Unknown Stars

[smallcollegefbfan]

Who are some players that are unknown to the FCS nation but have been a star for your team the last two years or even just last year?

There are two receivers that I expect big things from this year in YSU WR Donald Jones and UC Davis WR Bakari Grant. Jones made the MVFC All-Newcomer team while Grant was named 2nd team All-Great West. Jones was a JC transfer who really lit it up late in the year and probably would have been 1st team all conference had he started the way he finished. Grant is a very good blocker with good hands. He is also athletic. I also expect both players to get heavy looks from the NFL and start to appear on draft websites here in the next couple months.

I will be curious to hear who others mention. The only rules for this are that they can't be a returning All-American and they have to be a player that you feel is truly being underrated based on the magazines and lists we have seen so far.

[Go Lehigh TU owl]

Lehigh
J.B Clark 23 TDs 10 INTs in his first year starting as a soph
Al Pierce LB, a converted RB might be the fastest LB in the the PL. He made the play that forced the INT against Lafayette. He might be the best athlete on the team.

[smallcollegefbfan]

Lehigh
J.B Clark 23 TDs 10 INTs in his first year starting as a soph
Al Pierce LB, a converted RB might be the fastest LB in the the PL. He made the play that forced the INT against Lafayette. He might be the best athlete on the team.

That is a very good one. Another one I probably should have mentioned above is Fordham's John Skelton who has the Joe Flacco like tools and could really shoot up NFL boards and All-America lists if he shows better accuracy and footwork this year. Skelton was 2nd team All-PL in 07 but had a down year last season. He might be one of the top 5 FCS QBs before the season is over.

[Tribe4SF]

For W&M it has to be Strong Safety David Caldwell. After making 38 tackles as a true Freshman in 2006, he has led the Tribe in that department the past two years, and has developed a reputation as one of the CAA's most feared hitters. At 5'11" and 212, he possesses exceptional athleticism and great strength, and has been a consistent leader on, and off the field (2009 Team Captain).

With all his accomplishments, though, he has somehow been ignored to date for any all-conference selections. Look for that to change in 2009.

[DetroitFlyer]

Dayton's entire defense....

A standout?

How about Sean Heenan?

http://www.daytonflyers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/heenan_sean00.html

Very similar player to USD's EBak. NFL size and potential. Look for him to draw some scouts this season, especially if he gets off to a good start.

Also watch Kalen Hemmelgarn.

http://www.daytonflyers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/hemmelgarn_kalen00.html

Another athletic DE that would probably be playing LB at most "traditional" FCS programs. Might also get some NFL looks this year.

If both stay healthy, Dayton will have one of the best defenses in all of FCS once again.

[smallcollegefbfan]

Dayton's entire defense....

A standout?

How about Sean Heenan?

http://www.daytonflyers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/heenan_sean00.html

Very similar player to USD's EBak. NFL size and potential. Look for him to draw some scouts this season, especially if he gets off to a good start.

Also watch Kalen Hemmelgarn.

http://www.daytonflyers.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/hemmelgarn_kalen00.html

Another athletic DE that would probably be playing LB at most "traditional" FCS programs. Might also get some NFL looks this year.

If both stay healthy, Dayton will have one of the best defenses in all of FCS once again.

Thanks! I will keep an eye on both. I am guessing that DT is a lot bigger than 260 now? You know how scouts usually don't give light DTs much of a look.

I am really looking forward to see if the PFL has a fast athletic player that gets on the radar this year because there really isn't a for sure prospect that I know of entering the season.

[bluehenbillk]

Josh Baker, TE for Delaware. Had a pretty good season in 2007 as a back-up to Robbie Agnone, was then suspended from the University in '08.

Add Pat Devlin into the mix & Baker looked like his favorite target in the spring game.

[Fordham]

That is a very good one. Another one I probably should have mentioned above is Fordham's John Skelton who has the Joe Flacco like tools and could really shoot up NFL boards and All-America lists if he shows better accuracy and footwork this year. Skelton was 2nd team All-PL in 07 but had a down year last season. He might be one of the top 5 FCS QBs before the season is over.

Nice call, scfbf! And check out the attached: Top 12 NFL QB Prospects - Fordham's Skelton #9! (http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d810bda9e&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true)

This likely deserves it's own thread.

[smallcollegefbfan]

Nice call, scfbf! And check out the attached: Top 12 NFL QB Prospects - Fordham's Skelton #9! (http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d810bda9e&template=without-video-with-comments&confirm=true)

This likely deserves it's own thread.

I saw that link last night. I think Skelton is overrated in terms of being there now but I think that preseason pick will look good because Skelton will rise up boards. He has the "big arm" and the big frame that scouts like. xthumbsupx

[Fordham]

I saw that link last night. I think Skelton is overrated in terms of being there now but I think that preseason pick will look good because Skelton will rise up boards. He has the "big arm" and the big frame that scouts like. xthumbsupx
I agree and I was very surprised to see him there. Randolph has nice size as well and I assumed he'd be the one PL guy with a chance to be on a list like that.

One other thing to mention is that that Skelton played the whole season with a huge brace on since his knee was hurting throughout the entire year. That cut down quite a bit on his mobility and he is supposedly back and fully healthy now. He has pretty good mobility for a guy of that size. It's why I think I'd prefer him to shed a few pounds and play moreso at 230lbs versus 245 - 250lbs as he was last season.

Great, great kid, though and a great leader.

[smallcollegefbfan]

I agree and I was very surprised to see him there. Randolph has nice size as well and I assumed he'd be the one PL guy with a chance to be on a list like that.

One other thing to mention is that that Skelton played the whole season with a huge brace on since his knee was hurting throughout the entire year. That cut down quite a bit on his mobility and he is supposedly back and fully healthy now. He has pretty good mobility for a guy of that size. It's why I think I'd prefer him to shed a few pounds and play moreso at 230lbs versus 245 - 250lbs as he was last season.

Great, great kid, though and a great leader.

When I said PL I meant Pioneer League. xthumbsupx

Randolph is getting looks. He just doesn't have the upside that Skelton has. I noticed that Skelton has a knee brace but figured he just wore one all the time for the usual protection that some OL and QBs use them for.

[DetroitFlyer]

Thanks! I will keep an eye on both. I am guessing that DT is a lot bigger than 260 now? You know how scouts usually don't give light DTs much of a look.

I am really looking forward to see if the PFL has a fast athletic player that gets on the radar this year because there really isn't a for sure prospect that I know of entering the season.


I do not think that either player would be looked at for the DL in the NFL. Both would probably be looked at as linebackers. (Similar to EBak from USD who is currently with the Chargers).

[fuEMO]

Unknown Young Players for Furman

Chris Wiley LB recorded 24 tackles as a true freshman backup linebacker
Ryan Steed CB 10 tackles, 2 ints, 2 blocked kicks as a true freshman backup corner

Tersoo Uhaa FB/TB 425 rushing yards 8 TD's 50 receiving yards 1 TD as a true freshman backup
David Hendrix WR 565 receiving yards 1 TD as a redshirt freshman

[smallcollegefbfan]

Unknown Young Players for Furman

Chris Wiley LB recorded 24 tackles as a true freshman backup linebacker
Ryan Steed CB 10 tackles, 2 ints, 2 blocked kicks as a true freshman backup corner

Tersoo Uhaa FB/TB 425 rushing yards 8 TD's 50 receiving yards 1 TD as a true freshman backup
David Hendrix WR 565 receiving yards 1 TD as a redshirt freshman

Steed is one I expect to burst on the scene this year big time. Wiley is the one there I have never heard of. Do you expect Wiley to be as good as Freeman or Ruff were?

[Tribe4SF]

Others for the Tribe who have been under the radar, and may breakout this year include...

DT Sean Lissemore- Consistent starter who is finally over nagging shoulder injury that has limited his technique the past two seasons. 6'4" and now up to 295 with good speed (4.80), he has the potential for a dominating year.

WR D.J. McAulay- Injuries have limited his effectiveness in the past, but he has had stretches of brilliance. NFL speed (10.42 100 in high school) can be seen on these TDs against NC State, VMI and Towson.

http://www.tribeathletics.com/files/fb/2008/video/ncst/mactd1.html
http://www.tribeathletics.com/files/fb/2008/video/VMI/dj29td.html
http://www.tribeathletics.com/files/fb/2008/video/tu/dj65td.html

QB R. J. Archer- Finally gets to show his stuff as the full time starter at his best position.

LB Jake Trantin- Strong, mobile LB who started all 11 games as a redshirt freshman. Second on the team, and led all CAA freshmen in tackles. Moves to the inside this year.

[smallcollegefbfan]

Others for the Tribe who have been under the radar, and may breakout this year include...

DT Sean Lissemore- Consistent starter who is finally over nagging shoulder injury that has limited his technique the past two seasons. 6'4" and now up to 295 with good speed (4.80), he has the potential for a dominating year.

WR D.J. McAulay- Injuries have limited his effectiveness in the past, but he has had stretches of brilliance. NFL speed (10.42 100 in high school) can be seen on these TDs against NC State, VMI and Towson.

http://www.tribeathletics.com/files/fb/2008/video/ncst/mactd1.html
http://www.tribeathletics.com/files/fb/2008/video/VMI/dj29td.html
http://www.tribeathletics.com/files/fb/2008/video/tu/dj65td.html

QB R. J. Archer- Finally gets to show his stuff as the full time starter at his best position.

LB Jake Trantin- Strong, mobile LB who started all 11 games as a redshirt freshman. Second on the team, and led all CAA freshmen in tackles. Moves to the inside this year.

I think the WR will get looks for sure. It seems like it takes him a little bit of time to get full speed but when he gets there he has the top end speed to play in the NFL.

[fuEMO]

Steed is one I expect to burst on the scene this year big time. Wiley is the one there I have never heard of. Do you expect Wiley to be as good as Freeman or Ruff were?

A little background on Wiley:

5-11, 190
Anderson, South Carolina (Westside High School)

Played outside linebacker, defensive back, and running back in high school...in three seasons tallied 311 tackles, 10 fumble recoveries, seven sacks, six interceptions, two blocked punts, and six rushing touchdowns...notched 136 tackles as a senior and earned all-region and all-area honors on a team that posted a 10-3 record and advanced to the second round of state playoffs...2007 Shrine Bowl selection...registered a career high 18 tackles versus Greenwood his junior year, helping his squad to an 8-5 record and Upper State championship game appearance...two-time state qualifier in 4x100 meter relay...clocked an 11.2 in the 100 meters as a junior.

Against Wofford Wiley came in mid way fourth quarter against Woffy's future starting QB. Made 6 tackles, the only bright spot on a dismal defensive performance. Wiley is not the physical big linebacker like Freeman or Ritter but he's damn fast and he's an excellent tacker. His other big upside. He can drop back in coverage like a DB.

[smallcollegefbfan]

A little background on Wiley:

5-11, 190
Anderson, South Carolina (Westside High School)

Played outside linebacker, defensive back, and running back in high school...in three seasons tallied 311 tackles, 10 fumble recoveries, seven sacks, six interceptions, two blocked punts, and six rushing touchdowns...notched 136 tackles as a senior and earned all-region and all-area honors on a team that posted a 10-3 record and advanced to the second round of state playoffs...2007 Shrine Bowl selection...registered a career high 18 tackles versus Greenwood his junior year, helping his squad to an 8-5 record and Upper State championship game appearance...two-time state qualifier in 4x100 meter relay...clocked an 11.2 in the 100 meters as a junior.

Against Wofford Wiley came in mid way fourth quarter against Woffy's future starting QB. Made 6 tackles, the only bright spot on a dismal defensive performance. Wiley is not the physical big linebacker like Freeman or Ritter but he's damn fast and he's an excellent tacker. His other big upside. He can drop back in coverage like a DB.

Just making an assumption but if he was going to ever play at a higher level he would project as a run supporting SS. Would that sound right? I will look out for him.

[smallcollegefbfan]

I will give you guys another name. With Tyler Roehl gone at NDSU look out for Pat Pascall. He might be a big time breakout player. I know the NFL scouts like him.

[fuEMO]

I'm excited to see Ryan Steed getting attention so early in his career. Some interesting stats about Steed. Played quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and cornerback at Pinewood Prep. Earned all-state honors as a quarterback after pacing his team to a 6-5 record his senior year...rushed for 696 yards and 11 touchdowns and passed for 579 yards and nine TDs in 2007...registered four interceptions...named Shrine All-Star Classic Outstanding Defensive Player-of-the-Game.

The funny thing about Steed he was also an all-state basketball player and had ACC attention. Steed known for his defense not for his offense. One reason he is unique for the corner position. He plays real long, rumor has with his wingspan it's like having a 6-4 corner in a 5-11 body.

Another player really off the radar for Furman is probably starting strong safety redshirt freshman Nathan Wade.

6-0 180 Nashville, Tennessee (Montgomery Bell Academy)

Played strong safety and wide receiver and also served as a return specialist...totaled 79 tackles, six interceptions, and seven pass deflections in a career that saw him miss almost two full seasons due to torn anterior cruciate ligaments in both knees...enjoyed an injury free 2007 campaign, totaling 67 tackles, six pickoffs, and seven pass breakups while helping MBA to a 13-0 record and state championship...registered three tackles and a pair of interceptions and was named Defensive MVP in MBA's 12-0 state championship Blue Cross Bowl win over Brentwood Academy...also recorded two interceptions, one of which he returned 27 yards for a touchdown, in a semi-final playoff victory over Father Ryan...2007 Tennessee Sportswriters Association All-State selection and Tennessean first team All-Midstate honoree...played two games his junior year before sustaining season ending knee injury.

[mtgrizfan4life]

I will throw out a few names for the GRIZ.

QB- whoever wins that position will emerge as a star by seasons end

WR- Jabin Sambrano

DT- Carson Bender

DE- Ryan Fetherston and Bobby Alt (Hauck relies on a 3 or 4 man rotation at DE, and I feel both will be upgrades over last year. They will team nicely with Palmer.)

LB- Caleb McSurdy

CB- Trumaine Johnson (if healthy)

Safety- Erik Stoll

OL- Charles Burton

This will show the GRIZ do not rebuild. They RELOAD!

[gbhmt]

Chase Reynolds, the rest of FCS only got a little taste of him in the postseason.

[mtgrizfan4life]

Chase Reynolds, the rest of FCS only got a little taste of him in the postseason.

Chase Reynolds is very much known now. You are one year too late on him. xthumbsupx

[UNCBears2010]

UNC - S Max Hewitt

Last year as a true sophomore was second on the team with 79 tackles. Also tied for the team lead with 3 interceptions. Also had 3 INTs to go with 35 tackles playing all 12 games as a true freshman in 2007. Should be the leader of a much improved Bears defense in 2009.

[Canyoncat]

Montana State

MLB Clay Bignell, So 6-2 235. I don't think defense will miss a beat with him in there instead of Bobby Daly. Last year he showed the same play making ability as Bobby when Bobby was injured.

DE Brad Smith, So 6-5 240. Very fast with a non stop motor. Had a huge spring game and showed very well last year starting for the injured Dylan Kinkelaar.

C Alex Terrien, So 6-4 285. Took over at center when starter Jim Verlanic went down with injuries and played well. He is a lot bigger and more powerful than Jim.

DT Jason D'Alba, JR 6-2 280. Transfered in from Drake and sat out last year. Has earned a starting spot on the D-Line. Said to be very quick and powerful. Coaches seem to be pretty high on him.

[MR. CHICKEN]

#13.....ED WAGNER.....PUNTER....X-FER MICHIGAN STATE....IFIN' DUH SPRING GAME IS ANY INDICATION........BLUEHEN OPPONENTS....ARE IN DEEP DOO-DOO!

[Hoyadestroya85]

Chris Whitney.. the man does everything

[JacksFan06]

SDSU Jacks RB Kyle Minnet -
2nd all-time rushing yds in Minnesota high school history

2008 Sophmore year - 1,289 yds, 14 TD rushing -- 44 rec, 415 yds, 4 TD

combined 1,704, 18 TD

[smallcollegefbfan]

SDSU Jacks RB Kyle Minnet -
2nd all-time rushing yds in Minnesota high school history

2008 Sophomore year - 1,289 yds, 14 TD rushing -- 44 rec, 415 yds, 4 TD

combined 1,704, 18 TD

I was very impressed with what he did last year. Sleeper candidate for the Payton and All-America honors.

[lionsrking2]

SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA

Mark Newbill is one of the most underrated players in the country...undersized but there isn't a better LB in the SLC in my humble opinion...he's a consistent playmaker who makes plays sideline to sideline and can pass defend...very good student.

http://lionsports.net/images/2009/6/11/newbill_mark_fb2009_web.jpg

11 Mark Newbill

Position: Linebacker
Height: 5-11
Weight: 205
40-yd: 4.55
Vertical: 35
Class: Junior
Hometown: Monroe, La.
Previous School: Neville HS

Career Honors:
- 2008 All-Louisiana (Second Team)
- 2008 Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Week (Sept. 15)
- 2007 All-Southland Conference (Honorable Mention)

2008: All-Louisiana second team selection after finishing second on the team with 100 tackles (64 solo) … Ranked fourth in the Southland Conference in total tackles, second in tackles per game (9.1), 10th in tackles for loss (10) and seventh in fumble recovered (two) … Also forced two fumbles, broke up two passes and recorded two sacks … Started all but one of the 11 games he appeared in … Credited with double-digit tackles in five different contests … In the season-opening victory over Alcorn State, made 13 tackles, including two for loss and a sack … Also had 13 stops and two for loss in the Lions’ 31-30 win over South Dakota, earning Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Week honors for his efforts … Posted 12 tackles and a fumble recovery in a 26-21 triumph versus Northwestern State … Also posted 12 tackles at Central Arkansas … Credited with 10 tackles and a pass breakup in the team’s overtime win at Sam Houston State … Made nine tackles apiece versus McNeese State and Texas State … Finished with eight tackles, three for loss, one sack and two forced fumbles at Louisiana Tech … Had six solo tackles and a fumble recovery at Mississippi State.

2007: Earned honorable mention All-Southland Conference recognition after leading the Lions with 83 tackles (57 solo) as a true freshman … Season tackle total was the seventh-highest single-season total for a Lion since the program’s return in 2003 … Also was second on the team and eighth in the Southland Conference with eight tackles for loss … Also recorded three sacks and forced a fumble … Best game of the season came in 17-13 season-ending victory over Nicholls State … Credited with 18 tackles – the most all season by a Lion defender – and forced a fumble versus the Colonels … Recorded 11 tackles and a sack versus Sam Houston State … Had eight tackles, including two for loss at McNeese State … Had two tackles for loss and a sack at Texas State … Also had eight tackles versus Kentucky Wesleyan … Had seven tackles and a tackle for loss against both Northwestern State and Central Arkansas … Made six stops at Kansas and at Tulane … Credited with a sack versus Stephen F. Austin.

High School: Two-time first-team All-State selection at Neville HS … also earned multiple all-district and all-Northwest selections … was district Most Valuable Player as both a junior and senior … as a senior earned Toby Caston Award for top defensive player by the Monroe News Star along with KNOC and Northeast Louisiana Defensive Player of the Year honors … two-star Rivals.con ranking and ranked 42nd on PelicanPreps.com pre spring top 50 list for state prospects … carries 3.5 grade point average … concluded his senior year with 109 stops, two interceptions and five sacks and also pitched in as a short-yardage runner on offense.

Personal: Born in Monroe … Son of Mark Howell and Neysa Newbill … Has two siblings … Majoring in psychology.

[lionsrking2]

SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA

Chris Wilson is another underrated player for us...big, physical, athletic WR with great hands...deep threat who can go up and get it...

2008 Season Highlights
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeIdkzb59g4

http://lionsports.net/images/2008/9/5/rp_primary_w083008_049.jpg

5 Chris Wilson

Position: Wide Receiver
Height: 6-4
Weight: 190
Class: Senior
Hometown: Amory, Miss.
Previous School: Amory HS

2008: Made an immediate impact in his first season with the Lions … Second on the team with 51 receptions, while leading the team with 740 yards and eight touchdowns … Ranked among the Southland Conference leaders in receptions per game (4.25, ninth) and receiving yards per game (61.7, ninth) … His yardage total was the second-highest single-season performance in school history, his touchdown total was third-highest and reception total was fourth-highest … Made an immediate impact in Division I debut, catching three touchdown passes for 107 yards and two touchdowns in the season-opening victory at Alcorn State … Two weeks later, he caught a season-high 11 passes for 101 yards in a 31-30 win over South Dakota … Posted highest single-game yardage total at Stephen F. Austin, finishing with 121 yards on five catches – including two touchdowns … Caught four passes for 92 yards and a touchdown in a 26-21 triumph over Northwestern State … Also recorded touchdown receptions versus Central Arkansas, Texas State and Sam Houston State …. Threw a 55-yard touchdown to Andre Cryer at Louisiana Tech.

Junior College: A First Team JUCO All-State performer at Itawamba Community College … a three-star prospect by Rivals.com … as a sophomore, finished with 38 catches for 525 yards and eight touchdowns … a Preseason JUCO All-American in 2007 … in 2006, caught 39 balls for 551 yards and six scores.

High School: Standout performer at Amory High School.

Personal: Born Christopher Wilson in Amory, Miss. … Majoring in general studies.

[Native]

Weber State's placekicker, Jon Williams, led the Big Sky in kick scoring in 2008 with 87 points.

Jonny Money was deadly in the red zone, hitting 8 of 9 field goals, and was flawless on all 10 placekicks in the playoffs.

Despite an early season groin injury which affected his kicking and held him back from kickoffs until later in the season, Williams averaged 67 yards on 41 kickoffs, with no out of bounds kicks and 13 touchbacks, for a TB average of 32%. At Pocatello, after a Bengal penalty, he kicked one 65 yards right down the middle and through the Idaho State goal posts.

Williams will be a junior for the 2009-2010 season.

Additional bio information from the Weber State web site:

Weber State #2 Jon Williams
Place Kicker - PK
Height: 5-10 Weight: 200
Junior
Previous Affiliations: Point Loma, Grossmont
Previous Experience: 1L at Alcorn, RS at Grosmont, 1L at Weber
Hometown: San Diego, California

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Courtesy: Weber State
Release: 08/08/2008
WEBER STATE: ...Signed with the Wildcats in February but won’t report until Fall camp. ... Strong, consistent kicker with good height on the ball and excels under pressure. ... Spent the 2006 season at Alcorn State where he was 26-27 (.963) on PATs and 9-14 (.643) on field goal attempts with a long of 43 and earned Second Team All-SWAC honors. ... Spent the 2007 season as a red-shirt at Grossmont JC.

HIGH SCHOOL: .. Played linebacker and kicker at Point Loma HS where he led the CIF San Diego section in kickoff touchbacks with 35.

PERSONAL: Full Name: Jonathan Williams. Major: Business.

http://www.weberstatesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=39323&SPID=3468&temp_site=NO&DB_OEM_ID=8600&ATCLID=1552028&Q_SEASON=2009

[Native]

Not sure that he's unknown, but Weber State running back Trevyn Smith should be getting more national attention. xnodx

He has led the Big Sky in rushing for three years in a row and returns for his final season in 2009.

Trevyn netted 1535 yards rushing in 2008 and led the nation in scoring with 168 points.

More bio info from the Weber State web site:

Trevyn Smith # 25
Running Back - RB
Height: 5-9 Weight: 210
Senior
Previous Affiliations: Springville
Previous Experience: 3L
Hometown: Springville, Utah

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Courtesy: Weber State
Release: 10/11/2007
WEBER STATE: Came out of nowhere to not only lead the Wildcats in RUSHING YARDS but the BIG SKY CONFERENCE as well in 2006, then came back proved he wasn’t a "one hit wonder" by leading the league again in 2007. ... Is seeking to become just the second player in Big Sky Conference history to lead the league in rushing for three straight seasons. Idaho’s Sherriden May accomplished the feat in 1992, 1993 and 1994. ... Named First Team All-Big Sky Conference for the second straight season. ... Excels at spinning away from tackles and finding whatever opening is available to him. ... A solid receiver coming out of the backfield who turns short passes into long gains.

2007: ..Started out slow with just 298 rushing yards (74.50 ypg) in the first four games of the season but came on strong with six straight 100+ yard rushing games averaging 155.33 yards per game in that stretch. ... Had a career high 225 rushing yards on 38 carries in WSU’s 73-68 win @Portland State. ... Became just the second player in WSU football history to have 100 yards rushing AND receiving in the same game when he rushed for 119 yards (34 attempts) and three touchdowns at home vs. Idaho State and added five receptions for 120 yards and two more touchdowns in WSU’s 52-37 win over the Bengals which included a screen pass which turned into a 59-yard touchdown. ... He was named the Big Sky Conference Offensive Player of the Week for that effort.

2006: ... Was listed as the number three running back at the beginning of 2006 Fall camp but when injuries overtook veterans Zach Hall (fall camp) and Adrian Conway (5th game), he moved up to second then into the starting lineup where he rushed 205 times for 1,129 yards and scored eight touchdowns. ... Had just 53 lost rushing yards all season. ... Did not have a single carry in the season opener at Colorado State but had one unassisted tackle on special teams. ... Sat out most the 2007 Spring practice drills nursing a couple of nagging injuries. ... Became the full-time starter in the sixth game of the season (@Sacramento State) after an injury to Adrian Conway vs. Northern Colorado sidelined him for the season. ... Had 15 carries for 81 yards vs. Cal Poly in his first appearance as a running back in the second game of the season then followed it up with a 16 carry / 186 yard effort vs. Southern Utah. ... Had 20 carries for 151 yards vs. Northern Colorado coming in after Conway’s injury. ... Was held to just 176 rushing yards in the following three games at Sacramento State, Montana and at Montana State but came alive vs. Eastern Washington with 27 carries for 203 yards. ... After and 84 yard effort on the road vs. Northern Arizona he ended the season with a career high 31 carries for a career high 211 yards and scored two touchdowns in the 30-27 win at Idaho State in the season finale. ... He had a career long rush of 53 in that game vs. the Bengals. ... Earned First Team All-Big Sky Conference honors for his efforts in 2006

2005: Sat out the season as a red-shirt.

HIGH SCHOOL: He led the entire state of Utah in rushing during the 2004 season with 2,108 yards, averaging a staggering 9.1 yards per carry for Coach Doug Bills. ... Become just the 11th player in Utah high school history to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season. ... First Team All-State Class 4A by both the Deseret Morning News and Salt Lake Tribune. ... He was named the 2004 OLD SPICE / RED ZONE PLAYER OF THE YEAR for the state of Utah, one of 50 high school players in the country accorded that honor. ... Also played defensive back for the Red Devils.

PERSONAL: Full Name: Trevyn Reed Smith Born: August 8, 1986 Major: Technical Sales. ... Married, wife’s name is Erica, they are the parents of a daughter named Ryan Rae born in October of 2007.

http://www.weberstatesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=39323&SPID=3468&temp_site=NO&DB_OEM_ID=8600&ATCLID=1275554&Q_SEASON=2009

[elkmcc]

Chase Reynolds is very much known now. You are one year too late on him. xthumbsupx

Chase pretty much flew under the radar last season. He had no preseason accolades and didn't really have much of an opportunity until the 4 or 5'th game of the season. Granted he was on fire from then on but I think still he wasn't fully appreciated or noticed until playoff time. The guy got better and better. He's tough, resilient, shifty, a good blocker and has great hands. I honestly don't think he has hit his stride yet. If Chase is as tough as I think he might be he will be in the running for the Payton.

Chase is an interesting personality. Very polite, considerate, engaging and modest. This young man makes one proud to be a Montanan. Watch him.

[Native]

Weber State Center Kyle Mutcher and wide receivers Tim Toone and Mike Phillips have gotten lots of attention, but wide receiver Cody Nakamura is sometimes overlooked. He excelled in spring practice and has been hitting the weight room hard in the off season. Listed as a WR but it seems to me that he played as a TE sometimes.

In 2008 Cody snagged 48 receptions for 729 yards and 10 TDs. He was Weber's third leading receiver behind Toone and RB Trevyn Smith. Phillips was fourth with 696 yards and 6 TDs.

I do not yet know who will be stepping up from the OL and DL ranks, but Mac has a history of producing NFL caliber linemen, so I expect to see great things from the hogs in 2009.

More bio information on Cody from the Weber State web site:

Cody Nakamura # 23
Receiver - WR
Height: 6-1 Weight: 215 (dated - maybe 225 now)
Senior
Previous Affiliations: Baldwin HS
Previous Experience: 3L
Hometown: Wailuku, Hawai'i

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Courtesy: Weber State
Release: 10/11/2007

WEBER STATE: Nickname is "Cody" which he prefers to use. ... Brings some good size and a physical presence to the Wildcat receiving corp where led his area in the weightroom with a 405 squat, 315 bench and 286 power clean. ... Is expected to see more extensive playing time this season when the ‘Cats go into their three or four receiver sets and could see some playing time at the tight end position as well. ... Member of the 2007 Big Sky Conference Football All-Academic Team.

2007: ... Played in eight games where he had two receptions for 17 yards. ... Had a nine-yard catch @Cal Poly and and eigh-yard snag @Portland State.

2006: Did not see action until the eighth game of the season at Sacramento State but did not catch a pass in that game. .. Had eight catches for 54 yards over the next four games with a career high four receptions for a career high 25 yards at Montana State. ... Had a season-long reception of 16 yards at Northern Arizona.

2005: Sat out the season as a red-shirt.

HIGH SCHOOL: ...Played at Baldwin High under Chad Kauha’aha’a who now serves as the defensive line coach at Weber State. ... Best game was six catches for 180 yards and three touchdowns vs. Maui High.

PERSONAL: Full Name: Cole Keoki Nakamura Major: Carries a 3.08 gpa in Business Administration.

http://www.weberstatesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=39323&SPID=3468&temp_site=NO&DB_OEM_ID=8600&ATCLID=1275530&Q_SEASON=2009

[smallcollegefbfan]

Weber State Center Kyle Mutcher and wide receivers Tim Toone and Mike Phillips have gotten lots of attention, but wide receiver Cody Nakamura is sometimes overlooked. He excelled in spring practice and has been hitting the weight room hard in the off season. Listed as a WR but it seems to me that he played as a TE sometimes.

In 2008 Cody snagged 48 receptions for 729 yards and 10 TDs. He was Weber's third leading receiver behind Toone and RB Trevyn Smith. Phillips was fourth with 696 yards and 6 TDs.

I do not yet know who will be stepping up from the OL and DL ranks, but Mac has a history of producing NFL caliber linemen, so I expect to see great things from the hogs in 2009.

More bio information on Cody from the Weber State web site:

Cody Nakamura # 23
Receiver - WR
Height: 6-1 Weight: 215 (dated - maybe 225 now)
Senior
Previous Affiliations: Baldwin HS
Previous Experience: 3L
Hometown: Wailuku, Hawai'i

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Courtesy: Weber State
Release: 10/11/2007

WEBER STATE: Nickname is "Cody" which he prefers to use. ... Brings some good size and a physical presence to the Wildcat receiving corp where led his area in the weightroom with a 405 squat, 315 bench and 286 power clean. ... Is expected to see more extensive playing time this season when the ‘Cats go into their three or four receiver sets and could see some playing time at the tight end position as well. ... Member of the 2007 Big Sky Conference Football All-Academic Team.

2007: ... Played in eight games where he had two receptions for 17 yards. ... Had a nine-yard catch @Cal Poly and and eigh-yard snag @Portland State.

2006: Did not see action until the eighth game of the season at Sacramento State but did not catch a pass in that game. .. Had eight catches for 54 yards over the next four games with a career high four receptions for a career high 25 yards at Montana State. ... Had a season-long reception of 16 yards at Northern Arizona.

2005: Sat out the season as a red-shirt.

HIGH SCHOOL: ...Played at Baldwin High under Chad Kauha’aha’a who now serves as the defensive line coach at Weber State. ... Best game was six catches for 180 yards and three touchdowns vs. Maui High.

PERSONAL: Full Name: Cole Keoki Nakamura Major: Carries a 3.08 gpa in Business Administration.

http://www.weberstatesports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=39323&SPID=3468&temp_site=NO&DB_OEM_ID=8600&ATCLID=1275530&Q_SEASON=2009

Don't be surprised if you see Kyle Mutcher getting NFL attention this fall. I think he is next in a long line of Weber State hogs in the NFL, as you mentioned.

[Native]

Chase pretty much flew under the radar last season. He had no preseason accolades and didn't really have much of an opportunity until the 4 or 5'th game of the season. Granted he was on fire from then on but I think still he wasn't fully appreciated or noticed until playoff time. The guy got better and better. He's tough, resilient, shifty, a good blocker and has great hands. I honestly don't think he has hit his stride yet. If Chase is as tough as I think he might be he will be in the running for the Payton.

Chase is an interesting personality. Very polite, considerate, engaging and modest. This young man makes one proud to be a Montanan. Watch him.

Chase gave Trevyn Smith a real run for the money in last year's Big Sky rushing derby. I would not be surprised to see REYNOLDS (correction) keep Smith from winning his fourth rushing crown in a row this year, but I would also not be surprised to see Trevyn win it again. Just another interesting aspect of the BIG SKY Conference.

BUT "...polite, considerate, engaging and modest..." !?!!! What the heck does that have to do with being from MONTANA?!?? xeyebrowx xlolx xpeacex

[elkmcc]

Chase gave Trevyn Smith a real run for the money in last year's Big Sky rushing derby. I would not be surprised to see Daniels keep Smith from winning his fourth rushing crown in a row this year, but I would also not be surprised to see Trevyn win it again. Just another interesting aspect of the BIG SKY Conference.

BUT "...polite, considerate, engaging and modest..." !?!!! What the heck does that have to do with being from MONTANA?!?? xeyebrowx xlolx xpeacex

First off his name is Reynolds, not Daniels. xlolx


Here in Montana we consider positive personality characteristics to be important and most people from Montana are pretty darn friendly. I welcome you to come to Missoula and discover that fact about us Monto's. Perhaps at BBQU this has no merit. From what I know about Macbride he certainly could use a refresher course in people skills.

You are right though. As long as a player can carry the football, who cares if he is socially retarded.xeyebrowx

[Native]

First off his name is Reynolds, not Daniels. xlolx

Here in Montana we consider positive personality characteristics to be important and most people from Montana are pretty darn friendly. I welcome you to come to Missoula and discover that fact about us Monto's. Perhaps at BBQU this has no merit. From what I know about Macbride he certainly could use a refresher course in people skills.

You are right though. As long as a player can carry the football, who cares if he is socially retarded.xeyebrowx

OOOPS! Sorry 'bout that, pac10jim! Mea Culpa. CHASE REYNOLDS. Made the correction in the original.

I love MONTANA! Not to mention that cute and busty little blonde from Jordan back in the day when I was cutting wheat... She was not modest, though, at least towards me! xsmiley_wix

Had a great time in Missoula last year, except for the score, of course. :( I thouroughly enjoy the Griz posters on the blog boards!!! But you can hardly call the Griz bloggers or fans "modest." xlolxxlolx

The Griz fans where I was sitting at the playoff game were great, but you cannot possibly consider the drunken students in the end zone to have been "...polite, considerate, engaging and modest..."

McBride's coaching style is hard-@$$ old school, but I have never seen a coach more successfull than Mac in self-effacingly and tirelessly using his people skills to work all his stakeholders, from the NCAA to parents to the administration to the business community and sports press. What is your point of reference on Mac?!?

[JackTwice]

SDSU Jacks RB Kyle Minnet -
2nd all-time rushing yds in Minnesota high school history

2008 Sophmore year - 1,289 yds, 14 TD rushing -- 44 rec, 415 yds, 4 TD

combined 1,704, 18 TD

I would add Colin Cochart 6'5" 235lb TE
Sophomore year 2008 - 23 catches 401 yds 4 td's.

Depending on how QB situation develops he could be set to have a huge year this year.

[elkmcc]

OOOPS! Sorry 'bout that, pac10jim! Mea Culpa. CHASE REYNOLDS. Made the correction in the original.

I love MONTANA! Not to mention that cute and busty little blonde from Jordan back in the day when I was cutting wheat... She was not modest, though, at least towards me! xsmiley_wix

Had a great time in Missoula last year, except for the score, of course. :( I thouroughly enjoy the Griz posters on the blog boards!!! But you can hardly call the Griz bloggers or fans "modest." xlolxxlolx

The Griz fans where I was sitting at the playoff game were great, but you cannot possibly consider the drunken students in the end zone to have been "...polite, considerate, engaging and modest..."

McBride's coaching style is hard-@$$ old school, but I have never seen a coach more successfull than Mac in self-effacingly and tirelessly using his people skills to work all his stakeholders, from the NCAA to parents to the administration to the business community and sports press. What is your point of reference on Mac?!?

You are taking my words out of context. I'll be the first to admit that Montana fans are not modest about their football team. I wouldn't count on that changing any time soon either. As far as the drunken students go... I realize there is a difference in culture and beliefs between Montana and Utah. Trust me Utah is the exception in this case. I am not a proponent of excessive alcohol use but if you leave the state of Utah be prepared for the real world.

Chase Reynolds show of modesty in spite of the fact that he might be the best running back in the country is admirable IMO. The fact that Chase is personable and easy to talk to makes me like him even more.

The fact that Macbride is IMO a stick in the mud, grouchy old man who has little to say that could remotely be considered nice about anyone doesn't reflect positively on him or IMO BBQU.

[Native]

You are taking my words out of context. I'll be the first to admit that Montana fans are not modest about their football team. I wouldn't count on that changing any time soon either. As far as the drunken students go... I realize there is a difference in culture and beliefs between Montana and Utah. Trust me Utah is the exception in this case. I am not a proponent of excessive alcohol use but if you leave the state of Utah be prepared for the real world.

Chase Reynolds show of modesty in spite of the fact that he might be the best running back in the country is admirable IMO. The fact that Chase is personable and easy to talk to makes me like him even more.

The fact that Macbride is IMO a stick in the mud, grouchy old man who has little to say that could remotely be considered nice about anyone doesn't reflect positively on him or IMO BBQU.

I have been to Big 12 games, Pac 10 games, SWAC games and Big Sky games.

The Montana students in the endzone at the UM-WSU playoff game last year are the worst I have seen in 35 years.

I do not think that they reflect the entirety of UM, UM fans or the state of Montana, all of which I hold in high esteem. But that is my honest and truthful personal observation. Sorry.

[WCU LawCat]

For Western Carolina it is probably WR Marquel Pittman. He is not talked about much because of Huggins at Elon and Roberts at The Citadel.

DL Gene Singletary will also probably have a huge year if he stays healthy.