2002 Statistics

written by Tim Chapman

Junior Gino Guidugli is one of the nation's best quarterbacks… when he's happy. When he gets flustered, it's like he's stuck in quicksand- the harder he tries to get out of trouble, the worse things get. The former C-USA frosh of the year can put up some big numbers (3543 yds, 22 TDs, 54% comp. pct.) but he has a tendency (that verges on certainty) to force balls in attempts at redemption, as evidenced by his 21 INTs. Not losing is a valid aim in this case.

The Bearcats lose their top three receivers - the offense they run requires a plentiful amount of pass-catchers. Minter and his staff decided it would be wise to make junior George Murray a full-time WR, keeping his athletic ability on the field and allowing him to focus solely on making plays from his wide-out spot. Additional outside threats include soph Derick Ross and two JUCO prospects, Hannibal Thomas and Cedric Dawley. Both are big, physical receivers that should help keep the potent passing game in tact. We particularly like Thomas to step up and establish himself as a premier threat in C-USA.

The running game faces the biggest challenge in replacing McCleskey. He was a punch that the offense relied on to compliment the aerial attack. Getting the first crack is junior Richard Hall. An elusive, shifty runner, Hall provides a quick burst and the ability to run by defenders. The test as the team's top back will be his endurance in taking 20 handoffs a game. If he fails, look for the Bearcats to run by committee.

The O-line lost its top two players, but still look like a solid group. Junior Kyle Takavitz will make the move from tackle to guard, to fill the inside gap left by Doolin. The vacancy at left tackle means a new starter protecting Guidugli's blind-side. At any rate, the line should stay fresh and plentiful - ten returning lettermen come back from playing time last year.

C Josh Shneyderov

written by Tim Chapman

Defense has always been a Minter trademark. He has the knack to make a defense more valuable than the sum of its parts, and this should be another solid corps. It all starts with the linebackers. Junior Jamar Enzor will see action as a full-time MLB after completing a stellar sophomore campaign. Enzor has great vision and gives the defense an anchor in the middle. Until the defensive line solidifies, his duties will vary so he can roam free without disruption from an offensive line. Senior Tyjuan Hagler returns at his strong-side position, where he experienced similar 2002 success. Senior Jason Russell began last season as the starter at weak-side and plays like a strong safety. His contributions must be more consistent if he hopes to maintain his starting spot. We also like what we see in junior Jermaine Wilson, who should be a healthy contributor this year.

The secondary gives reliable support to the linebackers. The strength will lie in the safety position - junior Doug Monaghan is back for his third year as a starter at the strong safety spot. He is a lot like Josh Morgan (formerly of Miss. St.)- a linebacker type that can run like a safety. Stepping in at free safety is senior Franklin Callicott, a rangy, fearless rover with a flair for making the big play. Zach Norton provides versatility at corner, highlighted by his 39-inch vertical leap. These three will make it difficult for opposing QBs to throw against, and nearly as hard versus the run. And as good as these guys are, the depth behind them will make them even stronger, thanks to healthy competition and a hearty rotation.

Cincinnati's best defender will be playing on the weakest area of the squad. The defensive line loses two starters and a key reserve whom logged valuable 2002 time and numbers. Coaches are moving junior Trent Cole from tackle to end so as to maximize his athletic talents and bolster the pass rush. Coaches expect his cohorts on the line to fill the gaps. They can then enjoy success against the run. The Bearcat defense gave up only 138 yards per game on the ground- a number that might inflate just a bit in '03. Junior DT Mike Wright missed 2002 with an injury, but should again contribute.

SS Doug Monaghan