LOOKING AHEAD
The 2008 and 2009 recruiting classes figure to have a much bigger impact next season, Tim Brewster's fourth as Gophers coach. Much of that will come on defense, which will lose nine of 11 starters. Here's a look at some young players who will compete for starting positions next season:
OFFENSE
WR: Brandon Green, Troy Stoudermire and Da'Jon Mc-Knight will return as starters, and will be pushed by Hayo Carpenter and Bryant Allen.
OL: Redshirt freshmen Ed Olson and Brooks Michel figure to vie for playing time on an offensive line needing improvement.
RB: A number of returning running backs likely will be pushed by a 2010 recruiting class that could bring in two highly-rated players at the position.
QB: MarQueis Gray's playing time figures to increase; he could be competing for a starting job next fall.
DEFENSE
DE: Brewster thinks there is a lot of potential in this group. Ra'Shede Hageman, switched from tight end, has looked good as a pass rusher. Ditto for Matt Garin and Kendall Gregory-McGhee.
DT: Brandon Kirksey and Jewhan Edwards already have proven productive. There is a chance Anthony Jacobs could move from end to tackle. Eric Jacques should compete for playing time as well.
LB: There will be loads of competition here, as all three starting linebackers will have to be replaced. Top candidates? Keanon Cooper, Gary Tinsley, Sam Maresh, Brent Singleton, Spencer Reeves and walk-on Aaron Hill, who has impressed coaches. Also look for Mike Rallis, whose sophomore season was ended by injury, to be moved from safety to outside linebacker.
CB: Michael Carter, who has seen extensive playing time, will take one spot. Also look for Kerry Lewis to get a look. The Gophers also will have some CBs coming in the 2010 class.
