7-1+ 7-1+ 6-2 2-6 4-4 2-6 0-8 since 2002 2011 ...... 7-1+ 7-1+ 5-3 3-5 5-3 3-5 5-3 1-7 Conf. BSC Solo Nat’l FCS Losing 2010...... 5-3 8-0+ 7-1+ 4-4 5-3 5-3 1-7 0-8 School Rec. Champ Titles Champ Plffs Seas 2009...... 8-0+ 5-3 6-2 4-4 6-2 4-4 1-7 1-7 UM 73-19 9 3 0 10 1 2008...... 7-1+ 5-3 5-3 4-4 7-1+ 3-5 3-5 1-7 MSU 65-27 6 0 0 6 0 2007...... 8-0+ 4-4 6-2 5-3 4-4 3-5 3-5 2-6 EWU 64-28 5 1 1 7 3 2006...... 8-0+ 6-2 3-5 5-3 3-5 4-4 6-2 1-7 NAU 50-42 1 0 0 2 4 2005...... 5-2+ 5-2+ 5-2+ 1-6 4-3 1-6 4-3 3-4 WSU 43-49 1 0 0 2 5 2004...... 6-1+ 4-3 6-1+ 3-4 1-6 2-5 4-3 2-5 SAC 36-54 0 0 0 0 7 2003...... 5-2+ 5-2+ 3-4 5-2+ 4-3 1-6 1-6 4-3 PSU 36-56 0 0 0 0 8 2002...... 5-2+ 5-2+ 3-4 3-4 1-6 3-4 3-4 5-2 ISU 21-71 1 0 0 0 10 TOTAL ...... 73-19 65-27 64-28 50-42 43-49 36-54 36-56 21-71 +-Big Sky Title BBobcatobcat PositionPosition DownloadDownload

Quarterbacks Rob’s Report Fall Camp Considerations: From Head Coach Rob Ash Offensive Coordinator Tim Cramsey Returning Starter “The quarterbck position became a lot “We’ll plug each of the guys in and see what none easier to evaluate and manage when Tanner they can do once camp begins. We want to (Roderick) moved to receiver. Giving three see them all for some amount of time, then Returning Letterman players reps is much easier than spreading pick our guy and go with him, so the early Jake Bleskin (6-1, 195, Jr), Dakota Prukop it among four players, and we will give all weeks of fall camp will be very important.” (6-2, 195, So) three - especially Quinn McQueary, because Redshirt he was injured in the spring - as good a look Quinn McQueary (6-2, 185, Fr) as possible for as long as possible. But we Returning Squad Member won’t take it right up until the end of camp, Bobby Crane (from 2012 - 6-2, 185, Fr) we’ll make a decision and go with it. Quinn’s back is fi ne right now, he’s doing well, and Incoming Freshman that’s a positive. The guys worked hard in none the summer, and I want to see what they Quarterbacks Coach can all do. Each of the three bring different Tim Cramsey (2nd year at MSU) strengths to the position, but they are each very talented. I like the athletic ability and Overview leadership of all three. I think they’re each All eyes will be on Montana State’s quarter- very talented, and it’s a very positive posi- back competition for as long as it remains tion for us.” open, and Rob Ash understands that. But he also understands the importance of select- Quarterback Notes ing the player that optimizes the offense’s After beginning four straight seasons with performance, which was apparent when a starting quarterback different from the redshirt freshman DeNarius McGhee led previous season between 2006 and ‘10, the the Cats to the 2010 Big Sky title. That was Bobcats went three seasons (2011-13) with the last time MSU opened the season with a a returning starter... Jake Bleskin threw for new starter, and this time around only Jake over 300 yards in each of his fi rst two career Bleskin (two starts in 2013) has signifi cant starts (both last season), only the second experience. Bleskin and Dakota Prukop Bobcat ever to do so... Bleskin threw four competed throughout the spring and sum- TDs but also four interceptions in those two mer, with Quinn McQueary joining the fray starts last season... Bobby Crane, a redshirt when healthy over the summer. Ash and quarterback two years ago, returns to the offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey indicate program for depth and to manage the offen- a selection will be made as early in camp sive scout team. as possible. Tanner Roderick’s return to receiver simplifi ed the process.

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camp dawns with the possibility of both doo’s 12 seasons as Montana State’s Offensive Line tackles and guards returning at the spot they offensive line coach to serve as team manned in 2013. Quinn Catalano fl ies below captain... Catalano is the only senior Returning Starter the radar, but is a legitimate All-America in the offensive line for MSU entering OT/C Quinn Catalano (6-4, 300, Sr), OT candidate who is a stone-wall pass blocker fall camp... in his 12th year as MSU’s Alex Eekhoff (part-time starter; 6-6, 286, with the nastiness in the run game that offensive line coach, Jason McEndoo Jr), OG JP Flynn (6-5, 304, So), OG Kyle distinguishes great O-linemen. He will start continues to seek his fi rst season with Godecke (6-5, 305, Jr), OT John Weide- at either center or right tackle, with tackle the same starting lineup on the fi eld in naar (6-7, 280, Jr) Alex Eekhoff or center Joel Horn occupying game one that he worked with during Other Returning Lettermen the other spot. John Weidenaar returns as spring drills. C Joel Horn (6-4, 320, So) a third-year starter at left tackle, while Kyle Redshirts Godecke and JP Flynn form a formidable Andrew Alt (6-4, 280, Fr), Caleb Gillis (6-6, guard tandem. Doug Hanson and Dylan Ma- Fall Camp Considerations: 230, Fr), Dylan Mahoney (6-6, 235, Fr) honey headline a deep and talented group of Offensive Line Coach Jason McEndoo young players looked to for depth. “We need to build on what we did this Squad Member spring and nail down who’s going to be Dillon Fraley (6-4, 278, So), Doug Hanson Rob’s Report the starting center and starting tackle. (6-3, 280, So) From Head Coach Rob Ash Quinn, Alex and Joel will be the guys to Starters Lost “I’m very, very happy with our offensive line. watch.” Matthew Devereux We’re fi nally at the point where we have Other Lettermen Lost a solid group of veterans starting, and a Andy Austin talented group of developmental players Incoming Freshman behind them who are ready to give us depth. Roshan Dias Abeygundwardena (6-4, Hopefully Mac (Jason McEndoo) will have 275, Fr), 6-5, 320, Fr), Joey Marinello (6-6, the same group of starters in the fall that 320, Fr), Austin Oldenburger (6-3, 270, Fr), he ended spring with for the fi rst time. As a Wade Webster (6-6, 295, Fr) coach I’ve always felt that running the ball effectively and consistently is the best way Offensive Line Coach to win football games, and I think this offen- Jason McEndoo (12th year at MSU) sive line gives us the chance to do that.” Overview Offensive Line Notes The Bobcat offensive line enters its second The Bobcats failed to land an offensive line- straight season with returning experience man on an All-America list last fall for the at each position, but this year MSU’s fi ve fi rst time in six seasons, but entering 2014 o-linemen benefi t shared experience as tackle/center Quinn Catalano and guard JP a unit. The Cats replace 12-game starter Flynn each stand as legitimate All-America Matthew Devereux at center, but fi ve play- candidates... Catalano becomes the 11th ers with starting experience return and fall Bobcat offensive lineman in Jason McEn- O O O O O O O O O O O

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stands to stretch the creativity Running Backs and limits of MSU’s playbook, with his explosiveness and Returning Starter ability in the pass game. The none ability of one to emerge as an Other Returning Lettermen every-down back could shift Gunnar Brekke (5-11, 180, So), Shawn the Bobcat offense into a high- Johnson (5-9, 175, Sr), Chad Newell (6-1, er gear early in the season. 220, So) Returning Squad Members Rob’s Report none From Head Coach Rob Ash “In all honesty, we start with Redshirts Shawn Johnson. Our offense Nick LaSane (5-11, 205, Fr) is built around him. He’s our Incoming Transfer senior, he’s a leader and a vet- Anthony Knight (6-1, 240, Jr) eran, he’s our big play guy. We Incoming Freshman need the ability to run the ball Tavon Dodd, Noah James vertically after we stretch people out hori- Fall Camp Considerations: zontally, but we need good weapons to do Running Backs Coach Michael Pitre Starter Lost that and Shawn and Gunnar Brekke give us “I want to work on fi ne-tuning the Cody Kirk that vertical ability. We’ll use August to see details in order to get us ready for Other Lettermen Lost what we have with Anthony Knight, see how the season. Creating competition none he complements Shawn and where he fi ts will only make everybody in the Running Backs Coach as a piece to the puzzle. Chad Newell is the group better, but at the same time Michael Pitre (1st year at MSU) most versatile guy in our offense right now, we have to prepare for Arkansas because he can play any role. Nick LaSane State. Because there is so much Overview is a physically capable guy, too. We have depth in the backfi eld it’s important Montana State is experienced at running a lot of guys at this position, and we don’t that all these guys understand their back entering 2014, with three contribu- want to have just one of them on the fi eld at role, accept their role, because at tors back, but whenever a program loses a once with the other fi ve chilling out on the the end of the day it’s about winning player as important to every aspect of the sidelines. There will be many times when we a national championship. As long as program as Cody Kirk uncertainty exists. have two running backs on the fi eld at once. guys buy into their role, whether it’s The Cats should receive production from starting back or special teams, that the three returners, and Shawn Johnson, Running Back Notes role is important to us getting to that Gunnar Brekke and Chad Newell bring Shawn Johnson averaged 10.5 yards per national championship.” complementary and diverse skills to the touch last season, combining his rushes, position. But junior college transfer Anthony catches and returns... RBs Johnson and Knight and redshirt Nick LaSane each bring Chad Newell combined for 30 catches and strength to the power back role. Johnson three touchdown receptions last season. O O O O O O O O O O O

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Receivers MSU pass-catching corps. That eliminates who we signed in February as an a big item from the fall-camp checklist, al- athlete, as a speed receiver. He will Returning Starter lowing the coaches to fi ne-tune the scheme be young, but he’s an option because Brian Flotkoetter (6-3, 211, Sr) rather than fret over personnel. Mitch of his speed. We’ll also look at Mitch Griebel and Brandon Davis bring experi- Herbert and Connor Sullivan, two 6-4 Other Returning Lettermen ence to the inside receiver position, while freshman receivers.” David Dash (lost for season - 5-7, 174, Sr), redshirt Jayshawn Gates is explosive and Mitch Griebel (5-11, 193, Jr), Manny Kalfell fast. Manny Kalfell brings experience to the Receiver Notes (6-2, 195, Jr), Tanner Roderick (6-3, 195, Jr) outside opposite Flotkoetter, but a promising After a four-year run which included Squad Member group of newcomers - Justin Paige, Mitchell two of the school’s top receivers Brandon Davis (5-9, 175, Jr) , Will Krolick Herbert, Connor Sullivan - competes for ever, the Bobcats return only 30% of (6-1, 192, So) time and could re-shuffl e the deck some. the yards accumulated in last year’s Redshirts Will Krolick has impressed in limited action. passing attack by receivers (613 Jayshawn Gates (5-8, 150, Fr), Jacob yards)... Flotkoetter is 152 yards from Stanton (6-2, 185, Fr) Rob’s Report becoming the 14th Bobcat receiver to Incoming Transfer From Head Coach Rob Ash compile 1,000 receiving yards. none “To me, between injuries in the spring, attri- tion and graduation, receiver is the biggest Fall Camp Considerations: Incoming Freshman question mark on the entire team. It’s any- Receivers Coach Cody Kempt Mitchell Herbert (6-4, 201, Fr), Justin Paige body’s guess how that’s going to shake out. “I hope to see a physical group that (5-11, 171, Fr), Connor Sullivan (6-4, 218, We need (Brian) Flotkoetter and David Dash plays with a chip on its shoulder, Fr), Hunter Mahlum (6-1, 190, Fr) to come back from their injuries and have trying to get better every single Starters Lost really good senior seasons. That’s very, very day to do whatever it takes to help Tanner Bleskin, Jon Ellis important for our football program. Those us win. I’m looking for consistent Other Lettermen Lost guys have to perform. They’re seniors, and performance day in and day out, none we need them to be productive. Putting focusing on the little things, because Tanner Roderick back into the mix gives us the little things add up to a big thing, Receivers Coach a play-making athlete who will really help us. which is a Big Sky Championship Cody Kempt (1st year) Mitch Griebel had a great spring going when and eventual national championship.” Overview he got hurt, and he fi nished strong in a non- contact role. We need Mitch to be produc- It was a quiet July afternoon when Tanner tive, as well. Jayshawn Gates redshirted last Roderick completely rearranged Montana year, and he’s a dynamic player at the inside State’s offensive expectations entering fall position. He can run jet sweeps and bubbles camp by requesting a return to receiver, and all the things that position requires. where he spent last fall. In the span of that Manny Kalfell is a smart player who really meeting Roderick joined Brian Flotkoetter to came on at the end of last season and Will form a formidable tandem of outside receiv- Krolick had a good spring. Those players ers, one which combines size with athleti- will all be evaluated in August. We’ll also cism and proven, quality production to the evaluate (incoming freshman) Justin Paige, O O O O O O O O O O O

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Tight Ends throughout his sophomore season retains explosiveness down the fi eld and tough- Returning Starter ness underneath. Perkins’ specialty is at Tiai Salanoa (6-3, 257, Sr) the point-of-attack in the run game, but he is a sure-handed pass-catcher, as well. The Other Returning Lettermen emerging wild card is redshirt freshman Lee Perkins (6-2, 240, Sr), Austin Barth Austin Barth, MSU’s top offensive scout last (6-5, 240, So) fall and its most improved offensive player in Redshirt the spring. none Incoming Freshman Rob’s Report Wilson Brott (6-6, 225, Fr) From Head Coach Rob Ash Starters Lost “One of my most passionate hopes for the none season is that Tiai Salanoa is able to enjoy a healthy and productive year, because he’s Other Lettermen Lost battled injuries and he deserves the chance none to show what he can do in a full, healthy Tight Ends Coach season. He’ll be a huge threat in the pass Daniel DaPrato (2nd year at MSU) game, and he’s become a fabulous blocker. He’s worked very hard in this program, and Overview his teammates recognized his dedication Fall Camp Considerations: Montana State enjoys starting experience, by electing him captain. Lee Perkins had by Tight Ends Coach Daniel DaPrato quality depth, athleticism and physicality far the best off-season he’s had last winter, “We’ll go into fall camp with fi ve or six at the tight end position at the dawn of fall he looked really good in the spring. Austin tight ends, and I just want us to stay camp. Tiai Salanoa returns as a two-year Barth keeps getting better and better and healthy. Last year we went in with only starter, with only injuries interrupting his better, too. We can defi nitely play him. He’ll three. So we’ll have all those guys service time. Salanoa has been productive be a major factor in our rotation. This is a coming back, Tiai Salanoa and Lee in the pass game and at the point of attack, very, very strong group.” Perkins and Austin Barth. We’ll have earning Second Team All-Big Sky honors at least two more guys coming in to last fall. Lee Perkins is also stellar block- Tight End Notes join them. I want to stay healthy with ing, and Austin Barth has shown fl ashes of Tiai Salanoa is MSU’s fi rst out-of-state those guys. They need to build off of playmaking and athleticism. starter at tight end since Blake Wolf’s All- what they’ve accomplished. I have The numbers are slim, but the talent America campaign of 2004... Salanoa and two fi fth-year guys, so my goal for abundent at the tight end position for MSU Perkins each started games during the 2013 them is to stay healthy while getting this year. The top two on the depth chart, season. prepared for game one.” Tiai Salanoa and Lee Perkins, each have starting experience and wide-ranging skills. Salanoa is very good in space and as a pass-catcher, and even after battling injury

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dominance. Odin Coe appears set to take Defensive Line over as the next playmaking defensive end, with experience and talent returning Returning Starter inside. Taylor Sheridan and Taylor Dees DE Odin Coe (part-time; 6-3, 254, Jr), have started games at tackle, and com- Taylor Dees (6-2, 273, Sr) plement each other well. Dees is strong Other Returning Lettermen and solid inside, while Sheridan brings DT Nate Bignell (6-2, 273, Jr), DE Luke a big-play presence. Nate Bignell and Halliburton (6-0, 230, So), DT Taylor Connor Thomas bring experience to the Sheridan (6-4, 280, So), DT Connor rotation. After Coe, the experience is lim- Thomas (6-3, 290, So) ited at end. Luke Halliburton has shown Squad Member promise in a reserve role, while redshirts DE Zach Hutchins (6-3, 238, So) Devin Jeffries and Zach Hutchins will be asked to contribute. Redshirts DT Matt Brownlow, DE Devin Jeffries, Rob’s Report DE Robert Wilcox, DE Eric Williamson From Head Coach Rob Ash Incoming Transfer “I really like the effort and work ethic of Defensive Line Notes none this group. Coach Beck is a master of get- In addition to the individual awards, Montana State has also produced Incoming Freshman ting production out of all his players, so national statistical champions out of its Curtis Amos (6-0, 212, Fr) Tyrone I’m confi dent we’ll be good in the defen- defensive line in the past two seasons - Fa’anono (6-2, 261, Fr), Garrett Marino sive line. We need to stay healthy, we’re a Caleb Schreibeis led the FCS in fumbles (6-2, 274, Fr), DE Zach Wright (6-3, 234, little thin with the losses in the spring, but forced in 2012, Brad Daly in sacks in Fr), Tucker Yates (6-1, 285, Fr) it’s the old phrase ‘next man up.’ It’s Odin Coe’s turn to show us what he can do. He 2013... MSU has produced a First, Sec- Starters Lost ond or Third Team All-America defen- DT Craig Ashworth, DE Brad Daly has all the tools, he has experience, he knows what’s going on, and it’s his time sive lineman in fi ve straight seasons. Other Lettermen Lost now. He’s got to be the next great player DE Preston Gale, DE Hayden Vick at that (Bandit) position. Zach Hutchins Fall Camp Considerations: Defensive Line Coach also has to show up and be productive. Defensive Line Coach Bo Beck Bo Beck (8th year at MSU) He had a good spring, he has the poten- “We need to fi nd out who the leader is, tial to become a good player. At the inside who’s going to take charge. We have to positions, Taylor Sheridan could be one of develop depth, and some of the younger Overview the best defensive linemen in the confer- players have to master our scheme at Montana State’s defensive line has pro- ence. He’s improved physically every year the same level as the veterans. And duced the last two Buck Buchanan Award and I think he can be productive, disrup- the most important thing we need, winners and at least one All-America in tive. Taylor Dees also is versatile and which can only come in time, is game fi ve straight seasons. This legacy of suc- very important. Nate Bignell and Connor experience.” cess covers several decades, and there Thomas are coming along, and Luke Hal- is talent on hand to extend the run of liburton is an improving young player.” O O O O O O O O O O O

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Singleton and Cole Moore. Still, injuries and ers have started games (Moeakiola in Linebackers academics tug at the team’s depth. Michael 2011 and ‘12, Alex Singleton and Cole Foster, who fi lled in admirably for Moeaki- Moore each of the past two seasons). Returning Starter ola, was ruled ineligible in May and an injury Na’a Moeakiola (from 2012 - 5-11, 217, Sr), to Blake Braun will force him to redshirt in Fall Camp Considerations: Cole Moore (6-2, 220, Sr), Alex Singleton 2014. Rhett Young performed extremely Linebackers Coach Kane Ioane (6-2, 227, Sr) well when pressed into action after Foster “Ultimately what fall camp presents us Other Returning Lettermen was injured, and Wyatt Christensen, whose with is the opportunity to create more Blake Braun (6-1,223, So), Wyatt Chris- season was also ended early by injury, is depth. We have guys coming back tensen (5-11, 215, So), Fletcher Collins (6-1, seen as a promising young player. With the as far as starting experience, game 230, So), Rob Walsh (6-0, 213, Jr), Rhett development of depth and an avoidance of experience, now it’s just a matter of Young (6-0, 215, Sr) catastrophic injuries, the team’s linebacker the guys that don’t necessarily have Redshirts corps appears solid entering 2014. that experience to gain those reps in Mac Bignell (6-0, 190, Fr), Monte Folsom fall camp so we can go six, seven, (6-2, 255, Fr), Joey Michael (6-3, 220, Jr) Rob’s Report eight deep. I’m excited about this Incoming Freshman From Head Coach Rob Ash group. I think we have a great mix Grant Collins (6-4, 213, Fr), Koni Dole (6-1, “Our three starters form as good a group of playmakers and leadership, so it 201, Fr), Toti Moeakiola (6-0, 205, Fr), Eric as you could ever hope to have. They’re should be a fun group to watch.” Prevost (6-0, 205, Fr) all veterans, they’re productive players, they’re leaders. Each of them can play entire Starters Lost games, lots of plays, because they work so Michael Foster hard, they’re in great shape, they’re smart. Other Lettermen Lost I think we’re in great shape with this group. none Losing Mike Foster and Blake Braun hurts Linebackers Coach from a depth standpoint, but Rhett Young Kane Ioane (11th year at MSU), Michael had a very good spring and he’ll fi gure in Rider (2nd year on MSU staff) as an excellent backup. Wyatt Christensen needs to come back from injury and fi gure Overview in as a backup inside, and Mac Bignell MSU’s situation at linebacker seems set, emerged in the spring as a guy that could but that was the case in 2013 when Na’a earn a backup spot.” Moeakiola’s season-ending surgery and Aleksei Grosulak’s retirement due to injury Linebacker Notes severely hampered the team’s defense. Just Montana State linebackers intercepted like that, the team was inexperienced in the three passes in 2013, while defensive backs middle and paper thin across the board. snagged only three... over the past two Moeakiola returns as a fi fth-year senior, years, Bobcat ‘backers have intercepted and is fl anked by returning starters Alex nine passes... four current Bobcat lineback-

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Nevada transfer Bryson Keeton locked down Fall Camp Considerations: Defensive Backs the other side with an impressive spring. Secondary Coach Jamie Marshall Rob Marshall starts at free safety, while “We have to establish the starters, and Returning Starter Eryon Barnett is a fi xture at rover after miss- from there build depth. We need to fi nd CB Deonte Flowers (5-11, 183, Sr), FS Rob ing most of last season with an injury. James out who the third and fourth corners are Marshall (6-0, 200, Sr) Nelson spent time as a reserve safety in his going to be, and fulfi ll the nickel position Other Returning Lettermen fi rst two seasons at MSU, but transitioned at the back end. I believe we can do that S Eryon Barnett (6-2, 195, Sr), S Cody to cornerback out of necessity because of within the fi rst two weeks of camp.” Cleveland (6-0, 190, Sr), CB James Nelson injuries last year and impressed. (5-11, 199, Sr) Squad Member Rob’s Report none From Head Coach Rob Ash “As a group of returners, this is probably the Redshirts strongest we’ve been in the secondary. We S Khari Garcia (5-10, 178, Fr), S Kellen have three seniors that have a lot of experi- Kollmorgen (6-1, 195, Fr), CB Jaylen Price ence (Deonte Flowers, Rob Marshall and (5-11, 185, Fr), S Trace Timmer (5-11, 185, Eryon Barnett) with good height, weight and Jr), S West Wilson (5-11, 195, Fr) speed. This is a very accomplished group. Incoming Transfers Deonte Flowers has done a really good job CB Bryson Keeton (6-2, 190, Jr) during his time in our program. We put him Incoming Freshman in position to make more plays in the run CB Bryce Alley (5-10, 169, Fr), DB Braelen game this spring, and he responded very Evans (5-11, 183, Fr) well. Every year he’s stayed more patient Starters Lost and dedicated with his technique, and he CB Sean Gords, S Steven Bethley had a very good year last year. I believe he has a chance to be the very best corner Other Lettermen Lost in the league this year. Bryson Keeton is a none transfer that had a very good spring, and Secondary Coaches Rob Marshall came in and did an awesome Jamie Marshall (8th year at MSU); Brandon job last year when we needed him. North (3rd year at MSU) Secondary Notes James Nelson is capable of playing safety or Overview corner, and should receive consideration in The Bobcats may have lost half their full- the nickel role, as well... Deonte Flowers has time starters in the secondary from 2013, intercepted two passes in his career, but the but this unit has talent, experience, depth returns of those picks have accounted for and versatility. Deonte Flowers is a third- 104 yards. year returning starter at one corner, while O O O O O O O O O O O

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bringing credentials as a top prep punter Thompson will have that chance, and it’s Specialists to Bozeman. One of the most impressive possible we’ll have a freshman kicker and performances of spring ball came in its punter, because Matt Stewart had an out- Returning Starter fi nal moments, when freshman Luke Daly standing high school career as a punter.” none nailed six of seven fi eld goal tries in the Lettermen spring game to boost himself into consid- Kicking Game Notes P/K Trevor Bolton (5-10, 185, Jr) eration for kicking honors in the fall. Trevor Bolton, the only experienced kick- Squad Member ing specialist in the program, has punted none Rob’s Report 33 times in his career at MSU... he has From Head Coach Rob Ash not attempted a fi eld goal, but is 3-for-5 in Incoming Freshmen “A big part of our season will be how his career on extra points. P Matt Stewart (6-3, 245, Fr), K Trevin our kicking game shakes out. I was very Thompson 5-9, 195, Fr) encourged with Luke Daly’s performance Incoming Transfer on the last day of spring ball. With people none watching and everything on the line he Redshirts made six out of seven kicks and looked P/K Luke Daly (6-1, 172, Fr), LS Rocky very good. I haven’t completely counted Hogue (6-1, 210, Fr) Trevor Bolton out yet. He’s defi nitely got Starters Lost the leg, and he’s going to be our kickoff P/K Rory Perez guy, he’s stronger than he’s been, he looks really good, and he’ll get a chance. Other Lettermen Lost We’ll stay with him as our roll punter, I like none that tactic and it complicates preparation Special Teams Coordinator against us. We really need someone to Daniel DaPrato (2nd season at MSU) step up and become the kicker. Trevin Overview The 2014 season marks the begin- ning of a new era in the Bobcat kicking game, coming in the wake of four years of steady performance by Rory Perez. Perez started at punter throughout his Bobcat career and held down the place-kicking role the last two years. Trevor Bolton, a junior, will compete for both full-time punting and place-kicking duties, but he has a hold on the roll punt and kickoff chores. A pair of freshmen will battle for starting jobs in August, with Trevin Thompson entering as a talented high school kicker and Matt Stewart

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No. Name, Position Ht Wt Cl Exp Major Hometown (JC/HS) 68 Dillon Fraley, OL 6-4 278 So Sq* Busin Bigfork, MT (Bigfork) 1 Garrett Marino, DE 6-2 255 Fr HS Univ Stu Mission Viejo, CA (Mission Viejo) 69 Eric Williamson, DL 6-2 205 Fr RS* Univ Stu Polson, MT (Polson) 2 Jake Bleskin, QB 6-1 199 Jr 2V* HHP Great Falls, MT (CM Russell) 70 Joel Horn, OG/C 6-4 295 Jr 2V* Civ Engin Kalispell, MT (Glacier) 2 Na’a Moeakiola, LB 6-0 226 Sr 3V* Bus Mgt Euless, TX (Trinity) 71 Alex Eekhoff, OL 6-7 290 Jr 2V* Const Eng Tech Reno, NV (Bishop Manogue) 3 Bryson Keeton, CB 6-2 187 Jr Tr Socio Bakersfi eld, CA (Nevada/Ridgeview) 73 Caleb Gillis, OL 6-6 265 Fr RS* Civil Eng Glenn, MT (Beaverhead Co.) 4 Shawn Johnson, RB 5-10 180 Sr 3V Health Enh Bakersfi eld, CA (Centennial) 74 Wade Webster, OL 6-5 274 Fr HS Crop Sci Bettendorf, IA (Bettendorf) 5 Dakota Prukop, QB 6-2 195 So 1V* Econ Austin, TX (Vandegrift) 75 JP Flynn, OL 6-5 304 So 1V* Mech Eng Tech Bettendorf, IA (Bettendorf) 5 Robert Marshall, S 6-0 195 Sr 3V* Hea Enh Carrollton, TX (Creekview) 76 Zach Wright, DL 6-2 242 Fr HS Busin New Braunfels, TX (New Braunfels) 6 Bobby Crane, QB 6-0 204 So RS Univ Stu Irvine, CA (Santa Margarita) 77 RETIRED FOR BILL KOLLAR, DL, 1970-73 6 Cody Cleveland, S 6-1 186 Sr 1V* Socio New Lenox, IL (Providence) 78 RETIRED FOR JAN STENERUD, K, 1964-66 7 David Dash, WR 5-7 180 Sr 2V Socio Fontana, CA (A.B. Miller) 79 Quinn Catalano, OG 6-4 290 Sr 3V* Bus Mgt San Diego, CA (Scripps Ranch) 8 Manny Kalfell, WR 6-2 200 Jr 1V* Bus Mgt Bozeman, MT (Bozeman) 80 Tiai Salanoa, TE 6-3 264 Sr 3V Sociology Oxnard, CA (Oxnard) 9 Anthony Knight, RB 6-1 232 Jr JC HHP Boston, MA (Riverside/Nevada/Xaverian Bro.) 81 Jacob Stanton, WR 6-2 190 Fr RS* Univ Stu Billings, MT (Central) 10 Odin Coe, DE 6-3 242 Jr 1V* Earth Sci Camas, WA (Camas) 82 Mitchell Herbert, WR 6-4 205 Fr HS Pre-Med Eugene, OR (Sheldon) 11 Tanner Roderick, WR 6-2 210 Jr 1V*+ Kinesio Bozeman, MT (Nevada/Bozeman) 83 Hunter Mahlum, WR 6-1 197 Fr HS Marketing Missoula, MT (Hellgate) 11 Wyatt Christensen, LB 6-0 217 So 1V Bio Sci Fountain Valley, CA (Fountain Valley) 84 Brian Flotkoetter, WR 6-3 211 Sr 3V* Socio Laurel, MT (Laurel) 12 Khari Garcia, DB 5-10 178 Fr RS* Univ Stu Covina, CA (Charter Oak) 85 Will Krolick, WR 6-1 183 So Sq* Mech Eng Anchorage, AK (South) 13 Mitch Griebel, WR 5-11 193 Jr 1V*+ Ex Sci Littleton, CO (Heritage/Air Force) 86 Justin Paige, WR 5-11 166 Fr HS Mech Eng Katy, TX (Morton Ranch) 14 Quinn McQueary, QB 6-3 180 Fr RS Univ Stu Manhattan, MT (Manhattan) 87 Connor Sullivan, WR 6-4 237 Fr HS Univ Stu Ennis, MT (Ennis) 14 Toti Moeakiola, LB 6-0 215 Fr HS Univ Stu Euless, TX (Trinity) 88 John D’Agostino, WR 6-1 177 Fr HS Univ Stu Bozeman, MT (Bozeman) 15 Austin Barth, TE 6-6 243 So 1V* Univ Stu Columbia Falls, MT (Columbia Falls) 89 Wilson Brott, TE 6-5 225 Fr HS Exerc Sci Billings, MT (West) 16 Cole Moore, LB 6-2 216 Sr 3V* Poli Sci Whitehouse Station, NJ (Hunterdon Central) 90 Taylor Sheridan, DT 6-4 286 Jr 2V* Bus Mgt Littleton, CO (Rock Canyon) 17 Chad Newell, RB 6-1 220 So 1V* Mech Eng Billings, MT (Senior) 91 Robert Wilcox, DE 6-1 267 So Tr/RS* Kinesio Frisco, TX (Grambling/Princeton HS) 18 Casey Schwertfeger, WR 6-2 178 Fr HS Univ Stu Austin, TX (Austin) 92 Tucker Yates, DL 6-0 303 Fr HS Univ Stu Colstrip, MT (Colstrip) 19 Jayshawn Gates, WR 5-8 150 Fr RS* Univ Stu Palo Alto, CA (Palo Alto) 93 Lee Perkins, TE 6-3 240 Sr 3V* Plant Sci Great Falls, MT (Great Falls) 20 Jaylen Price, DB 5-10 187 Fr RS* HHP Little Elm, TX (Little Elm) 94 Devin Jeffries, DL 6-1 245 Fr RS* Univ Stu Kalispell, MT (Glacier) 21 RETIRED FOR DON HASS, TAILBACK, 1965-67 95 Zach Hutchins, DE 6-3 240 So Sq* Bus Fin Las Vegas, NV (Bishop Gorman) 22 Eryon Barnett, S 6-2 202 Sr 2V Socio Euless, TX (Texas/Trinity) 96 Curtis Amos, DE 6-0 214 Fr HS Univ Stu Burleson, TX (Centennial) 23 Nick LaSane, RB 5-11 213 Fr RS* Socio Dallas TX (Lovejoy) 97 Connor Thomas, DT 6-3 286 So 1V Bio Med Sci Kalispell, MT 24 Bryce Alley, DB 5-11 165 Fr HS Univ Stu Houston, TX (North Shore) 98 Tyrone Fa’anono, DL 6-2 261 Fr HS Engineering Oxnard, CA (Oaks Christian) 25 James Nelson, S 5-11 193 Sr 2V Elem Ed Los Angeles, CA (LB Poly) *-player has used redshirt season +-transfer 26 Trevin Thompson, K 5-10 192 Fr HS Marketing Helena, MT (Helena) 27 Gunnar Brekke, RB 5-11 195 So 1V Univ Stu Helena, MT (Capital) 28 Kellen Kollmorgen, FS 6-1 208 Fr RS* Univ Stu Waukee, IA (Waukee) 29 Brandon Davis, RB 5-9 176 Jr Sq+ Socio Granbury, TX (La Tech/Granbury) 30 Trevor Bolton, K/P 5-10 187 Jr 2V* Comm Hea Great Falls, MT (Great Falls) 22014014 AlphabeticalAlphabetical RosterRoster 30 West Wilson, DB 5-11 198 Fr RS Univ Stu Columbia, MO (Rock Bridge) 24 Bryce Alley, DB 73 Caleb Gillis, OL 93 Lee Perkins, TE 31 Tavon Dodd, RB 5-8 176 Fr HS Marketing Houston, TX (John H. Reagan) 66 Andrew Alt, OL 63 Kyle Godecke, OL 57 Eric Prevost, LB 33 Matt Stewart, P 6-2 242 Fr HS Management Corona, CA (Santiago) 89 Curtis Amos, TE 13 Mitch Griebel, WR 19 Jaylen Price, WR 34 Blake Braun, LB 6-2 227 So 1V Univ Stu Riverside, CA (Redlands E. Valley) 22 Eryon Barnett, CB 48 Luke Halliburton, DL 5 Dakota Prukop, QB 35 Braelen Evans, DB 5-11 183 Fr HS Marketing Frisco, TX (Hebron) 15 Austin Barth, TE 65 Doug Hanson, OL 11 Tanner Roderick, WR 36 Demonte King, DB 6-0 192 Fr HS Business Los Alamitos, CA (Los Alamotis) 49 Mac Bignell, LB 82 Mitchell Herbert, WR 80 Tiai Salanoa, TE 37 Deonte Flowers, CB 5-11 183 Sr 3V Math San Diego, CA (Samuel Morse) 50 Nate Bignell, DE 56 Rocky Hogue, LS 18 Casey Schwertfeger, WR 38 Trace Timmer, DB 6-0 183 Jr 1V* Const Eng Tech Great Falls, MT (Great Falls) 2 Jake Bleskin, QB 70 Joel Horn, OG/C 90 Taylor Sheridan, DT 39 Noah James, RB 6-1 196 Fr HS Univ Stu Kalispell, MT (Glacier) 30 Trevor Bolton, K/P 18 Bo Hughes, DB 43 Alex Singleton, LB 41 Grant Collins, LB 6-4 222 Fr HS Civil Eng Bozeman, MT (Bozeman) 34 Blake Braun, LB 95 Zach Hutchins, DL 81 Jacob Stanton, WR 42 Joey Michael, LB 6-2 201 Jr RS*+ Sociology Cashmere, WA (Pacifi c U.) 27 Gunnar Brekke, RB 39 Noah James, RB 33 Matt Stewart, P 43 Alex Singleton, LB 6-2 235 Sr 3V Socio Thousand Oaks, CA (Thousand Oaks) 96 Wilson Brott, TE 94 Devin Jeffries, DL 18 Connor Sullivan, WR 44 Koni Dole, LB 6-0 200 Fr HS Ex Sci Huntley Project, MT (Huntley Pr.) 62 Matt Brownlow, DL 4 Shawn Johnson, RB 97 Connor Thomas, DT 45 Luke Daly, K 6-2 180 Fr RS* Bio Sci Billings, MT (Central) 79 Quinn Catalano, OT/C 83 Manny Kalfell, WR 26 Trevin Thompson, K 11 Wyatt Christensen, LB 3 Bryson Keeton, CB 38 Trace Timmer, S 46 Gabe Strong, TE 6-5 228 Fr HS Univ Stu Lakeport, CA (Clear Lake) 6 Cody Cleveland, S 36 Demonte King, DB 40 Cody Vitt, RB 47 Taylor Dees, DT 6-2 270 Sr 3V* Elem Ed Worden, MT (Huntley Project) 10 Odin Coe, DE 9 Anthony Knight, RB 53 Robert Walsh, LB 48 Luke Halliburton, DL 6-0 230 So 1V* Hea Enh Kalispell, MT (Glacier) 59 Fletcher Collins, LB 17 Kellen Kollmorgon, FS 74 Wade Webster, OL 49 Mac Bignell, LB 6-1 199 Fr RS* Uni Stu Drummond, MT (Drummond) 41 Grant Collins, LB 85 Will Krolick, WR 55 John Weidenaar, OT 50 Nate Bignell, DT 6-2 277 Jr 1V* Elem Ed Drummond, MT (Drummond) 45 Luke Daly, K 23 Nick LaSane, RB 91 Robert Wilcox, DE 52 RETIRED FOR SONNY HOLLAND, CENTER, 1956-59 7 David Dash, WR 32 Hunter Mahlum, WR 69 Eric Williamson, DL 53 Robert Walsh, LB 5-11 218 Jr 1V* Bioeng Twin Bridges, MT (Twin Bridges) 29 Brandon Davis, RB 60 Dylan Mahoney, OL 30 West Wilson, DB 54 Monte Folsom, LB 6-2 255 Fr RS Business Dillon, MT (Beaverhead Co.) 47 Taylor Dees, DT 64 Joey Marinello, OL 76 Marshall Womack, OL 55 John Weidenaar, OT 6-8 285 Jr 2V* Ag Bus Manhattan, MT (Manhattan Christian) 31 Tavon Dodd, RB 1 Garrett Marino, DE 76 Zach Wright, DL 56 Rocky Hogue, LS 6-3 214 Fr RS* Univ Stu Merced, CA (Merced) 44 Koni Dole, LB 5 Robert Marshall, S 92 Tucker Yates, DL 58 Rhett Young, LB 6-1 217 Sr 3V* An Sci Augusta, MT (Augusta) 71 Alex Eekhoff, OL 14 Quinn McQueary, QB 58 Rhett Young, LB 59 Fletcher Collins, LB 6-2 216 So 1V* Cell Bio & Neuro Seattle, WA (Seattle Prep) 35 Braelen Evans, DB 91 Joey Michaels, TE 60 Dylan Mahoney, OL 6-6 255 Fr RS* Univ Stu Great Falls, MT (CM Russell) 98 Tyrone Fa’anono, DL 2 Na’a Moeakiola, LB 61 Austin Oldenburger, OL 6-3 267 Fr HS Ag Busin Manhattan, MT (Manhattan) 84 Brian Flotkoetter, WR 14 Toti Noeakiola, LB 62 Matt Brownlow, DT 5-9 278 Fr RS Business Missoula, MT (Sentinel) 37 Deonte Flowers, CB 16 Cole Moore, LB 75 JP Flynn, OL 25 James Nelson, S 63 Kyle Godecke, OG 6-5 316 Jr 2V* Finance Dillon, MT (Beaverhead) 54 Monte Folsom, DL 17 Chad Newell, RB 64 Joey Marinello, OL 6-5 311 Fr HS Civil Eng Apple Valley, MN (Eastview) 68 Dillon Fraley, OL 61 Austin Oldenburger, OL 65 Doug Hanson, OL 6-4 281 So Sq* Univ Stu Trabuco Canyon, CA (Mission Viejo) 12 Khari Garcia, DB 46 Gabe Oiler-Strong, TE 66 Andrew Alt, OL 6-4 284 Fr RS* Univ Stu Roundup, MT (Roundup) 19 Jayshawn Gates, WR 86 Justin Paige, WR 22014014 BBobcatobcat DDepthepth CCharthart aandnd PPronunciationsronunciations

Offense Defense LEFT TACKLE BANDIT 55 John Weidenaar* (WY-dun-our) 6-7 280 Jr& 10 Odin Coe 6-3 254 So& 60 Dylan Mahoney 48 Luke Halliburton* 6-0 230 So& LEFT GUARD TACKLE 63 Kyle Godecke* (go-DECK-ee) 6-5 35 Jr& 47 Taylor Dees** 6-2 273 Sr& 65 Doug Hanson 6-3 280 So& 97 Connor Thomas 6-3 290 So& CENTER NOSE 70 Joel Horn* 6-4 320 So& 90 Taylor Sheridan** 6-4 280 So& or 79 Quinn Catalano 6-4 300 Sr& 50 Nate Bignell 6-2 273 Jr& RIGHT GUARD END 75 JP Flynn 6-5 304 So& 95 Zach Hutchins 6-3 238 So& 65 Doug Hanson 6-3 280 So& 94 Devin Jeffries 6-1 235 Fr& RIGHT TACKLE SAM 79 Quinn Catalano 6-4 300 Sr& 16 Cole Moore** 6-2 230 Sr& or 71 Alex Eekhoff* (EEK-off) 6-6 286 Jr& 49 Mac Bignell 6-0 190 Fr& TIGHT END MIKE 80 Tiai Salanoa* (Tee sal-uh-NO-uh) 6-3 257 Jr 2 Na’a Moeakiola*** (NAW-aw moe-ee-aw-kee-O-luh) 5-11 220 Sr& 93 Lee Perkins* 6-2 240 Jr& 58 Rhett Young 6-0 215 Sr& 15 Austin Barth 6-5 240 So& 59 Fletcher Collins 6-2 236 Fr& QUARTERBACK WILL 2 Jake Bleskin* 6-1 195 Jr& 43 Alex Singleton** 6-2 227 Sr or 5 Dakota Prukop (PROO-kop) 6-2 195 So& 54 Wyatt Christensen 6-0 212 So or 14 Quinn McQueary (mick-WEARY) 6-2 185 Fr& BOUNDARY CORNER RUNNING BACK 37 Deonte Flowers* (dee-AWN-tay) 5-11 183 Sr 33 Shawn Johnson** 5-9 175 Sr 26 James Nelson* 5-10 199 Jr& 17 Chad Newell 6-1 220 So& ROVER or 27 Gunnar Brekke 5-11 180 So 22 Eryon Barnett* (like Aaron) 6-2 195 Sr&+ or 9 Anthony Knight 6-1 240 Jr&+ 12 Khari Garcia (kuh-HAW-ree) 5-10 178 Fr& 23 Nick LaSane 5-11 205 Fr& FREE SAFETY X RECEIVER 5 Robert Marshall** 6-0 195 Jr 84 Brian Flotkoetter* (FLAWT-cutter) 6-2 211 Jr& 6 Cody Cleveland** 6-0 190 Sr& 85 Will Krolick (CROW-lick) 6-1 192 So& FIELD CORNER F/Y RECEIVER 3 Bryson Keeton 6-2 190 Jr+& 13 Mitch Griebel (GRY-bell) 5-10 193 So+& 38 Trace Timmer 5-11 185 Jr& or 12 David Dash 5-7 174 Jr& 19 Jayshawn Gates 5-8 150 Fr& *-letters won &-used redshirt year +-transferred to MSU Z RECEIVER 11 Tanner Roderick 6-3 185 Jr&+ 83 Manny Kalfell (CALL-fell) 6-2 195 Jr&

Special Teams PUNTS 33 Matt Stewart or 2 Jake Bleskin 6-1 195 Jr& PLACEMENTS 45 Luke Daly 6-2 185 Fr& or 30 Trevor Bolton 5-10 189 Jr& or 26 Trevin Thompson 5-9 195 Fr KICKOFFS 30 Trevor Bolton 5-10 189 Jr& LONG/SHORT SNAPS 56 Rocky Hogue 6-3 205 Fr& HOLDER 13 Mitch Griebel 5-11 193 Jr&+

Includes only players who participated in spring drills 22014014 BBobcatobcat OOpponentpponent CCapsulesapsules 1 at Arkansas State 3 Central Arkansas 5 North Dakota Location ...... Jonesboro, AR Location ...... Conway, AR Location ...... Grand Forks, ND Enrollment ...... 13,552 Enrollment ...... 11,758 Enrollment ...... 15,143 Nickname ...... Red Wolves Nickname ...... Bears Nickname ...... UND Colors ...... Scarlet, black Colors ...... Purple, gray Colors ...... Kelly green, white Stadium ...... Centennial Bank Stadium Stadium ...... Estes Stadium Stadium ...... Alerus Center (12,283) Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FBS Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FCS Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FCS Conference ...... Sun Belt Conference ...... Southland Conference ...... Big Sky Athletics Director .....Dr. Charles L. Welch Athletics Director ...... Dr. Brad Teague Athletics Director ...... Brian Faison Head Coach ...... Blake Anderson Head Coach ...... Steve Campbell Head Coach ...... Bubba Schweigert Alma Mater ...... Sam Houston State/’92 Alma Mater ...... Troy State/’87 Alma Mater ...... Career/at School ...... 0-0, 1st/same Career/at School ...... 27-8, 4th/0-0, 1st Career/at School ...... 0-0, 1st/same Record vs. MSU ...... 0-0 (0-0/0-0) Record vs. MSU ...... 0-0 (0-0/0-0) Record vs. MSU ...... 0-0 (0-0/0-1) Series Record ...... 3-0 Series Record ...... 0-0 Series Record ...... 18-13-1 at Bozeman ...... 2-0 at Bozeman ...... 0-0 at Bozeman ...... 10-5 at Jonesboro ...... 1-0 at Opponent...... 0-0 at Opponent...... 8-7-1 Rob Ash vs. ASU ...... 0-0 Rob Ash vs. UCA ...... 0-0 at Neutral ...... 0-1 Rob Ash vs. Blake Anderson ...... 0-0 Rob Ash vs. Steve Campbell ...... 0-0 Rob Ash vs. UND ...... 2-0 (1-0/1-0) SID ...... Jerry Scott ([email protected]) SID:...... Steve East ([email protected]) Rob Ash vs. Bubba Schweigert .0-0 (0-0/0-0) Phone: ...... o: 870/972-3405 Phone: ...... o: 501/450-5743 SID:Ryan Powell ([email protected]) Phone: ..701/777-2986, cell 701/213-5921 2 Black Hills State 4 Eastern Washington Location ...... Spearfi sh, SD Location ...... Cheney, WA 6 at Sacramento State Enrollment ...... 4,000 Enrollment ...... 12,791 Location ...... Sacramento, CA Nickname ...... Yellowjackets Nickname ...... Eagles Enrollment ...... 28,500 Colors ...... Green, gold Colors ...... Red, white Nickname ...... Hornets Stadium ...... Lyle Hare Stadium Stadium ...... Roos Field (8,600) Colors ...... Green, gold Afi lliation ...... NCAA DII Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FCS Stadium ...... Hornet Stadium Conference ...... Rocky Mountain Conf. Conference ...... Big Sky Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FCS Athletics Director ...... Dr. R. Gerald Turner Athletics Director ...... Bill Chaves Conference ...... Big Sky Head Coach ...... John Reiners Head Coach ...... Beau Baldwin VP for Athletics ...... TBA Alma Mater ...... Chadron State/’95 Alma Mater ...... Central Wash./’83 Head Coach ...... Jody Sears (Interim) Career/at School ...... 4-7, 2nd/same Career/at School .....56-22, 8th/66-25, 7th Alma Mater ...... Washington State/’91 Record vs. MSU ...... 0-0 (0-0/0-0) Record vs. MSU ...... 4-2 (2-1/2-1) Career/at School ...... 4-19, 3rd/0-0, 1st Series Record ...... 0-0 Series Record ...... 10-27 Record vs. MSU ...... 0-2 (0-1/0-1) at Bozeman ...... 0-0 at Bozeman ...... 6-14 Series Record ...... 15-6 at Spearfi sh ...... 0-0 at Cheney ...... 2-10 at Bozeman ...... 8-1 Rob Ash vs. BHSU ...... 0-0 at Spokane ...... 2-2 at Sacramento ...... 7-5 Rob Ash vs. John Reiners ...... 0-0 at Great Falls ...... 0-1 Rob Ash vs. Sac St ...... 6-0 (3-0/3-0) SID:...... Joe Janowczyk Rob Ash vs. EWU ...... 2-5 (1-3/1-2) Rob Ash vs. Jody Sears ...... 1-0 (0-0/1-0) ([email protected]) Rob Ash vs. Beau Baldwin ....2-4 (1-2/1-2) SID:...Brian Berger ([email protected]) Phone: o: 605/642-6832, c: 707/479-1344 SID:...... Dave Cook ([email protected]) Phone: o: 916/278-4313, c: 916/397-4325 Phone: 406/243-5402, cell 406/370-9435 7 at UC Davis 9 at Cal Poly 11 Idaho State Location ...... Davis, CA Location ...... San Luis Obispo, CA Location ...... Pocatello, ID Enrollment ...... 33,300 Enrollment ...... 19,800 Enrollment ...... 14,489 Nickname ...... Aggies Nickname ...... Mustangs Nickname ...... Bengals Colors ...... Blue, gold Colors ...... Green, gold Colors ...... Black, orange Stadium ...... Aggie Stadium Stadium Alex G. Spanos Stadium (11,075) Stadium ...... Holt Arena (12,000) Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FCS Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FCS Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FCS Conference ...... Great West Conference ...... Big Sky Conference ...... Big Sky Athletics Director ...... Terry Tumey Athletics Director .Dr. Jeffrey D. Armstrong Athletics Director ...... Jeff Tingey Head Coach ...... Ron Gould Head Coach ...... Tim Walsh Head Coach ...... Mike Kramer Alma Mater ...... Oregon/’88 Alma Mater ...... UC Riverside/’77 Alma Mater ...... Idaho/’72 Career/at School ...... 5-7, 2nd/same Career/at School .143-101, 23rd/26-19, 5th Career/at School .... 83-103/17th, 6-28/4th Record vs. MSU ...... 0-1 (0-0/0-1) Record vs. MSU ...... 6-5 (5-0/1-5) Record vs. MSU ...... 5-2 (3-0/2-2) Series Record ...... 3-1 Series Record ...... 4-9 Series Record ...... 45-30-3 at Bozeman ...... 2-1 at Bozeman ...... 2-4 at Bozeman ...... 27-9-1 at Ogden ...... 1-0 at Opponent...... 2-5 at Pocatello ...... 18-21-2 Rob Ash vs. UCD ...... 3-0 (2-0/1-0) MSU vs. Tim Walsh ...... 5-6 (5-1/0-5) Rob Ash vs. ISU ...... 5-0 (3-0/2-0) Rob Ash vs. Ron Gould ...... 1-0 (0-0/0-0) Rob Ash vs. CP ...... 0-0 Rob Ash vs. Mike Kramer .... 1-0 (1-0/0-0) SID:...... Mike Robles Rob Ash vs. Tim Walsh ...... 0-0 MSU vs. Mike Kramer ...... 2-5 (2-2/0-3) Phone: .... 530/752-3680, c: 530/979-1747 SID:..Eric Burdkci ([email protected]) SID:.....Steve Schaack ([email protected]) Phone: ...... O: 805/756-6550 Phone: ...... 208/282-2621, 208/406-3570 8 Weber State Location ...... Ogden, UT 10 Portland State 12 at Montana Enrollment ...... 26,483 Location ...... Portland, OR Location ...... Missoula, MT Nickname ...... Wildcats Enrollment ...... 29,524 Enrollment ...... 14,943 Colors ...... Purple, white Nickname ...... Vikings Nickname ...... Grizzlies Stadium ...... Stewart Stadium (17,500) Colors ...... Green, white, silver Spirit Colors ...... Maroon, silver Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FCS Stadium ...... Providence Park (18,627) Stadium ...... Washington-Grizzly Conference ...... Big Sky Afi lliation ...... NCAA DI FCS Afi lliation ...... DI FCS Athletics Director ...... Jerry Bovee Conference ...... Big Sky Conference ...... Big Sky Head Coach ...... Jay Hill Athletics Director ...... Torre Chisholm Athletics Director ...... Kent Haslam Alma Mater ...... Utah/’ Head Coach ...... Nigel Burton Head Coach ...... Mick Delaney Career/at School ...... 0-0, 1st/same Alma Mater ...... Washington/’99 Alma Mater ...... UM Western/’64 Record vs. MSU ...... 0-0 Career/at School ...... 18-27/5th, same Career/at School ...... 5-6/2nd, 12-15-1/4th Series Record ...... 29-20-1 Record vs. MSU ...... 0-3 (0-2/0-1) Record vs. MSU ...... 1-1 (0-1/1-0) at Bozeman ...... 14-9-1 Series Record ...... 18-9 Series Record ...... 37-71-5 at Davis ...... 15-11 at Bozeman ...... 12-1 at Bozeman ...... 18-24-3 Rob Ash vs. WSU ...... 6-0 (3-0/3-0) at Portland ...... 6-7 at Opponent...... 16-29-1 Rob Ash vs. Jay Hill ...... 0-0 (0-0/0-0) at Billings ...... 0-1 at Butte ...... 3-18-1 SID:...... Paul Grua Rob Ash vs. PSU ...... 6-0 (3-0/3-0) Rob Ash vs. UM ...... 2-5 (0-4/2-1) Phone: . o: 801/626-7414, c: 801/425-3811 Rob Ash vs. Nigel Burton .....3-0 (2-0/1-0) Rob Ash vs. Mick Delaney ....1-1 (0-1/1-0) SID:...... Mike Lund ([email protected]) SID: Dave Guffey ([email protected]) Phone: ...... 503/725-5602, 503/866-0236 Phone: 406/243-5402, cell 406/370-9435 tthehe CCOACHESOACHES HHEADEAD CCOACHOACH RRobob AAshsh

Firmly established as one of the top provided a spectacular array of achieve- wins place him alone in Montana State’s coaches in the NCAA Division I Football ments, and his program’s success on the legendary coaching family, and his win Championship Subdivision, Rob Ash fi eld and in the classroom and community percentage trails only Tony Storti. begins his eighth season as Montana stand as point of achievement rather than State’s head coach with a simple notion. empty entries plucked from a mission A career that touches fi ve different de- statement. The last seven seasons have cades and spans the continent, from the Keep it rolling. produced the program’s fi rst two Buck hills of Pennsylvania through the plains of Buchanan Award winners, seven of the his native Iowa to the majestic mountains The man who has risen to the top of school’s 15 Big Sky MVP or Newcomer of Montana, prepared Ash well for the the career wins list at all three college of the Year Award recipients, a two-time crucial moments he’s faced in Bozeman. football programs which he has led also Academic All-America, and 17 All-Amer- He clinched championships twice in Mis- owns a better winning percentage than icas. The team annually contributes over soula’s Washington-Grizzly Stadium, in all but one Bobcat head coach, and has 1,000 hours of service in Bozeman area 2010 ending the reign of the 12-time de- coached in more games schools and around the Gallatin fending champion Grizzlies, and snapped than all but two of his Valley. losing streaks against Montana and predecessors – and Ash Eastern Washington. Ash’s late-season should surpass both those Simultaneously, MSU Football has success also reached past November. In totals this season. joined the FCS’s standard bearers December 2011 and 2012 the Bobcats in academic success as measured claimed playoff victories, and have hosted Ash has proven that he by a wide range of metrics, includ- fi ve home playoff games in his tenure can lead a team to the ing graduation rate and Academic top, as his Bobcats have Progress Rate. The Bobcats have Ash grew up in a Friday Night Lights won three Big Sky titles in also raised the program’s profi le in world far from the plains of Texas and seven seasons while fi n- the MSU and Bozeman communi- decades before a book of that name shed ishing in the top four in the ties and around the Gallatin Valley light on the sometimes-seedy side of high league standings each of with involvement in a wide variety school football in oil country. Ash grew up those years. He has also of service activities. the son of an Iowa minister whose family shown the ability many became ingrained in each community he consider the more diffi cult element of the The strongest testimony to MSU’s suc- served by following its high school foot- equation, which is keeping his team there. cess in those areas came on January ball program. “We would drive for hours 9, 2012 when Ash earned the Liberty to that week’s game,” Ash recalls, “and Like each of his two previous head coach- Mutual 2011 National Coach of the Year we knew we were getting close when we ing stops – Ash is also the all-time wins for the Football Championship Subdivi- could see the lights of that town’s stadium leader at Juniata and Drake – the native sion (FCS), a marker of Ash’s success in in the distance.” Iowan has infused the Bobcat program all three areas of focus. with the three-layered foundation of his An Academic All-America quarterback programs. They are as easy to identify as “The awards are tremendous,” Ash says, at Cornell College in Iowa, Ash cut his they are to understand. “but I can’t emphasize enough that these coaching teeth as a graduate assistant are more a refl ection of the entire staff at his alma mater while simultaneously Success on the fi eld. Achievement in the than any single individual, including me. working as a freelance scout for a local classroom. Integrity in the community. The quality of assistant coaches in this high school football program. He also program is remarkable, and I’m proud to coached other sports, including tennis, And as Ash has preached for many years, work with them.” taking lessons from each new assignment by focusing his efforts on building strong that would serve him in later years. teams and programs he has enjoyed The work of Ash and has staff has result- personal accolades. He was the 2010 Big ed in 57 wins over seven seasons (Ash’s When presented the opportunity to lead Sky Conference Coach of the Year, the record at MSU is 57-27), and the 30 wins his own program he jumped at it, never 2011 Liberty Mutual FCS Coach of the from 2010-12 marks the most wins and mind that Division III Juniata sits in the Year, and the 2012 AFCA West Region second-highest winning percentage over remote hills of Pennsylvania, and that Co-Coach of the Year (along with becom- such a stretch in school history. Ash now people could barely pronounce its name, ing a fi nalist for Liberty Mutual national stands 233-126-5 in his 34 seasons honors for a second consecutive season). as a college head coach, with that win total standing sixth among active Those honors came on the heels of a college coaches and 33rd all-time. He stretch of fi ve straight years – 2008, ’09, is just one of fi ve Bobcat coaches to ’10, ’11 and ’12 – in which the Bobcats bring multiple championships to MSU, improved their record over the previous and one of just three with three titles season each time out. Team success also to his credit. manifested itself after the regular season. The Bobcats advanced to the post- Winning championships is nothing season for three straight years (2010, ’11 new for Ash – he now owns eight – or and ’12) and won NCAA Playoff games in the Cats. Montana State’s 2012 crown back-to-back years for Ash, both unprec- stands as the program’s sixth in the edented feats in Bobcat football history. last 11 years, matching the most successful decade in program history Rob Ash became MSU’s all-time winningest football coach Taken as a whole Ash’s MSU career has in terms of championships. Ash’s 57 last November (Kelly Gorham) BBobcatobcat CoachCoach RobRob AshAsh much less locate it on a map. (For the After a record of success at Juniata, During the course of his career, Ash has record, Juniata College is pronounced which included a 51-36-3 record, Ash gained prominence in his profession joo-nee-AW-tuh.) Ash led that school, soon caught the eye of the athletic through an avenue aside from his sterling whose football players often traipsed into administration at Drake in Ash’s native coaching record. He rose through the the woods on hunting expeditions after Iowa. Likewise, Ash saw opportunity. “We American Football Coaches Association practice, to one league crown on the way enjoyed our time at Juniata, but the tim- to eventually become its President, and to becoming its all-time winningest coach ing of returning to Iowa was good from a retains a signifi cant advisory role in deal- before leaving for a unique challenge at family standpoint, and we saw the chance ing with issues crucial to the sport. He Drake University in his native Iowa. to build something at a school with the was elected to the AFCA Board of Trust- academic tradition Drake enjoys.” ees in 2002 and concluded his immediate There, Ash led DU to four titles in a con- past presidency in 2012. ference he helped create – the Pioneer From the outset, Ash and his staff took Football League – while transitioning the hold of that opportunity without letting go. Ash and his wife Margaret have two once-powerful program from Division III His fi rst Bulldog squad in 1989 posted grown children - Scott, who lives in Boze- to Division I-AA, fi ghting for a return to a 7-3 mark, and when his next team man, and Kelly, who graduated with her relevance in Big 10 and Big 12 country. fi nished 6-4 he had helped Drake to three Master’s Degree in jazz performance at At Drake, Ash ignited a passion in young straight winning seasons for the fi rst New York University and is now a touring men that led them down the football time in nearly two decades. Ash’s Drake professional musician. Margaret works at coaching path, spawning more than a teams posted only two sub-.500 records home booking leisure travel, land vaca- dozen assistant coaching careers. in 18 years (1991 and 2002) and those tions, and destination weddings. seasons combined were just three games After decades of success and a positive below break-even (9-12). Ash’s last three impact on hundreds of young lives, Ash Drake squads combined for a 25-8 mark. yearned for the opportunity to coach in The Bulldogs won four Pioneer Football the post-season and compete for a na- League titles during Ash’s tenure. tional championship. That chance came on June 11, 2007, when Bobcat Athletic Rob Ash’s Coaching Record Director Peter Fields introduced Ash as All Conf...... HomeRoad GrassTurf Day Night Montana State’s 31st head coach. Ash At Montana State took the reins of a program steeped in 2013 7-5 5-3 ...... 4-2 3-3 1-0 6-5 6-3 1-2 success and tradition. 2012 11-2 7-1 ...... 6-2 5-0 0-0 11-2 8-1 3-1 2011 10-3 7-1 ...... 6-1 4-2 0-0 10-3 10-2 0-1 2010 9-3 7-1 ...... 6-1 3-2 0-0 9-3 9-3 0-0 Ash spent many years building a resume 2009 7-4 5-3 ...... 4-2 3-2 2-2 5-2 7-4 0-0 of success. His coaching career began 2008 7-5 5-3 ...... 4-2 3-3 1-0 6-5 7-4 0-1 at his alma mater, Cornell (Iowa) College, 2007 6-5 4-4 ...... 4-2 2-3 5-5 1-0 6-4 0-1 shortly after graduating in 1973. After Totals 57-27 44-19 ...... 34-12 23-15 7-7 48-20 53-21 4-6 earning a master’s degree in history from At Drake the University of Michigan in 1975 (he 2006 9-2 6-1/2nd ...... 5-2 4-0 received a second in physical education 2005 6-4 2-2/3rd North ...... 3-1 3-3 from Iowa in 1980), he began his coach- 2004 10-2 4-0/1st North ...... 6-1 4-1 ing career at his alma mater in 1975. 2003 6-6 1-3/T4th North ...... 6-1 0-5 2002 5-6 1-3/4th ...... 3-2 2-4 After four years as a Cornell assistant 2001 5-5 1-3/T4th North ...... 3-1 2-4 he became the head coach at NCAA 2000 7-4 3-1/T1st ...... 5-1 2-3 Division III Juniata in 1980. His teams 1999 7-4 2-2/3rd ...... 3-2 4-2 1998 7-3 4-0/1st ...... 5-0 2-3 fi nished with winning records in two of 1997 8-3 2-3/3rd ...... 4-1 4-2 his fi rst fi ve campaigns, but his fi nal three 1996 8-3 4-1/2nd ...... 5-0 3-3 squads rolled up a 30-11-1 mark, which 1995 8-1-1 5-0/1st ...... 4-0-1 4-1 comprises one of the most successful 1994 7-3 3-2/3rd ...... 4-1 3-2 spans in Eagles history. 1993 8-2 3-2/2nd ...... 4-1 4-1 1992 7-2-1 --- ...... 5-0 2-2-1 1991 4-6 --- ...... 1-5 3-1 1990 6-4 --- ...... 4-0 2-4 1989 7-3 --- ...... 4-1 3-2 Born: July 9, 1951 Totals 125-63-2 Hometown: Ottumwa, IA At Juniata Education: Cornell (Iowa) College, BBA, 1973; 1988 6-3-1 --- ...... 2-2-1 4-1 Michigan, MA, 1975; Iowa, MA; 1980 1987 7-3 --- ...... 4-1 3-2 Player: Academic All-America quarterback, 1986 9-2 --- ...... 5-1 4-1 Cornell (Iowa) College, 1969-72 1985 8-3 --- ...... 5-0 3-3 Family: Wife Margaret, son, Scott, daughter, Kelly 1984 3-6-1 --- ...... 2-4 1-2-1 1983 2-8 --- ...... 2-3 0-5 2007- Montana State Head Coach 1982 6-4 --- ...... 4-1 2-3 1989-2006 Drake Head Coach 1981 6-2-1 --- ...... 3-1-1 3-1 1980-88 Juniata Head Coach 1980 4-5 --- ...... 2-3 2-2 1976-79 Cornell College Assistant Coach Totals 51-36-3 ...... 29-16-2 22-20-1 TOTAL 226-121-5 BBobcatobcat CoachCoach RobRob AshAsh

RRobob AAshsh aatt DDrakerake RRobob AshAsh atat JuniataJuniata

 All-time wins leader (125)  All-time wins leader (51)  Oversaw Drake’s transition from Division III to Division I-AA RRobob AshAsh atat CornellCornell  Helped form the Pioneer Football  Cornell Athletics Hall of Fame League, which his  1st Team Academic All- teams won four times America, all-conference and Honorable Mention Little All-America quarterback  Three-time tennis letterwinner  Assistant football coach for two conference championship teams, head men’s tennis coach for undefeated 1974 team, SID, Intramural Director

TThehe AAshsh LLegacyegacy

 AFCA President, 2011, and Board of Directors since 2002  MSU all-time wins leader, 57 and counting  Career wins leader at all three schools at which he’s served as head coach  Career win total of 233 sixth among active college coaches and 33rd all-time  One of fi ve Bobcat coaches with multiple conference championships, and one of three with three titles  The only Bobcat coach with two wins at Montana’s Washington-Grizzly Stadium  His coaching family includes Boise State Athletic Director Mark Coyle, North Carolina State head coach Dave Doeren, and Wisconsin Defensive Coordinator Chris Ash (no relation) CCOORDINATORSOORDINATORS

joining the Bobcat staff. He began his col- lege coaching career at his alma mater, JJamieamie MarshallMarshall New Hampshire, where he coached tight Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coord. ends and fullbacks from 2003-05 and run- ning backs from 2006-07. The former Wild- It is hard to imagine a seven-year run as cats signal caller took over quarterbacks a Division I defensive coordinator more coach duties in 2008, and in 2010 became impressive Jamie Marshall’s tenure at the offensive coordinator, as well. Cramsey Montana State, in which he has molded played quarterback at New Hampshire from a defensive unit in his image – tenacious 1995-98 after redshirting in 1994, serving yet patient, aggressive yet calculated. as team captain as a senior. He was also The results speak for themselves – the a four-year long snapper. Cramsey entered private business for Bobcat defense has led the Big Sky in three years after graduation, but began his coaching career in total defense three times, rush defense his hometown in Pennsylvania at Allentown Catholic in 2001, once, pass defense twice, scoring defense and the next season moved to Emaus High. once, and sacks twice as the program’s defensive coordinator. Marshall’s units also produced the 2012 Birth Date: October 8, 1975 (Caleb Schreibeis) and 2013 (Brad Daly) Buck Buchanan Award Hometown: Allentown, PA winners as national defensive players of the year, and in 2012, Education: BS, Business, New Hampshire, 1998 in addition to Schreibeis’ honor as the top defensive player Player: QB/LS at New Hampshire in the FCS, linebacker Jody Owens won Big Sky Conference Family: Wife Amy, children Brock (1 Defensive MVP. Daly’s MVP award in 2013 was MSU’s third 2013- Montana State ...... Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks under Marshall, along with current Tampa Bay linebacker Dane 2012 Florida International ...... Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Fletcher (2009). In Marshall’s tenure MSU has produced fi ve 2003-11 New Hampshire OC (‘09-11)/QBs/ RBs (06-07), TEs (2003-05) consensus All-Americas (LB Bobby Daly, 2007, Fletcher in ’09, Owens and Schreibeis in ’12, and Brad Daly in ‘13) and 11 First Team All-Big Sky choices. Drake’s DC from 2003-06, Marshall’s emergence as engineer of one of the top FCS stop units is no DDanielaniel DDaPratoaPrato surprise. The Dubuque, Iowa, native had similar success at DU, engineering 10th place Bulldog fi nishes in FCS scoring defense Special Teams Coordinator/Tight Ends during two of his last three seasons. His teams defended the run (12th in 2004) and pass (10th in 2006, 23rd in ‘04) with equal Entering his second season at MSU, Daniel profi ciency. After one season in the Iowa prep ranks (1999), DaPrato’s impact on Bobcat football was Marshall joined Ash’s staff at his alma mater as a defensive as- immediate and noteworthy. As special sistant (2000-02) and defensive coordinator/linebackers coach teams coordinator, DaPrato helped mold (2003-06). Marshall earned his bachelor’s degree from Drake in return specialist Shawn Johnson into an 1999, earning all-conference honors as a junior and senior. All-America while crafting units that blocked four kicks. DaPrato also coached MSU tight Hometown: Dubuque, Iowa ends, with starter Tiai Salanoa earning Sec- Born: March 7, 1977 ond Team All-Big Sky honors. He joined the Education: BS Secondary Ed, Drake, 1999 Cats after six years at Sacramento State Player: Two-time All-Pioneer DB at Drake in his hometown. He coached receivers Family: Wife Kristi, son Cole (5), daughter Piper (1) throughout his tenure, rising to special teams coordinator from 2007- Montana State ...... Defensive Coordinator 2010-12. During his time at Sac State he also served as interim 2003-06 Drake ...... Defensive Coord. (2003-06), Def. Asst. (2000-02) strength coach, academic liaison, and travel coordinator. DaPra- to coached nine All-Big Sky players, including the school’s single-season record-holder for receptions and touchdowns, as well as an All-America, while with the Hornets. His coaching career began at his alma mater, Louisiana-Monroe, where he TTimim CramseyCramsey gained progressive responsibilities as a graduate assistant, di- Off ensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks rector of football operations and recruiting coordinator. DaPrato played quarterback at Monroe after transferring from Chabot Tim Cramsey settles in for his second season at MSU after Junior College. He began his career at New Mexico Highlands. guiding the offense through an injury-riddled debut that in- cluded the loss of two-time Big Sky MVP quarterback DeNarius Hometown: Modesto, CA McGhee for a pair of tilts. His background in New Hampshire’s Born: October 2, 1981 explosive offense – he famously shares the same family tree as Education: Louisiana-Montroe, BA, ‘04; Louisiana-Monroe, MA, ‘05 current Philadelphia Eagles head coach Chip Kelly – coupled Player: ULM (2002-03), Chabot JC (‘01), NM Highlands (‘00) with time in the FBS allowed him to adapt smoothly during his Family: Wife Giovanna fi rst season as MSU’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks 2013- Montana State ...... Special Teams Coord./Tight Ends coach. Cramsey was OC at Florida International in 2012 before 2007-12 Sacramento State ...... Receivers/ST (2010-12) 2006 Louisiana-Monroe ...... DFO (2005)/GA (2004-05) OOFFENSIVEFFENSIVE AASSISTANTSSISTANT CCOACHESOACHES JJasonason MMcEndoocEndoo CCodyody KemptKempt Run Game Coordinator/Off ensive Line Wide Receivers

When Jason McEndoo hits the sideline Cody Kempt came to Montana State from during a game for the fi rst time in 2014 he the University of Oregon as a football player will become the longest-tenured assistant in 2008, and returns to his alma mater from coach in Bobcat Football history. The senior another legendary program, the University member of MSU’s current coaching staff, of Tennessee, as a coach in 2014. In the McEndoo stands unquestionably as one of interim, Kempt has compiled an impressive the top assistant coaches in Big Sky Con- resume. He started at quarterback for the ference history. The 2011 American Foot- Bobcats in 2008 and ’09, and fi nished his ball Coaches Association FCS Assistant three-year MSU career with 2,684 passing Coach of the Year just completed his 11th yards on 223–for–409 passing (54.5%) with season as the architect of one of the most 17 touchdown passes. Kempt was part of decorated and productive units in the FCS, and his fi ve MSU the school’s 2010 Big Sky Championship team as a player and championship rings is more than anyone in MSU history has the 2011 title squad as an intern. During his season as an of- earned as an assistant football coach. McEndoo has coached fensive graduate assistant at Cincinnati (2012) the Bearcats won seven Bobcat All-Americas and 10 First Team All-Big Sky selec- the Big East championship, and Kempt served as quarterbacks tions, including Jeff Bolton, an All-America center who earned coach in the 2012 Belk Bowl victory over Duke. The Beaver- the 2005 Rimington Award as Division I-AA’s top player at that ton, Ore., product moved to Tennessee with head coach Butch position. McEndoo has also forged the careers of 2010 consen- Jones in a graduate assistant capacity for the 2013 season. sus All-America Mike Person (a seventh round choice by San He earned All-America honors from several organizations, and Francisco in the 2011 NFL Draft), and 2012 First Team All-Big was considered one of the top prospects on the West Coast, Sky choice Shaun Sampson. In 2011, two Bobcat O-linemen – as a prep quarterback at Westview High School before playing Conrad Burbank and Alex Terrien – earned All-America honors. at Oregon in 2006-07. His father Mychal (football) and mother MSU’s offensive front led the Big Sky in fewest sacks allowed Marlene (track) were each Bobcat student-athletes. in 2006 and ‘08, and in rushing yards in ’08, and is a leader- ship hub in the Bobcat program. At least one Bobcat offensive Born: June 23, 1987 in Bozeman lineman has served as a team captain in 10 of McEndoo’s 12 Hometown: Beaverton, OR seasons, including Quinn Catalano in 2014. The former All-Pac Education: BS in Sociology, MSU, 2010 10 offensive lineman (1997) graduated from Washington State Family: Wife Jessie Ann Kempt, daugher Kiley Grace (10 mo.) in ‘98, spending the next three seasons in the NFL with Seattle 2014- Montana State ...... Receivers and New Orleans. He coached high school football in Washing- 2013 Tennessee ...... Graduate Assistant ton from 2000-02 before arriving at MSU, and his wide-ranging 2012 Cincinnati ...... Graduate Assistant service activities in the Bozeman community includes coaching 2011 Montana State ...... Offensive Intern youth baseball and softball.

Born: February 25, 1975 Hometown: Aberdeen, WA Former Bobcats as Full-Time MSU Assistants Education: Washington State, BA, 1998; Whitworth, MA, 2003 by Coaching Staff, Last 50 Years Player: Washington State 1994-97, All-Pac 10 as senior Family: Wife Ruth, son Luke (11), daughters Elizabeth (9), Aubrie (7), Ainslee (4) Rob Ash, 2007-present Doug Graber, 1982 2003- Montana State ...... Run Game Coord. (2013-)/Offensive Line Cody Kempt, Kane Ioane, Michael Dan Davies 2002 Mt Spokane HS ...... Offensive Line Rider. 2000-01 Lake Washington HS ...... Offensive Line Sonny Lubick, 1978-81 Mike Kramer, 2000-2006 Cliff Hysell, Howard Ross Kane Ioane, Junior Adams, Brandon Vancleeve, Jeff Sonny Holland, 1971-77 MSU Assistants MSU Assistants Alexander, Butch Damberger, Tony Cliff Hysell, Howard Ross Vallez by Most Years by Big Sky Titles Tom Parac, 1968-70 11 Jason McEndoo, 2003- 5 Jason McEndoo, 2003- Cliff Hysell, 1992-1999 Joe Tiller, Bill Emsick 11 Butch Damberger, 1992-2002 4 Kane Ioane, 2004- Chad Mayer, Butch Damberger, Dan Davies 11 Tom Parac, 1957-67 3 Don Bailey, 2001- Tony Vallez, Marc Paffhausen 10 Kane Ioane, 2004- 3 Rob Christoff, 2000- Jim Sweeney, 1963-67 9 Greg Salo, 1981, ‘92-99 3 Pete Kwiatkowski, 2000- Earle Solomonson, 1987-91 Tom Parac, Ben Vaughn, Joe 9 George Marinkovich, 1958-67 3 Tom Parac, 1957-67 none Tiller, George Marinkovich, 8 Sonny Lubick, 1970-77 3 Joe Tiller, 1965-70 Sonny Holland Does not include time as head coach; 3 Dick Roach, 1966-69 records available only since 1952 Dave Arnold, 1983-1986 Includes titles won only as an assistant Dan Davies DDEFENSIVEEFENSIVE AASSISTANTSSISTANT CCOACHESOACHES BBoo BeckBeck KKaneane IoaneIoane Defensive Line/Recruiting Coordinator Linebackers

Bo Beck inherited one of the legendary po- Kane Ioane’s greatness as a Bobcat foot- sition groups in Big Sky Conference history ball player is unquestioned, but his status when he became the program’s defensive as an MSU assistant coach is catching up. line coach in the summer of 2007, and im- A member of the Bobcat coaching staff mediately set about enhancing the Bobcat since his playing days ended after the 2003 D-line’s reputation. His success in that season, Ioane is building a considerable endeavor would have been as unthinkable legacy working with MSU’s linebackers. In then as it is spectacular seven seasons his 10 seasons on the Bobcat staff, includ- later, but in that time Beck has possibly ing eight as a full-time assistant and fi ve been the most successful position coach in as the team’s primary linebackers coach, the entire FCS. Under Beck’s guidance, the Ioane has worked with some of the top Bobcat defensive line has produced not only the last two Buck ‘backers produced by MSU, including two-time All-America Buchanan Award winners (Brad Daly in 2013, Caleb Schreibeis linebackers Jody Owens and Bobby Daly. The Billings native in 2012) and a pair of Big Sky Defensive MVPs (Daly in 2013 earned All-Big Sky honors twice, and was Big Sky Defensive and Dane Fletcher in 2009), but seven First Team All-Big Sky MVP as a senior in 2003. Ioane paced a defense that led the choices and fi ve All-Americas – all in the last fi ve seasons. league in fewest yards allowed for three straight seasons, win- Two of Beck’s Bobcat protégés – Fletcher, Tampa Bay Buc- ning back-to-back Big Sky titles in 2002 and ‘03, and Ioane led caneers, and Zach Minter, Cincinnati Bengals – begin 2014 on the conference in tackles as a sophomore and junior. The only NFL rosters. The MSU defensive line’s individual achievement is four-time All-America in Bobcat history, Ioane capped his career grounded in production as a unit. The Bobcats led the Big Sky with consensus fi rst team honors as a senior. Ioane comes by in sacks in 2011 – piling up a gaudy 44 – and 2009, fi nishing his coaching ability naturally. His father is a long-time basketball second in 2008 and 2012. Brad Daly led the Big Sky with 1.04 and golf coach at Billings Skyview, and his brother Kip is cur- sacks a game in 2011, and led the nation in 2013 with 1.17 per rently the head men’s basketball coach at Willamette University game. An original member of Ash’s Bobcat coaching staff, Beck in Oregon. has worked as recruiting coordinator for the past two seasons. He has also been extremely active in the Bozeman community, Born: January 23, 1982 and serves on the board of directors of the Boys’ and Girls’ Club Hometown: Billings, MT of Southwest Montana. A former Colorado State defensive line- Education: Montana State, BA, 2005 man, Beck began his collegiate coaching career as Rob Ash’s Player: MSU, All-America safety and Big Sky Defensive MVP defensive line coach at Drake from 2002-04, moving to Iowa 2009- Montana State ...... Linebackers State as a graduate assistant from 2004-06. Beck began his 2005-08 Montana State ...... Linebackers Asst playing career at Arizona State, fi nishing at and graduating from CSU in 2002.

Born: September 4, 1971 Education: BA CSU, 2002; MS Drake, 2005; MS Iowa State, 2007. Player: Played at Arizona State (1989, ’90), Colorado State (1991, ’92) Hometown: Fort Collins, CO 2007- Montana State ...... Defensive Line/Recruiting Coord. (2012) 2004-06 Iowa State...... Graduate Assistant 2002-04 Drake ...... Defensive Line 1994-2001 Fort Collins (Colo.) HS ...... Defensive Coordinator North earned his bachelor’s degree from SFA in 2003 and his master’s in 2009. After graduating he spent four years in retail MMichaelichael RRiderider management before returning to the Stephen F. Austin program Linebackers Assistant as an assistant coach in 2007.

A single moment can’t defi ne a football Born: January 30, 1978 career as distinctive as Michael Rider’s, but Hometown: Houston, TX it can serve as a metaphor. Rider’s moment Education: Stephen F. Austin, BA, 2003; Stephen F. Austin, ME, 2009 came on the last play of Montana State’s Player: Stephen F. Austin 1996-2000, All-Southland as junior, senior 2010 season, when the former walk-on 2011- Montana State ...... Secondary Assistant from Billings West intercepted a pass at the 2007-10 Stephen F. Austin ...... Safeties goal line of Washington-Grizzly Stadium GAME DAY ASSIGNMENT: Press Box in Missoula to clinch a Bobcat win and the school’s fi rst Big Sky Championship in sev- en years. That play capped a stellar career for Rider, who begins his second season as a Bobcat assistant coach in 2014. Rider assisted with the de- BBoo StringerStringer fensive line a season ago, helping mentor 2013 Buck Buchanan Special Assistant to the Head Coach Award winner Brad Daly, but transitions to Sam linebackers this season. After his playing career ended Rider served as an intern Bo Stringer brings more than 20 years of coaching experience on the Bobcat staff during the 2011 season, then spent 2012 as to the MSU staff, but his experience outside a graduate assistant at UNLV. Rider was All-Big Sky Honorable of football is what separates him from most Mention twice and the only two-time winner of MSU’s Don Hass in college football. Stringer rose through Most Inspirational Player award. In 2009, Rider helped give the the ranks of the fi nancial services industry program what was to that point the signature win of Rob Ash’s in Florida over the course of three decades tenure against 11th-ranked Weber State, when he tipped over to serve as president and chief executive Trevyn Smith on third down just short of the goal line then forced offi cer of two fi rms in the last 15 years. With a Bo Bolen stop on the game’s fi nal play to preserve MSU’s that combination of private sector experi- upset win. Rider was MVP of the 2006 Montana Shrine Game. ence and coaching roots, Stringer serves as a mentor to Bobcat student-athletes in Born: March 30, 1988 the areas of post-graduate planning and Hometown: Billings, Mont. character development. He also serves as an advisor on the Education: MSU, 2011 coaching staff in program development and organizational 2013 Montana State ...... Assistant Defensive Line growth. Stringer is a Florida State graduate who coached in that 2012 UNLV ...... Graduate Assistant state’s high school ranks for two decades. He will also fi ll admin- 2011 Montana State ...... Intern istrative and operations roles with the Bobcat football program. GAME DAY ASSIGNMENT: Press Box CCraigraig AAshworthshworth BBrandonrandon NNorthorth Defensive Intern Secondary Assistant-Cornerbacks A two-year starter at nose tackle, Ashworth logged 25 tackles, including seven for loss, during his fi nal three seasons. He Success seems to follow Brandon North intercepted a pass against Monmourth in the season opener around. After helping Stephen F. Austin to as a senior and returned it for a touchdown. He caused and back-to-back Southland Football League recovered a fumble as a junior. The Florence, Mont., native was Championships as an assistant coach in a football and wrestling standout at Florence-Carlton. 2009 and ’10, North matched that accom- plishment by collecting championship rings at MSU for the school’s 2011 and ’12 titles. The MSU secondary led the Big Sky in pass effi ciency defense in each of North’s JJakeake FFlahertylaherty fi rst two seasons at Montana State, and Off ensive Intern in pass defense in 2011. North spent four seasons on the coaching staff at his alma mater, and during Jake Flaherty graduated from Bucknell in 2014 after an injury- the Lumberjacks’ 2009-10 championship seasons coached riddled career on the Bison football team. He played in six SFA safeties. A member of that school’s 1999 league title team, games as a receiver in 2012, starting fi ve. Flaherty caught 23 North was an all-conference defensive back who was named passes, easily the most on the team per game, for 228 yards ESPN Sports Ticker National Player of the Week once during and one touchdown. That was his only varsity action. that season. He fi nished his career with more than 200 tackles.