The 2013 version of the WSU Cougar Football team will be in all due respect a fully retooled (without Tuel) group. In some ways unrecognizable but better.
The following posts will be this bloggers take on what you might expect in 2013.
Lets start with the Offensive line, a group who gave up the most sacks in the nation last year (57). (also lead the nation in pass attempts)
Four starters return but the big question is will they be improved, bigger, stronger or replaced. 2013 Sr. John Fullington and Sr. center Elliott Bosch were both honorable mention PAC12 performers. However Fullington is best suited at left guard not left tackle. Right guard should be capably handled by Sophomore Joe Dahl with competion from Matt Goetz, Denzel Dotsonl and Sam Flor. Therefore the big question is who plays tackle? The answer maybe a combination of players you have never heard of. This group includes JC transfers Jacob Seydel and Rico Forbes , the later was slated to compete for a starting job last fall before he was injured. Return walk on starter Gunner Eklund has made big gains in weight and strength over the winter so he will be a factor. Redshirt Freshman Peirson Villirrubia, who impressed the coaches last fall will also be in the mix as well. Depth at tackle will still be a concern in 2013. Keeping players healthy is critical.
The Cougs did a good job recruiting O-liners in 2013 and although most should redshirt the size of players like Riley Sorenson, 6’6, 320 and Cody O’Connell, 6’9, 360 is impressive. Probably the best Frosh OL newcomber will be Cole Madison, a paltry, 6’6, 280. Joining this group are Matt Meyer, 6’6″, 290 and BJ Salmonson, 6’6″, 295.
This spring will be a good indication if the Cougars in the trenches are up to the task of helping the Air Raid succeed and allowing for a run game to develop.
Next WEEK The Quarterback Position
