Aggies to show off new look in spring game
LAS CRUCES — When the football is kicked off today to begin the New Mexico State Aggies’ spring football intrasquad game, there will be a whole new look on the field.
As in, a whole new coaching staff. A whole new philosophy and, in a sense, a new team as well under head coach Doug Martin. It will be the first time fans can see the team in live game action — a competitive setting, where players will be under pressure to perform and perhaps some wrinkles will be unveiled regarding the 2013 Aggies.
Here’s what fans should watch for:
Philosophy, mindset and mantra: Martin has brought a breath of fresh air and positive attitude to the position. For where the program is at the moment, Martin appears to be a good fit— a driven and resourceful coach with experience (he was at NMSU as offensive coordinator in 2011, and was previously head coach at Kent State from 2004-10).
Quarterbacks, and the offense: As of Thursday, Martin said quarterback Travaughn Colwell has “stepped up” in the competition with Andrew Manley and Andrew McDonald. Colwell clearly leads the pack from an athleticism standpoint and can effectively run the new spread-option offense being implemented.
“I really like what he’s done,” Martin said. “He’s made a lot of plays, with his feet and his arm. He’s taking control a little bit.”
One thing is certain: The Aggie offense will be more exciting in 2013. New coordinator Gregg Brandon has brought in a system that will move the quarterback out of the pocket, which can help some of the deficient areas along the offensive line. In turn, a mobile QB and spreadoption offense should provide the Aggies with a ground attack it didn’t have in 2013.
Lines of scrimmage: As always, it’s the million-dollar question for Aggie football.
At least for the offense, not much has changed from a personnel standpoint. Three solidified starters return in Davonte Wallace (left tackle), Valerian Ume-Ezeoke (center) and Andy Cunningham (guard).
Isaiah Folasa is at the other guard spot, while Dada Richards returns as a starter at right tackle.
There is some talent on the defensive front-seven. Former Mayfield Trojan (and Michigan State Spartan) Matt Ramondo looks to be a big-time player inside. Willie Mobley is a sixth-year senior from the University of Arizona and could also be a difference-maker.
At linebacker, Stephen Meredith has shown potential as a pass-rusher, while Trashaun Nixon returns for his senior season as a fast player on the outside.
A new defensive scheme as well: Although the Aggies are running a 3-4 defense in name, they’ll utilize a one-gap, slanting-style pass rush along the defensive front, designed to get quick players up field and apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Such a philosophy can create the big play on defense. But it can also leave such a defense vulnerable to the big play.
Meanwhile, NMSU’s offense has run the ball very well this spring. What does that say about the Aggie run defense? After all, NMSU averaged just 3.0 yards per carry last year.
Special teams: Martin has taken over as special teams coordinator, and with that the hope is improvement will be shown throughout the unit.
Punter Cayle Chapman- Brown returns after a fine 2012 season.
On the other side, the Aggies averaged just 1.2 yards per punt return last season (which ranked No. 119 out of 120 Division-I football teams).
Also, it would also be nice if NMSU got consistent place-kicking.
Individual players, beyond the QBs: Martin said standout receiver Austin Franklin, who has academic issues, will not suit up today. With that, the wide receiver position is one to watch. At running back, Germi Morrison and Brandon Betancourt have looked good, although depth behind the duo is a question.
Over the past three years the Aggies have had three cornerbacks selected in the NFL Draft, and return some talent to the secondary again.
Local products on the roster: Ramondo (DT, Mayfield); Clint Barnard (LB, Melrose); Zach Daugherty LB, Oñate); Abram Holland (OL, Rio Rancho); Davonte Wallace (OL, El Paso Irvin); Brandon Betancourt (RB, Mayfield); Xavier Hall (RB, Las Cruces High); Josh Bowen (WR, Manzano); and Adam Shapiro (WR, Rio Rancho).