July 17, 2006
(Editor's Note: Today, we begin previewing the 2006 Alabama State Hornets. Over the next two weeks leading up to the SWAC media days, we will take a look at each unit.)
Few teams in America could match ASU's high-flying offense over the last three years. During that span, the Hornets were at or near the top in every major offensive category in the SWAC. That offense powered the Hornets to 17 conference wins, two eastern division titles and the 2004 SWAC championship.
2006 is a year of transition for ASU. Familiar names will replaced by young upstarts looking to make their mark on the program. And while the offense looks towards life after
Tarvaris Jackson and
Keldrick Williams, the Hornet defense is rock-solid and stocked with talent, speed and toughness.
With all of the losses on offense, the defense might feel the pressure to try to carry the team. Not so, according to assistant head coach/defensive coordinator
Tony Pierce.
"It doesn't really matter what people think, we have to do the same thing we always try to do: stop people from scoring," Coach Pierce said. "We have some very good players coming back. We'll be aggressive and we'll get after people."
Defensive backs
With several SWAC teams packing powerful passing games, ASU's experienced secondary could be just what the doctor ordered.
Cornerback Brandon Averett (5'7", 159, Jr), on his way to becoming one of the SWAC's top covermen, led the Hornets with 3 interceptions. On the other side, Jimmy Toussaint (5'11", 175, Jr) is big and very good in one-on-one situations.
Free safety Travis Rayford (5'10", 176, So-R) will put to use all the experience he gained playing as a freshman. He'll usually be matched up against the opponent's slot receiver.
"We have guys who take the challenge of being out there alone," said Grady Brown, ASU defensive backs coach. "You've gotta have those guys who can cover, but we also have guys who can hit."
Desmond Foster (5'10", 185, Sr) is one of those guys.
"Desmond can do a lot of things, and that's what his rover position (strong safety) calls for," Coach Brown said. "He can cover when he has to, but his size allows him to be the physical presence we need in run support."
Michael Coe (6'1, 190, Sr.) - the son of Head Coach Charles Coe - transferred from the University of Arkansas, bringing an immediate infusion of talent and experience. His package of size and speed will allow him to play a number of positions, including cornerback and possibly on special teams and at wide receiver.
Roderick West (6'1", 190. So), Jerrod Kerrison (5'9", 172, So), Lael Harrison (5'10", 165, So-R) and Olajuwon Meadows (5'11", 185, So) will play important roles as backups.
Defensive Line
The Hornet defensive line lost loads of experience and leadership when 5 seniors departed last season. Still, expectations are high.
Greg Tonico (6'2", 309, Jr-R) is the only returning lineman who has started a game. However, Tonico missed spring practice while recovering from major knee surgery.
"Tonico is a leader," said Brian Williams, ASU defensive line coach. "He is proven, and getting him back would be big for our defense."
Markell McKinley (6'2", 290, Sr), a transfer from Mississippi State, brings a rare combination of power, speed and agility. "McKinley has the ability to make plays," Coach Williams said. "He has seen the highest levels of college football; he will make an immediate impact."
Brandon Walls (6'0", 338, So-R), Noel Alphonso (6'5", 230, So) and Michael Deshazo (6'3", 240, So) provide important depth.
