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Show lid By MIKE CANNON Record Reporter Defense looks to be the forte of the 1981 Southern Utah State College football team, but the offense shouldn't be far behind. "I think defense will probably be our real strong point," exclaimed Thun-derbird Thun-derbird head mentor Jack Bishop. "We feel we have excellent defensive size." The 'Birds will have nine defensive starters returning to this year's team and have only to fill voids at linebacker and defensive end. Local standout Monte Sorensen is expected to plug the gap at the end spot. He started two years ago and missed last year because of injuries. Adding to SU's defensive prowess is the fact that most of the nine returning starters are seniors with loads of experience ex-perience and the entire defensive secondary is returning. "Our question defensively is whether we can mold together and play as a unit," said Bishop. Strong special teams Another bright spot in this year's Thunderbird season is the expected performance of special teams. "I think this will be a strong area," exclaimed Bishop. Randy Kerr will handle all of the kicking chores. Sam Galageous, Curry Ancar and Clifford Banks are all expected ex-pected to be real tough on special team units. Offensively Southern Utah looks to be in good shape, with the quarterback position being the major uncertainty. 'That's going to be the question mark," muses Bishop. Bob August is returning and is an excellent thrower. Ben Bubak is a transfer from the University of Idaho who throws and runs well. Kirk Haf en, a Colorado State transfer, is also a fine passer and runner. "If that position jells and other things come together, we could have a solid ball club," remarked an optimistic Bishop. Solid offense At most offensive positions SU is very experienced. "We should have good experience and depth at the receiving positions," Bishop explained. Rick Snow should see lots of action as a wide receiver. A tough offensive line should open lots of holes for running backs Curtis Page, Bob Verburg and Gary Mason. The running game should be a strong facet of the SUSC offense. RMAC outlook Looking at the perenially tough Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, Western State and the University of Southern Colorado are expected to be tough, with SUSC right up there. The RMAC coaches poll picks the 'Birds second behind Southern Colorado. "I think we're going to be right in there," said Bishop. The Thunderbirds have been serious contenders for the RMAC crown two out of the past three seasons. They hope this will be the year they bring home top honors. According Bishop, Mesa, New Mexico Highlands and Colorado Mines are all dark horses and could have outstanding seasons. "I think this is going to be a really even year in the conference," said Bishop. The team that can best avoid injuries and win the tough ones on the road should cop the title. The Thunderbirds open play September Sep-tember 5 against Cal Poly Pomona in California. That game will be a key to establishing momentum for SUSC. Southern Utah will be hindered somewhat against non-conference competition because they didn't have spring practice, along with the rest of the conference schools. Bishop said the conference is considering con-sidering reinstatement of spring football next year, according to his i sources. r-m0r tilt; ISryJ ui i iiMiiinQLt ir Bob "Tex" August hands off during a Southern Utah State College game. August is one of three quarterbacks vying for a starting berth on the SU . team. |