Spring Football Preview, Part II
3/16/2006 7:00:00 AM | Football
March 7, 2006
COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The following is the second in a six-part series previewing the Maryland football team as it heads into spring practice for 2006. Today's segment takes a look at the Terp tailbacks and fullbacks. Check back every Tuesday and Thursday before the start of camp on April 1st for the most recent preview.
Tailback
A year after a wide-open race at tailback, things seem to be back to normal heading into this spring.
The Terps are well-stocked and seem to have their old two-pronged attack back with the shifty, natural runner in Lance Ball (a second team All-ACC pick in his sophomore campaign) and a home run hitter with the return of Josh Allen. Ball will be looking to improve his speed and ability as a breakaway threat, while Allen - who will not be restricted this spring - will be looking to successfully return to the field for the first time since 2004. Spring will primarily serve as a jumping off point for the senior.
Also in the mix this spring will be senior J.P. Humber, T.D. Callahan and Morgan Green. Humber will be looking to earn playing time while Callahan is returning from a knee injury of his own, and newcomer Green will be looking to show his wares while also learning the Terp offense system. Keon Lattimore will miss spring (shoulder).
"In Lance, we have a known commodity, but I would like for him to get faster and continue to improve," said Friedgen. "It will be great to see Josh back out there because we have missed having that true breakaway threat. We will have to see how far along he is and be smart about it, but the plan is for him to participate in everything."
Fullback
The Tim Cesa experiment at fullback was a complete success a year ago as the former linebacker overcame an early-season illness, worked his way into the lineup, and finished as the team's starter. A physical, hard-nosed player, he will get more of a look this spring as a ball-carrier as well.
One of last year's most pleasant surprises was the play of Matt Deese, a sophomore who will back up Cesa. Deese is a battering ram who was brought in for goal-line situations last year and will provide the Terps with a strong one-two punch in front of the feature backs this season.
Another player to watch this spring will be Chris Gronkowski, younger brother of tight end Dan. His progression could provide even more depth at a position that is not slated to lose a player to graduation until after 2007.
"We should be better at fullback this year with both guys having played last year," said Friedgen. "Our top two guys are both true fullbacks. Hopefully Chris Gronkowski can come on and provide us with some more depth, but right now, with Cesa and Deese, we don't have to rely on H-backs to be fullbacks so that is a plus."
Spring Outlook Schedule
Spring Dates to Rememeber
