BLUE DEFEATS GOLD TEAM IN SPRING GAME

April 17, 2010 - On a very windy evening, the Blue squad defeated the Gold team 21-14 in the annual Spring Football Game.

Probably the most watched competition was at quarterback where all four players did a good job. But there was really no argument that Austin Dantin, the starter at the end of last season, showed the most leadership and skill. He completed 8 of 8 passes for 56 yards and also averaged 5.1 yards per carry rushing the ball, mostly on designed plays.

Also of note, redshirt freshman quarterback Terrance Owens looked good completing 9 of thirteen passes, mostly on short routes.

"I think the quarterback competition is wide open," Tim Beckman said. "Dantin did some good things, Pettee did some good things and TO had some opportunities. They all have their strengths and we're going to have to make a determination next fall. We're bringing in Dwight Macon, who was here tonight, and he will have an opportunity, but it's hard as a freshman to come in and be a starter right away. Probably one of these four guys will be the starter against Arizona."

There were a number of running backs that were impressive. Morgan Williams turned in a solid performance as did Adonis Thomas who showed very good speed averaging 4.9 yards per carry. Williams also had a 28-yard pass reception. It was the first opportunity to see redshirt freshman Darius Reeves and he didn't disappoint. A big back, 6-1, 192, Reeves had some nice quickness, and should challenge for some playing time this fall.

Eric Page picked up where he left off last season, although he only had two receptions. Still, you could see the speed and quickness in everything he did on the field. He was at quarterback for a few plays and also looked outstanding on plays where he ran the ball. Look for Page to be more multi-dimensional as a sophomore.

On defense, newcomer Ross Madison, had 11 tackles to lead the Gold team from his free safety position. The freshman looks like he's going to be able to help immediately. Senior linebacker Archie Donald also looked very solid with ten stops, and two tackles for loss, as he enters his senior season.

Toledo's quarterbacks took some big hits during the game, including Owens who was flattened by Terrell Willis. Charles Rancifer also had a big hit on Alex Pettee.

One area of special importance for the upcoming season is the development of the defensive line. Overall, it would be hard to say they were significantly better, but they were solid. Senior defensive end Doug Westbrook showed some good speed and finished with seven tackles. Defensive tackles Malcolm Riley and Jonathan Lamb were both very good with Lamb just getting better and better. The junior seems poised for a big season if he continues to develop. He showed some of his old high school tight end abilities as he intercepted a pass for the Gold team and ran it back 30 yards.

"As far as defensive ends, Doug Westbrook and T.J. Fatinikun by far have had the best spring and really can help us with some edge pressure on the quarterback," Beckman said.

It was good to see Desmond Marrow back on the field making plays and being healthy. He had eights tackles and an interception in the game.

The punters and kickers were a mixed bag. Ryan Casano made two field goals (23 and 37 yards), but the punters struggled. On a positive note, Casano booted a field goal from 58 yards earlier in the week, so his potential is very good.

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Former Rocket quarterback Ryan Huzjak was a guest coach and also has been a long-time employee of the Chicago Bears. He gave some glowing reports on Chester Taylor, who he feels should make a big impact with the Bears.