CLICK HERE to watch the MIAC Minute Football Preview on YouTube
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The main point of interest for the 2010 Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) football season revolves the anticipated battle at the top of the standings for the league championship. But, after a closer look, that’s just one of the many storylines driving the heightened anticipation as kickoff draws near.
Though the MIAC has a storied history on the gridiron, it’s possible the excitement and interest around the conference has never been better from top to bottom. For five years running, the MIAC has led NCAA Division III in football attendance, and last season five of the league’s nine teams finished .500 or better – with eight winning at least four games. This season, 42 All-Conference players return – including 2009 Jim Christopherson MIAC MVP Fritz Waldvogel (Jr., WR, St. Thomas) – to fuel the anticipation building towards the start of the season.
Both local and national publications have taken notice, as three MIAC schools received top-10 rankings from various preseason polls. Defending conference champion Saint John’s University, with legendary coach John Gagliardi back for his 58th season, is ranked in four separate polls, reaching as high as No. 4. The University of St. Thomas, which won two playoff games en route to a school-record 11 wins in 2009, appears in the top 10 in three different polls, also reaching as high as No. 4. Third-place Bethel University received their No. 6 national ranking in Lindy’s Sports Preseason Division III poll as well.
Those squads – Saint John’s, St. Thomas and Bethel – figure to engage in a season-long three-team slugfest for the 2010 MIAC Championship. However, the conference coaches predict St. John’s three-year reign at the top will end, coinciding with St. Thomas’ ascension. The Tommies – under the direction of third-year head coach Glenn Caruso – received seven-of-nine first-place votes and 63 total points to finish atop the 2010 MIAC Football Preseason Coaches’ Poll.
The prediction isn’t surprising, considering what Caruso brings back from last year’s 11-2 squad. Waldvogel is one of three returning All-Americans back for St. Thomas, along with Josh Ostrue (Sr., C) and Ben Wartman (Sr., RB). In all, 20 of 22 starters return for the Tommies, and it’s almost impossible to tell whether there is more excitement for the unveiling of their brand-new athletic facility or their highly touted football squad.
Joining the returning All-Americans on offense is All-MIAC First Team Offense selection Chad Vandergriff (OL), and Second Team Offense picks Colin Tobin (RB) and Jon Curtis (OL). On defense, the Tommies bring back All-MIAC First Team selections Cyrus Allen (Sr., DL), Zach Sturm (Sr., OLB), Brady Ervin (Sr., S) and Bryan Villar (Sr., CB), and another strong recruiting effort has bolstered what should be Caruso’s best roster yet.
However, unseating Saint John’s isn’t a given. The Johnnies return a strong team with the experience of winning the last three MIAC titles, and they’ll enter 2010 hungry for more success after losing in the first round of the Division III playoffs. Gagliardi’s win total keeps climbing to new, astronomical heights, now at 471-126-11 overall in 61 seasons as a college coach, with 57 seasons and a 447-120-10 mark at Saint John’s. The Johnnies received the other two first-place votes in the MIAC poll and 57 total points to claim the No. 2 spot.
SJU’s title defense starts with its offense, which brings back seven starters and All-MIAC QB Joe Boyle (Sr.). Also back are seniors Jakob Reding (RB), Josh Overman (TE), Jeff Gilbertson (OL) and Tim Juba (OL), who were All-MIAC Second Team Offense selections in 2009. The Jonnies’ vaunted defense lost six starters, but brings back a talented crew, led by All-American Kyle Schroeder (Sr., DL) and All-MIAC Second Team linebacker John Stanton (Sr.).
While St. Thomas and Saint John’s are battling one another for conference supremacy, they’ll be smart to keep an eye on Bethel, which returns 17 starters from last year’s 7-3 squad. Head Coach Steve Johnson’s team received 51 points in the MIAC poll to finish third, and it hopes to outperform the prediction in its quest for a conference title.
The Royals’ title hopes will firmly hitch themselves to the team’s running game. All five starters return on the offensive line, including All-MIAC tackle Mitch Elliott (Jr.), and they’ll continue to pave the way for three-time All-MIAC running back Logan Flannery, who has went over 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons. In fact, Flannery enters the season with 3,396 career rushing yards, and both he and Wartman (3,138) are in pursuit of the MIAC record, currently held by Bethel alum Phil Porta at 4,400 yards. All-MIAC defensive end Andrew Johnson is back to lead the Bethel defense, along with Second Team senior linebackers Ross Petterson and Corey Svihla and junior safety David Vavra.
The MIAC expect Concordia College and St. Olaf College to make up the next tier in the league standings, along with Gustavus Adolphus College and Augsburg College, after all four teams tied with identical 3-5 MIAC records a year ago. Concordia finished fourth in the poll with 42 points, St. Olaf was fifth with 36 and Gustavus edged Augsburg for sixth by a single point, 25-24.
The Cobbers enter 2010 with brand-new Field Turf in Jake Christiansen Stadium and seven starters back from 2009’s 5-5 squad. Senior safety Zach Debeltz is the lone returning starter on defense, but that’s a good place to begin after he led racked up the most tackles in conference games and earned All-MIAC First Team honors a year ago. Concordia will also benefit from the experience and talent of junior quarterback Mike Dunham, who took over as the starter midway through last season and garnered All-MIAC Second Team honors. Dunham should direct a quality passing attack, but the Cobbers need a running back or two to emerge, along with several new playmakers on defense.
St. Olaf was also a .500 squad at 5-5 a year ago, and the Oles enter 2010 with hopes of moving up into the league’s upper echelon. Versatile star Leon Clark (Jr.) will be counted on to make plays again this season after leading the league in all-purpose yards and finishing second in rushing yards per game to earn All-MIAC First Team honors both at running back and utility in 2009. The St. Olaf defense was superb a year ago, but it lost four All-MIAC selections to graduation. Linebacker Patrick Luevano, safety Nick Branjord and linemen Brian Albrect and Max Rustad will be looked to for leadership on a defense with seven new starters.
Gustavus, which finished 4-6 in 2009, brings back an experienced defense with eight starters returning, but has some holes to fill with only three offensive starters back in the fold. Senior linebacker Paul Stommes, an All-MIAC Second Team pick last year, leads the experienced defense, which is strong up front and returns potential in the secondary. All-MIAC Second Team receiver Elliot Herdina is the team’s top returning offensive weapon, but the Gusties’ hope quarterback Logan Becker, four new starters on the line and a new crew of running backs can help create a balanced, effective attack.
Augsburg also found itself in that fourth-place log jam a year ago, and this year the Auggies enter with optimism fueled by 12 returning starters and their All-MIAC quarterback. Junior Marcus Brumm, who was a first-team pick last season, is back under center after throwing for 2,518 yards and 13 scores in 2009. All-MIAC tight end Josh Proschinske is also back, along with Second Team receiver Muneer Al-Hameed to give Brumm plenty of talented targets. On defense, All-MIAC First Team linebacker Adam Mead is one of five returning starters, and with three starters back in the secondary the Auggies hope to take a step forward in 2010.
Just two points separate Carleton and Hamline in the final two spots of the coaches’ poll, however, both welcome back an impressive number of returning starters and seniors, and could turn some heads with their play in 2010.
The Knights will field one of the MIAC’s most experienced teams in 2010 after losing just one starter form the 2009 team that was 1-7 in the MIAC, but 3-7 overall. Preseason All-American tackle Brad Eckelmann anchors the experienced offense, along with All-MIAC picks Jon Lien (RB) and Joe Boerma (OL). On defense, safety Neil Kolstad will lead a defense that features an interesting mix of young players who have already gained valuable collegiate experience.
Hamline is in a similar situation. The Pipers were 4-6 overall a year ago – their best record in 12 years – and tons of upperclassmen return to continue the development of Head Coach Jim Good’s program. Senior tackle Derall King and sophomore wideout Tim Queck are both back after earning All-MIAC First Team honors last year on offense, and the defense returns All-MIAC Second Team linebacker Corey Olson. Punter John Broback is back to lead the Hamline special teams after earning Second Team honors a year ago with an average of 39.3 yards per punt and a near-record long of 77 yards.
The 2010 season kicks off Saturday, Sept. 4, with a slate of nonconference games scheduled for the MIAC teams over the first two Saturdays. Conference play opens on Sept. 18 and runs for eight weeks. The league’s biggest games will all come in October, as Saint John’s hosts St. Thomas on Oct. 2 before traveling to Bethel the following Saturday, Oct. 9. Bethel will travel to St. Thomas to complete the round-robin of the three MIAC favorites on Oct. 23. The final Saturday of regular season action will be Saturday, Nov. 13.
The MIAC regular season champion will receive the league’s automatic bid to the NCAA Division III playoffs, however, if past seasons are any indication, the league will have a chance to send two teams to the postseason through an at-large bid as well.
Listed below are the complete results from the 2010 MIAC Football Preseason Coaches’ Poll, as well as complete team-by-team previews submitted by each institution’s sports information director.
2010 MIAC Football Preseason Coaches' Poll
MIAC head football coaches voted for every team in the conference except their own. Points were assigned for each vote (eight for a first-place vote, nine for second, etc.) Teams are ranked in order of highest point total to lowest with vote totals listed and first-place votes shown in parentheses.
| 2010 MIAC Football Preseason Coaches' Poll |
| Rank |
Institution |
Total |
| 1 |
St. Thomas (7) |
63 |
| 2 |
Saint John's (2) |
57 |
| 3 |
Bethel |
51 |
| 4 |
Concordia |
42 |
| 5 |
St. Olaf |
36 |
| 6 |
Gustavus |
25 |
| 7 |
Augsburg |
24 |
| 8 |
Carleton |
14 |
| 9 |
Hamline |
12 |
2010 MIAC Schedule | 2009 MIAC Statistics | MIAC Recordbook | MIAC Archives |
Skip to: AUG | BU | CAR | CON | GAC | HU | SJU | STO | UST |
Augsburg
Coach: Frank Haege
Career Record: 16-34 (5 seasons)
2009 Finish: Tied 4th (3-5 MIAC, 4-6 overall)
| Augsburg Season Preview |
There’s room for optimism for the Augsburg College football program in 2010.
Twelve starters and 45 letterwinners return to a squad that is aiming for improvement from last year’s 4-6 overall finish. Five all-conference athletes return to the Auggie roster. And in a conference that features quality and balance up and down the ladder, the Auggies are aiming for an improvement from last year’s 3-5 Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference finish.
Augsburg opens the 2010 season with a unique stretch, playing its first four home games in the friendly confines of Edor Nelson Field -- just the second time in school history (the other was in 1958) that Augsburg will have played four home games in a row. Augsburg has six of its 10 games this season at home.
“Nobody is bad in our conference. The middle in the MIAC is getting a lot thicker,” said head coach Frank Haege, who is entering his sixth season with the Auggies. “There should be some great games, a lot of close games.”
All-MIAC quarterback, receivers lead offense
With a dynamic passing offense, Augsburg has had a tradition of great quarterbacks in recent years, and junior Marcus Brumm (JR, Lakeville, Minn./Lakeville South HS) has a chance to join the upper echelon of passing quarterbacks in school history.
In his first year after transferring from Minnesota State Mankato, Brumm threw for 2,518 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2009, completing 50.5 percent (220) of his 436 passing attempts, with the attempts, completions and yardage totals all among the top five in a single season in school history. Brumm earned All-MIAC first-team honors in 2009, and is primed for another outstanding season helming the Auggie offense.
“He’s just getting better all the time,” Haege said. “He’s becoming more of a vocal leader. He’s a captain, he’s making better and smarter decisions all the time, and he’s understanding the offense more and more. He should be exciting to watch this season.”
Junior Tim Lund (JR, Circle Pines, Minn./Centennial HS) returns as Brumm’s primary backup, with newcomers Brandon Flippen (FY, Coon Rapids, Minn.) and Steve Harvey (FY, Champlin, Minn./Champlin Park HS) also joining the Auggies at quarterback.
Wide receiver Muneer Al-Hameed (SR, Woodbury, Minn./Minneapolis Washburn HS), an All-MIAC second-team selection each of the last two seasons, will have an opportunity for another solid campaign to close his career. Last season, Al-Hameed led the Auggies in both receptions (69) and receiving yardage (842), catching four touchdown passes. He led the MIAC in overall receptions per-game (6.90) and ranked third in overall receiving yardage per-game (84.2). In his career, Al-Hameed ranks fourth in school history in receptions (188) and fifth in receiving yardage (2,257), to go along with 13 touchdowns.
“Muneer should be one of the premier players in the conference, if not in the nation,” Haege said. “He will do some great things for us.”
Hakeem Bourne-McFarlane (SO, Bloomington, Minn./Kennedy HS), a transfer from Winona State, will be among a solid group of receivers for the Auggies, joined by returners Jack Christopherson (SR, Maple Grove, Minn./Osseo HS), Chris Osborn (SO, Eagan, Minn.), Emmanuel Marcellino (JR, Circle Pines, Minn./Centennial HS) and Willie Washington (SO, Lakeville, Minn./Lakeville North HS). Newcomers Luke Johnson (SO, Bowlus, Minn./Upsala HS), Jordan Freeman (FY, Northfield, Minn.) and Matt Renne (FY, Nicollet, Minn.) will also figure in the receiving mix, along with two players who will play multiple positions -- quarterback Lund and defensive back Cameron Krugerud (SO, Plymouth, Minn./Wayzata HS).
One of the big surprises from last season was the play of tight end Josh Pronschinske (SR, Fountain City, Wis./Cochrane-Fountain City HS), who earned All-MIAC first-team and D3football.com All-West Region third-team honors with a breakout campaign, catching 42 passes for 448 yards and two touchdowns -- the most catches and yardage for an Auggie tight end since 2006.
“Josh has developed in the weight room, athletically and mentally. He should have a nice year. He’s a big target, he has good speed and he’s a good blocker,” Haege said.
Behind Pronschinske at tight end is returner Tyler Swanson (SO, Lakeville, Minn./Lakeville North HS) and newcomers Adam Carl (FY, Eagan, Minn.) and K.J. Saleem (FY, Kissimmee, Fla./Liberty HS).
The race for the running back position will be a wide-open affair, with five players competing for playing time. David Tilton (JR, Anoka, Minn.) returns after not playing last season, while Phil Putratz (FY, Mazeppa, Minn./Zumbrota-Mazeppa HS), Willie Platzer (SO, Lino Lakes, Minn./Centennial HS), David Murray (SO, St. Paul, Minn./Harding HS) and Chris Yang (FY, St. Paul, Minn./Humboldt HS) will also compete.
The biggest question mark for the Auggies on offense will be on the offensive line, where two starters -- center Nick DeVet (JR, Shoreview, Minn./Mounds View HS) and right tackle Eric Dooley (SO, Eagan, Minn.) -- return. Alex Velasquez (SO, Naples, Fla./Batton Collier HS), Kendall Langert (SR, Inver Grove Heights, Minn./Simley HS), Jake Gagne (SO, Cambridge, Minn./Cambridge-Isanti HS), Josh Beck (SR, Rush City, Minn.) and Brian Rud (SO, Lonsdale, Minn./Montgomery-Lonsdale HS) all return with experience.
Matthew Anderson-Jones (SO, Fort Lauderdale, Fla./Plantation HS), Jake Corrigan (SO, Cottage Grove, Minn./Park HS) and Dane Koengeter (SO, Minocqua, Wis./Lakeland Union HS) also return to the offensive line, along with newcomers Lincoln Buege (FY, Rochester, Minn./Century HS), Brandon Johnson (FY, Hopkins, Minn./Roseville HS), Tyler Salone (FY, Minneapolis, Minn./South HS) and Chad Thompson (FY, Maple Grove, Minn.).
Defense: Key Starters Return
With five starters returning, including three of the four secondary positions, Augsburg’s defense will be counted on to show improvement this season.
“We need to be better and more consistent on defense,” Haege said. “We’ve been good on offense, and it looks like we should be pretty good on offense again. But our defense just needs to be more consistent, and come up with some big plays, and we’ll be right in the mix.”
Defensive end Josh Collins (SR, Rosemount, Minn.) had a strong season in 2009, with 57 tackles, including seven tackles for loss and three sacks. A three-year starter, Collins has 119 tackles, including 12.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks, in his career.
“Josh is the quietest four-year starter in the MIAC,” Haege said. “He’s a good player, a good pass rusher. He’s a quiet person … who will be an outstanding player for us this year coming off the edge.”
Filling the other end position will likely be either Aaron Perry (JR, Lino Lakes, Minn./Centennial HS) or Tony Rickoff (JR, Winona, Minn.), with three players vying for spots on the inside -- Donovan Martin (JR, Minneapolis, Minn./Washburn HS), Nick Larson (SO, Lakeville, Minn./Apple Valley HS) and Edmond Smith (SO, Minneapolis, Minn./North HS).
Other players returning to the defensive line include Sean Crayne (SO, Trimont, Minn./Martin County West HS), Evan Decker (JR, St. Paul, Minn./Como Park HS), Mitch Gerold (JR, Braham, Minn.), Chris McCollom (SO, Rochester, Minn./Century HS), Andrew Swanson (SO, Lakeville, Minn./Lakeville North HS) and Adam Viehauser (SR, Minneapolis, Minn./Washburn HS). Newcomers Blake Nath (SO, Marshall, Minn.), Jordan Anfinson (FY, Watertown, Minn./Watertown-Mayer HS), J Frasl (FY, St. Paul, Minn./Como Park HS), Jake Haehnel (FY, Sauk Rapids, Minn./Sauk Rapids-Rice HS) and Cory Strasser (FY, Blaine, Minn./Spring Lake Park HS) will also figure in the defensive line mix.
Augsburg has had a tradition of solid players in the linebacking corps, and this year should be no exception, as Adam Mead (SR, St. Francis, Minn.) closes out a brilliant career. Last year, Mead led the MIAC in overall tackles with 111, including nine tackles for loss and one sack, earning All-MIAC first-team honors in the process. Entering his senior season, Mead has 226 tackles, with 16 tackles for loss and four sacks. Haege called Mead “one of the better players in the league.”
The other two linebacker spots will likely be filled by returner Bryce Vee (SO, Coon Rapids, Minn./Blaine HS), who had 27 tackles last season, and newcomer Adam Sonntag (SO, Green Lake, Wis.). Returners Tyler Jensen (SO, Minneapolis, Minn./Washburn HS), Dan Brandt (SR, SR, Minneapolis, Minn./South HS), Eric Arlien (JR, Howard Lake, Minn./Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted HS) and Jerrad Zimmel (SO, Coon Rapids, Minn.) will also compete for linebacker time, along with newcomers Enrico Barrozo (FY, Plymouth, Minn./Robbinsdale Armstrong HS), Caleb Breyer (FY, Faribault, Minn.), Mitchell Fenske (FY, Amery, Wis.), Gelvin Harmon (FY, Kissimmee, Fla./Liberty HS), Charlie Hoy (FY, Maple Plain, Minn./Orono HS) and John Milam (FY, Sartell, Minn.).
There’s solid depth in the defensive backfield, with three of the four starters returning. Cornerback John Hibbs (SR, Watertown, Minn./Watertown-Mayer HS) earned All-MIAC honorable-mention honors after recording 47 tackles with five passes defensed (one interception, five pass breakups) last year. Cornerback Tyler Phillips (JR, Lino Lakes, Minn./Centennial HS) and strong safety Dane Bates (SR, White Bear Lake, Minn.) also return, after recording 52 and 64 tackles last year, respectively.
Krugerud, who will also spend some time at wide receiver, and returner Kaleb Williams (SO, Lakeville, Minn.) will compete for the open strong safety spot, with newcomers Paye Tengben (FY, Fridley, Minn.) and Avery Dorsett (FY, Minneapolis, Minn./South HS) aiming to join the secondary rotation as well. DeAndre Dennis (JR, Minneapolis, Minn./Washburn HS), Wesley Waytashek (SO, Little Falls, Minn.) and Marques Townsend (SO, Minneapolis, Minn.) also return, along with newcomers Dan Bransford (SO, Plymouth, Minn./Wayzata HS), Israel Hassan (FY, Minneapolis, Minn./Patrick Henry HS) and Jackson Mboma (SO, Maple Grove, Minn.).
Special teams: Kicker/punter back for senior year
Jack Christopherson (SR, Maple Grove, Minn./Osseo HS) has handled kicking and punting duties for the Auggies throughout his career, and enters his senior season just 19 points away from tying the school’s career record for kicking points -- 141 by Martin Hlinka (1995-98). Christopherson holds Augsburg’s career record for points-after-touchdown kicks (86) and stands fifth in school history in career field goals (12).
Wide receiver Al-Hameed will likely handle punt return duties again, with Tilton and Waytashek filling the kickoff return duties. Viehauser will likely be the Auggies’ long snapper this season.
| Augsburg Football Website | Augsburg Roster | Augsburg Schedule |
|
Bethel
Coach: Steve Johnson
Career Record: 144-72-1 (21 seasons)
2009 Finish: 3rd (6-2 MIAC, 7-3 overall)
| Bethel Season Preview |
In 2009, the Bethel Royals returned to their traditional place among the top teams in the MIAC through their brand of unrelenting physical football. The Royals posted a 7-3 overall record (6-2 MIAC), and outscored opponents by an average of 14 points per game. A mix of young talent and veteran experience shape this year's team as the Royals seek their fifth conference championship.
Bethel will have some big shoes to fill with the graduation of some key playmakers, but with 17 starters returning, including each member of the offensive line, Head Coach Steve Johnson and his staff are excited about what the 2010 team can do.
OFFENSE
Josh Aakre (Jr., Dawson, Minn.) led MIAC starting quarterbacks in pass efficiency and increased his dual threat capabilities as a passer and rusher. Three-time All-MIAC running back Logan Flannery (Sr., Lakeville, Minn.) went over the 1,000-yard mark for the third year in a row and needs just 40 more yards to move into second place on Bethel's all-time rushing list. A core of young receivers will be anxious to get their hands on the ball. Last season, Jay Hilbrands (So., McCray, Minn.) caught 13 passes for 174 yards, including a 52-yard touchdown against Saint John's. Joining him will be Gabe Kleinschmidt (Jr., Hastings, Minn.), who was tough to tackle as Bethel's second leading receiver. Newcomers Grant Mitchell (Fr., Lakeville, Minn.) and Davis Bates (Fr., Oswego, Ill.) look to make an immediate impact as well. Bethel's offensive front averaged 290 pounds and paved the way for an offense that finished near the top of the MIAC in total offense and scoring, and that allowed the second fewest sacks in the conference.
DEFENSE
Last season, Bethel boasted the third-best pass defense, The Royals also recorded the most interceptions of any MIAC team during the regular season with 18. Newcomers Mitch Hallstrom (Fr., Eden Prairie, Minn.) and J.D. Mehlhorn (Fr., Lakeville, Minn.) will help immediately in the secondary. One of the biggest additions to last year's team was that of Ross Petterson (Sr., Maple Grove, Minn.). Petterson led the team in tackles last season with 74 and All-MIAC Second Team honors for his efforts. He will be joined by Billy Morgan (Jr., Rosemount, Minn.), who is also fast, physical, and aggressive. Bethel returns All-MIAC Second Team defender Cory Svihla (Sr., Foley, Minn.) who had eight tackles for a loss, four sacks, an interception, as well as two fumble recoveries. Andrew Johnson (Sr., Maple Grove, Minn.) has already earned preseason accolades from D3football.com, and has been listed as a player to watch for the D3 Senior Classic football game. Last season he led the team in tackles for a loss with 13 and was second in the conference with 9.5 sacks. Trent Pearson (Sr., Shakopee, Minn.) will transition from inside linebacker to help bolster the defensive front.
SPECIAL TEAMS
Matt Wetherell (Jr., Glen Ellyn, Ill.) helped Bethel defeat Hamline with a last-second field goal for the second year in a row by nailing a 40-yarder. Wetherell also went 27-for-37 on point after attempts. The Royals will have to replace four-year punter Kevin Ness. Likely candidates for the punting job include Joe Graybill (Jr., Minneapolis, Minn.) and Brandon Hershey (So., North Oaks, Minn.).
| Bethel Football Website | Bethel Roster | Bethel Schedule |
|
Carleton
Coach: Kurt Ramler
Career Record: 17-23 (4 seasons)
2009 Finish: 9th (1-7 MIAC, 3-7 overall)
| Carleton Season Preview |
|
The Knights pass defense was solid last year, ranking second in the MIAC, but the team yielded more than 200 rushing yards per game, something that must be improved for the team to move up in the standings.
“It’s an exciting year,” says Ramler. “We’ve got some good pieces—a good incoming class and some great returners. It’s really a matter of how things come together, and I’m excited to see it happen.”
Leading the returnees is pre-season All-American offensive tackle Brad Eckelmann (Sr./Portland, Ore./Lincoln). A three-year starter at right tackle, Eckelmann is one of the most athletic linemen in Division III. He is left one-on-one in pass protection on nearly every play and permitted only one quarterback sack in 2009. His work helped the offensive line pave the way for the Knights to amass 1,148 rushing yards, the team’s highest total since 2005.
Also coming back are three other All-MIAC performers: safety Neil Kolstad (Sr./St. James, Minn.) running back Jon Lien (Jr./Lindstrom, Minn./Chisago Lakes), and lineman Joe Boerma (So./Watertown, S.D.). Each was a second-team selection in 2009.
Kolstad was the lone holdover from the 2008 starting secondary and ranked among MIAC leaders in tackles and interceptions last fall. Lien paced the Knights in both rushing and receptions in 2009, carrying the ball 144 times for 625 yards and four touchdowns. In the passing game, he had 37 grabs for 281 yards and two more scores. Boerma played nose guard in 2009 and transitions to the other side of the ball to give the offensive line additional depth.
The roster’s improved overall depth means more players should see playing time this season.
Junior Vaughn Schmid (Mahtomedi, Minn.) has the inside track in the competition to be the main quarterback. He started nine games last year and ranked second in the conference in total offense at 249.4 yards. However, he will need to continue performing well in order to hold off a trio of underclassmen at the position.
For the last few years, the passing game has been the pivotal part of the offensive attack. The Knights return three receivers with 20-plus catches a year ago, including senior wideout Dylan Bothun (Sr./Rosemount, Minn.) who has appeared in 29 games during his first three seasons. Lien figures to remain active in the passing game again in 2010, and the coaching staff hopes sophomore C.J. Dale (Fox Island, Wash./Charles Wright) can build upon his solid rookie campaign.
The offensive line is one of the most experienced units in the conference. In addition to Eckelmann, seniors Ted Longabaugh (Milwaukee, Wis./Marquette) and Will Taylor (Missoula, Mont./Loyola Sacred Heart) and junior Tanner Martin (Tempe, Ariz./Brophy) provide stability as all four moved into the starting lineup during their freshman seasons. Boerma and Bill Estes (Fy./Tucson, Ariz./Tucson High Magnet School) both have the chance to claim a starting guard spot and give the Knights their best O-line in several years.
The defensive depth has improved once again, giving defensive coordinator Bob Pagel plenty of options. The Knights will be better suited to rotate players and keep fresh legs on the field.
Following the team’s switch to a 3-4 alignment for last season, the Knights amassed considerable depth up front. Seniors George Zeon (Edina, Minn./Richfield), Zach Armstrong (Eden Praire, Minn.), Aaron Maurer (Swarthmore, Pa./Strath Haven) and Nate Doremus (Chanhassen, Minn./Chaska) will be tasked with leading the young defensive line unit, where 8 of the 12 players are underclassmen. Jens Lillehei (So./Minneapolis, Minn./Breck), Andrew Wolter (So./Elysian, Minn./W-E-M), and Curtis Vamarasi (Fy./Evanston, Ill./Evanston Township) should also have an impact up front.
There was a lot of on-the-job training for the Carleton linebacking corps in years past, but that experience is paying off as the unit returns every player from last season. Junior Mark Skoglund (Murdock, Minn./KMS) and senior Tim Mulso (Sr./Welcome, Minn./Martin County West) paced the team and ranked among MIAC leaders in tackles last year. Five others have starting experience at the position: juniors Erin Jones (Ruckersville, Va./William Monroe), Justin Rotman (Minnetonka, Minn.), Dylan Gessner (Briarcliff Manor, N.Y.), and Tyler Richards (Appleton, Wis./North); and sophomore Keenan Hartert (Glenwood Springs, Colo.).
Added depth comes from returners Andy Zweber (So./Elko, Minn./New Prague) and Tyler Palin (Sr./Mequon, Wis./University School), who transitions to defense after being one of the MIAC’s top tight ends in 2009. These nine players plus a trio of rookies gives the defensive coaches plenty of options to deal with matchups and/or injuries.
There was significant turnover in the defensive secondary prior to last season, but the unit, which saw three new starters emerge, proved equal to the test, limiting the opposition to 162.0 yards through the air during conference games to rank second among MIAC teams. In fact, the Carleton secondary permitted only 1,732 passing yards overall, its smallest figure since 1995.
Another by-product of the number of talented defensive players is that the cornerbacks and safeties may also shuttle in and out of the lineup more than in previous years. Mike Elder (So./San Antonio, Texas/Central Catholic) started all 10 games opposite Kolstad as a rookie. Juniors DeAngelo Williams (Minneapolis, Minn./De La Salle) and Tsubasa Matsui (Ellicott City, Md./Centennial) took over the starting cornerback duties as sophomores and should again fill those roles in 2010.
There could still be some growing pains for the Knights in 2010 as 22 of the 75 players on the roster are rookies. But with so many players having gained experience over the last few seasons, it will be interesting to see what difference this year makes.
Carleton heads into the 2010 opener with 53 returners, including 16 seniors on the roster. Graduation claimed only one starter from last year’s team, meaning the Knights earned valuable experience up and down the lineup. Despite the lack of a large senior class, the 2009 Knights still ranked third among MIAC teams in passing (221.1 yards) and fifth in total offense (327.6 yards).
|
Concordia
Coach: Terry Horan
Career Record: 62-32 (9 seasons)
2009 Finish: Tied 4th (3-5 MIAC, 5-5 overall)
| Concordia Season Preview |
As Concordia head coach Terry Horan enters his 10th season at the helm of the Cobbers, he will be setting his sights on new opportunities and kept promises. Horan heads into 2010 with a brand new playing surface on the tradition-filled Jake Christiansen Stadium. The first phase of a multi-million dollar facility project saw the installation of Field Turf – a promise that Horan had made to his players years before. The new artificial turf surface should help Concordia in the latter stages of the season and will also give the Cobbers a constant field surface to work out the timing with their complicated option offense.
The make-up of the 2010 team will also present new opportunities for players that have never been in the spotlight of an MIAC season. Concordia returns only seven of their 26 starting players and that includes 10 of 11 from the defensive side of the ball. Despite the lack of experience returning for the season, Horan remains optimistic, “I really like the chemistry and attitude this team has shown in the offseason and during the first weeks of preseason,” commented Horan. “I think this year will be very exciting.”
Only time will tell if the Cobbers can gain the experience it will need to ward off a brutal start to the conference season and garner their eighth top 4 finish in the MIAC in the past nine seasons. Concordia will need several players to step up and go from key substitutes to clutch starters if they have a chance at continuing their winning tradition.
The good news for Concordia is that they return a pair of All-Conference players that have the ability to be game breakers. Senior defensive back Zach Debeltz (Anoka, Minn.) was one of three All-MIAC First Team honorees in 2009. He led the team in tackles in conference play. On the offensive side, junior quarterback Michael Dunham (Willmar, Minn.) gives Concordia a steadying influence to start the season as he won three of the final four games of last season after being inserted as the team’s starting signal-caller late in the year.
“Both Zach and Michael are the type of players that lead through their actions on the field,” said Horan. They will give the team great leadership as captains in 2010.”
Once again the conference schedule maker gave Concordia the toughest opening stretch of games for any team in the league. After playing a pair of non-conference games against Dac-10 opponents to start the season, the Cobbers will open MIAC play on the road at 2009 NCAA Quarterfinalist St. Thomas and the very next week travel to defending conference champion St. John’s. If CC can survive the opening round 1-2 punch then they will have a chance to go all 10 rounds and fight for a chance to finish in the top three of the league.
The Offense
For the second straight season, the Cobbers will have to replace a major chunk of their total offensive output. Concordia lost replace 80% of their total running yardage from last year and 15 of 19 rushing TD’s from a year ago due to graduation. Of the returning ball carriers, only Dunham had more than 100 total rushing yards on the season and more than 20 rushing attempts. Dunham was inserted as the team's starting quarterback in the fifth conference game of the year and went 3-1 to finish out the year. He was fourth in the MIAC in passing yards per game (166.9 yds/game), fourth in total yards per game (185.4) and sixth in passing efficiency (126.5). He will have to shoulder the majority of the offense in the early stages of 2010 as the Cobbers try and find backfield help.
The running back corps will be led by Bo Jedinak (Sr., Nisswa, Minn./Brainerd HS) and Chris Gilson (Jr., Detroit Lakes, Minn.). Neither player rushed for more than 50 yards in 2009 but both have the capability to churn out consistent yardage with an expanded number of carries. Sean Brandenburg (Sr., Fargo, N.D./Fargo South) will start the year as the team’s No.1 fullback and occupy a key spot in the triple option running game.
The deepest position on the team in 2010 will be at wide receiver. Although the Cobbers lost their top pass catcher from a year ago, they return three talented wideouts that all have the chance to manufacture a breakout season. Bronson Shepherd (Jr., Brainerd, Minn.) is the top returned of the trio as he finished 2009 with 27 catches and a 10.1 yards per catch average. Zach Weller (Sr., Sauk Centre, Minn.) and Mike Starke (So., Annandale, Minn.) have the size to hold off any defender in the league and will be used as possession-type receivers.
The offensive line will be another question mark for the Cobbers. The center/guard trio of Giles Henry (Sr., St. Cloud, Minn./St. Cloud Tech HS), Jared Buysse (Sr., Marshall, Minn.) and Justin Hanson (Sr., Spicer, Minn./New-London Spicer HS) were all starters last season and will help protect the middle of the line. Finding a pair of tackles to compliment the three seniors will be the key for Dunham and the Concordia offense.
The Defense
Fans at Concordia games will need a program to recognize the CC defense in 2010. Debeltz is the only full-time starter that returns from a defense that was fifth in the league in total defense and finished the year by not allowing more than 21 points in the last four games of the year. Defensive Coordinator Scott Lucier will earn his keep this year as he tries to find the right mix of athletes that can play together and continue to carry the torch of the Cobbers’ stifling defense.
Besides Debeltz, the Cobbers will count on Nick Baumann (Sr., Mahtomedi, Minn.) up front, Guy Rudolph (Sr., Trimont, Minn./Norman County West HS) in the middle and Perry Patterson (Sr., Blaine, Minn.) in the defensive backfield. Rudolph was fourth on the team in tackles in 2009 as he played all 10 games at linebacker and had 41 tackles. Baumann will be a force on the line as his 6’4, 285 lb frame should tie up the offensive line so the Cobber linebacking crew can step up and make plays. Patterson could be in line to be one of the stars of this year’s defense as his hard-hitting style and physical play will give Concordia a momentum swinging defensive player.
The Special Teams
The Cobber special teams unit also took a hit from graduation. Concordia lost their starting kicker and punter from last season. CC will feature a new place kicker for the first time since 2006 and they will trot a brand new punter for the first time in three years. The kicking duties will fall on the shoulders of junior college transfer Porfirio Diaz (Jr., Pelican Rapids, Minn.). Diaz has a strong leg for field goals and has already connected on a 50-yard field goal in the first weeks of preseason. The punting duties will be the major issue for CC. Alex Jenson (Sr., Breckenridge, Minn.) is the only returning player who has trained as a punter and will be given the opportunity to win the starting job at the beginning of the year.
|
Gustavus
Coach: Peter Haugen
Career Record: 4-6 (1 season)
2009 Finish: Tied 4th (3-5 MIAC, 4-6 overall)
| Gustavus Season Preview |
The Gustavus football team enters a new decade with a great deal of optimism and energy as the Gusties look to return to the top four of the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) in the 2010 season. Second year head coach Peter Haugen welcomes back 34 letterwinners (17 on defense, 16 on offense, and one on special teams) from last year’s squad that finished at 4-6 overall and 3-5 in the MIAC (fourth place). Senior linebacker Paul Stommes (Richmond, Minn.) and junior wide receiver Elliot Herdina (Blooming Prairie, Minn.) are the two returning All-Conference performers following the 2009 season. Both earned Second Team All-Conference honors. The Gusties will open the 2010 season at home on Lloyd Hollingsworth Field Saturday, Sept. 11, at 1 p.m. against non-conference opponent Wartburg College.
The Gustavus defense brings back eight starters from last year’s unit due to the graduation of Joe Welch, Tony Palma, and Christian Vanek. The Gusties return three of four linebackers, seniors Paul Stommes, Dustin Kammerer (Watertown, Minn.), and Zach Lundquist (Pelican Rapids, Minn.). Lundquist ranked second on the team in tackles last season with 85, while Stommes and Kammerer finished behind him in third (74) and fifth (70), respectively. Senior Jade Kotila (Maple Lake, Minn.) will look to fill the final spot of the linebacking corp.
The Gustavus secondary also returns three of its four starters from a year ago. Senior Mike Mohs (Andover, Minn.) will anchor the defensive backfield at strong safety, while junior Brad Kruckeburg (Ellendale, Minn.), who played cornerback last season, will makes the transition to free safety. Both Mohs and Kruckeburg recorded two interceptions last season. Juniors Dan Opitz (Burnsville, Minn.) and Jason Cook (Lakefield, Minn.) will play at the corners. Opitz had one interception and four pass break-ups, and Cook saw a good amount of playing time last season, appearing in nine of ten games. Senior David Papas (Chaska, Minn) will also be likely to be called on to add depth at cornerback. The Gustavus secondary will look to improve after ranking ninth in the MIAC in pass defense (264.8 yds/g) at the conclusion of last season.
Juniors Todd Kremmin (Cottage Grove, Minn.) and Tom Einberger (West Saint Paul, Minn.) are two of the three returning starters on the defensive line. Kremmin (25) and Einberger (14) combined to make 39 tackles last season, and Kremmin forced two fumbles. SeniorBrandon Jonker (Inver Grove Heights, Minn.) was moved from offense to defense at the conclusion of last season. He will round out the Gustavus three-man front at defensive end. Others looking to add depth to the defensive line are juniors Colby Peterson (Paynesville, Minn.) and Dane Mellgren (Cologne, Minn.), and sophomore Jesse Newell (St. Paul, Minn.)
The Gustavus offense will have a new look this upcoming season as only three starters return to an offensive unit that ranked ninth in the conference in total offense last year (301 yds/g). Junior Logan Becker (Blue Earth, Minn.) will take over the reins at quarterback for the Gusties this season. He played in nine games last season, going 9-for-16 through the air for 91 yards. Becker will look to wide receivers Elliot Herdina and senior Cody Sukalski (Blue Earth, Minn.) in the passing game. Herdina led the team with 46 catches for 555 yards (12.1 avg) and seven touchdowns, and Sukalski finished the season with 26 catches for 406 yards (15.6 avg) and two touchdowns. Adding depth at receiver will be sophomores Muresuk Mena and Kendrick Hall. Mena caught 13 passes for 118 yards, while Hall moves from running back where he led the team in rushing last season with 491 yards.
The Gustavus offensive line will go through a transition this season, as junior Chris Martinez (Champlin, Minn.) is the only returning starter on a unit that graduated four seniors. Top returners looking for playing time include juniors Robbie Porter (Lakeville, Minn.), Travis Wayne (Ellendale, Minn.), Ryan Steele (Maple Grove, Minn.), and sophomores Lyle Opdahl (Young America, Minn.) and Brian Grundmeyer (Inver Grove Heights, Minn.). Juniors Cody Williams (Welcome, Minn.) and Darin Wagner (Hayfield, Minn.), and sophomore Cory Colvard (Centerville, Minn.), will see more playing time at tight end due to the position change of Jonker. The Gusties ranked sixth in the conference in rushing offense last season, averaging 122.3 yards per game.
The Gustie backfield will also feature some fresh faces this season, as a combination of upperclassmen will look to fill the void at running back. Seniors Greg Lane (Chaska, Minn.) and Lucas Armstrong (Wheaton, Minn.) move back to the offensive side of the ball after spending two seasons on defense. Blake Kerkhoff (Hartland, Minn.) will also add depth to the running back position. Stepping in at fullback will be seniors John Juran (Lino Lakes, Minn.) and JJ Akin (Farmington, Minn.).
On special teams, the biggest concern is replacing All-Conference performer Matt Knutson at punter. Gustavus led the conference in punting last season with 57 punts for a total of 2118 yards (37.2 avg/p). Sophomore Tom Huepenbecker (Verona, Wis.) will look to return to his role as the place kicker. Huepenbecker was 5-for-14 in field goals last season with his longest field goal coming from 44 yards. Lane, Sukalski, Kruckeburg, and Herdina are the top prospects for handling the punt and kick return responsibilities this season. Sukalski had 11 punt returns for 105 yards (9.5 avg) last season, while Lane recorded 13 kick returns for 366 yards (28.2 avg.) and a touchdown.
|
Hamline
Coach: Jim Good
Career Record: 9-21 (3 seasons)
2009 Finish: 8th (2-6 MIAC, 4-6 overall)
| Hamline Season Preview |
Fourth-year head coach Jim Good enters the 2010 season with his first full class of seniors and looks to build off the best season in 12 years to bring the Pipers into contention for a top spot in the MIAC.
Although the Pipers lost four valuable players to graduation in placekicker Derek Johnson, linebacker Mike LaBore, defensive back Daunte Guther, and tight end Kyle Nitz, Good returns an impressive corps of upperclassman who bring strong leadership to the field.
Good’s offense will be led by a pair of returning junior quarterbacks in Adam Meyer (Cold Spring, Minn.) and Connor Sathre (Maple Grove, Minn.). The pair, who bring different strengths and qualities to the Piper offense, split time under center last year and both had strong spring practices. Against Augsburg last year, Meyer tied the single-season school passing record (375 yards) and combined with Sathre to set the new school record for total team passing yards in a game (402).
Meyer and Sathre will have a talented set of receivers, including four seniors, pulling in their passes this fall, led by the return of Alex House (Sr., Champlin Park, Minn.). House looks to be a four-year starter for the Pipers as they open the season after averaging 64.7 receiving yards per game last year. He also averaged 124.0 all-purpose yards per game.
Three other seniors looking to make an impact are Sean Lewis (Saint Paul, Minn.), Anthony Iten (Fridley, Minn.), and Ben Chandler (Minneapolis, Minn.). They are joined by last year’s leading receiver and All-MIAC honoree, Tim Queck (Jr., Annandale, Minn.). Queck pulled in 52 catches for 919 yards (91.9 yards per game) and scored seven touchdowns. He averaged 139.7 all-purpose yards per game to lead the team in that category, as well.
Hamline’s running game will be conducted by a young group of backs led by a senior who has seen limited playing time due to injury. Rhmondo Rodriguez (Davenport, Iowa) played in six games last year and enters this year healthy after working hard in the off-season to get back up to speed. He will be joined by sophomores Blake Cook (Fridley, Minn.) and Alex Ferguson (Kent, Wash.). Cook was second on the team in rushing yards last season.
Protecting the veteran quarterbacks and providing room for the running game will be a strong and experienced offensive line, led by tackle Derall King (Sr., Inver Grove Heights, Minn.). King, an All-MIAC first team member last year, captains a line that allowed Hamline quarterbacks to put together the second-best overall passing offense in the league in 2009. The Pipers averaged 241.3 yards per game in the air and 7.8 yards per pass with 18 passing touchdowns.
King will be joined on the line by three players with valuable experience – Ozzie Sand (Sr., Mazeppa, Minn.), Morgan Scheper (Jr., Carlton, Ore.), and Jimmy Stone (Jr., Taylor Falls, Minn.).
On the defensive side of the ball, the Pipers boast a strong set of linebackers that possess both depth and quality. The returners are a steady, physical group of play-makers who will lead Hamline’s defense.
Four seniors, who play strong leadership roles both on and off the field for the Pipers, head up this group – Brady Lorenzen (Grand Meadow, Minn.), Pete Usset (Mendota Heights, Minn.), Josh Bain (Grand Meadow, Minn.), and Justin Bain (Grand Meadow, Minn.). Josh Bain led the team in tackles last season with78 (52 solo, 26 assists). Added to the mix is Cory Olsen, who was an All-MIAC second team honoree last season. Olsen had 55 tackles (35 solo, 18 assists) among his impressive statistics for the season.
The Piper secondary will be one of the younger groups on the field, led by sophomores in defensive back Christian Willman (So., Rosemount, Minn.) and safeties John-Michael Vandenburg (Bothell, Wash.) and Marc McDonald (Portland, Ore.). Adam Youso (Jr., Princeton, Minn.) and Guelord Mpagazihe (So., Rochester, Minn.) will add depth to the secondary.
On the defensive line, Eric Klaers (So., Elk River, Minn.) and Nick Wyatt (Jonesboro, Ga.) lead the returners. Both had strong off-seasons and look to anchor the line as several other young returners and will battle for the remaining spots.
House and Queck return to the Pipers’ special teams unit, with House specializing in punt returns and Queck handling most of the kickoff return duties. Also returning is All-MIAC second team honoree John Broback, who earned back-to-back MIAC athlete of the week honors last fall. The punter averaged 39.3 yards per punt on 44 punts with a long punt of 77 yards – just two shy of the Hamline record. He also recorded five punts of 50+ yards and pinned Hamline’s opponents inside the 20-yard line 13 times.
A trio of players will compete to handle the placekicking responsibilities after the graduation of All-MIAC second team member Derek Johnson. Andrew Johnson (So., Saint Paul, Minn.), a transfer from Cornell College and no relation to the previous kicker, is joined by two first-years – Aaron Stokke (Inver Grove Heights, Minn.) and Greg Northrop (Arden Hills, Minn.) in the battle. Northrop will be pulling double duty this fall, as he is also a member of the Piper men’s soccer team.
The Piper coaching staff is excited to enter this season with a large group of talented upperclassmen who have spent their entire collegiate career working hard and developing in Good’s system. The Pipers also look to benefit from the addition of several new key coaches, including former NFL coach Rod Humenuik as the offensive line coach, former Willamette assistant Chris Prange at defensive coordinator, and linebacker coach John Medlow, previously the head coach at St. Bernard’s High School.
Good’s team looks to benefit from the combination of experience on and off the field as the Pipers put themselves into position to rise up the MIAC standings this season.
|
Saint John's
Coach: John Gagliardi
Career Record: 447-120-10 (57 seasons at Saint John's)
2009 Finish: 1st (8-0 MIAC, 10-1 overall)
| Saint John's Season Preview |
The 2010 Saint John’s University football team is expected to rely on the experience of its offense and the tradition of its defense in the hopes of achieving its third consecutive MIAC championship and 25th postseason appearance.
With its starting quarterback, running backs and nearly entire offensive line returning, SJU should make frequent trips deep into the red zone to bolster that defense, which led the MIAC and finished 11th in all of NCAA Division III in total defense.
Legendary head coach John Gagliardi enters his record-62nd season overall and 58th season at SJU as the winningest coach in college football history with a 471-126-11 (.784) career record and a 447-120-10 (.783) mark with the Johnnies.
SJU finished with a perfect regular season (10-0 overall, 8-0 MIAC) to win its record 31st MIAC championship, before suffering a 34-27 loss to Coe (Iowa) in the first round of the NCAA Division III playoffs; its first, first-round exit at home since 1977. The 2009 season marked the Johnnies’ 23rd straight winning season and 42nd consecutive season without a losing record. SJU has achieved 10 or more wins in 10 of the last 12 seasons, won 14 MIAC titles in the last 19 years, and made 14 NCAA playoff appearances in the last 17 years.
Offense
Within the MIAC (conference games only), Saint John’s ranked second in both scoring offense (28.6 ppg.) and rushing offense (186 ypg.). The Johnnies’ 188.1 rushing yards per game ranked 46th nationally in 2009. SJU expects to return seven starters and numerous key contributors this season, including one All-MIAC first-team selection and four second-team selections.
Quarterback
Senior Joe Boyle (6-1, 195; Richfield, Minn./Holy Angels) returns for the Johnnies following an All-MIAC season in 2009. He started nine games and completed 114 of 206 passes (55.3 pct.) for 1,461 yards and 16 touchdowns. A versatile rushing threat, Boyle added 285 yards and four scores on the ground. Sophomore John Ries (6-2, 190; Plymouth, Minn./Wayzata) threw for 250 yards and two touchdowns in four appearances, including two starts, as a freshman last fall. Senior Andrew Hengel (6-1, 195; Bemidji, Minn.) and sophomore Scott Ramey (6-1, 210; Baxter, Minn./Brainerd) are expected to provide depth at quarterback.
Running Back
SJU averaged 191.1 yards rushing in 10 regular-season games last fall, the highest total per game since 1998 (193.0). Five different Johnnies scored a rushing touchdown in a single game, twice, last fall.
Saint John’s returns 81 percent of its 2,046 rushing yards from a year ago, including leading rusher Jakob Reding (6-1, 225; Eden Prairie, Minn.). The senior led SJU in both rushing (682) and all-purpose (874) yards, and added five touchdowns on the ground in ’09. Senior Bryan Virnig (6-3, 205; Pierz, Minn.) and sophomores Harry Awe (5-9, 195; St. Paul, Minn./Minnehaha Academy) and Stephen Johnson (6-0, 195; Mahtomedi, Minn.) also return. Johnson ended the 2009 season on a tear, rushing for over 100 yards in each of his last two games. Overall, he rushed 124 times for 582 yards and four scores, while Awe totaled 205 yards of offense (132 rushing, 73 receiving). Junior Jimmy Loonan (5-10, 195; Waseca, Minn.) totaled 323 all-purpose yards (88 rushing, 62 receiving,173 kick return) last season, but moved to the defensive secondary this August. Freshman Nick Schneider (6-0, 225; Rockville, Minn./Rocori) returns after suffering a season-ending knee injury in the season’s second game last fall. The promising back amassed 71 yards on eight touches before succumbing to injury.
The Johnnies need to replace their leading scorer from 2009, Kellen Blaser, who gained 394 yards on 82 carries and scored five touchdowns. He also caught 13 passes for 151 yards and three touchdowns.
Wide Receiver
The Johnnies need to replace its deep threat in Ben Vanderheyden, who made 20 receptions for 353 yards and four touchdowns in 11 starts. He ended his career with an average of 17 yards on 94 receptions. To do that, Gagliardi will turn to junior Sam Pederson (6-0, 185; La Crosse, Wis./Aquinas), who caught 13 passes for 164 yards and a touchdown last fall. He also rushed six times for 45 yards, including a 37 yard touchdown run against Wisconsin-Eau Claire on Sept. 12. Junior Andrew Rotschafer (6-1, 180; Eden Prairie, Minn.), a contributor at wideout last season, moved over to the defensive secondary this August. He made 10 receptions for 158 yards and two touchdowns.
Juniors Brent Graboski (6-4, 185; Woodbury, Minn.) and Mitch Bidleman (6-3, 195; St. Joseph, Minn./St. Cloud Apollo), as well as freshman Brayde Lipp (5-9, 190; Sartell, Minn./Sartell-St. Stephen), a transfer from NCAA Division II Nebraska-Omaha, are also expected to compete for playing time.
Tight End
SJU returns both speed and size at the tight end position in the combination of senior Josh Overman (6-2, 220; Albany, Minn.) and junior Wade Powers (6-5, 230; Hawick, Minn./New London-Spicer). Last season, the multitalented Overman led the Johnnies in receptions (33), receiving yards (479) and receiving touchdowns (5). Powers caught two passes for 35 yards in six games.
Offensive Line
The Johnnies return an experienced corps of offensive lineman, losing just two to graduation, Blaine Anderson and Drew Percival. Anderson was named to the All-MIAC first team and D3football.com All-West Region third team in 2009.
Senior Tim Juba (6-2, 295; Cottage Grove, Minn./Park) is back for his third year at center. Fellow senior Jeff Gilbertson (6-5, 280; Wabasha, Minn./Winona Cotter) at left tackle and junior Eric Dirkes (6-3, 320; Avon, Minn./Albany) at right guard return for an offense that averaged 186 rushing yards per game in 2009. Gilbertson and Juba both earned All-MIAC second-team honors last fall.
Senior Matt Detloff (6-4, 255; Robbinsdale, Minn./DeLaSalle), juniors Andrew Ghostley (6-1, 275; Champlin, Minn./Champlin Park) and Jimmy Stodolka (6-2, 280; Mendota Heights, Minn./St. Thomas Academy), and sophomore Joe Pesch (Eden Prairie, Minn.) are the leading candidates to fill the gaps left by Anderson and Percival.
A pair of freshman NCAA Division II transfers, Jack Hedlund (6-3, 280; St. Cloud, Minn./Tech) from St. Cloud State and Pete Schwarz (6-4, 285; New Ulm, Minn./Cathedral) from Southwest Minnesota State, are also expected to contend for snaps on the offensive line in 2010.
Defense
The Johnnies have big shoes to fill on defense in 2010, coming off an outstanding season in which they finished 11th nationally in total defense (254.7 ypg.), 18th in sacks (3.0 spg.) and 23rd in both run (87.6 ypg.) and scoring defense (16.0 ppg.). SJU led the MIAC (conference games only) in both total defense (224.0 ypg.) and scoring defense (11.4 ppg.) for the third consecutive season in ‘09. SJU has now finished in the top two of the MIAC in defense nine of the last 10 seasons, including league-best seven times. Even better, defensive coordinator Jerry Haugen’s crew has been in the top two in scoring defense each of the past 14 seasons, including league-best 11 times.SJU expects to return five starters and a number of experienced players this season, including an All-American and All-MIAC second-team selection.
Defensive Line
The Johnnies can attribute much of their defensive success to their linemen from a year ago. SJU needs to replace interior linemen Nick Gunderson and Noel Meyer. Gunderson was a two-time All-American before struggling with injuries his final two seasons. Meyer was named to the All-MIAC second team after posting 29 tackles (12 solo) and five sacks last season.
The defensive line will be led by fifth-year senior All-American Kyle Schroeder (6-1, 230; Richmond, Minn./Rocori). Schroeder started all 11 games for the Johnnies and posted 41 tackles (26 solo) and eight sacks. He led the MIAC with 16.5 tackles for loss and also tallied four quarterback hurries, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.
Seniors David Burns (6-3, 225; Fargo, N.D./Shanley) and Griffin Hayes (6-2, 235; Mendota Heights, Minn./St. Thomas Academy) are back after seeing significant playing time last fall. Hayes tallied 28 tackles (14 solo) and five sacks in 11 starts, while Burns made 13 solo tackles and added three sacks.
In addition to blocking kicks on special teams, junior Jack Daggett (6-7, 230; Hutchinson, Minn.) will compete for playing time, as will fellow juniors Mark Kuhl (6-1, 220; Dubuque, Iowa/Wahlert) and Cody Socher (6-3, 260; Delano, Minn.).
Linebacker
The 2010 Johnnie linebackers are headlined by senior John Stanton (6-1, 210; San Rafael, Calif./Marin Catholic), who led the team with 76 (51 solo) tackles in 11 starts. He also intercepted two passes, forced two fumbles and added a sack.
Expect senior Billy Lawrence (6-4, 255; Edina, Minn./St. Thomas Academy) and juniors Evan Cobb (6-1, 220; Becker, Minn.), Jon Engholm (6-0, 215; Bloomington, Minn./Jefferson), Luke Sweeter (5-11, 210; Sartell, Minn./Sartell-St. Stephen) and Nick Zweber (5-10, 215; Elko, Minn./New Prague) to add depth to the linebacker corps. Lawrence led the Johnnies with three interceptions in three games last season, while Cobb tallied 22 tackles (13 solo) in relief of Ethan Eid. Additionally, the Johnnies expect sophomores John Gans (6-1, 205; Rice, Minn./Sauk Rapids-Rice) and Jake King (Mounds View, Minn./Totino Grace), a transfer from NCAA Division II Augustana (S.D.), to make an immediate impact in 2010.
Saint John’s lost two experienced seniors to graduation in Eid and All-American Ryan Wimmer. Wimmer was a three-time All-MIAC selection and was named to the 2009 American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) All-America team. He finished second on the team with 62 tackles (38 solo), including 8.5 tackles for loss, last fall. Eid made 21 tackles (15 solo) and three sacks while playing the majority of the season with a torn labrum. He also returned an interception 59 yards for a touchdown, the second of his career, against Carleton on Nov. 14.
Secondary
Saint John’s will need to replace three starters from a year ago in seniors Nate Anderson, Dominic Haik and Bobby Klint. Klint was a 2009 All-MIAC first-team selection after finishing third on the team with 58 tackles (43 solo). Haik was named to the 2009 All-MIAC second team and tallied 38 tackles (26 solo) with two interceptions and a forced fumble. Anderson, meanwhile, made 29 tackles (22 solo).
SJU, however, has the luxury of replacing them with a pair of seasoned sophomores and a number of others that saw time or return from injury. Sophomore Alex Powell (5-9, 160; Hopkins, Minn.) returns after seeing significant playing time last season. He made 19 tackles (12 solo) and broke up eight passes with an interception in 11 games. Sophomore Mike Bonynge (Spicer, Minn./New London-Spicer) also played in all 11 games, the first few as a wide receiver, but developed into a lockdown cornerback as the season unfolded. He posted 29 tackles (24 solo), four passes defended, two fumble recoveries and a vital interception in the 10-3 win over St. Olaf on Oct. 24.
Sophomores Ian Goldsmith (Shoreview, Minn./Mounds View), Lukas Inveiss (Sartell, Minn./Sartell-St. Stephen) and Kevin Wenner (St. Cloud, Minn./Cathedral), who all saw playing time in an injury-plagued secondary last fall, also return. In addition, senior Justin Nilson (St. Cloud, Minn./Tech) and sophomore Adam Weber (Glenwood, Minn./Minnewaska Area) also return after suffering season-ending knee injuries early last season.
Junior Aaron Stolte (5-11, 190; North St. Paul, Minn.) and sophomore Bobby Fischer (5-11, 175; Plymouth, Minn./Osseo) will also contend for playing time in the secondary this fall.
Special Teams
The Johnnies need to replace two-time All-MIAC first-team selection kicker/punter Russell Gliadon, whose incredible 49-yard field goal sealed a victory over Bethel with three seconds left in regulation on Homecoming Day. He then kicked a school-record 52-yard field goal against St. Olaf three weeks later.
Sophomore Jimmie Mattson (6-1, 210; Eau Claire, Wis./Memorial), a transfer from NCAA Division II MSU-Moorhead, is expected to compete for the starting job. He led the Dragons with 34 points and made seven of 12 field goals, including a long of 47 yards, as a freshman last fall.
Ramey, who saw playing time as a quarterback last season, was an All-State punter in high school and will compete for those duties this fall.
The Johnnies are expected to return everyone from last season’s return game. On punts, Wenner is back after averaging five yards on 26 punt returns last season. Fischer and Lipp are expected to be in the mix as well.
Awe and Loonan are back after averaging 20.3 and 21.6 yards, respectively, on kick returns. In addition to Lipp and Virnig, sophomore Kerry Daigs (5-9, 185; Los Angeles, Calif./Verbum Dei) and freshman Joe Johnson (5-10, 150; Breckenridge, Minn.) could also return kicks this fall.
|
St. Olaf
Coach: Jerry Olszewski
Career Record: 11-9 (2 seasons)
2009 Finish: Tied 4th (3-5 MIAC, 5-5 overall)
|
St. Olaf Season Preview
|
|
St. Olaf head coach Jerry Olszewski hopes his third team, with experienced playmakers on each side of the ball and a few new weapons, will play a complete season.
Olszewski s program jumped out to a 3-1 start in 2009 behind a big-play offense and sturdy defense that propelled the team to convincing wins over Luther, Pacific Lutheran and Augsburg. What transpired over the next four games was all too familiar to then second year coach Jerry Olszewski. Like they did in Olszewski's first season, the Oles lost four straight in the middle of the schedule, before closing with solid wins. In 2009, Olszewski's Oles lost each in the stretch by one score or less.
The team responded with two good victories -- a 20-7 victory at Gustavus and a 34-20 win over Hamline at home -- to close the season.
DEFENSE
The St. Olaf defense had its best season in recent memory last year.
The team allowed only 147 points (14.7 points/game), which was the lowest total since 1977 (12.2 points/game). The Oles leaned on a rushing defense that led the MIAC at 79.3 yards/game and 2.3 yards/carry. The Oles were second in the MIAC in total defense, scoring defense and fifth in pass defense.
Defensive Line
Two of the Oles' front four will return in 2010 including defensive end Brian Albrect (Jr., Hutchinson, Minn.). Albrect collected seven tackles for a loss, four sacks and had an interception.
Max Rustad (Sr., Wayzata, Minn.) also returns after moving into a starting role last year. Rustad had a sack and three tackles for a loss.
Colin Ferrian (Jr., St. Paul, Minn./St. Thomas Academy) and Corey Tutewohl (Sr., Farmington, Minn.) will also play a key role on the defense. Tutewohl had two sacks and four tackles for a loss in 2009 while Ferrian had four sacks and seven for a loss.
Nick Ondler, who played significant snaps in 2009, could move into the one of the starting tackle spots. Ondler had a solid junior season, picking up 15 tackles and a sack.
Senior Dustin Heiser, a wrestler at St. Olaf playing his second season of football, could also complete for playing time on the interior.
Linebackers
Patrick Luevano (Sr., Orangevale, Calif./Casa Roble) is the lone returning starter at the linebacker spot after the team graduated Eric Werdahl and All-MIAC honoree Adam Concannon. Luevano was second on the team in tackels with 53 last season. His 10 tackles for a loss and seven sacks were each career bests.
A pair of junior Apple Valley, Minn.-natives -- Matt Olson and Wes Lynch -- could move into the starting roles after serving as backups in 2009. Olson made 18 total tackles last season while Lynch picked up nine. Senior Ryan Campbell (Appleton, Wis.) will also be in the mix.
Defensive Backs
Nick Branjord (Jr., Stillwater, Minn.) will hold down the Oles' defensive backfield as the only returning starter in the group. At the free safety spot Branjord was fourth on the team in tackles last year and had two interceptions and six pass breakups.
Nick Nazarian (Soph., Minnetonka, Minn.) and Calvin Boss (Jr., Grand Rapids, Minn.) will likely take over at the cornerback spots after being primary subs in 2009.
Drew Eid (Jr., Big Lake, Minn.) could also see numerous snaps this year.
OFFENSE
With the Ole defense playing as well as it did in 2009, it was the offense that made the difference. In the Oles' five wins last fall, the team scored 31.4 points/game. In five losses, a mere 10.6.
A similar plotline could unfold in 2010.
Quarterbacks
Clay Garrett (Yukon, Okla.), who took over in 2009 for an injured John Haberman, will compete with University of Minnesota-Duluth transfer Dan Dobson (Soph., Mankato, Minn./West) for the starting quarterback spot.
Dobson, an all-state quarterback for Mankato West High School, played in six games for Division II UMD last season, completing 7-of-11 attempts. In his final high school season, Dobson threw for over 2,400 yards, rushed for 1,200 more and accounted for 34 touchdowns (22 passing and 12 rushing).
After a slow start last fall, Garrett was quite effective in his final few starts. Over his final three games, he threw for five touchdowns against three interceptions. In all, he was 92-for-169 for six scores and 10 picks.
Running Backs
The offense will, at least in part, around running back Leon Clark (Rochester, Minn./Century). The explosive junior burst on the scene in 2008 and followed with a 1,084-yard sophomore campaign. Clark rushed for at least 125 yards five times, including a 201-yard game at Gustavus on Nov. 7 and a 261-yard effort against Hamline on Nov. 14 to close the season. Clark was an All-MIAC selection as a running back and utility player, as he led the league in all purpose yard (198.0 yards/game), was second in rushing (120.4 yards/game) and was 10th in total offense.
Another junior, Kevin Foss (Woodbury, Minn.), had 65 carries last fall and is one of the favorites to be Clark's backup. He averaged 3.5 yards/carry with two scores.
After spending last season sidelined with an injury, Mac Webb also returns to the backfield for the Oles. Webb had 13 carries in 2008 and 16 in 2007.
Wide Receivers
St. Olaf will look to senior Antonio Jennings (Atlanta/North) to lead the receivers. Jennings had his best season in 2009, catching 51 passes for 691 yards and six scores. He added a big-play threat to the fold, as he had a pair of game-clinching scores including a 90-yard touchdown in week three.
Another senior, possession receiver Jared Mueller (Brainerd, Minn.), will support the group. Mueller caught 25 balls for 212 yards and three touchdowns last year.
Casey Leslie, who could move into the team s third receiver spot, also returns after catching four passes last season.
The remainder of the receiving responsibilities could fall on any number of candidates, including Jake Schmiesing (Fy, Stillwater, Minn.) and Stephen Asp (Fy, Edina, Minn.).
Tight Ends
Converted linebacker Tim Bauer (Jr., Blaine, Minn.) or Keith Nederhoed (Sr., Palm Bay, Fla.) could take over the duties at tight end after the Oles graduated Mike Shimshock. Nederhoed didn't catch any passes in 2009, but played as a blocking tight end on occasion.
Offensive Line
The Oles graduated the left side of the line last year -- left tackle John Schantzen and left guard Kyle Glanton -- but the other starters will return. Senior captain Drew Penz (Rochester, Minn./Mayo) will anchor the unit at center. Junior right guard Carl Stone (Melborne, Fla.) and three-year starter right tackle Adam Koenig (Minnetonka, Minn./Hopkins) will likely hold down the right side of the line unless one moves to the left to stabilize the front.
The team also has Daine Jensch (Jr., Wes Concord, Minn./Triton) and Shea Corrigan (Jr., Hutchinson, Minn.) back in 2010. Each saw significant action last fall.
Specialists
Josiah Powell (Sr., St. Cloud, Minn./Cathedral) had a good 2009 season as the team's place kicker, making 8-of-13 field goal attempts. The Oles added two other kickers to the roster -- Ken Ouren (Fy, North Mankato, Minn./West) and Jason Obarski (Soph., Apple Valley, Minn.).
Clark and Reggie Woods will likely be the team's return men this fall. Clark was second in the MIAC in kick return average (30.0 yards/return) while Woods was fourth (27.8 yards/return).
SCHEDULE
St. Olaf plays a pair of Iowa Intercollegiate Atheltic Conference teams -- at Luther on Sept. 4 and vs. Simpson College on Sept. 11 -- to open the season. The Oles host the University of St. Thomas on Sept. 18 in the team's MIAC opener.
|St. Olaf Football Website | St. Olaf Roster | St. Olaf Schedule
|
St. Thomas
Coach: Glenn Caruso
Career Record: 18-9 (2 seasons)
2009 Finish: 2nd (7-1 MIAC, 11-2 overall)
| St. Thomas Season Preview |
|
It’s been 25 years since St. Thomas football has generated so much enthusiasm coming into a season.
The No. 5-ranked Tommies, finished 11-2 last fall and played three postseason games for the first time in school history in a record-setting season.
UST will tackle an upgraded schedule in 2010, but Coach Glenn Caruso has starters back at 20 of 22 positions on both sides of the football.
While St. Thomas is the lone Division III team to have five players receive 2010 preseason All-America mention, its best assets should be depth and balance.
The Tommies had 123 players in preseason camp and will have at least 20 more join the team when classes begin Sept. 8. They will start the season Sept. 4 at St. Norbert, begin their home season Sept. 11 against UW-River Falls, and start conference play Sept. 18 at St. Olaf.
UST is expected to have at least nine senior starters. That includes five fifth-year seniors who began their careers elsewhere in scholarship programs –- center Josh Ostrue, safeties Bryan Villar and Brady Ervin, and linebackers Tommy Becker and Zach Sturm. Barring injury, Ostrue has a chance to become the first Tommie football three-time All-American and the first player to start 43 games.
Open starting jobs include placekicker, punter and tight end. The Tommies’ 65-plus newcomers include three players who transferred in from Division I programs, and a freshman class that includes three Floridians, three from the Chicago area, plus standouts from Wisconsin and Massachusetts. The Minnesotans include two members of the 2009 Class 5A state champion team, Cretin-Derham Hall.
Since their bye week doesn’t come until week 11, the Toms will need to be focused and consistent from the start. A particularly tough opening five games await the Tommies. UST debuts at St. Norbert (9-1 last season); is home to UW-River Falls (3-7); travels to St. Olaf (5-5); is home to Concordia-Moorhead (5-5); and plays at St. John’s (10-1) for the third time in four seasons. River Falls' 3-7 slate last fall included four losses by a combined nine points.
St. Thomas set a school record with 11 victories, reached the NCAA playoffs for the first time since 1990, and was ranked fifth in the final national poll. Their lone loss in 10 regular-season games came in overtime at St. John’s. In three postseason games the Tommies scored 12 touchdowns and kicked five field goals while averaging 32.3 points. They beat 10-0 Monmouth on the road (43-21), beat 10-1 Coe at home (34-7) but lost at 12-win Linfield (31-20). UST had a school-record three All-Americans, all underclassmen, in Ostrue, KR-WR Fritz Waldvogel, and tailback Ben Wartman.
Waldvogel was named conference Player of the Year as a sophomore. he led all NCAA players in return touchdowns with six, and in Division III stats he ranked first in all-purpoase yards and second in kickoff-return average. On his career in 23 games, Waldvogel has 18 touchdowns, 144 receptions for 1,956 yards, and 3,577 all-purpose yards. He also has 23 gains of 38 or more yards on receptions, rushes or returns.
Wartman was one of just two Division III players in 2009 to make first-team All-America and first-team Academic All-America. He goes into his final football season with 3,138 career rushing yards In 23 games at running back. He needs 832 yards to pass Tommie career leader Jake Barkley. Wartman joins Bethel senior Logan Flannery in pursuit of the MIAC career rushing record. Flannery has 3,396 yards (34 games). The conference record is held by Bethel’s Phil Porta at 4,400 yards.
The UST offensive line returns all five starters from tackle to tackle and added Division I transfer Joe Schafer (6-5, 300), who has three years of eligibility left at tackle. The Tommies also have two capable quarterbacks in juniors Greg Morse (8-2 as as starter) and Dakota Tracy (4-0 as a starter), and a potent backup to Wartman in junior Colin Tobin (13 TDs, 1,127 rushing yards in two seasons.)
Coach Caruso starts his third season at UST, where his teams have compiled an 18-5 record (10-1 in home games).
Football isn't the only thing causing a buzz on campus -- the new $52 million Anderson Athletics and Recreation Facility, just steps from Palmer Field. Workers are putting the finishing touches on the 180,000-square foot facility, which includes a state-of-the art weight room, fitness room, training room and locker rooms as well as the arena, pool, fieldhouse, offices and meeting rooms. Football fans coming to O'Shaughnessy Stadium also will see an impressive veranda on the east side, next to the new AARC, with elevated seating for 350.
St. Thomas will play its 900th all-time varsity game on Oct. 9 at home against Augsburg. Only the Minnesota Gophers and Carleton have played more games among the state's 25 four-year colleges and universities that sponsor football.
|