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Photo courtesy of David Benyak
The Lobos head into College Station Saturday having lost nine straight games to opponents in Texas, an 0-2 record against Texas A&M and will probably be facing the third largest crowd New Mexico has ever seen. No pressure, Locksley.
A lot of the focus for New Mexico’s upcoming season has been on first-year coach Mike Locksley and the changes he has brought on both sides of the ball. What may be more important this season is what is the same: Donovan Porterie. A lot of the Lobos’ success this year will rest on Porterie’s shoulders… or his knee to be more precise. If Porterie can remain healthy, it may prevent another season with a poor passing game.
Despite missing most of last year with a knee injury, Porterie has recorded more starts than any other player on UNM’s starting roster with 22. Porterie’s 3,000 yard season in 2007 has many hoping that he can take the Lobos to a finish higher than 7th in the conference, where they have been predicted to end up.
The first hurdle is in College Station Texas, less than 200 miles from Porterie’s hometown of Port Arthur. Porterie went 22 for 35 with 154 yards and 2 interceptions against A&M last season en route to a 28-22 loss.
With the implementation of the spread offense, Porterie will have a number of different targets, Here’s a look at who some of the main ones will be:
Roland Bruno: Has the most experience of all New Mexico receivers with 428 career yards. Bruno will be a key element to the spread with his quickness and blocking ability. His only touchdown was on a 22-yard reverse.
Daryl Jones: At 6-4, Jones adds much-needed height to the receiving corps. Has seen limited playing time, but with an impressive spring, looks to be on the field a lot more this season.
Bryant Williams: One of the bright spots in an otherwise dismal passing game for the Lobos last year. Williams recorded 272 receiving yards in what was his first year after a transferring from a community college. Williams also averaged 24.3 yards on kickoff returns in ‘08
Ty Kirk: The 6-1 freshman from Illinois competes on the Lobo track & field team. Kirk had the best long jump in the Mountain West earlier this spring, it was also the best by a Lobo since 1984.
The Backfield:
Demond Dennis: One of two starters as listed on the depth chart, Dennis has made a big impact in practices and simulated games. Originally committed to Kentucky and was recruited by Georgia Tech and Auburn, Dennis came to New Mexico after being recruited by Locksley in Illinois.
A.J. Butler: As the other starting tail back on the roster, Butler will split time with Dennis. With his good hands he is expected to be another valuable target for Porterie on the receiving end of the ball.
James Wright: The Lobo’s returning leading rusher ran for 348 yards last season. Though there are many young players in the Lobo backfield, Wright should see considerable playing time.
The Protection:
Erik Cook: Most commonly known as Minnesota Vikings’ Ryan Cook’s little brother, Erik heads into his senior year as a preseason 1st-team all MWC at the center position.
Byron Bell: 6’5, 330. Need I say more?
Josh Taufalele: In his second season as a Lobo, Taufalele intends to continue what he started as an outstanding guard in ’08. At 6’2, 313, Taufalele adds to an already sizeable line.
Look for details on the Lobo defense next week.
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