Green & Gold Report | 2021

2021 COLORADO STATE FOOTBALL YEARBOOK

Manny Jones

Scott Patchan

Toby McBride

VETERAN ANCHORS

Defensive line trio leads CSU

ALSO INSIDE: CSU VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

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Co-Publishers Greg Hoffman Scott Titterington Editor Shane G. Gilster Copy Editor Kristin Titterington Creative Director Emily Zaynard

CONTENTS FOOTball

Advertising Director Greg Hoffman Advertising Sales Shane G. Gilster Greg Hoffman Scott Titterington

6 Locked and Loaded

CSU defensive line could be the best in the conference

10 Q & A with Steve Addazio

Contributing Writer Eddie Herz Photography CSU Athletic Communications

18 Football Schedule Preview 24 2021 Colorado State Football Roster

Advertising Inquiries Shanegilster@gmail.com Greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com Scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com

34 Turn Back the Clock—CU vs. CSU 46 Football Recruiting

Colorado’s Top 12 instate recruits—class of 2022

Rocky Mountain Publishing PO Box 740 Fort Collins, CO 80522 (970) 221-9210 Green & Gold Report is an unofficial, independent source of news and features relating to CSU athletic programs and is not affiliated in any way with the school, team or league.

POSITION BREAKDOWN

26 Quarterbacks

27 Running Backs 28 Receivers

29 Offensive Line

30 Defensive Line 31 Linebackers

32 Defensive Backs 33 Specialists

Green & Gold is a special publication of Rocky Mountatin Publishing, Inc. Publication of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc.

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Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

40 Starting a new streak

36 2021 Colorado State Volleyball Schedule 38 2021 Colorado State Volleyball Roster CSU looks to make the NCAA Tournament after missing it last season

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Scott Patchan

Locked and loaded

CSU defensive line could be the best in the conference

C

olorado State’s defensive line casually trotted toward Canvas Stadium following a grueling session of spring practice.

Only, instead of effortlessly walking into its meeting room, an obstacle stood in the group’s way. Specifically, a hurdle blocked the players’ from entering their posttraining congregation.

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No one would have blamed CSU’s athletes for hesitating.

Or even naturally muttering a sarcastic response.

Come on, coach, why not just leave that for the practice field?

But neither occurred. The Rams didn’t flinch. Instead, they instinctively crawled through the doorway oneby-one without a murmur—

By Eddie Herz

which tells you everything you need to know about how bought-in CSU’s defensive front is to Antoine Smith’s methodology.

“That’s when you know you have a good group of kids that believe in what you’re doing,” the secondyear defensive line coach said. “There was no reaction from them other than each

guy just crawled under the hurdle. Matter of fact, I don’t think I’ve ever had a conversation with one of them about the hurdle. And there’s a lot of similar things that I do to keep these guys on their toes.”

When Smith arrived as part of Steve Addazio’s inaugural staff, his players weren’t quite sure of what to

“A good coach like that is obviously going to push you, point out your flaws and try to make you the best he can. That’s exactly what he does.

He’s the glue that keeps us all

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

motivated together.” -Patchan on Antoine Smith

anticipate from the veteran assistant—who landed in Fort Collins owning an 18-season tenure on the collegiate sidelines. But over the past year-plus, players have certainly learned to expect the unexpected.

As Smith alluded to, placing a hurdle in front of the meeting room constituted one of countless “spur of the moment” measures he utilizes to force positive reactions amid “chaos”—as required when uncertainty strikes during live-game scenarios.

In the moments before a spring scrimmage, the coach once even spontaneously put his unit through a “physically taxing and

draining” workout to see whose true colors would reveal themselves when the going gets tough.

Nevertheless, the Rams haven’t merely grown accustomed to Smith’s sporadic, stern approach.

They’ve embraced the coach’s techniques in every sense of the word.

“He’s the glue that puts all the pieces together, to be honest,” graduate transfer Scott Patchan said.

“He hammers home what we need to get done in an urgent manner. We have a clear agenda for each practice. We know what we need to attack. We know how we need to get better.

A good coach like that is

obviously going to push you, point out your flaws and try to make you the best he can.

That’s exactly what he does.

He’s the glue that keeps us all motivated together.”

Smith may have provided the glue that enabled CSU’s front-four to turn the corner in 2020, but the line-ofscrimmage contributors themselves, of course, deserve a great deal of credit for ferociously rising to the tricky campaign’s occasion.

Despite the evident inconveniences of the stopand-start-filled season, the Rams’ defensive front operated as an unwavering force upon ranking fourth in the FBS in sacks per game (four) and first in

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Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

McBride is one of the vocal leaders on the team

average tackles for loss (11.5). With the defensive line contributing vitally in the run game, CSU also allowed the FBS’ 12th-least rushing yards per contest (108.5).

Considering junior college product Brandon HickersonRooks and Patchan had only recently joined the team, while fellow eventual 2020 starter Manny Jones found himself transitioning from the edge to defensive tackle, the line’s ability to expeditiously attain an elite level warrants an abundance of praise.

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“With spring getting cut short and then that little fall we had, nothing was easy,” Jones said. “But just staying focused and being very key to details were huge for us.

We communicated well and knew our assignments. We were very adamant about doing our jobs to make sure the rest of the team succeeded.”

This time around, both communication and success should occur even easier in light of retaining the entire starting quartet up front.

Locked and loaded to

continue dominating at defensive end, Pathan enters his second CSU campaign after posting 5.5 sacks and 7.5 takedowns for loss on his way to first-team AllMountain West honors.

Opposite the veteran, who also provided an immediate locker-room impact, fellow first-string DE HickersonRooks is back in the mix.

Meanwhile, Jones returns since proving efficacious via recording 5.5 TFLs as an allleague honorable mention.

Last but surely not least, redshirt senior Toby McBride,

another vocal leader of the group, bounced back from various injuries to total 12 tackles (3.5 for loss) in three games upon garnering an honorable mention.

“With those veteran anchors, I think the defensive line will certainly be one of the conference’s finest,” Addazio claimed. “It certainly has the makings of being a very good d-line throughout the country too.”

The troupe boasts every reason to hold its head high as the 2021 season approaches. Still, reflecting

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

Antoine Smith Smith’s daily mantra, the defensive line will never feel content from a collective production standpoint.

Plus, it isn’t as if Smith must dig for unreasonably specific statistics to

convince his contributors of necessary improvements.

In fact, the green and gold possess blatant focal points in the trenches that begged for refinements last year.

Namely, CSU’s red-zone

defense ranked dead-last in the Mountain West, allowing points on 16-of-16 occasions (seven of which were rushing touchdowns).

“As good as it all sounds, we have to improve in a couple areas to become dominant,” Smith said. “This front four is getting coached like incoming freshmen.

They’re not polished. I’ve experienced defensive lines that were conference championship level. We’re not there yet. But they know my voice and my intentions now. Let’s not make any mistake about it.”

There is undeniable work to be done up front.

However, as the defensive line continues seamlessly abiding by Smith’s standard of excellence, doubting

the unit’s capacity to excel further wouldn’t be wise.

Simply put, CSU’s defensive front remains destined to prove 2020 wasn’t anything close to a fluke. And following a spring camp which Smith described as “the best (he’s) seen these guys look so far,” the troupe is seemingly in line to do so.

“Everyone likes to pat us on the back for that little season we had last year,” Patchan said. “But at the same time, they’re also whispering that it was only four games. So we’re motivated to build off last year by doing this over the course of 12 games. That’s what we’ve preached to each other, leave no doubt and put the judgment to rest.”

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Q&A with

STEVE ADDAZIO

By Eddie Herz

Considering 2020 was your first season in Fort Collins, how difficult was installing your philosophies amid multiple COVID-19 pauses and cancellations?

Addazio: It was extremely difficult. But thank God I’ve been a head coach for a long time. I can’t imagine being a rookie head coach and having to deal with all that.

It was very strange, very bizarre and very taxing. The whole year was. But, having said that, I really like where we’re at right now. I feel like our team has really bought into our philosophies and bought into a team culture.

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I just think there’s a lot of good things going on right now. So as hard as all of that was, I couldn’t be more excited about where we are.”

After losing most of March last year, how did the team take advantage of a full spring camp this time around?

Addazio: Well, I think when you add the cumulative effect of it all, we finally started to build. First of all, it starts with trust and love, and that takes time. You can’t accomplish those by being apart. Second, how we practice and the mental

toughness of what we believe in takes time. Third, the fundamentals. Just being able to put in the fundamentals and grooving them in takes time. And then I just think how we want to study the game and the details of which we prepare. I think those have been a work in progress between a mini spring, a

mini season, a full spring and hopefully a full training camp. I think a full fall will put us in a great position to compete at the level we want to.”

Sticking on spring camp for a minute, which positions, or certain players truly caught your eye in terms of progress?

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

Addazio is looking forward to having a full season and stadium at CSU

Addazio: I thought, most importantly, the quarterback really started to come together. I mean, Toddy really had a great spring. He’s a dual-threat guy who throws the ball well and is really starting to act like a champion and learn what it means to be a quarterback. We’re really excited about him.

Beyond Centeio, I know one of your primary goals heading into the spring concerned developing CSU’s young backup quarterbacks. Are you content with their efforts heading into the fall?

Addazio: The young freshmen didn’t really do much in spring camp, Luke (McAllister) and (Chance) Harris. They’re not anywhere

near where they need to be.

Not even close. But I think Jonah (O’Brien) stepped up and showed some ability. We also brought in Matt Valecce (from Boston College) too.

I recruited Matt and have known Matt for a long time.

He’s an extremely bright, talented quarterback who is pretty athletic. So, I think Jonah is on the come up. I think Matt Valecce is going to be a great presence in that room who competes every day. That’s going to make them all better.

You hired Jon Budmayr to serve as CSU’s new offensive

coordinator and play-caller during the offseason. What made Budmayr seem like an ideal fit for the Rams?

Also, what else excites you about Wisconsin’s former quarterbacks coach right off the bat?

Addazio: He had been mentored very well. In this business, coaching has a lot to do with your tree, who you’re mentored by. And I thought his background at Wisconsin as the quarterback coach with some playcalling responsibility was impressive. He was also tutored by Wisconsin head

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coach, Paul Chryst, who I think is an outstanding offensive football coach.

He understands the concept of having a 50-50 run, play-action dropbackattack. When I met John, I really liked him. I melded with him well. I spend a lot of time in that offensive room. So, it had to be somebody that I felt like I could work with as well as the other coaches.

Ultimately, I’m a big believer that you have to be a really good quarterback developer at offensive coordinator. And I think he’s outstanding.”

Compared to the spring, what will your major focal points

and areas of emphasis be for the team as a whole during fall camp?

Addazio: Learning how to compete at a high level in the most competitive moments. Some people call that mental toughness. But learning how to compete at a high level in the most competitive moments is a really big deal to me. And that comes down to your competitive excellence and preparation. I just think we need to continue to grow in that avenue. For example, in the fourth quarter, when you’re inside the 10, and you’ve got to score a touchdown to win, you’ve got to find a way to play your best football. You don’t go

offside. You don’t fumble.

You show competitive excellence and go score a touchdown to win the game.

And I just believe that big picture, you can call that a winning culture. It’s one thing to improve like we are in practice, which is great, but a winning culture is another thing, and we have to make sure we establish that at CSU this year. It’s been a long time.”

It’s obviously been a while since Ram fans filled Canvas Stadium. You’ve also never personally experienced a crowd in Fort Collins. How high is the entire team’s excitement level to finally witness the return of fans?

Addazio: We’re very excited.

That’s critical. I’ve never seen the stadium alive, and I’m extremely excited for it. And I think it makes a big difference. These kids haven’t played in front of a crowd in two years. So that’s gonna give us tremendous momentum. And we’ve got a great home-opener with South Dakota, who was in the national title game, followed up by Vandy at home. Those will be exciting openers for everyone. We’re thrilled to death. So, it’s gonna be a lot of fun, and I can’t wait to have football going with good crowds again and seeing people enjoying themselves. I just can’t wait for all that.”

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Football Schedule Preview

South Dakota State Running Back, Isaiah Davis

South Dakota State (Home) September 3 When the FBS and FCS collide, the former typically breezes through a cakewalk of a non-conference victory.

But don’t let South Dakota State’s classification fool you. Contrary to popular subdivision belief, the Jackrabbits have regularly proven formidable against top-tier competition amid a current streak of nine consecutive winning campaigns.

Most recently, SDSU defeated Delaware during its third FCS semifinal appearance in four years en route to competing in the program’s first-ever national title—where Sam Houston State edged the Jackrabbits out in May. Set to continue rising the ranks, coach John Stiegelmeier expects to retain the vast majority of a 2020-21 defense that led the FCS across the board (15 points per game). Offensively, since combining forces to construct the Missouri Valley

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Conference’s top rushing attack, Pierre Strong and Isaiah Davis return to guide a dangerous backfield.

Meanwhile, the Jackrabbits’ utmost concern resides at quarterback, where an injury will force Mark Gronowski to miss the season. Without the MVC’s reigning Offensive Player of the Year, SDSU turns to sophomore Keaton Heide— who completed 11-of-22 passes off the bench during the FCS finals.

Given the FCS’ brief preseason, CSU may catch the Jackrabbits at the perfect time as Heide finds his footing under center.

Still, Colorado State’s 2021-opener certainly doesn’t constitute any sort of gimme for the hosts.

And though Mason twice led the Commodores to the postseason invitations, perhaps it was time for a change in Nashville following a 1-16 combined record over the last two seasons.

As recent history suggests, placing Vandy on the path toward prosperity will be easier said than done for Lea in 2021.

Nevertheless, it’s worth noting how the SEC program appears in line to enjoy noticeable improvements on offense, where former CSU coordinator Joey Lynch will handle the team’s quarterbacks and passing game. Upon arriving in Vandy, Lynch meets the task of grooming sophomore gunslinger Ken Seals, who returns his top three wideouts since accumulating 1,928 passing yards in nine 2020 contests.

Toledo (Away) September 18 In light of the NCAA’s extra year of eligibility, plenty of programs across the country will return the bulk of its key contributors in 2021. However, Toledo’s circumstance isn’t as simple as merely welcoming back a boatload of familiar faces for another crack at excelling.

Instead, the Rockets boast the luxury of retaining countless athletes who established their ability to promisingly steer the ship via guiding coach Jason Candle’s troupe to its 11thstraight campaign of .500 or better (4-2).

When CSU and Toledo clashed heads in 2019, heartbreak transpired for the Rams as E.J. Scott’s buzzer-beating grab fell two yards short from paydirt while the Rockets

Vanderbilt (Home) September 11 Out with the old and in with the new at Vanderbilt as Clark Lea snatches command of the helm from seven-year head coach Derek Mason.

Vanderbilt Quarterback, Ken Seals

Photo Courtesy of Vanderbilt Athletics

Photo By Dave Eggen, Inertia Sports Media

By EDDIE HERZ

Toledo Running Back, Bryant Koback finished 20th in the nation in scoring last year (35 tallies on average).

Iowa (Away) September 25 Beyond enabling dedicated Rams fans to cross off a bucket-list destination, making the Iowa contest worthwhile will presumably require maximum efficacy in

Iowa Running Back, Tyler Goodson

Photo Courtesy of Hawkeye Sports

escaped with a 41-35 win.

Similar to the previous shootout, expect the MAC’s fourth-leading passer, Eli Peters, to orchestrate a highly competent offense. Alongside an established wideout corps, multifaceted tailback Bryant Koback (125 all-purpose yards per game) remains at the forefront of a unit that

all phases for CSU. And even if the visitors supply their genuine A-game, the odds of prevailing over a troupe which found itself ranked No. 16 at 2020’s conclusion still might not lie in the Rams’ favor.

While all-league running back Tyler Goodson should continue headlining an exciting offense, Iowa’s stout defense stole the show as the Hawkeyes placed second in the Big Ten West.

Specifically, the Hawkeyes surrendered only 16 points per game in 2020 (sixth in the FBS).

Though the squad must rebuild a disemboweled defensive line after losing four starters up front, Iowa has rarely experienced issues finding viable reinforcements during coach Kirk Ferentz’s 22-year tenure.

The extent of holes in Iowa’s defense, including linebacker/leading-tackler Nick Niemann’s departure,

may occasionally prove harmful during Big Ten play. However, while returning every starter in the secondary, that doesn’t mean the Hawkeyes will struggle to contain CSU.

San Jose State (Home) October 9 While besting Boise State for the program’s first-ever conference title, Mountain West Coach of the Year Brent Brennan’s squad assembled an unscathed 7-0 league record. The Spartans’ massive leap from 1-11 in 2018 to celebrating atop the conference just two years later seemingly transpired out of thin air. Nonetheless, prosperity certainly won’t catch the rest of the league off-guard in 2021, especially considering SJSU welcomes back essentially the entire team who recently took college football by storm.

Offensively, the Spartans’ defensive front presents a

San Jose State Defensive End, Cade Hall Green & Gold Report

Photo Courtesy of San Jose State Athletics

Photo Courtesy of Toledo Athletics

Football Schedule Preview

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Regardless of the QB battle’s victor, the Lobos’ embarrassingly poor defense (447 yards allowed per game) suggests CSU should find a way to painlessly seize its 11th consecutive victory over UNM.

Utah State (Away) October 22

New Mexico Safety, Jerrick Reed II grueling test for the Rams in the trenches. Cade Hall (2020 MW defensive Player of the Year) and Viliami Fehoko return following mouth-watering seasons where the two defensive linemen combined for 16 sacks and 24.5 total tackles for loss. The list goes on as leading-tackler Kyle Harmon remains in the picture among each of his fellow starting linebackers.

The Spartans’ secondary surfaced as one of the defense’s few noticeable areas of exploitation. Still, CSU quarterback Todd Centeio’s run-first nature doesn’t exactly mesh well with the circumstance.

New Mexico (Away) October 16 No one anticipated firstyear sideline chief Danny Gonzales instantaneously turning the tides after Bob Davie’s abysmal tenure. And though UNM’s 2-5 record doesn’t give the program

20 | Green & Gold Report

too much to hang its hat on, the Lobos deserve some props for proving competitive in 2020.

Gonzales achieved enough to at least provide fans a bit of hope regarding the squad’s future. Particularly, with running back Bobby Cole leading the charge, the Lobos’ 394 rushing yards per contest ranked fourth in the conference. Now, if UNM can solve its seemingly everlasting quarterback riddle, it’s fair to assume the offense’s capacity to carry the Lobos to a few more victories.

Under center, Gonzales retains Tevaka Tuioti, Trae Hall and Isaiah Chavez—all of whom will battle for reps moving forward. Tuioti called the shots to commence 2020 before suffering a campaignending ailment in week two.

Subsequently, Hall completed 53-of-101 attempts in four games as Chavez then drew a pair of season-ending starts while UNM rattled off backto-back wins.

The Rams would most definitely love to snap their two-game skid against the Aggies. But first things first, CSU hopes it actually obtains a chance to face the league foe this time around after USU players unanimously opted out of 2020’s clash.

Following uproar-sparking comments from university president Noelle Crockett toward then-interim coach Frank Maile’s cultural background, the program has since moved past its

accumulation of turmoil.

Unfortunately, from a football perspective, USU appears destined to scuffle during coach Blake Anderson’s inaugural season.

In hindsight, the Jason Shelley experiment was never worthwhile. The former Utah reserve looked like a fish out of water in four starts before USU dismissed the quarterback from the team. Now, dualthreat gunslinger Andrew Peasley owns favorable odds of serving as USU’s starting quarterback after holding his own when stepping in for Shelley last year. Still, the Aggies face an uphill climb in all phases subsequent to finishing dead-last in the league in points per game (15.5) and total defense (485.3 yards allowed on average).

Utah State Kick Returner, Savon Scarver

Photo Courtesy of USU Athletics

Photo Courtesy of New Mexico Athletics

Football Schedule Preview

Photo Courtesy of Boise State Athletics

Football Schedule Preview

Boise State Receiver, Khalil Shakir

Will Boise State’s reign of terror ever end? It’s a possibility all Mountain West teams find themselves debating each season. Since entering the Mountain West in 2011, the blue-turf bulldozers have finished in second place or better every season—during which it has seized four conference titles and defeated CSU in all 10 meetings.

Who knows, maybe the Broncos will gradually regress under new coach Andy Avalos following Bryan Harsin’s departure? Well, that may be wishful thinking.

At the very least, BSU likely won’t experience immediate issues upon retaining six All-MW honorees from a 5-2 2020 campaign.

It’s worth noting how the Broncos must learn to live without explosive playmaker Avery Williams, who won his second MW special team’s

player of the year award in 2020. After recording threecareer touchdowns and turnovers apiece against CSU, the defensive back’s departure enables a longawaited sigh of relief from the Rams. However, elsewhere, from Hank Bachmeier’s potent passing proficiency to rock-solid middle-of-thefield defending, the Rams will surely have their hands full with the Broncos.

Air Force (Home) November 13 Troy Calhoun enters 2021 owning more questions than answers regarding who will keep Air Force’s patented triple-option scheme afloat after leading the conference in rushing for the fourth consecutive season (306 yards per contest).

Headlined by All-MW first-teamers Parker Ferguson and Nolan Laufenberg, the Falcons lose five starting offensive linemen. In addition to the daunting task of replacing every component up front, both 2019 leading-rusher Kadin Remsburg and versatile fullback Timothy Jackson have departed the academy.

Luckily for AFA, though inexperience comprises the offensive line, Calhoun

Wyoming (Away) November 6 Last season failed to offer CSU head coach Steve Addazio ample opportunities to furnish a positive first impression in Fort Collins. However, the inaugural staff still managed to secure a signature statement when the Rams snatched a 3424 win over Wyoming— snapping a four-game skid against the bitter foes.

Now, looms the question

Wyoming Running Back, Xazavian Valladay Green & Gold Report

Photo Courtesy of Wyoming Athletics

Boise State (Home) October 30

of whether or not Addazio can do it again? After all, Mike Bobo’s Rams defeated Wyoming and Air Force in the former coach’s first campaign before failing to beat any of CSU’s rivals over the next four seasons. But let’s be honest, Bobo’s track record doesn’t pertain to how Addazio and company will fare against the Pokes moving forward. And at initial glance, the Border War’s 113th edition should significantly pertain to CSU’s ability to hinder Craig Bohl’s ground-and-pound offense, per typical.

Behind a sturdy front retaining each starter, Wyoming welcomes back the MW’s second-leading rusher in Xazavian Valladay and an elite complement who also finished top 10 in the league on the ground, Trey Smith.

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Photo Courtesy of Utah State Athletics

Football Schedule Preview

Air Force Quarterback, Haazig Daniels

Hawaii (Away) November 20 Hawaii failed to prove exceptional in most phases of the game throughout its abbreviated schedule. However, the vast majority of the Rainbow Warriors’ facets weren’t anywhere close to poor, either — amounting to an all-around solid, bowl-winning campaign.

Now, though decent in many aspects across the turf, second-year coach Todd Graham returns to the totality

Nevada (Home) November 27 Though Nevada pummeled the Rams 49-10 in Reno when the programs last clashed in 2018, home-field advantage has influenced this particular inner-conference series tremendously. Luckily for CSU, the green and gold boast

an 8-0 record all-time against the Wolf Pack in Fort Collins since the two first met.

However, the past is the past. And if one thing’s for certain, hampering UNR’s juggernaut-esque offense—which ultimately left opponents the dust throughout 2020’s 7-2 season—won’t constitute anything near a walk in the park. En route to leading the Mountain West with six allleague first and second-team honorees combined, the Wolf Pack averaged 441 yards per game (319.1 passing).

Upon claiming MW Offensive Player of the Year distinction, proficient gunslinger Carson Strong led the conference in passing yards (2,858), touchdowns (27), QBR (160.6) and completion (70.1). Beyond the signal-caller, UNR’s list of retained playmakers includes top wideout Romeo Doubs, whose 1,002 yards led the MW and nine receiving touchdowns ranked tied atop the league with Wolf Pack tight end Cole Turner.

Photo Courtesy of Hawai‘i Athletics

Photo By David Calvert, Nevada Athletics

returns his top 2020 ballcarrier, Brad Roberts, as well as quarterback Haazig Daniels — who churned out 5.4 yards per touch as AFA’s second-most efficacious rusher.

Considering the Falcons have averaged 380 rushing yards over four straight wins against the Rams, it’s certainly a plus for CSU that Calhoun’s group should be in line for some extent of ground-game regression.

of a secondary that arguably represented Hawaii’s most durable position group. After collectively ranking third in the conference in passing yards allowed (197.1 yards per game), All-MW secondteam defensive back Cortez Davis returns alongside Khoury Bethley (team-most six passes defended) and Quentin Frazier (team-most five forced turnovers).

The aforementioned defensive backs, coupled with key depth pieces such as sophomore Cameron Lockridge, will help the Rainbow Warriors’ defense stay afloat despite potentially porous rush hindrance.

Hawai’i Cornerback, Cortez Davis 22 | Green & Gold Report

Nevada Quarterback, Carson Strong

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Position

Ht. Wt. Yr.

Toby McBride Defensive Line 6-3 Scott Patchan Defensive Line 6-6 Justice McCoy Quarterback 6-2 E.J. Scott Wide Receiver 6-2 Rashad Ajayi Defensive Back 5-11 David Bailey Running Back 6-0 Dequan Jackson Linebacker 6-2 Ty McCullouch Wide Receiver 6-1 Todd Centeio Quarterback 6-1 Linwood Crump Defensive Back 6-0 Logan Stewart Defensive Back 6-1 Tywan Francis Defensive Back 6-0 Chance Harris Quarterback 6-0 Henry Blackburn Defensive Back 6-0 Cam’ron Carter Linebacker 6-2 Luke McAllister Quarterback 6-4 Brandon Guzman Defensive Back 6-0 Brandon Hickerson-RooksDefensive Line 6-0 Jonah O’Brien Quarterback 6-4 Cameron Butler Tight End 6-2 Jack Howell Defensive Back 5-11 Thomas Pannunzio Wide Receiver 5-9 Branden Coleman Defensive Back 6-1 A’Jon Vivens Running Back 5-11 Dante Wright Wide Receiver 5-9 Mikell Harvey Defensive Back 5-8 Kyjuan Herndon Running Back 5-9 Marshaun Cameron Defensive Back 5-9 Logan Ludwig Wide Receiver 6-0 Jaylen Thomas Running Back 5-11 Christian Hunter Running Back 5-11 Chase Wilson Linebacker 6-2 Tanner Hollens Running Back 6-1 Marcus McElroy, Jr. Running Back 6-0 Manny Jones Defensive Line 6-4 Titus Jones Defensive Back 6-1 Joe DeLine Kicker 6-0 Aaron Moore Linebacker 6-1 Payton Polson Linebacker 6-0 Blake Beecher Running Back 5-10 Griffin Vanderwaerdt Defensive Back 6-0 Sanjay Strickland Linebacker 6-2 Dawson Menegatti Wide Receiver 6-3 Ryan Stonehouse Punter 5-11 Mohamed Kamara Linebacker 6-2 Troy Golden Linebacker 6-2

285 255 210 200 190 235 235 175 220 175 215 200 200 200 225 190 190 235 195 250 190 170 180 200 180 170 190 190 190 215 195 225 220 235 280 190 225 215 205 195 180 235 185 180 240 235

R-Sr. Gr. R-Jr. R-Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. R-Jr. Gr. R-Sr. Jr. Fr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Fr. R-Jr. R-Fr. Sr. Fr. Jr. Fr. R-So. So. R-So. Fr. R-Sr. R-So. So. So. Fr. Fr. Sr. Sr. R-Fr. R-Sr. Fr. R-Fr. R-Fr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Sr. So. R-So.

Hometown/ High school

# Name

Fort Morgan, Colo. / Fort Morgan Tampa, Fla. / IMG Academy Miami New Orleans, La. / Saint Augustine Powder Springs, Ga / McEachern Atlanta, Ga. / Langston Hughes Ridgely, Md. / North Carolina Jacksonville, Fla. / Robert E. Lee Moreno Valley, Calif. / Rancho Verde Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. / Dwyer South Amboy, N.J. / Piscataway Loveland, Colo. / Mountain View New Orleans, La. / Landry-Walker Clovis, N.M. / Clovis Boulder, Colo. / Fairview Tucker, Ga. / Tucker Monument, Colo. / Palmer Ridge Pasadena, Calif. / Covina Harrisburg, Pa. / Central Dauphin Bartlett, Ill. / Bartlett Columbia, S.C. / Ridge View Chandler, Ariz. / Hamilton Pueblo, Colo. / Pueblo South Miami, Fla. / Columbus Denver, Colo. / Mullen Navarre, Fla. / Navarre Slidell, La. / Northshore Jacksonville, Fla. / Trinity Christian Los Angeles, Calif. / Cathedral Roxborough, Colo. / ThunderRidge Colorado Spring, Colo. / Vista Ridge Fontana, Calif. / Kaiser Arvada Colo. / Ralston Valley Littleton, Colo. / Columbine Denver, Colo / Mullen Cartersville, Ga. / Woodland Kingston, Ga. / Woodland Steamboat Springs, Colo. / Steamboat Springs Oakland, Tenn. / Oakland Highlands Ranch, Colo. / Valor Christian Norco, Calif. / Norco Parker, Colo. / Chaparral Arvada, Colo. / Pomona Pueblo West, Colo. / Pueblo West La Verne, Calif. / Mater Dei Newark, N.J. / Central Orlando, Fla. / Olympia

45 Bam Amina 46 Devon Edwards 47 David Aggrey 49 Brandon Derrow 49 Anthony Koclanakis 50 Cian Quiroga 50 Owen Snively 52 Aidan Cullen 52 Adam Korutz 53 Elijah Johnson 53 Cade Plath 54 Mike Ciaffoni 55 Tavian Brown 55 Cam Reddy 56 Ches Jackson 57 Will Drewes 59 Grant Stewartson 60 Florian McCann 63 Alex Azusenis Tautai Li’o Marks 68 Cameron Bariteau 69 Barry Wesley 70 Joctavis Phillips 71 Brian Crespo-Jaquez 72 Dirk Nelson 73 Gage Gaynor 76 Vincent Picozzi 77 Keith Williams 79 Tex Elliott 81 Dane Olson 82 Dylan Walker 83 Chris McEahern 84 Gary Williams 85 Trey McBride 86 Ross Reiter 88 Brian Polendey 89 Kyle Helbig 90 Casey Irons, Jr. 91 James Mitchell 92 Mukendi Wa-Kalonji 93 Jonathan Terry 94 Devin Phillips 95 Cayden Camper 96 Robert Liss 98 Ellison Hubbard 99 Jack Gabbe

Position

Linebacker Linebacker Running Back Defensive Line Linebacker Defensive Line Offensive Line Defensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Linebacker Defensive Line Linebacker Offensive Line Offensive Line Linebacker Defensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Defensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Wide Receiver Tight End Wide Receiver Tight End Tight End Long Snapper Tight End Tight End Defensive Line Defensive Line Defensive Line Kicker Defensive Line Kicker Kicker Defensive Line Punter

Ht. Wt. Yr.

5-11 6-1 5-10 6-3 6-1 6-2 6-5 6-5 6-2 6-6 6-0 6-3 6-1 6-2 6-4 6-0 6-2 6-3 6-5 6-2 6-1 6-7 6-4 6-6 6-3 6-4 6-4 6-7 6-4 5-11 6-5 5-11 6-2 6-4 6-0 6-5 6-4 6-3 6-3 6-5 6-0 6-2 6-4 5-10 6-2 6-1

210 220 205 265 230 260 290 255 295 315 225 280 230 305 295 200 285 300 305 305 310 310 320 315 300 290 300 300 290 180 250 190 245 260 230 260 255 265 300 220 190 310 205 175 285 200

Fr. Fr. R-So. R-So. Gr. R-Fr. Fr. R-Fr. Gr. R-Jr. R-Fr. R-So. R-Fr. R-So. R-So. R-Fr. Fr. R-So. R-Fr. Fr. Fr. R-Jr. R-Jr. Fr. Fr. Fr. Gr. R-Sr. Fr. R-Fr. Fr. R-Fr. R-So. Jr. Jr. R-Jr. R-Fr. Fr. Fr. Fr. R-So. Jr. So. Fr. Sr. Fr.

Hometown/ High school

Waianae, Hawaii / Mililani Longmont, Colo. / Mead Bronx, N.Y. / Rangeview Columbus, Ohio / St. Francis De Sales Anaheim, Calif. / Esperanza Murray State Denver, Colo. / Valor Christian Tilton, N.H. / Tilton Monument, Colo. / Palmer Ridge Johnson City, N.Y. / Johnson City Severn, Md. / Dematha Chanhassen, Minn. / Chanhassen Sudbury, Mass. / Lincoln-Sudbury Demopolis, Ala. / Demopolis Franklin, Mass. / Lawrence Aca. Tifton, Ga. / Tift County Longmont, Colo. / Skyline Highlands Ranch, Colo. / Highlands Ranch Denver, Colo. / Mullen Powell, Ohio / Olentangy Liberty65 Santa Ana, Calif. / Mater Dei Wareham, Mass. / Peddie School Morrison, Colo. / Bear Creek West Monroe, La. / Neville Fort Collins, Colo. / Poudre Visalia, Calif. / Central Valley Christian Parkland, Fla. / Stoneman Douglas Collegeville, Pa. / Lansdale Catholic Baltimore, Md. / Overlea Indianapolis, Ind. / Cathedral San Diego, Calif. / San Marcos Royersford, Pa. / Pope John Paul II Arvada, Colo. / Arvada West Charlotte, N.C. / Vance Fort Morgan, Colo. / Fort Morgan Phoenix, Ariz. / Brophy Prep Denton, Texas / Guyer Broomfield, Colo. / Holy Family Gilmer, Texas / Gilmer Duncanville, Texas / Duncanville Aurora, Colo. / Grandview Castle Rock, Colo. / Castle View Monroe, La. / Neville Pueblo, Colo. / Pueblo County Phoenix, Ariz. / Verrado Loganville, Ga. / Grayson Jupiter, Fla. / Cardinal Newman

2021 Coaching Staff Steve Addazio Brian White Jon Budmayr Chuck Heater Antoine Smith Louie Addazio Alex Baileyv Cody Booth Sean Cronin

Head Coach Senior Associate Head Coach — Running Backs Offensive Coordinator — Quarterbacks Defensive Coordinator — Safeties Assistant Head Coach — Defensive Line Assistant Coach — Offensive Line Assistant Coach — Wide Receivers Assistant Coach — Tight Ends Assistant Coach — Linebackers

24 | Green & Gold Report

Kap Dede, PhD. Anthony Perkins Scott McLafferty Spencer Reid Elijah Blackman Nathan Morris Tyler Rouse Clay Davie Jon Goodman Ben Robertson

Assistant Coach — Outside Linebackers/Nick Assistant Coach — Cornerbacks Head Football Strength and Conditioning Coach Associate Strength and Conditioning Coach Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach Offensive Quality Control Special Teams Quality Control Defensive Quality Control

Heath Parling Dylan Autenrieth Corey Burns Sebastian Rivers Joel Baron Cassi White Tommy Clarkin Andrew Liacopoulos Frank Leonard Ricky Santo

Offensive Graduate Assistant Offensive Graduate Assistant Defensive Graduate Assistant Defensive Graduate Assistant Director of Football Operations Director of Football Administration Assistant Video Coordinator Director of Player Personnel Director of Recruiting Director of RAM Life Programs

Green & Gold Report

| 25

Position Breakdown:

QUARTERBACKS Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

By EDDIE HERZ

Todd Centeio

F

or the first time since his introductory press conference in February, Jon Budmayr approached the virtual podium to meet with an especially jumpy group of reporters.

Eager to learn the offensive coordinator’s initial thoughts after witnessing Colorado State operate in-person during early spring camp, the media bombarded Wisconsin’s former quarterbacks coach with question upon question.

From his gunslinger development strategies to his overall objectives as CSU’s new play-caller, Budmayr remained consistent while calmly issuing each response. However, one question sparked the coordinator’s demeanor.

Have you spotted any

similarities between Todd Centeio and any of the quarterbacks you worked with at Wisconsin?

“The one that really jumped out to me when I first saw him was Russell Wilson,” Budmayr enthusiastically responded on March 2.

Months later, following a promising spring for the Rams’ surefire starting signal-caller, Budmayr stuck to his guns.

“He continued to do some things that reminded me of playing with Russell,” Budmayr described. “His ability to get out of trouble when things break down, throw well on the move and even his throwing mechanics.”

Though in possession of a multi-faceted repertoire, whether or not the relatively inexperienced dual-threat option

QUARTERBACK ROSTER

YEAR Todd Centeio Jr Jonah O’Brien Fr Justice McCoy Jr Chance Harris Fr Luke McAllister Fr Matt Valecce So Evan Olaes Fr

26 | Green & Gold Report

HEIGHT WEIGHT

6-1 6-4 6-2 6-0 6-4 6-5 6-0

220 195 210 200 190 225 205

can function at a Division-1 level remains undetermined.

After accumulating 24 appearances in three campaigns as Temple’s backup, Centeio transferred to CSU, unexpectedly snatching season-opening first-string duties away from third-year Ram Patrick O’Brien.

Nevertheless, O’Brien— now a graduate student at Washington—relieved Centeio in the fourth quarter of the Rams’ first game and proved competent on his way to starting in CSU’s final three contests.

Centeio’s prime opportunity disappeared in a flash as he eventually totaled 14-of-36 completions for 207 yards and 25 scrambles for 95 rushing yards in three games (two off the bench).

“I was playing with an injured index finger and other injuries that bothered me throughout the season,” Centeio said. “But I really felt like I let it fall through my hands.

You can’t make the same mistake twice. I’m really focused on doing everything to become the guy everyone depends on.”

Well, given the shortage of experience behind Centeio, the chances of letting his shot at QB1 slip through the cracks in 2021 aren’t probable. Still, the Florida native will undoubtedly need to display improvements in several facets to lead a successful offense.

Though the junior enjoyed precision-wise growth over the spring, Centeio most notably enhanced his mental arsenal.

As Budmayr believes, the cerebral aspect of the position reigns supreme. When mastering such, a gunslinger can then utilize physical strengths to the maximum extent.

Plenty of room for refinements persist. However, it seems Centeio has placed himself on Budmayr’s ideal philosophical path.

“I feel like I improved the most in my decision-making and everything of the mental nature,” Centeio said. “(Budmayr) has been a great teacher with all that. Now I have a really good grasp of the offense. But I still want to be a master at it.”

Below Centeio, the Rams’ battle for backup duties constitutes a free-for-all between young gunslingers. The race to crack CSU’s three-deep depth chart includes redshirt freshman Jonah O’Brien—who progressed admirably during spring—as well as two true freshmen, Chance Harris and Luke McAllister.

After accruing six appearances off the bench at Boston College in 2019, sophomore Matt Valecce also joins the QB room as a transfer.

Position Breakdown:

RUNNING BACKS Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

By EDDIE HERZ

A’Jon Vivens

E

ven before the pandemic, Steve Addazio knew reshaping Colorado State’s offensive identity demanded time.

Changing a unit’s instincts requires prolonged reiteration.

Implementing multiple recruiting classes that cater to the fresh needs, instead of Mike Bobo’s envisioned strengths, is certainly necessary as well.

With the aforementioned notions in mind, CSU hasn’t panicked following a subpar first season on the sidelines.

Nevertheless, closing the gap between who the Rams are and who Addazio hopes they become still represents a legitimate task that won’t

effortlessly reach fruition— which perhaps pertains to the rushing attack above all.

“We rolled steadily there over the spring,” Addazio said. But that’s a position that we have to continue to grow and improve at. We need to keep building toughness in the run game.”

Addazio’s track record of constructing efficacy on the ground sets the bar high for CSU’s backfield. However, as green and gold fans grew accustomed to during Bobo’s often one-dimensional offensive reign, the Rams’ tailbacks scuffled as a whole upon averaging 3.2 yards per carry in 2020 (dead-last in the Mountain West).

Ugly? On most occasions,

RUNNING BACK ROSTER

YEAR A’Jon Vivens So Jaylen Thomas So Christian Hunter So Tanner Hollens Fr Marcus McElroy Sr Blake Beecher Fr David Aggrey So David Bailey Jr Alex Berrouet Fr

HEIGHT WEIGHT

5-11 5-11 5-11 6-1 6-0 5-10 5-10 6-0 6-0

200 215 195 220 235 195 205 235 210

absolutely. Regardless, the rushing attack surely could have performed worse. In fact, A’Jon Vivens’ emergence supplies optimism surrounding the run game’s chances of producing consistency in 2021.

“It was a growing process,” Vivens said. “I was just focusing on knowing the plays last year.

Now I feel like I really know what I’m doing. I’ve really grown from a mental aspect of the game since last year. I got way better with learning defenses and picking up on blitzes.”

As the sophomore alluded to, Vivens’ priority last season related to finding his footing at his new position after previously playing wideout.

Despite the learning curve, Vivens tallied team-mosts in carries (49) and yards (210).

Given the instant impact, the Denver native appears destined for increased productivity.

Vivens endured the growing pains. Now, he owns an ideal understanding of how to exploit holes at the collegiate level.

“He’s got a lot of potential,” offensive coordinator Jon Budmayr said. “As he

continues growing and getting comfortable, his skill set will allow him to have success. But he did some great things and started getting a better feel in the spring. He did a lot that we want to build off.”

Beyond Vivens, burly ballcarrier Marcus McElroy should at least obtain a sizable portion of the Rams’ goal-line carries.

McElroy began 2020 as CSU’s lead back before scuffling under first-string duties since consistently doing so as a reserve. The senior averaged a minuscule 2.7 yards off 41 touches as his issues squeezing through blocks persisted.

Thus, competition to hoard the bulk of the backfield spotlight is undoubtedly apparent—which is especially the case following the recent addition of Boston College’s David Bailey.

As BC’s leading rusher, the immediately eligible junior turned 127 carries into 503 yards and seven touchdowns in 2020. A year prior, Bailey thrived in a complementary role via accruing 148 carries for 848 yards.

Given Bailey’s established competence, surpassing Vivens and McElroy while materializing as CSU’s go-to back isn’t out of the question.

Nor is any backfield possibility.

“That group will answer those questions as we work through fall camp,” Budmayr said. “It’s too early to tell. There’s a lot of room for improvement, but they’re hungry. And that competition will help them.”

Green & Gold Report

| 27

Position Breakdown:

RECEIVERS

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

By EDDIE HERZ

Dante Wright

T

odd Centeio’s capacity to move the chains through the air looms large as Colorado State quests for multi-dimensional offensive efficacy.

However, the other primary element of CSU’s throwing game materializes as virtually certain ahead of fall camp. In other words, if the Rams’ signal-caller progresses past his accuracy issues, the squad’s receivers boast the competence to satisfy their end of the bargain.

And though Centeio may not possess the same arm strength as deep-ball dependent Patrick O’Brien, Steve Addazio’s pass-catchers haven’t lost any sleep since commencing its offseason quarterback transition. Simply put, when CSU’s dual-threat junior isn’t handing the ball off or personally scrambling for yardage, CSU believes in Centeio’s ability to execute the hurling task at hand.

“We definitely have the chemistry to where he always knows where I am,” tight end Trey McBride said. “If we didn’t get something right, we’d fix it after practice. He threw great in

28 | Green & Gold Report

the spring. I’m really confident in Todd’s ability to be effective.”

With Centeio tossing the pigskin, the Rams’ tight ends and wideouts like their odds of turning a corner inside Jon Budmayr’s scheme.

Speaking of the offensive coordinator’s philosophy, Dante Wright distinguished Budmayr’s creative reliance on playmakers as a noticeably encouraging aspect of the playbook. Although, regardless of formation or who calls the shots, nothing has disrupted the versatile weapon’s knack for finding an upfield crease through two collegiate seasons.

Hence, for the Rams’ go-to wideout, seeing eye-to-eye with his quarterback and coordinator represents a bonus. Either way, Wright—who corralled 20 receptions for 315 yards last season after seizing 2019 ESPN True Freshman AllAmerican honors—will make his presence known.

“I like (Budmayr’s) ideologies and how his offense operates,” Wright said. “But I don’t want to put my success in someone else’s hands. I feel like as long as I’m doing my thing, the sky’s

the limit for me.”

As for Wright’s comrades, though CSU anticipates growth from Ty McCullouch and returning starter E.J. Scott, the preseason’s most significant WR-related storyline transpired via the transfer portal—where the Rams acquired New Mexico graduate Jordan Kress.

The Loveland native totaled 40 receptions for 757 yards and eight touchdowns in two campaigns as UNM’s leading wideout upon subsequently placing himself in CSU’s starting wideout discussion.

Meanwhile, the squad’s true pass-snagging depth resides within a tight end arsenal.

“Anytime you can get a big body that runs really well, like Trey, you’re gonna find multiple ways to get him the football,” Budmayr said. “The group behind him is really good too.

That position has a lot of depth.

So getting all of them involved

RECEIVER ROSTER

will be a major emphasis.”

As Budmayr mentioned, two-time all-league honoree McBride returns for presumably his final collegiate campaign before shifting gears toward the NFL. Following a breakout 2019 season in which McBride concluded as the squad’s third-leading receiver, the Rams heavily relied on the junior last year as he accrued team-mosts in grabs (22) and receiving yards (330).

Beyond McBride, who snagged all four of CSU’s 2020 receiving touchdowns, senior Cameron Butler’s re-insertion since missing 2020 with an injury should prove beneficial.

In three seasons (2017-19), the veteran recorded 49 receptions for 555 yards over 32 contests (20 starts). Plus, junior Brian Polendey (four 2020 starts) and sophomore Gary Williams (three games in 2020) grant CSU a tandem of blocking specialists.

YEAR E.J. Scott Jr Ty McCullouch So Thomas Pannunzio Jr Dante Wright So Kyjuan Herndon Fr Logan Ludwig So Dawson Menegatti Fr Dane Olson Fr Chris McEahern Fr Damir Abdullah Fr Gerick Robinson Fr Jordan Kress Sr Cameron Butler Sr Dylan Walker Fr Gary Williams So Trey McBride Jr Brian Polendey Jr Kyle Helbig Fr Tanner Arkin Fr Drake Martinez Fr

HEIGHT WEIGHT 6-2 200 6-1 175 5-9 170 5-9 180 5-9 190 6-0 190 6-3 185 5-11 180 5-11 190 6-5 195 5-10 175 6-0 195 6-2 250 6-5 250 6-2 245 6-4 260 6-5 260 6-4 255 6-4 235 6-3 215

Position Breakdown:

Offensive Line

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

By EDDIE HERZ

Adam Korutz

L

ast year’s virtually nonexistent preseason and subsequently reduced campaign extracted vital ingredients to the pie up front.

While striving to build cohesion, offensive linemen can’t rely on explosive play-making or natural talent to the extent of surrounding areas on the turf.

For any given front five, hours upon hours in the trenches are indispensable— which Colorado State’s offensive line lost an unprecedented

amount of before and during the stoppage-themed regular season. Yet, despite an inadequate, pandemic-tainted recipe, CSU’s offensive front managed to cook up a respectable entree at the line of scrimmage.

“It’s really impressive. It’s a reflection of what (Steve and Louie Addazio) do each day,” offensive coordinator Jon Budmayr said. “Those two obviously work very closely with that group. And from

OFFENSIVE LINE ROSTER

YEAR HEIGHT WEIGHT Owen Snively Fr 6-5 290 Adam Korutz Grad 6-2 295 Elijah Johnson Jr 6-6 315 Cam Reddy So 6-2 305 Ches Jackson So 6-4 295 Florian McCann So 6-3 300 Alex Azusenis Fr 6-5 305 Tautai Li’o Marks Fr 6-2 305 Barry Wesley Jr 6-7 310 Joctavis Phillips Jr 6-4 320 Brian Crespo-Jaquez Fr 6-6 315 Dirk Nelson Fr 6-3 300 Gage Gaynor Fr 6-4 290 Vincent Picozzi Grad 6-4 300 Keith Williams Sr 6-7 300 Tex Elliot Fr 6-4 290 Justin Michael Fr 6-5 265 George Miki-Han Fr 6-1 310

what I’ve been able to learn schematically and techniquewise from that position in the short time I’ve been here, it’s easy to see why that group has success.”

The coronavirus-afflicted stint constituted a testament to the Addazio family’s knack for assembling a sturdy wall of quarterback protectors.

Though Steve has been doing so with ease every year since first coaching an offensive front in 1985 at Western Connecticut State, 2020 supplied unique challenges.

With senior center Cam Reddy, junior left guard Elijah Johnson and graduate right guard Adam Korutz entering the starting rotation, CSU’s reconfigured offensive line faced the task of growing accustomed to one another on the fly in light of the preparation-deficient season.

Nonetheless, Steve and Louie Addazio—CSU’s offensive line coach—found a way to churn out three AllMountain West honorable mentions in Reddy, Johnson and Barry Wesley.

One might ask how the unit found its footing under such tricky circumstances.

Well, Reddy, Johnson and Korutz may have been new to Fort Collins; however, upon transferring from Addazio’s prior destination, the former Boston College athletes were familiar with the way CSU’s coach handles business.

“The offensive line has really started to gel,” Addazio said.

“They’ve really learned what it

takes to become a legitimate front. Now they get a full fall camp to get everything down.”

Beyond the retained starting five, which also includes left guard Keith Williams, the Rams welcome back several pertinent depth assets—headlined by backup LG Joctavis Phillips, who served as a key backup for the third-straight season upon competing in a trio of 2020 contests behind Williams.

Alongside eight combined three-star recruits from the 2020-21 classes, Addazio snatched a well-established transfer, Temple graduate Vincent Picozzi. Boasting prospects of obtaining a solid workload, Picozzi totaled 35 starts at LG/LT over his fouryear tenure as an Owl. Experience? Check. Better chemistry? Check. But is the offensive line genuinely willing to grind through the necessary labor to breed thorough affluence? Well, the group certainly seems committed to the Addazio family’s process.

“They’ve bought into the strength and conditioning program and nutrition side of it, which is huge at that position,” Budmayr described. “We’ve gotten bigger and stronger. But the other piece is they’re doing a great job in the film room and understanding their responsibilities. They’re making the right calls and understanding why we’re doing what we’re doing. So, I think they have a chance to be one of this conference’s top offensive lines.”

Green & Gold Report

| 29

Position Breakdown:

Defensive Line

Ellison Hubbard

I

ndividual motives sparked graduated defender Scott Patchan’s initial interest when debating whether or not to return for the 2021 campaign.

While eying a professional career, the desire to polish an already-impressive repertoire significantly influenced Patchan’s eventual decision to stick around Fort Collins.

Though hopes of enhancing his NFL odds reigned supreme, the position group’s seemingly endless collective potential kicked the former Hurricane over the edge upon transpiring a practically irrefutable offer.

“I came back to work towards going high in the draft,” Patchan said. “But finding out everyone was coming back absolutely made the decision easier.

If those guys weren’t there, it’s probably a different conversation. We can do some great things if we just keep our foot on the gas.”

Since pressuring gunslingers and gobbling up opposing running backs at

30 | Green & Gold Report

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

By EDDIE HERZ

a stupendous rate, Colorado State’s defensive line has accrued positive preseason attention across the Mountain West. Providing rationale behind the hype, Manny Jones and Toby McBride return to form an established trio of dependable, effective starters.

Nevertheless, the buck doesn’t stop with the firststringers. Instead, CSU’s overall abundance of competent components amounts to what appears as a uniquely proficient defensive line in the making.

Notably, coach Antoine Smith’s troupe also includes senior Ellison Hubbard, who accumulated 86 tackles (15.5 for loss) and 20 starts in three seasons before solely operating as a backup last year.

Hubbard won’t hesitate when called upon moving forward, nor will fellow DT Devin Phillips after starting all 22 of CSU’s games from 201819—during which he posted 55 takedowns combined.

“We have a different deal of

depth here,” Smith said. “No one’s job is ever safe. So every day on the practice field, it’s like 4th-and-1 for them.”

Highlighting a promising underclassman array, once-touted recruit James Mitchell will compete for reps after playing in two games as a true freshman out of Duncanville, Texas.

The list goes on.

As a result of the jampacked room, CSU’s mixture of blossomed ability and budding talent have combined to manufacture ultracompetitive practices.

“We have a whole group that’s just as good as the first, if not better, that can come in,” Jones said. “That’s a plus, in the long run, always having fresh guys out there. And It makes you never wanna come off the field.”

Given CSU’s range of genuine depth, Smith doesn’t intend on firmly distinguishing

starters from reserves. Instead, speaking to the line’s acrossthe-board capacity, the coach believes he owns double the quantity of capable firststringers than necessary.

So, as the Rams enter 2021 with a loaded arsenal, Smith aspires to mirror how many Power-5 juggernauts operate by distributing regular snaps among a vast rotation. Now, time will tell if the Rams can furnish a bit of SEC-esque dominance in the trenches.

“We have front stability that most people don’t. We have eight guys that could go into game one and get the job done. So, I talk to our guys about being rotational starters. That’s what Alabama and Clemson do. They roll personnel. We don’t just have four guys, and then after them, we drop right off the highest point of the Grand Canyon. It’s rare for the Mountain West, and that’s how we’re gonna play.”

DEFENSIVE LINE ROSTER

YEAR Toby McBride Sr Scott Patchan Grad Brandon Hickerson-Rooks Jr Manny Jones Sr Brandon Derrow So Cian Quiroga Fr Aidan Cullen Fr Mike Ciaffoni So Grant Stewartson Fr Cameron Bariteau Fr James Mitchell Fr Mukendi Wa-Kalonji Fr Devin Phillips Jr Ellison Hubbard Sr Grady Kelly Fr Clay Nanke Fr Tyler Quinn Fr

HEIGHT WEIGHT

6-3 6-6 6-0 6-4 6-3 6-2 6-5 6-3 6-2 6-1 6-3 6-5 6-2 6-2 6-4 6-6 6-1

285 255 235 280 265 260 255 280 285 310 300 220 310 285 265 215 310

Position Breakdown:

Linebackers Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

By EDDIE HERZ

Dequan Jackson

C

olorado State’s front five stole the defensive spotlight last season while garnering praise as one of the Mountain West’s premier units in the trenches. However, it wasn’t as if CSU’s linebacker’s corps failed to attain a dominant level.

Quite the contrary.

With Dequan Jackson and Cam’ron Carter adding another notch of consistency to their dependable belts, the Rams held down the middle of the field with ease.

“Those guys up front are already leading the pack,” Jackson said. “With their help, the linebackers can set the tone. We’ve got some talent at linebacker, and we put up good numbers last year. But I’m looking forward to being the reason we win games.”

At least in terms of Jackson and his junior counterpart’s production, many would classify what the veteran modestly categorized as “good” as pretty darn close to great. While chipping

LINEBACKER ROSTER

YEAR Dequan Jackson Jr Cam’ron Carter Jr Chase Wilson Fr Aaron Moore Fr Payton Polson Fr Sanjay Strickland Fr Mohamed Kamara So Troy Golden So Bam Amina Fr Devon Edwards Fr Anthony Koclanakis Grad Cade Plath Fr Tavian Brown Fr Will Drewes Fr Malaki Grant Fr

HEIGHT WEIGHT

6-2 6-2 6-2 6-1 6-0 6-2 6-2 6-2 5-11 6-1 6-1 6-0 6-1 6-0 6-0

235 225 225 215 205 235 240 235 210 220 230 225 230 200 210

into a Rams’ rushing defense which ranked second in the conference, Jackson totaled a team-most 40 tackles and 5.5 takedowns for loss in 2020.

Simultaneously, Carter finished second on the squad in tackles (32) upon matching his teammate’s admirable TFL total (5.5).

Still, there’s always room for improvement. And given the coronavirus-complicated shuffle of a campaign, the Rams’ linebackers see plenty. Actually, in light of enjoying an uninterrupted spring camp this time around, they fully expect enhancements.

“A year ago, even the veterans were still learning the new defense,” Jackson said. “With the COVID stuff, we didn’t have enough time to get confident in it. So, we couldn’t really teach and advance the younger guys because we were getting to know everything. But now we’re super comfortable. I’m confident in the playbook. I can teach it to just about anybody.”

Speaking of the younger assets, the extent of underclassman progression the Rams produce off the bench could prove differential for the linebacker unit as a whole. Sure, a further breakout from Mohamed Kamara opposite Carter on the outside would pay dividends. Regardless, though the third-year sophomore appears poised to do so, CSU’s starting trio wasn’t the issue in 2020.

If anything, the Rams could have used increased backup competency and a few more reserve options.

Luckily for CSU, its entire core of youthful, twodeep rotational backers return after gaining crucial experience last season— headlined by Bam Amina (11 tackles in three games) and Aaron Moore (seven tackles in four games).

It’s also worth noting how Chase Wilson’s spring emergence should result in the freshman competing for reps. Plus, upping the group’s collective experience, the Rams obtained Murray State graduate Anthony Koclanakis during the offseason—who could immediately find his way into the mix after leading MSU with 124 takedowns (9.5 for loss) in 2019.

As an every-down backer, Jackson would stay on the field for eight consecutive quarters if a coach didn’t yank his arm. Still, the team captain knows refining the back-end of his position group serves the corps well, even if that means he has to sit on the bench for a few extra snaps.

“I don’t want to ever come out of,” Jackson said. “It’s being a little selfish and a leader of the defense. But now, if I need a quick blow, we’ve got plenty of guys behind me that can get on the field. We’ve got real depth in the room now. We didn’t have that last year.”

Green & Gold Report

| 31

Position Breakdown:

Defensive BACKS

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

By EDDIE HeRZ

D

Rashad Ajayi

espite a forgettable 2020 campaign for Colorado State’s discombobulated secondary, in no way, shape, or form did Rashad Ajayi envision the ensuing off-season’s efflux of departing defensive backs.

Witnessing two, maybe three DB’s exit through the transfer portal seemed realistic, considering the temptation to test outside waters with a pandemicinduced extra year of eligibility on the table.

But seven back-end defenders out the door in five months?

“People make choices that are best for them. You just have to live by the next manup-mentality,” the three-year starting cornerback said.

“But honestly, I didn’t see it coming at all.”

Yes, you read that correctly. Following the Rams’ final 2020 contest, seven members of their secondary packed their bags and hit the road by mid-April.

The group of former Rams includes cornerback Keevan Bailey, who abruptly became a non-factor in 2020

32 | Green & Gold Report

after a solid freshman stint.

Additionally, two of CSU’s go-to reserves, senior Dajon Owens and junior Quinn Brinnon, have left the mix.

Nonetheless, Ajayi’s positivity exemplifies the consensus of the Rams’ entire secondary. The junior—who expanded his game by learning the nickel position during spring ball—believes CSU’s secondary has enjoyed a nightand-day transformation since surrendering the third-most passing yards per contest in the Mountain West (250).

“I’ve got a whole new understanding of the defense,” Ajayi said. “Like why we call certain things, why people are supposed to be in certain positions. And I feel like overall, all the older guys know the checks and new terminology now. So as far as being comfortable with everything, we’ll be way better next year.”

As Ajayi hopes to rekindle the flame from an individually superb freshman season, starting safety Logan Stewart and starting cornerback Marshaun Cameron are set to

lead the defensive backfield charge—each of which has contributed vitally since arriving as transfers in 2019.

Over the last two seasons, Stewart’s 102 tackles and Cameron’s 66 takedowns rank within the top three of all current roster members.

The two have also combined to total five takeaways and 13 pass-breakups.

“Even if we don’t bring in any new people, we’ll be ok, especially with having Logan and Marshaun back,” Ajayi said. “They’ll do us justice.

Both are experienced playmakers who know how to create turnovers.”

The secondary’s cardinal focuses from a progressive spring will remain the same once fall camp arrives.

Eliminate substantial gains through the air and find a way to produce takeaways after corralling merely one interception in 2020.

Given CSU’s established prowess elsewhere, the Rams’

secondary could very well represent the determining factor toward all-around defensive prosperity.

The pressure is on. But with a better comprehension of how to operate within coordinator Chuck Heater’s scheme, all indicators suggest refinements.

CSU never saw seven departures coming, nor would it wish such a fate upon itself. Nevertheless, the Rams do anticipate one thing regarding their 2021 secondary—revitalized functionality in all facets.

“We made the most progress in the back-end,” Steve Addazio explained.

“You knew we had a good defensive front, but the back-end wasn’t where it needed to be last year. Now I feel really good about it.

Tywan (Francis) and Henry (Blackburn) stepped up and had great springs. I just really like all those guys. Our secondary came a long way.”

DEFENSIVE BACK ROSTER

YEAR Rashad Ajayi Jr Linwood Crump Grad Logan Stewart Sr Tywan Francis Jr Henry Blackburn Fr Brandon Guzman Fr Jack Howell Fr Branden Coleman Fr Mikell Harvey So Marshaun Cameron Sr Titus Jones Fr Griffin Vanderwaerdt Fr Lathan Adams Fr Langston Williams Fr

HEIGHT WEIGHT

5-11 6-0 6-1 6-0 6-0 6-0 5-11 6-1 5-8 5-9 6-1 6-0 5-11 5-10

190 175 215 200 200 190 190 180 170 190 190 180 170 155

Position Breakdown:

SPECIALISTS

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

By EDDIE HeRZ

Ryan Stonehouse

W

hen Colorado State’s special teams coverage brutally malfunctioned down the stretch, Steve Addazio accepted full responsibility.

To save face for assistants, plenty of head coaches would handle the discouraging circumstance similarly, at least while addressing media in the public eye. However, in CSU’s case, Addazio didn’t do so to avoid throwing a fellow

staffer under the bus.

Rather than assigning someone else to the unit, the coach elected to handle the Rams’ third phase in 2020 and beyond. Hence, the detrimental special teams’ miscues traced back to him more than any assistant.

“Completely preposterous,” Addazio exclaimed following CSU’s Nov. 12 defeat at Boise State. “I’ve got to do a better job preparing these guys.

I’ve never seen anything

SPECIAL TEAMS ROSTER

YEAR Joe DeLine Sr Jonathan Terry So Robert Liss Fr Ryan Stonehouse Sr Ross Reiter Jr Cayden Camper So Jack Gabbe Fr

HEIGHT WEIGHT

6-0 6-0 5-10 5-11 6-0 6-4 6-1

225 190 175 180 230 205 200

like that before. It’s totally unacceptable and I’ve got to make sure that gets fixed.”

After handling identical duties throughout his Boston College tenure, embracing special teams obligations wasn’t anything new for Addazio amid his 10th campaign as a collegiate sideline orchestrator.

On the contrary, 2020’s contact-tracing-induced shuffle constituted an entirely foreign obstacle, forcing Addazio to swap players in and out of return teams at a practically unheard-of rate—which he views as the leading culprit to the late-season coverage incompetence.

Specifically, two blocked punts and one swatted field goal resulted in 21 points for the hosts during the Rams’ 52-21 demise at BSU. Marking the beginning of the end, San Diego State then took a pair of 90-plusyard returns to the house in CSU’s only game after the blue-turf embarrassment.

Regardless, the Mountain West’s 11th-ranked coverage (37 yards surrendered per kick) transpires as easily fixable to Addazio. Naturally, since commencing organized activities in 2021, Addazio has noticed legitimate strides upon penciling consistent rotations into his special teams groups.

“Special teams is a derivative of our team culture,” Addazio described.

“I thought last fall we had

some real issues, both from players being out from contact tracing and just guys that were overwhelmed with all the new stuff. But we had a great spring overall in special teams.”

Back for his fifth and final go-around, Ryan Stonehouse returns to Fort Collins as the program’s all-time leading punter (46.8 yards per boot). The California native also rolls into 2021 seeking first-team all-league distinction for the fourth consecutive season.

Kicking-wise, though less established, the green and gold remain content with their options. Robert Liss will likely serve as the firststring place-kicker after posting passable numbers in 2020, considering his true-freshman status.

Including a victoryclinching boot from 48 against Wyoming, Liss converted 4-of-7 field-goals and 11-of-11 extra points last year. Below Liss, sophomore Cayden Camper (7-of-13 career-FGs) grants the Rams an insurance policy. “(Stonehouse) is and obviously has been one of the very best in the country,” Addazio said. “But then I think our field goal kicking is elite too, with Liss and Camper. They were excellent during spring.

Obviously, we have to stay healthy. But I feel great about where we’re headed.

We have a full stable on special teams.”

Green & Gold Report

| 33

TURN BACK THE CLOCK

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

CU vs. CSU

34 | Green & Gold Report

Quarterback Bradlee Van Pelt leads CSU to a 19-14 win over No. 6 Colorado in 2002.

Running back Kevin McDougal rushed for 189 yards on 22 carries and two touchdowns in 41-14 win over CU in 1999.

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

Quarterback Caleb Hanie was 20 of 23 passing for 233 yards with a running and passing TD, in a 14-10 Rams’ win over the Buffs in 2006.

Green & Gold Report

| 35

2021 CSU VOLLEYball SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT August 27

South Dakota

LOCATION

Fort Collins, CO

August 28 Northwestern Fort Collins, CO August 31 Northern Colorado Greeley, CO September 3

North Carolina

Chapel Hill, NC

September 4

North Carolina State

Raleigh, NC

September 10 SIUE Fort Collins, CO September 10

Oregon State

Fort Collins, CO

September 11 UAB Fort Collins, CO September 16 Colorado Boulder, CO September 18 Colorado Fort Collins, CO September 23 September 25

Boise State

Fort Collins, CO

Utah State

Fort Collins, CO

September 28 Wyoming Fort Collins, CO September 30

Fresno State

Fresno, CA

October 7 Nevada Reno, NV October 9

San Jose State

San Jose, CA

October 14

New Mexico

Fort Collins, CO

October 16

Air Force

Fort Collins, CO

October 21

San Diego State

San Diego, CA

October 23 UNLV Fort Collins, CO October 28

Air Force

USAF Academy, CO

October 30

New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM

November 4 Nevada Fort Collins, CO November 6

San Jose State

Fort Collins, CO

November 9 Wyoming Laramie, WY November 13

Fresno State

Fort Collins, CO

November 18

Utah State

Logan UT

November 20

Boise State

Boise, ID

November 24-26

Mountain West Tournament

36 | Green & Gold Report

Las Vegas, NV

CSU Head Coach Tom Hilbert Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

Green & Gold Report

| 37

CSU VOLLEYball ROSTER

2021 #

NAME

HT

POS

CLASS

HOMETOWN (LAST SCHOOL)

0

Alyssa Bert

5-10

Defensive Specialist

SO

Oklahoma City, OK (Westmoore)

1

Madison Boles

5-11

Outside Hitter

FR

Tacoma, WA (Life Christian Academy)

3

Barrett Power

5-9

Setter

FR

Lincoln, NE (Lincoln Christian School)

4

Brooke Hudson

5-3

Defensive Specialist

SO

Houston, Texas (Cypress Lake)

7

Sasha Colombo

6-2

Middle Blocker/Opposite JR

Milan, Italy (Liceo Scientifico Giordano Bruno)

8

Alexa Roumeliotis

5-7

Defensive Specialist

SR

Menlo Park, CA (Menlo-Atherton), (Creighton)

9

Neemah Weathers

6-1

Middle Blocker

FR

Colorado Springs, CO (Palmer Ridge)

10

Jacqi Van Liefde

6-0

Outside Hitter

R-SO

Chula Vista, CA. (Eastlake)

11

Ciera Zimmerman

6-0

Setter

R-SO

Auburn, WA (Auburn Riverside)

13

Genesis Sheridan

6-1

Middle Blocker

JR

Crystal Lake, IL (Prairie Ridge), (Iowa Western)

14

Alyssa Groves

6-4

Opposite

FR

Slayton, MN (Murray County Central)

17

Kennedy Stanford

5-10

Outside Hitter

FR

Grand Prairie, TX (Lamar)

27

Helena Perez

5-6

Defensive Specialist

FR

Martinez, CA (Carondelet)

42

Karina Leber

6-3

Middle Blocker

FR

Trevor, WI (Wilmot Union)

49

Ruby Kayser

5-8

Defensive Specialist

FR

Canby, OR (Canby)

Rams Volleyball Coaching Staff Tom Hilbert Head Coach

38 | Green & Gold Report

Emily Kohan Associate Coach

Adrianna Blackman Assistant Coach

Bri Olmstead Director of Volleyball Operations

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Green & Gold Report

| 39

Starting a new streak

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW

Ciera Zimmerman

By EDDIE HeRZ

CSU looks to make the NCAA Tournament after missing it last season 40 | Green & Gold Report

T

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

he Colorado State volleyball team entered uncharted territory when forced to cope with an empty-handed fate as last spring’s abbreviated regular season concluded.

Sooner or later, most squads at least grow somewhat accustomed to sitting on the couch as the nation’s top teams compete in the NCAA Tournament.

However, for CSU, witnessing the annual bracket unfold from an outsider’s perspective felt plain odd— justifiably so. And it wasn’t as if the Rams eventually awoke from a bad dream.

Instead, the program’s

25-season streak of receiving an invitation to Division I’s coveted festivities indeed reached an end in 2021. Nevertheless, no longer under the spell of initial befuddlement, the green and gold progress onward poised to embrace the foreign obstacle of re-emerging as an NCAA Tournament team.

“It’s a challenge as a coach in this program because everyone is used to it, head coach Tom Hilbert said. “But you know what?

We shouldn’t be just used to it. How do 70 percent of the teams in the country remain motivated? They have to go

out and earn it and improve.

That’s what we’re doing. It’s a challenge. But it’s my job to teach them to be better every single day. I’ve accepted the challenge, and the players have to.”

Considering the recent 17-game campaign marked year one of a substantial rebuild—in which CSU replaced five starters—it isn’t as if the youthful Rams will seamlessly stroll into the promised land after a rare setback.

As the team’s 24th-year coach touched on, collective enhancements will certainly provide its difficulties. Still, above all reasons for belief,

an encouraging run down the stretch of the shortened slate leaves the Rams hopeful in their ability to piece together a postseason puzzle next time around.

Specifically, CSU wrapped up the spring by proving victorious in four of its final five contests en route to finishing third in the Mountain West at 9-6.

“We had a completely new team,” junior middle attacker Sasha Colombo said. “At certain points of games, there were five freshmen on the court at once. So the big thing is we started creating chemistry and gaining more confidence together. Ending

Kennedy Stanford Green & Gold Report

| 41

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

42 | Green & Gold Report

consistent and balanced with attacking more than anything else, even when Breana wasn’t playing,” Hilbert described.

“So I still feel pretty positive about how the season ended up. I think there’s no doubt we improved throughout that spring season. But that being said, we’re still very much a work in progress.”

Of course, balance in the kill department might occur somewhat naturally following Runnels’ exit, considering the redshirt senior regularly took over offensively while recording team-mosts in kills per set (4.05) and points per set (4.55) in her final campaign.

Consistency across the lineup? That could be more of a struggle. However, after enjoying late-season growth,

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

on a positive note like that definitely helps prepare us for the upcoming season too.”

Notably, a portion of the aforementioned stretch gave the Rams an encouraging head start in preparing for what will undoubtedly amount to one of their trickiest tasks this coming fall—life without Breana Runnels.

Despite Runnels’ four-game, contact-tracing-induced absence, CSU rose to the occasion upon posting a 3-1 record with the outside hitter missing from action amid 2021’s closing stages.

Constituting Hilbert’s only key departure, Runnels graduates as the program’s modern kills leader (1,404) and a four-time All-Mountain West honoree.

“We started being more

Alexa Roumeliotis

Sasha Colombo

CSU will miss Breana Runnels, the program’s all-time leader in kills

the Rams remain confident in their chances of steadily compensating offensively.

At outside hitter, Hilbert retains both Jacqi Van Liefde and rising freshman Kennedy Stanford.

Liefde’s 2.42 kills per set ranked second on the team in the spring as Stanford’s 2.75 points per set were the squad’s most behind Runnels.

Meanwhile, at middleattacker, another flourishing freshman, Karina Leber, returns alongside Colombo following a campaign where she achieved a legitimate groove despite switching to a position she hadn’t played since growing up in Italy.

“Her ability to connect with Ciera (Zimmerman) was critical,” Hilbert said.

“I didn’t want to play her in the middle all the time because she’s great on the right too. But we needed her to keep that middle

attack organized. She ended up being effective and very efficient with her hitting. So that was a pretty impressive effort by her.”

Set to again influence high-percentage kill opportunities for teammates, CSU welcomes back all-league setter Zimmerman subsequent to the sophomore leading the conference in assists per set (9.70).

With a plethora of underclassmen and lessexperienced starters seemingly on the brink of attaining full fruition, the roster’s offensive potential is evident. Well, this should be the case if the squad spreads the love without Runnels.

Speaking of spreading the love, accomplishing Hilbert’s paramount defensive objective will require collaborative efforts

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Green & Gold Report

| 43

44 | Green & Gold Report

Photo Courtesy of CSU Athletic Communications

Jacqi Van Liefde

as well—blocking. CSU finished second-to-last in the Mountain West in blocks last season (1.75 per set), which particularly hindered the Rams’ capacity to prove triumphant during lengthy rallies.

“Everybody on the court and in the front row can improve on that,” Colombo said. “That’s a big goal for next season. We’re just gonna have to work really hard on perfecting that because we definitely need to be a better blocking team if we want to win more games and make the tournament again.”

Given all-league senior Alexa Roumeliotis’ established potency in the digging domain, blocking undeniably represents CSU’s defensive X-factor. Namely, the defensive specialist arrives fresh off a campaign where she accounted for 34 percent of the squad’s digs behind a MW-most 4.96 digs per set.

As one of the Rams’ three upperclassmen, Hilbert will also depend on Roumeliotis substantially from a leadership standpoint. Not to worry, the senior embraces her vital duties—exemplifying the roster’s top-to-bottom willingness to commence a new NCAA Tournament streak this fall.

“We owe her a great deal because she’s deciding to come back in a leadership role on a team that has to rebuild,” Hilbert said. “She’s going to go out as a teacher, a leader and a mentor. She is going to relish that role, and she’ll do well in it. But that’s not an easy position to be in. But I think that shows how much she wants the team to come back with a bang in her final year.”

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Green & Gold Report

| 45

Football Recruiting

SPONSORED BY:

Colorado’s Top 12 Instate Recruits - Class of 2022

Rank Player

Pos.

Ht. / Wt.

247Sports Composite Rating

High School / Hometown

#1

Gavin Sawchuk

RB

5-11 / 185

National 43, Position 2

Valor Christian / Littleton, CO

#2

George Fitzpatrick

OT

6-6 / 285

National 294, Position 29

Cherry Creek / Englewood, CO

#3

Grant Page

ATH

6-3 / 190

National 759, Position 62

Fairview / Boulder, CO

#4

Braden Miller

OT

6-7 / 290

National 862, Position 79

Eaglecrest / Aurora, CO

#5

Jake Maikkula

OT

6-5 / 265

National 863, Position 80

Valor Christian / Littleton, CO

#6

Connor Jones

OT

6-7 / 285

National 937, Position 92

Palmer Ridge / Monument, CO

#7

Nunie Tuitele

DE

6-4 / 230

National NA, Position 43

Regis Jesuit / Aurora, CO

#8

Travis Gray

OT

6-6 / 300

National NA, Position 105

Cherokee Trail / Aurora, CO

#9

Anthony Costanzo

ATH

6-3 / 208

National NA, Position 98

Palmer Ridge / Monument, CO

#10

Kaden Weatherby

OT

6-6 / 270

National NA, Position 127

Eaglecrest / Aurora, CO

#11

Ky Oday Jr.

WR

5-11 / 170

National NA, Position 173

Cherry Creek / Englewood, CO

#12

Luke Meyer

DE

6-5 / 210

National NA, Position 55

Valor Christian / Littleton, CO

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

46 | Green & Gold Report

Green & Gold Report

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48 | Green & Gold Report