Freshman linemen help Bulls early

TAMPA — Initially, Bulls defensive coordinator

plan was to insert freshman linemen and for a few plays Saturday at San Jose State, just to “get their feet wet.”

But veteran DT (injury) didn’t suit up, then senior DT was ejected in the first half for targeting. So much for the cameo. Suddenly, the rookies found themselves on the field as much as

“All of the sudden those kids got thrown into the fire,” Jean-Mary said, “and I was proud of ’em.”

Kegler didn’t officially record a tackle, but helped clog the interior and limit San Jose State to 109 rushing yards in USF’s 42-22 triumph. Pinkney led all linemen with six tackles, blocked a PAT and returned a fumble for a touchdown before officials ruled the ground caused Spartans QB

to lose possession. “By no means were they perfect, we know that,” JeanMary said Wednesday. “They made some mistakes, but at the end of the day they played hard and they tried their best and that's all you can ask for.”

Jean-Mary said Bronson will be available for Saturday's home opener against Stony Brook, while Senat also is eligible to start since he sat out the second half at San Jose State. Presuming the Bulls open a comfortable lead against their Football Championship Subdivision foe, the rookie tandem should have their respective numbers called again.

“They were both plus-side as far as the grading scale,” Jean-Mary said, “so they made enough plays to overcome some of the mistakes.”

Jean-Mary’s Kegler Kelvin Pinkney Aaron Kevin Bronson Deadrin Senat Brian Kevin Quinton Flowers. Montel