We preview each position on the New Mexico State football team throughout training camp and leading up to the season. The series continues today with a look at the defensive line:
There are some pieces here to work with.
Donte Savage is back after being academically ineligible last year and has looked very good — in a class by himself as a very quick pass rusher from the weakside.
Walton Taumoepeau had a good second half of the season in 2011 and is quick — a good athlete standing at 6-foot-3, 300 pounds. Taumoepeau is currently second on the depth chart at defensive tackle, perhaps a motivational technique for a player who has the tools to be an elite player in the WAC along the interior of the defensive line.
At the other defensive end position is converted linebacker Alexander LaVoy, who's shown a better knack as a pass rusher than run stopper at this point. He could form a nice pass-rushing duo with Savage.
Three junior college transfers — Kalvin Cruz (defensive end/defensive tackle), Nick Oliva (defensive end) and Kevin Laudermill (defensive tackle) — add depth and could push for time.
The Aggies look to be OK at defensive end but could stand to build some depth inside. Mark Brown is a strong player at 6-foot, 290 pounds, although might be better used in short spurts. Freshman Inuka Rhaheed has been getting snaps as well during fall camp.
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1 comment:
Whatever happened to Tommy Stuart? He tore his ACL a year ago. Is he still w/ the team?
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