Great Northwest Athletic Conference Football: Humboldt State Gets Nod

Great Northwest Athletic Conference 6901 SE Lake Rd. Suite 1 Portland, OR 97267-2194 503.305.8756 Contact: Bob Guptill 2013 Football Report No. 1 (Aug. 28, 2013)

Football: Humboldt State Gets Nod In 2013 GNAC Coaches Poll

Great Northwest Coaches Poll 2012 Records Pts Western Oregon coach Arne Ferguson returns a league-best 1. Humboldt State (3) 7-4 (6-4, 2nd-T) 22 seven all-conference picks, matching Central Washington’s 2. Central Washington (2) 7-4 (7-3, 1st) 19 total, led by GNAC Defensive Lineman of the Year Gustave nd 3. Western Oregon (1) 6-5 (6-4, 2 -T) 17 Benthin and wide receiver Tyrell Williams. Azusa Pacific 4-7 (4-6, 4th-T) 17 5. Simon Fraser 5-6 (4-6, 4th-T) 9 6. Dixie State 3-8 (3-7, 6th) 6 Running back Terrell Watson, who rushed for 1,094 yards last season, and starting quarterback Nick Owens are (Note: First-place votes in parentheses. Points awarded on a 5-4-3-2-1 among a league-best 42 returning lettermen for eighth-year basis. Each coached ranked five other opponents). coach Victor Santa Cruz at Azusa Pacific.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Humboldt State, which returns Santa Cruz’s team lost its first seven games a year ago, but record-setting running back Nick Ricciardulli and has two rallied to win its final four contests. former Division I quarterbacks on its roster, is the favorite to win its second Great Northwest Athletic Conference Simon Fraser, meanwhile, has the league’s best 1-2 football title in three seasons. receiving combo and Dixie State has the league’s top returning quarterback. The Lumberjacks finished in a tie for second place with Western Oregon last year after winning their first GNAC The Clan will be led by All-American wide receiver Lemar football title in 2011. Durant, who caught a GNAC-record tying 91 passes and earned two All-American awards, and Bobby Pospischil, HSU received three of six first-place votes and outpointed who grabbed 83 passes. Central Washington, which won its seventh title last fall, 22-19 in the annual GNAC Coaches preseason poll. Griff Robles returns for the Red Storm after passing for 2,033 yards and 16 touchdowns and running for 450 yards The Wildcats finished two points ahead of Azusa Pacific, and five touchdowns. which closed its 2012 season with four consecutive wins, and Western Oregon for second place. Both the Wolves Robles’ support cast will include 2011 consensus All- and Cougars earned 17 ballot points. American Joe Don Duncan who was the nation’s leader in receptions among tight ends two years ago before taking an Simon Fraser ended up in fifth place in the balloting, three injury redshirt season. points ahead of Dixie State. The 2013 season kicks off Saturday, Sept. 7 with five Ricciardulli rushed for a GNAC record 1,579 yards last contests including a conference game between Simon season and is one of six returning all-conference players for Fraser and Humboldt State at Arcata. sixth-year head coach Rob Smith, who has won three GNAC football titles including two with Western Other first-week matchups will feature two Division II Washington in 2001 and 2003. intersectional contests and two contests against Football Championship Series (FCS) teams. Kyle Morris who passed for 671 yards at Idaho State in 2010 is the ‘Jacks probable starter at quarterback. Also Azusa Pacific travels to Michigan to take on Grand Valley available is Murray State transfer Spencer Phillips and while Central Washington hosts Texas A&M – Kingsville 2012 starter Casey Mintz. in Division II contests.

Central Washington, under first-year head coach and long- Western Oregon makes its debut at Eastern Washington, time assistant John Picha, should be outstanding on defense while Dixie State opens its season at Idaho State in the with former University of Idaho starter Conrad Scheidt Division II/FCS contests. joining a cast which includes five 2012 GNAC selections including GNAC Defensive Player of the Year Stan Langlow.

1 2013 GNAC FOOTBALL SCHEDULE KEY TRANSFERS: Chase Krivashei (WR, 5-9, 165, Fr. Corona, CA – Centennial); Kelechi Nwadibia (WR, 6-1, 188, Jr., Stockton, SEPTEMBER: 7 – Azusa Pacific at Grand Valley, 7 p.m.; Texas A&M – CA – San Jose City); Eric Paopao (DB, 6-0, 210, Jr., El Camino, Kingsville at Central Washington, 1 p.m.; Dixie State at Idaho State, 3 CA – Palomar); Jamal Jones (DB, 5-11, 180, Jr., Dublin, CA – p.m.; Simon Fraser at Humboldt State, 6 p.m.; Western Oregon at Eastern Washington, 4:05 p.m. 14 – Azusa Pacific at Dixie State, 6 p.m.; Western Cabot); Andrew Feaster (LB, 6-0, 230, Jr., Chula Vista, CA – Oregon at Central Washington, 1 p.m.; Humboldt State at Portland State, Eastlake) 1:05 p.m. 21 – Humboldt State at Azusa Pacific, 6:30 p.m.; Simon Fraser at Central Washington, 1 p.m.; Dixie State at Western Oregon, 1 p.m. 28 OUTLOOK – Central Washington at Azusa Pacific, 6:30 p.m.; Dixie State at Humboldt State, 6 p.m.; Western Oregon at Simon Fraser, 12:30 p.m. Nick Ricciardulli (5-8, 190, Sr., Poway, CA) rushed for a conference record 1,579 yards and 12 touchdowns in OCTOBER: 5 – Azusa Pacific at Western Oregon, 1 p.m.; Central Washington at Humboldt State, 6 p.m.; Simon Fraser at Dixie State, 6 earning GNAC Offensive Player of the Year honors last p.m. 12 – Simon Fraser at Azusa Pacific, 6:30 p.m.; Dixie State at Central season and is back to lead a Lumberjack offense which will Washington, 1 p.m.; Humboldt State at Western Oregon, 1 p.m. 19 – feature three all-conference players. Azusa Pacific at Humboldt State, 6 p.m.; Central Washington at Simon Fraser, 2 p.m.; Western Oregon at Dixie State, 6 p.m. 26 – Azusa Pacific Running back Daniel Wyatt (5-7, 177, Sr., Vallejo, CA – at Central Washington, 1 p.m.; Humboldt State at Dixie State, 6 p.m.; St. Vincent’s) also returns in the backfield after rushing for Simon Fraser at Western Oregon, 1 p.m. 301 yards and six touchdowns a year ago.

NOVEMBER: 2 – Western Oregon at Azusa Pacific, 6:30 p.m.; Humboldt State at Central Washington, 1 p.m.; Dixie State at Simon Fraser, 2 p.m. At quarterback, the Lumberjacks look to be deep and 9 – Dixie State at Azusa Pacific, 6:30 p.m.; Central Washington at talented. Western Oregon, 1 p.m.; Humboldt State at Simon Fraser, 6 p.m. 16 – Azusa Pacific at Simon Fraser, 2 p.m.; Central Washington at Dixie State, “We have great depth at quarterback,” sixth-year head 6 p.m.; Western Oregon at Humboldt State, 1 p.m. coach Rob Smith said. “We are fortunate to have three players who could all be starting quarterbacks in this TEAM CAPSULES league.”

HUMBOLDT STATE Lumberjacks That includes Kyle Morris (6-1, 185, Jr., Ukiah, CA), who threw for 671 yards at Idaho State in 2010 before Head Coach: Rob Smith, Washington ’81 (31-22, 5 years; transferring to Humboldt State and redshirting last season. Overall, 139-84-1, 22 years) Assistants: Eric Tripp, offensive coordinator; Shay McClure, Morris earned the starter’s role during spring camp and has defensive coordinator; James Gravelle, defensive backs & special maintained it in fall workouts. teams; Patrick Walsh, offensive line; Shawn Howe, defensive line; Casey Mintz (6-2, 180, So., San Jose, CA – Prospect) Kyle Leitzke, tight ends & running backs. started five games last season passing for 998 yards and 2012 Record: 7-4 Conference: 6-4, 2nd, T nine touchdowns and is competing for the back-up position Returning Letter Winners: Off – 11 Def – 17 Spec - 5 Lost – 19 with Spencer Phillips (6-0, 185, Sr., Eugene, OR – Returning Starters: Off – 7 Def – 4 Spec - 0 Willamette), who transferred from Murray State (Kent.) for Basic Offense: Multiple his senior season. Basic Defense: 4-3 Stadium (Capacity): Redwood Bowl (6,000) The offense will also feature linemen David Kulp (6-2, 295, Sr., Lompoc, CA - Cabrillo) and Dillon Reagan (6-3, TOP RETURNEES: Rushing – Nick Ricciardulli (RB, 5-8, 190, 323, Sr., Issaquah, WA – College of the Redwoods). Sr., 281-1579, 12 TDs); Daniel Wyatt (RB, 5-7, 177, Sr., 64-301, 6 TDs). Passing – Casey Mintz (6-2, 180, So., 63-132-2, 1012, 9 Kulp was a first team GNAC all-conference selection last TDs). Receiving – Marquise Deadwiler (WR, 5-11, 174, Sr., 42- season and Reagan was a second team pick. 658, 4 TDs); Nick Ricciardulli (RB, 21-210, 1 TD). Kick Scoring – Matt Bruder (5-8, 164, Jr., 10-12 FGs 41-43 PATs). Tackles – The top returning receiver for the Lumberjacks is Marquise Alex Markarian (DE, 6-4, 245, Jr., 24-27, TFL 8 ½ - 38); Julius Deadwiler (5-11, 174, Sr., San Diego, CA – Helix & Evans (LB, 5-11, 230, Sr., 22-29); Kevin Cooper (DB, 5-10, 176, Southwestern JV), who caught 42 passes for 658 yards and Sr., 24-8-32, Interc. 4-80); Marcus Graves (DB, 6-0, 176, Jr., 21- four touchdowns. st 9). All-Stars – Nick Ricciardulli (RB, 1 team GNAC); David Kulp st (OL, 6-2, 295, Sr., 1 team GNAC); Dillon Reagan (OL, 6-3, 323, Ricciardulli had 21 catches for 210 yards coming out of the nd nd Sr., 2 team GNAC); Matt Bruder (K, 5-8, 164, Jr., 2 team backfield. nd GNAC); Alex Markarian (DE, 2 team GNAC); Chris Campbell nd (P, 5-10, 170, Jr., 2 team GNAC). Four starters return on defense including end Alex Markarian (6-4, 245, Jr., Chino Hills, CA – Reuben Ayala), st KEY LOSSES: Brett Frydendall (OL, 1 team GNAC); Victor who had 51 tackles including 8 ½ for losses of 38 yards and nd nd Spencer (WR, 2 team GNAC); Alex Hiebert (TE, 2 team was a second team GNAC all-conference selection. st GNAC); Sean McDonald (DL, 1 team GNAC); Chris Peterson, (LB, 1st team GNAC); Jeremiah Maluia (DB, 1st team GNAC).

2 Linebacker Julius Evans (5-11, 230, Sr., San Diego, CA – OUTLOOK Torrey Pines) also had 51 tackles. John Picha, who has been involved in Central Defensive backs Kevin Cooper (5-10, 176. Sr., Oakland, Washington’s football program as a player and assistant CA – Bishop O’Dowd) and Marcus Graves (6-0, 176, Jr., coach for the past three decades, takes over as head coach Pasadena, CA – Muir & Pasadena JC) had 32 and 30 this fall replacing Blaine Bennett. tackles, respectively. Cooper had four interceptions. Picha, who will also serve as offensive coordinator and Two kickers were also all-conference selections last year. running back coach, has just two starters back off last Matt Bruder (5-8, 164, Jr., Jamul, CA – Steel Canyon) year’s championship team on offense, but returns seven on converted on 41 of 43 extra points and 10 of 12 field goals defense. to earn second team honors. The defense also got a huge boost with the addition of Bruder’s field goal conversion percentage set a GNAC linebacker Conrad Scheidt from the University of Idaho. single-season record. For his career, he has made 12 of 15 field goals and 85 of 87 extra-points. Scheidt (6-0, 223, Sr., Waianae, HI) played three seasons for the Vandals, starting 11 games two years ago when he Punter Chris Campbell (5-10, 170, Jr., Granite Bay, CA) ranked third on the team with 93 tackles, including eight also earned second team honors after averaging 40.1 yards for losses of 24 yards. on 55 punts. Scheidt will solidify a defensive unit that led the GNAC in scoring defense, allowing 20.5 points per game, and returns CENTRAL WASHINGTON Wildcats GNAC Defensive Player of the Year Stan Langlow along with four other all-conference picks. Head Coach: John Picha, Central Washington ’93 (1st year). Note: Picha is offensive coordinator and running backs coach. Langlow (6-4, 205, Sr., University Place, WA – Curtis) Assistants: Malik Roberson, defensive coordinator & finished fourth in the GNAC in tackles last season linebackers; Nick Whitworth, cornerbacks & special teams; recording 81, including nine for losses of 34 yards. Charles Chandler, wide receivers; John Gariano, offensive line; Dario Romero, defensive line; Erik Meyer, quarterbacks; Manoa In addition to Langlow, defensive lineman Donnie Johnson Latu, safeties; Ryan Harvey, tight ends. (6-2, 259, Sr., Olympia, WA - Capital), linebacker Riley 2012 Record: 7-4. Conference: 7-3, 1st . Wall (5-9, 212, Sr., Olympia, WA - Capital) and defensive Returning Letter Winners: 31 Off – 13 Def – 16 Specialty – 2 backs Cedrique Chaney (5-11, 186, So., Kelso, WA) and Lost - 30 Isaiah Davis (5-10, 176, So., Bremerton, WA – South Returning Starters: Off – 2. Def – 7 Kickers - 1 Kitsap) were selected as among the GNAC’s top defenders Basic Offense: Multiple/Spread last season. Basic Defense: 4-3 Stadium (Capacity): Tomlinson (4,000) Johnson netted 32 tackles, including 5 ½ for losses. Chaney had 28 tackles and led Central with four TOP RETURNEES: Rushing – Jordan Todd (RB, 5-6, 186, So., interceptions. Both players were first team all-conference 101-555, 5 TDs). Passing – None. Receiving – Greg Logan selections. (WR, 5-10, 177, Jr., 9-79, 1 TD). Kick Scoring – Matt Burke (6- 0, 192, Sr., 0-2 FG 1-1 PAT). Tackles – Stan Langlow (DB, 6-4, Wall ranked third for the Wildcats with 59 tackles. Ten of 205, Sr., 47-34-81, TFL 9-34); Riley Wall (LB, 5-9, 212, Sr., 39- his stops were for losses totaling 24 yards, while Davis had 20-59, TFL 10-24); Isaiah Davis (DB, 5-10, 176, So., 23-19-42); 42 tackles and an interception. Both players were second Ridge Nielsen (LB, 5-11, 231, Sr., 19-15-34, TFL 8-28); Tovar team all-conference picks. Sanchez (DL, 6-3, 237, So., 17-17-34, TFL 10 ½ - 42); Donnie Johnson (DL, 6-2, 259, Sr., 16-16-32, TFL 5 ½ - 20). All-Stars - Another key defensive returnee is Tovar Sanchez (6-3, 237, Stan Langlow (DB, GNAC Defensive Player of the Year); Mike So., Seattle, WA - Ingraham) who had 34 tackles, 10 ½ for Nelson (OL, 6-4, 291, Sr., 1st team GNAC); Donnie Johnson (DL, losses of 42 yards. 1st team GNAC); Cedrique Chaney (DB, 5-11, 186, So., 1st team GNAC, GNAC Freshman of the Year); Riley Wall (LB, 2nd team The only two returning starters for the Wildcat offense are LB); Isaiah Davis (DB, 2nd team GNAC); Matt Burke (P, 2nd team right tackle Mike Nelson (6-4, 291, Sr., Carnation, WA – GNAC). Mount Si) and right guard Brooks Abel (6-4, 305, Sr., Kent, WA – Kentwood – Utah State). Both will play on the KEY LOSSES: Demetrius Sumler (RB, 1st team GNAC); Anthony left side this fall. Spain (WR, 1st team GNAC); Joey Tivnan (OL, 1st team GNAC); Ryan Robertson (QB, 2nd team GNAC); Tavoy Moore (WR & KR, The battle to replace Ryan Robertson at quarterback is a 2nd team GNAC, 1st team PR). logjam. Robertson completed his career as the fifth leading KEY TRANSFERS: Conrad Scheidt (LB, 6-0, 223, Sr., Waianae, passer in GNAC history with 7,091 yards. HI – Idaho)

3 Three quarterbacks – Justin Lane (6-3, 206, Fr., Arlington, KEY TRANSFERS: Patrick Acosta (K, 5-8, 170, Sr., Portland, OR WA – Lakewood), Jake Nelson (6-1, 205, Fr., Lake – U. Oregon); Robert Savoy (WR, 6-2, 200, So., Corona, CA – Stevens, WA) and Colin Walsh (6-3, 192, So. Troutdale, Roosevelt) OR) – are in the hunt. OUTLOOK Walsh is the lone QB with Division II game experience. He appeared in three games last season but did not attempt a Western Oregon returns seven all-conference players which pass. matches defending champion Central Washington for the most in the GNAC. CWU’s top returning running back is Jordan Todd (5-6, 186, So., Bellevue, WA - Interlake), who came off the On offense, wide receiver Tyrell Williams (6-4, 200, Jr., bench to gain 555 yards on 101 rushes last season. He Salem, OR – Cascade) and offensive linemen Marcus scored five touchdowns. Cuellar (6-5, 280, Sr., Independence, OR – Central) and Alex Jones (6-3, 280, Sr., Portland, OR – Grant) are among Greg Logan (5-10, 177, Jr., Graham, WA – Graham- seven returning starters. Kapowsin) is the top returning receiver statistically. Logan had nine catches for 79 yards in limited duty last year. Williams caught 39 passes for 658 yards and four touchdowns in earning first team all-league honors. Matt Burke (6-0, 192, Sr., Laguna Hills, CA - Cabrillo) returns to handle punting chores for the Wildcats. He Cuellar and Jones were both second team all-conference averaged 40.9 yards last season to rank second in the selections on the Wolf offensive line. conference and earn second team all-conference honors. Quarterbacks Ryan Bergman (6-2, 170, Jr., Issaquah, WA) WESTERN OREGON Wolves and Trey Shimabukuro (6-3, 205, Jr., Lihue, HI – Kauai) are back and will battle for the signal-calling job. Head Coach: Arne Ferguson, Western Oregon ’91 (51-35, 8 years). Assistants: Brian Harris (offensive coordinator & Bergman played three games last season, starting the final quarterbacks), Matt Overlin (special teams coordinator & two, and completed 40 of 83 passes for 607 yards and five defensive backs), Josh Manning (defensive line), Solomon touchdowns. Tapasa (offensive line), Miguel Gonzalez (wide receivers), Kyle Lavender (tight ends), Caleb Singleton (asst. defensive backs), Shimabukuro played in four games, completing 26 of 59 Justin Fritz, Shaun Kauleinamoku, Evan Mozzochi, Cody passes for 291 yards. VonAppen, Tyler Nelson. 2012 Record: 6-5 Conference: 6-4, 2nd-T In addition to Williams, the top returning receivers for the Returning Letter Winners: Off – 20 Def – 17 Kickers – 2 Lost – Wolves include Lucas Gonsalves (5-9, 175, Sr., Kailua, HI 22 – St. Louis) and Antoinne Wafer (5-8, 165, Sr., Seattle, Returning Starters: Off – 7 Def – 6 Kickers - 1 WA – Edmonds-Woodway & West Hills). Basic Offense: Multiple 1-Back Basic Defense: 4-3 Gonsalves caught 23 passes for 299 yards and three Stadium (Capacity): McArthur Field (2,500) touchdowns. He also ranked third in the GNAC in punt returns (21-254-12.1) and seventh in kickoff returns (14- TOP RETURNEES: Rushing – Nathan Penaranda (RB, 5-11, 267-19.1). 185, Jr., 24-70). Passing – Ryan Bergman (6-2, 170, Jr., 40-83- 2, 607, 5 TDs); Trey Shimabukuro (6-3, 205, Jr., 26-59-4, 291, 1 Wafer had 17 catches for 229 yards and one touchdown. TD). Receiving – Tyrell Williams (WR, 6-4, 200, Jr., 39-658, 4 TDs); Lucas Gonsalves (WR, 5-9, 175, Sr., 23-299, 3 TDs); Western Oregon ranked second in the GNAC in total Antoinne Wafer (WR, 5-8, 165, Sr., 17-229, 1 TD). Kick Scoring defense and first in rushing defense last year and returns six – None. Tackles – Gustave Benthin (DL, 6-2, 285, Sr., 27-36, starters off that unit led by GNAC Defensive Lineman of the TFL 12-47); Kraig Akins (DL, 6-2, 290, Jr., 21-33, TFL 12-36); Year Gustave Benthin. Devin Wells (LB, 6-2, 255, Sr., 30-19), Sipili Tuigamalala (DL, 6-2, 330, Sr., 20-26, TFL 20-26, TFL 9.5 – 31); Patrick Tepea (DB, 6- Benthin (6-2, 285, Sr., Knappa, OR) led the GNAC in 0, 200, Sr., 32-11). All-Stars – Tyrell Williams (WR, 1st team tackles for losses with 12 for 47 yards. He also ranked GNAC); Gustave Benthin (DL, GNAC Defensive Lineman of the third on his team with 63 total losses. Year); Alexander Bradt (P, 6-1, 210, So., 1st team GNAC); Marcus Cuellar (OL, 6-5, 280, Sr., 2nd team GNAC); Alex Jones (OL, 6-3, Defensive linemen Kraig Akins (6-2, 290, Jr., Springfield, 280, Sr., 2nd team GNAC); Kraig Akins (DL, 2nd team GNAC); OR - Thurston) and Sipili Tuigamalala (6-2, 330, Sr., Sipili Tuigamalala (DL, 2nd team GNAC); Hayward, CA – Tennyson & Chabot) were second team all- conference selections. KEY LOSSES: Kelly Morgan (K, 11-17 FG, 34-35 PAT), Scotland Foss (LB, 1st team GNAC); Bryce Peila (DB, 1st team GNAC); Akins had 54 total tackles and matched Benthin’s league- Gavin Drake (DL, 2nd team GNAC). leading TFL total of 12 netting losses of 36 yards. Tuigamalala had 46 tackles, 9 ½ for losses of 31 yards.

4 Other top returning defenders include linebacker Devin – Riverside CC); Dasmen Stewart (QB, 6-4, 217, Sr., Oxnard, CA Wells (6-2, 255, Sr., Beaverton, OR - Southridge), who had – San Jose State). 49 tackles and defensive back Patrick Tepea (6-0, 200, Sr., Kailua, HI - Auburn) who was credited with 43 tackles. OUTLOOK

Punter Alexander Bradt (6-1, 210, So., Salem, OR – West After a rocky start in its first NCAA campaign, Azusa Salem) also provides a defensive element with his toe. In Pacific had a fantastic finish. his freshman season he led the GNAC with a 42.3 punting average and was selected to the GNAC first team all- Coach Victor Santa Cruz’s team lost its first seven games, conference unit. but rallied to win its final four contests defeating conference champion Central Washington, Western Transfer Patrick Acosta (5-8, 170, Sr., Portland, OR - Oregon, Dixie State and Simon Fraser in consecutive Westview) from Oregon will be among the candidates to weeks to close out the season. replace Kelly Morgan who scored 243 points over the last four seasons and ranks fourth in GNAC history in scoring The Cougars return a conference-high 42 letter winners (third among kickers). from its inaugural journey into Division II including seven starters on offense and seven on defense. AZUSA PACIFIC Back at quarterback for the Cougars is Nick Owens (6-0, Head Coach: Victor Santa Cruz, Hawaii ‘95 (33-42, 7 years). 210, Sr., Westlake Village, CA – Moorpark CC), who Assistants: Brian Willmer, asst. head coach & defensive threw for 1,483 yards and nine touchdowns and also rushed coordinator; Rudy Carlton, offensive coordinator & QBs; Bo for 262 yards in APU’s spread offense. Beatty, whips & bandits; Ben Buys, running backs; Ryan Chamberlin, wide receivers; Salo Faraimo, tight ends; Gabe Owens finished fourth in the GNAC in passing averaging Higerd, safeties & special teams; Matt Johnson, defensive ends; 185.4 yards per game and fourth in total offense (218.1). Peder Moore, defensive tackles; Justin Riddle, inside receivers; His passing average is the best among returning players. Jackie Slater, offensive line; Spencer Danielson, defensive assistant; Nick Tezak, offensive assistant; Manako Tuifua, Backing up Owens is Justin McPherson (6-5, 200, Sr., defensive assistant; Ryan Van Den Heuvel, offensive assistant Livermore, CA), who started one game last season before 2012 Record: 4-7 Conference: 4-6, 4th-T missing the rest of the season to injury, and transfer Returning Letter Winners: Off – 21 Def – 19 Kickers – 2 Lost Dasmen Stewart (6-4, 217, Sr., Oxnard, CA) who appeared - 26 in six games for San Jose State during the 2010 and 2011 Returning Starters: Off – 7 Def – 7 Kickers - 2 seasons. Basic Offense: Spread Basic Defense: Eagle Two returning GNAC all-conference selections will be Stadium (Capacity): Citrus Stadium (10,000) among Owens’ supporting cast – running back Terrell Watson (6-2, 235, Jr., Oxnard, CA) and tight end Kevin TOP RETURNEES: Rushing – Terrell Watson (RB, 6-2, 235, Jr., Schick (6-2, 250, Sr., Aliso Viejo, CA – Saddleback CC). 200-1094, 11 TDs); Nick Owens (QB, 6-0, 210, Sr., 76-262); Ronald Douglas (RB, 5-11, 190, Jr., 11-189, 1 TD). Passing – Watson ranked second in the GNAC in rushing with 1,094 Nick Owens (110-202-3, 1,483, 9 TDs). Receiving – Mike yards and 11 touchdowns to earn first team accolades. He Martens (WR, 6-2, 200, So., 26-363, 2 TDs); Erik Johnson (WR, also caught 11 passes for 127 yards and one touchdown. 5-11, 195, Jr., 20-231); Kyle Dravis (WR, 5-9, 180, Jr., 17-207). Kick Scoring – Jamie Cacciatore (K, 5-8, 175, So., 15-21 22-26 Schick only caught six passes for 80 yards but helped APU 67). Tackles – Sean Barber (LB, 6-1, 225, Sr., 45-41-86); Tyler rush for 1,867 yards, including 4.5 yards per carry and Thornton (SS, 5-8, 178, Jr., 47-38-85, Interc. 4-7); Jake earned second team honors. Henderson (LB, 6-1, 226, Sr., 27-37-65, TFL 6 ½ -22); Nick Grunsky (SS, 5-10, 190, Sr., 34-24-68). All-Stars – Terrell Among the returning receivers for Azusa Pacific is Mike Watson (RB, 1st team); Kevin Schick (TE, 6-2, 250, Sr., 2nd team Martens (6-2, 200, So., Bakersfield, CA - Centennial), Erik GNAC); Tyler Thornton (DB, 1st team GNAC; KR, 2nd team Johnson (5-11, 195, Jr., Pasadena, CA - Maranatha) and GNAC); Sean Barber (LB, 2nd team GNAC) Kyle Dravis (5-9, 180, Jr., Orange, CA – Orange Lutheran).

KEY LOSSES: Robby Palacios (OL, 1st team GNAC); Manako Martens caught 26 passes for 363 yards and two Tuifua (DL, 1st team, 42 tackles); Darrell Wilson (DB, 2nd team touchdowns, while Johnson caught 20 for 231. Dravis had GNAC, 35 tackles); Tim Taylor (OL, 2nd team GNAC); Wade 17 receptions for 297 yards, including a 53-yard game- Struiksma (WR, 19-312, 1 TD); Spencer Danielson (ROV/LB, 38- winning catch in APU’s win over Central Washington. 31-69, 2 interc.). On defense among seven returning starters are defensive KEY TRANSFERS: Cody Clay (OL, 6-7, 322, Jr., Fullerton, CA – back Tyler Thornton (5-8, 178, Jr., Bakersfield, CA - Fullerton CC); Steven Fanua (LB, 6-0, 235, Jr., Milpitas, CA - Centennial) and linebacker Sean Barber (6-1, 225, Sr., California); Christian Kama (OL, 6-5, 280, Fr., Waimanalo, HI – Edgewood, WA - Puyallup). St. Augustine’s, N.C.); Andre Myles (DB, 6-1, 195, Jr., Rialto, CA

5 Thornton ranked second on the team in tackles with 85 – KEY LOSSES: Trey Wheeler (QB, 1st team GNAC); Bo Palmer one back of Barber – and was a first team all-conference (RB, 2nd team GNAC); Andrew Marshall (DL, 2nd team); Derek selection. His four interceptions led the team. Jones (DB, 2nd team GNAC).

Barber had 86 tackles, four of them for losses and also had KEY TRANSFERS: Chris Tolbert (RB, 6-0, 190, Jr., Silver Spring, an interception. MD – Central Connecticut); Robert Borcky (WR, 6-1, 171, Sr., Orlando, FL – Colorado State); Chad Heerspink (K, 6-0, 189, Fr., Two other key returning defenders include linebacker Jake Lynden, WA – Portland State) Henderson (6-1, 226, Sr., Mentone, CA - Aquinas) and strong safety Nick Grunsky (5-10, 190, Sr., Folsom, CA – OUTLOOK Vista del Lago). Simon Fraser likely has the best 1-2 wide receiver combo Henderson had 65 tackles and a team-high 6 ½ tackles for in the GNAC and perhaps even in all of Division II. losses of 22 yards. Grunsky made 58 stops and intercepted two passes. The only question this fall will be who will be delivering the football. Barber also handled APU’s punting chores last season averaging 36.2 yards per kick. Last year the Clan’s Lemar Durant (6-2, 231, So., Coquitlam, BC – U. of Nevada) ranked fourth nationally in Jamie Cacciatore (5-8, 175, So., Orange, CA – El Modena) total receptions with 91 for 1,318 yards and 17 returns to handle placekicking duties. touchdowns.

Last year he led the GNAC in field goals, making 15 of 21 His reception total equaled the GNAC single-season record and finished tied for third in kick scoring with 67 points in set by Central Washington’s Johnny Spevak in 2008. 11 games. Among his field goals was a 24-yard game- winner in a 23-21 win over Dixie State. Durant earned two All-American awards last season, being selected to the d2football.com honorable mention team and SIMON FRASER Clan to the Football Gazette second team.

Head Coach: Dave Johnson (15-39, 6 years; Overall 24-41, 7 Meanwhile Bobby Pospischil (5-10, 182, Jr., Coquitlam, years). BC – Centennial) caught 83 passes – that ranked 11th Assistants: Nick Lucey, offensive coordinator; James Colzie III, nationally – for 780 yards for the Clan. defensive coordinator; Don Sweet, kickers; Dean Johnson, mentor; Jarrett Wall, Athletes in Action; Wyatt Urbanski, fullbacks; Both are back, but quarterback Trey Wheeler, who threw Jon Klyne, running backs; Andre Clarke, defensive tackles; Ryan for 3,268 yards and 28 touchdowns last season, has since McFadden, offensive line; Michael Lionello, linebackers; Jesse departed for the University of San Diego leaving an open Flynn, cornerbacks; Bryan Wyllie, defensive tackles; Adam competition for the starting quarterback job. Johnson, offensive line.

2012 Record: 5-6 Conference: 2-6, 4th A mixture of returning players and newcomers will Returning Letter Winners: Off – 14 Def – 14 Kickers – 1 Lost - compete for the spot. Last year's backup Ryan Blum (6-5, 16 209, Jr., Santa Rosa, CA – Santa Rosa JC) is in the mix as Returning Starters: Off – 5 Def – 6 Kickers - 1 he will use his experience last year, athletic ability and Basic Offense: Multiple work ethic to earn the job. Basic Defense: Multiple

Stadium (Capacity): Terry Fox Field (3,500) Blum, who also rushed for 217 yards and one touchdown,

threw just six passes a year ago, completing three for 62 TOP RETURNEES: Rushing – Ryan Blum (QB, 6-5, 209, Jr., yards. 32-217, 1 TD); Tarrance Crawford (RB, 6-0, 217, So., 36-137, 2

TDs). Passing – Ryan Blum (3-6-0, 62). Receiving – Lemar Challenging him will be Janne Lehtinen (6-1, 194, Jr.), a Durant (WR, 6-2, 226, So., 91-1318, 17 TDs); Bobby Pospischil native of Helsinki, Finland who redshirted last year at SFU (WR, 5-10, 187, Jr., 83-780); Kyle Kawamoto (WR, 6-0, 177, Jr., but has collegiate experience at Chabot College, and Ryan 30-356, 1 TD); Jamal Kett (TE, 6-5, 234, So., 28-293, 8 TDs). Stanford (6-3, 199, Jr., Phoenix, AZ) who comes to the Kick Scoring – Tiernan Docherty (6-0, 173, So., 5-8 FGs 30-34 Clan from Phoenix College. PAT). Tackles – Casey Chin (LB, 5-10, 227, Sr., 56-42, TFL 7 ½ -

25); Eric Murphy (LB, 6-1, 187, Jr., 26-17); Dylan Roper (DL, 6-2, Durant and Pospischil are not the only threats downfield. 228, Sr., 14-19, TFL 9 ½-44). All-Stars – Lemar Durant (WR, 1st Kyle Kawamoto (6-0, 178, Jr., North Vancouver, BC - team GNAC); Jamal Kett (TE, 1st team GNAC); Matthias Handsworth) caught 30 passes for 356 yards and one Goossen (OL, 6-4, 294, Sr., 1st team GNAC); Bobby Pospischil touchdown last season. (WR, 2nd team GNAC); Casey Chin (LB, 2nd team GNAC); Tore

Corrado (PR, 6-0, 180, Jr., 2nd team GNAC) Tight end Jamal Kett (6-5, 213, So., Orangeville, ON – St. Andrew’s) had 28 catches for 293 yards and eight touchdowns to join Durant on the GNAC first team all-

6 conference squad. Pospischil was a second team all-GNAC KEY LOSSES: Cache Morgan (KR, 1st team GNAC; DB, 2nd selection. team GNAC); Zack Fox (WR, 2nd team GNAC); Nick Garibay (OL, 2nd team). Lineman Matthias Goossen (6-4, 294, Sr., Richmond, BC – Vancouver College) joined his teammates on the offensive KEY TRANSFERS: Joel Davis (RB, 5-9, 185, Jr., Natchez, MS – all-conference team earning first team honors. Copiah-Lincoln); Saula Taufa (DL, 6-3, 315, Jr., Manti, UT – Snow); Jake Miller (DL, 6-2, 240 Jr., Tremonton, UT – Snow); Zac On the other side of the football, linebacker Casey Chin (5- Christian (DB, 5-11, 190, Jr., Plain City, UT – Snow); Jamal Smith 10, 214, Sr., Port Moody, BC – New Westminster) was (DB, 6-2, 1190, Jr., Oxnard, CA – Utah) Pauli Latu (DL, 6-1, 290, rewarded for his defensive work being voted to the second Jr., West Valley City, UT – Utah/Arizona Western). unit. OUTLOOK Chin led the conference with 98 total tackles, including 56 unassisted stops. He had 7 ½ behind the line of scrimmage Quarterback Griff Robles (6-5, 230, Sr., Spanish Fork, UT for losses of 25 yards. – Utah) and All-American tight end Joe Don Duncan (6-4, 270, Sr., Corona, CA – Notre Dame & El Camino) are Other top returning defenders for the Clan include among nine returning starters on offense who will take the linebacker Eric Murphy (6-1, 187, Jr., North Bend, WA – field this fall for Dixie State. Mount Si) and defensive lineman Dylan Roper (6-2, 228, Sr., North Vancouver, BC – Carson Graham). The Red Storm, who posted a 3-8 record last season, have more returning starters on offense than any other GNAC Murphy had 43 tackles, four for losses, while Roper was team. credited with 33 tackles, 9 ½ for losses of 33 yards. Robles completed 169 of 332 passes for 2,033 yards and 16 Another contributor last year was punt returner Tore touchdowns last season, the most yards and touchdowns of Corrado (6-0, 175, Jr., Vancouver, BC – Notre Dame), who any returning quarterback in the GNAC. led the conference in punt returns averaging 16.9 yards on 13 attempts. Duncan who earned two first team All-American awards (D2football,com Daktronics) in 2011 when he led all Pospischil had an 84-yard return for a touchdown as the Division II tight ends in receiving with 64 catches for 949 Clan averaged 17.1 yards on 20 attempts. yards and nine touchdowns, returns after missing the 2012 season with an injury.

DIXIE STATE Red Storm Other key returning offensive players include running back Myles Burton (5-9, 195, So., Berkeley, CA – Rodriguez), Head Coach: Scott Brumfield, Brigham Young (6-26, 3 years) who rushed for 244 yards on 40 carries and wide receivers Assistants: Judd Thompson, offensive coordinator; Derek Mitch Frei (6-2, 200, Sr., Santa Clara, UT – Snow) and Campbell, defensive coordinator; Will Liebert, offensive line; Jim Randon Willard (6-0, 180, Jr., Santa Clara, UT – Snow Eggleston, tight ends; Zack Fox, wide receivers; Nick Garibay, Canyon). asst. offensive line; Robert Grant, linebackers; Richard May, defensive backs; Jody Morgan, running backs & special teams. Frei caught 34 passes for 495 yards and six touchdowns, 2012 Record: 3-8 Conference: 3-7, 6th while Willard had 27 catches for 325 yards and three Returning Letter Winners: Off – 17 Def – 16 Kickers – 1 Lost - touchdowns. 16 Returning Starters: Off – 9 Def – 6 Kickers - 0 Among the top offensive newcomers is running back Joel Basic Offense: Pro Set Davis (5-9, 185, Jr., Natchez, MS – Copiah-Lincoln). Basic Defense: Pro 4-3 Stadium (Capacity): Hansen Stadium (5,500) “We have a lot of versatility on offense,” Dixie coach Scott Brumfield said. “The more weapons we have the more it’ll TOP RETURNEES: Rushing – Griff Robles (QB, 6-5, 230, Sr., take the pressure off of Joe Don (Duncan) within our 116-450, 5 TDs); Myles Burton (RB, 5-9, 195, So., 40-244, 1 TD). scheme (single-back sets). Passing – Griff Robles (169-332-12, 2033, 16 TDs). Receiving – Mitch Frei (WR, 6-2, 200, Sr., 34-495, 6 TDs); Randon Willard Six starters are back on defense led by Jake Duncan (6-0, (WR, 27-325, 3 TDs). Kick Scoring – None. Tackles – Jake 235, Sr., Corona, CA – Notre Dame), who has led the Red Duncan (LB, 6-0, 235, Sr., 40-31-71, TFL 6 ½ - 24); Nick Largent Storm in tackles each of the past two seasons with 78 and (LB, 6-0, 230, Sr., 27-26-53); Sean Gibson (DL, 6-3, 275, Sr., 16- 71, respectively. He was a GNAC second team all- 22-38); Daniel Moffett (DB, 6-2, 195, Jr., 20-15-35). All-Stars – conference selection in 2011. Joe Don Duncan (TE, 6-4, 270, Sr., 1st team GNAC in 2011); Jake Duncan (LB, 6-0, 235, Sr., 2nd team in GNAC in 2011). Last year Duncan had 6 ½ tackles for losses totaling 24 yards.

7 Other key returning tacklers include linebacker Nick Among the new players who will make an impact this Largent (6-0, 230, Sr., Escalon, CA – San Joaquin Delta), season are linemen Jake Miller (6-2, 240, Jr., Tremonton, defensive lineman Sean Gibson (6-3, 275, Sr., Herriman, UT – Snow) and Saula Taufa (6-3, 315, Jr., Manti, UT – UT – Riverton & Utah State) and defensive back Daniel Snow) and defensive backs Zac Christian (5-11, 190, Jr., Moffett (6-2, 195, Jr., Kaysville, Davis). Plain City, UT – Snow) and Jamal Smith (6-2, 190, Jr., Oxnard, CA). Largent had 53 tackles, including 5 ½ for losses, and Gibson was credited with 38 tackles, six for losses totaling “The one thing we struggled with last year was getting 29 yards. Moffett had 35 tackles. pressure on the quarterback....and we believe (Jake) Miller will help solidify that role for us,” Brumfield said.