Hillsdale College Release
Aug. 29, 2005. — Hillsdale College senior Chad Gurica (Adiran, Mich.) was named the GLIAC Special Teams Player of the Week for Week 1 of play in the 2005 season, as announced by the conference office Monday morning.
Gurica, a starting cornerback and kick returner for the Chargers, took the second-half kickoff back 95 yards for a touchdown to highlight his terrific season debut against the University of Indianapolis. The return itself was highlight-reel material, as Gurica worked his way around a pile of defenders, cut upfield, and outran two Indianapolis defenders on his way to the end zone. Gurica, a co-captain, finished with 113 total return yards, and also had five tackles and an interception on defense. Hillsdale eventually lost Saturday’s game to the Greyhounds, 29-21. The kickoff return touchdown was the second of Gurica’s career, the first coming Sept. 6, 2003 against Ferris State University.
Gurica is a two-time honorable mention All-GLIAC selection, and has finished fourth on the Chargers in tackles each of the past two seasons. Gurica played for coach Bill Kohn at Adrian High School.
Tradition • Character • Service
Monday, August 29, 2005
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Running Game Must Improve!
I am Andy Brown and this is my fourth season as play-by-play announcer for Chargers football on WCSR, Hillsdale. Andy Losik asked me to post my impressions of the games, and since I am a huge fan of the site, I am happy to do it.
As Bob (my broadcast partner) and I saw it, this was the earliest must win game in recent Hillsdale College Football history. After spending the winter with Chargers players wearing pink 4-7 shirts to the weightroom, denoting the three consecutive 4-7 seasons by Hillsdale College under Keith Otterbein, we both thought that Hillsdale would rise to the occasion at Indy. After all, Matt Kohn, the longtime Indy quarterback who was so tough on our defense for so long, was gone. In his place, a sophomore named Casey Gillin. Furthermore, Hillsdale actually beat Indy last season, in that classic four-overtime game in Hillsdale. If they were serious about getting better, then surely they wouldn't drop games against the handfull of teams that they actually beat last year. Finally, when you look at the schedule, and particularly at the middle, when Hillsdale plays Saginaw, Northwood, and Grand Valley on consecutive Saturdays, you realize that to have a better year, Hillsdale had to get off to a great start against the beatable teams at the front of the schedule. Unfortunately, it took being completely dominated in the first half for the Chargers to begin competing, and by that time it was too late.
10 for 7. That is the rushing output of the Chargers in the first half. 10 carries for 7 yards. It is impossible to put a positive spin on it. Indy controlled the time of possession, and put points on the board after chewing up big chunks of clock. It seemed that Phil Martin was hit as soon as he took the handoff most of the time. Our line got pushed around by DE Chris White and the rest of that Indy front five, which left the running game in shambles, and Aaron Scholl running for cover. The Chargers offense never seemed to be in synch, as Martin would either be met deep in the offensive backfield or Scholl would have to scramble around, searching for an open receiver until taken down by White or LB Bruce Renner. Barry Fagan and the offensive staff tried to establish the option game, which did set up a pretty touchdown pass to Bill Brown, but they still never really established a running game. It just seemed that the offensive line was on its heels much of the game, perhaps missing the leadership of Jake Welch.
Defensively, Hillsdale got some good individual efforts, particularly from Aaron Hoekje who had two sacks and two blocked extra points, and from Chad Gurica who was making plays all over the field. It seemed that other than Gurica, however, the secondary was a step or two behind the Indy receivers, who would have had better numbers had they not dropped several good passes from Gillin. Matt Britton did not play, and that certainly hurt the linebacking core, but the biggest problem I saw was the Charger's inability to get themselves off the field. The defense surrendered one third down conversion after another, allowing Indy to control the ball and wear us out. I was impressed by the young quarterback, Gillin's, ability to make plays to keep drives alive. I was disappointed by the Charger's inability to make key plays on third down and get the ball back to the offense.
Through it all, Hillsdale still had the ball with four minutes remaining down only 8. They have Hoekje's extra point blocks and Gurica's 95-yard kickoff return to open the second half to thank for even having a chance. However, the offense had no real momentum and never mounted a serious threat. Hillsdale better find a way to beat Findlay next week, a team that defeated Hillsdale at home one year ago, because the schedule doesn't get any easier.
The bright spots: Chad Gurica, Aaron Hoekje, and Mark Wade, the freshman linebacker who had 8 tackles and showed a good nose for the football.
Needs some work: The offensive line, the running game, Aaron Scholl's confidence.
Hopefully we will have the link up to listen to our broadcast next week. We play Findlay at 7:00 and will broadcast live at 6:45 on FM 92.1 and (hopefully) on hillsdale.edu.
The opinions expressed above are just that, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of WCSR Radio. See you next week!
As Bob (my broadcast partner) and I saw it, this was the earliest must win game in recent Hillsdale College Football history. After spending the winter with Chargers players wearing pink 4-7 shirts to the weightroom, denoting the three consecutive 4-7 seasons by Hillsdale College under Keith Otterbein, we both thought that Hillsdale would rise to the occasion at Indy. After all, Matt Kohn, the longtime Indy quarterback who was so tough on our defense for so long, was gone. In his place, a sophomore named Casey Gillin. Furthermore, Hillsdale actually beat Indy last season, in that classic four-overtime game in Hillsdale. If they were serious about getting better, then surely they wouldn't drop games against the handfull of teams that they actually beat last year. Finally, when you look at the schedule, and particularly at the middle, when Hillsdale plays Saginaw, Northwood, and Grand Valley on consecutive Saturdays, you realize that to have a better year, Hillsdale had to get off to a great start against the beatable teams at the front of the schedule. Unfortunately, it took being completely dominated in the first half for the Chargers to begin competing, and by that time it was too late.
10 for 7. That is the rushing output of the Chargers in the first half. 10 carries for 7 yards. It is impossible to put a positive spin on it. Indy controlled the time of possession, and put points on the board after chewing up big chunks of clock. It seemed that Phil Martin was hit as soon as he took the handoff most of the time. Our line got pushed around by DE Chris White and the rest of that Indy front five, which left the running game in shambles, and Aaron Scholl running for cover. The Chargers offense never seemed to be in synch, as Martin would either be met deep in the offensive backfield or Scholl would have to scramble around, searching for an open receiver until taken down by White or LB Bruce Renner. Barry Fagan and the offensive staff tried to establish the option game, which did set up a pretty touchdown pass to Bill Brown, but they still never really established a running game. It just seemed that the offensive line was on its heels much of the game, perhaps missing the leadership of Jake Welch.
Defensively, Hillsdale got some good individual efforts, particularly from Aaron Hoekje who had two sacks and two blocked extra points, and from Chad Gurica who was making plays all over the field. It seemed that other than Gurica, however, the secondary was a step or two behind the Indy receivers, who would have had better numbers had they not dropped several good passes from Gillin. Matt Britton did not play, and that certainly hurt the linebacking core, but the biggest problem I saw was the Charger's inability to get themselves off the field. The defense surrendered one third down conversion after another, allowing Indy to control the ball and wear us out. I was impressed by the young quarterback, Gillin's, ability to make plays to keep drives alive. I was disappointed by the Charger's inability to make key plays on third down and get the ball back to the offense.
Through it all, Hillsdale still had the ball with four minutes remaining down only 8. They have Hoekje's extra point blocks and Gurica's 95-yard kickoff return to open the second half to thank for even having a chance. However, the offense had no real momentum and never mounted a serious threat. Hillsdale better find a way to beat Findlay next week, a team that defeated Hillsdale at home one year ago, because the schedule doesn't get any easier.
The bright spots: Chad Gurica, Aaron Hoekje, and Mark Wade, the freshman linebacker who had 8 tackles and showed a good nose for the football.
Needs some work: The offensive line, the running game, Aaron Scholl's confidence.
Hopefully we will have the link up to listen to our broadcast next week. We play Findlay at 7:00 and will broadcast live at 6:45 on FM 92.1 and (hopefully) on hillsdale.edu.
The opinions expressed above are just that, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of WCSR Radio. See you next week!
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Chargers Drop Opener 29-21
The 2005 Charger season got off to a disappointing start for the Hillsdale faithful.
Trailing 23-7 at the half, Chad Gurica brought the Chargers closer with a spectacular 95 yard touchdown return of the second half kickoff.
The Chargers drew within 2 at 23-21 to end the 3rd quarter when Aaron Scholl found Chris Clay for the 19 yard TD before Indy scored to put the Greyhounds up 29-21.
Andy Dione had a big sack in the 4th quarter and Gurica used a 40 yard punt return to get Scholl one more shot with 2:03 left. All hope was shot though 3 plays later when Scholl was intercepted allowing Indy to run out the clock.
The Chargers mustered just 32 yards rushing. Scholl was 8 of 14, 2 TD, 2 Interceptions, 112 yards. Hillsdale possessed the ball just 19 minutes. The Charger defense allowed 186 yards rushing and 257 yards passing for 443 total yards.
Hillsdale travels to Findlay next Saturday.
Trailing 23-7 at the half, Chad Gurica brought the Chargers closer with a spectacular 95 yard touchdown return of the second half kickoff.
The Chargers drew within 2 at 23-21 to end the 3rd quarter when Aaron Scholl found Chris Clay for the 19 yard TD before Indy scored to put the Greyhounds up 29-21.
Andy Dione had a big sack in the 4th quarter and Gurica used a 40 yard punt return to get Scholl one more shot with 2:03 left. All hope was shot though 3 plays later when Scholl was intercepted allowing Indy to run out the clock.
The Chargers mustered just 32 yards rushing. Scholl was 8 of 14, 2 TD, 2 Interceptions, 112 yards. Hillsdale possessed the ball just 19 minutes. The Charger defense allowed 186 yards rushing and 257 yards passing for 443 total yards.
Hillsdale travels to Findlay next Saturday.
In Game Update 23-14 (9:00 3rd Quarter)
Chargers trailed 23-7 at half (Scholl to Brown TD)
Chad Gurica returned the second half kickoff all of the way to pull Hillsdale within 9.
Audio available at http://streamer.is.uindy.edu:554/ramgen/broadcast/wicr.rm
Chad Gurica returned the second half kickoff all of the way to pull Hillsdale within 9.
Audio available at http://streamer.is.uindy.edu:554/ramgen/broadcast/wicr.rm
Hillsdale Daily News::Chargers Open Season at Rival Indianapolis
By Paul Costanzo
Daily news Sports Editor
August 27, 2005
It’s no surprise that Hillsdale College football coach Keith Otterbein expects a dog fight when his team plays at Indianapolis today.
The two teams were ranked eighth and ninth in the preseason GLIAC poll respectively.
They both sit in the group of teams that is fighting to get onto the Grand Valley, Saginaw Valley, Northwood level.
Oh, and last year they played a 49—43 four overtime game which was won by the home Chargers.
“You better line up ready to play,” Otterbein said. “It’s going to be a battle. It’s going to be war.”
Kickoff is at 6 p.m. Indianapolis time as both teams start their regular and GLIAC seasons looking to make a move toward the top of the conference.
Full Story
Daily news Sports Editor
August 27, 2005
It’s no surprise that Hillsdale College football coach Keith Otterbein expects a dog fight when his team plays at Indianapolis today.
The two teams were ranked eighth and ninth in the preseason GLIAC poll respectively.
They both sit in the group of teams that is fighting to get onto the Grand Valley, Saginaw Valley, Northwood level.
Oh, and last year they played a 49—43 four overtime game which was won by the home Chargers.
“You better line up ready to play,” Otterbein said. “It’s going to be a battle. It’s going to be war.”
Kickoff is at 6 p.m. Indianapolis time as both teams start their regular and GLIAC seasons looking to make a move toward the top of the conference.
Full Story
Gameday Weather
Looks to be a warm and muggy one to kick off the 2005 season tonight in Indianapolis
This Afternoon: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a high near 86. West wind around 11 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.
Tonight: Patchy fog after midnight. Otherwise, partly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 61. West northwest wind between 5 and 8 mph becoming calm.
Detailed forecast
This Afternoon: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a high near 86. West wind around 11 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.
Tonight: Patchy fog after midnight. Otherwise, partly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 61. West northwest wind between 5 and 8 mph becoming calm.
Detailed forecast
Friday, August 26, 2005
Charger Parents: Tickets - UI Tailgating Information
Sandy Balone
Hillsdale Parents Booster Club
New ticket policy effective this season for the whole conference.
Away games: There will be no ticket will call for visiting teams. We will have to purchase our tickets like the general public. For those of you who are new to college football, this generally poses no problem at all at the smaller schools. Potential problems could arise at bigger schools like Grand Valley, Ferris, etc. where limited number of tickets go on sale to the public.
Home games: Your son gets to sign up 4 people to see him play at home for free! Each person's name needs to be on the list and must show ID at the Hillsdale will call ticket booth to be admitted for free. If your son forgets to write down Grandma & Grandpa, then Grandma & Grandpa pay regular ticket prices. These are conference rules and there will be no exceptions! If you joined the parent booster club, you will get a 4 person pass which allows you to bypass all this and breeze into the game. So...if you are a parent booster member you can admit up to 8 people free to home games (4 with your pass, 4 on the will call ticket list). Get with your son well before home games to instruct him on whose names to put on the will call ticket list.
Tailgating at Indy: Parking is first come, first serve and there was no charge in 2003. Main parking lot is on the west side of the stadium. Enter main parking lot off Hanna and turn to the right. First vehicle there, find an open area, throw up your flag and we'll all try to gather around. This is the best I could do, since they will not hold an area for us. Grills, tables & chairs are permitted as long as they do not block driving lanes of parking lot. No alcohol is permitted. If main parking lot is full there is an overflow parking lot off State St. Tailgate starts 2 hours prior to game time 4:00 PM Indy time, 5:00 PM Michigan time. Please bring your main dish, beverages, eating utensils and a small dish to pass. Grills, tables & chairs are also a good idea. As always, our grill is on, come over and throw your stuff on with ours!
Vonnie Sandner & I will both be there with order forms and samples for buttons and apparel. We also have Charger football rear window decals for $5.00 Come over and check it out!
Hillsdale Parents Booster Club
New ticket policy effective this season for the whole conference.
Away games: There will be no ticket will call for visiting teams. We will have to purchase our tickets like the general public. For those of you who are new to college football, this generally poses no problem at all at the smaller schools. Potential problems could arise at bigger schools like Grand Valley, Ferris, etc. where limited number of tickets go on sale to the public.
Home games: Your son gets to sign up 4 people to see him play at home for free! Each person's name needs to be on the list and must show ID at the Hillsdale will call ticket booth to be admitted for free. If your son forgets to write down Grandma & Grandpa, then Grandma & Grandpa pay regular ticket prices. These are conference rules and there will be no exceptions! If you joined the parent booster club, you will get a 4 person pass which allows you to bypass all this and breeze into the game. So...if you are a parent booster member you can admit up to 8 people free to home games (4 with your pass, 4 on the will call ticket list). Get with your son well before home games to instruct him on whose names to put on the will call ticket list.
Tailgating at Indy: Parking is first come, first serve and there was no charge in 2003. Main parking lot is on the west side of the stadium. Enter main parking lot off Hanna and turn to the right. First vehicle there, find an open area, throw up your flag and we'll all try to gather around. This is the best I could do, since they will not hold an area for us. Grills, tables & chairs are permitted as long as they do not block driving lanes of parking lot. No alcohol is permitted. If main parking lot is full there is an overflow parking lot off State St. Tailgate starts 2 hours prior to game time 4:00 PM Indy time, 5:00 PM Michigan time. Please bring your main dish, beverages, eating utensils and a small dish to pass. Grills, tables & chairs are also a good idea. As always, our grill is on, come over and throw your stuff on with ours!
Vonnie Sandner & I will both be there with order forms and samples for buttons and apparel. We also have Charger football rear window decals for $5.00 Come over and check it out!
4-7 hump motivates Hillsdale
Friday, August 26, 2005
By Chip Mundy :: cmundy@citpat.com
Jackson Citizen Patriot
Hillsdale College football coach Keith Otterbein looks at his team and sees improvement.
But when he looks at the Chargers' record the past three years it's impossible to see any improvement.
2002: 4-7
2003: 4-7
2004: 4-7
"I'm a little frustrated with that, and we've addressed that with the team to try and get over that 4-7 hump," said Otterbein, in his fourth season at Hillsdale. "I feel like looking back on our progress as a program that we know that we're much improved from the first season, but the only way to show that to people is to win football games."
Full Story
By Chip Mundy :: cmundy@citpat.com
Jackson Citizen Patriot
Hillsdale College football coach Keith Otterbein looks at his team and sees improvement.
But when he looks at the Chargers' record the past three years it's impossible to see any improvement.
2002: 4-7
2003: 4-7
2004: 4-7
"I'm a little frustrated with that, and we've addressed that with the team to try and get over that 4-7 hump," said Otterbein, in his fourth season at Hillsdale. "I feel like looking back on our progress as a program that we know that we're much improved from the first season, but the only way to show that to people is to win football games."
Full Story
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Let's Get it On!
Just 2 days until kickoff, and I can hardly wait for the 2005 Hillsdale College Football season to kick off. The last 3 seasons of 4-7 Hillsdale football have been tough to endure, not so much in the fact that the Chargers haven't been winning, but from the brutal luck these guys have experienced would'ves, could'ves, should'ves. and injuries.
This is head coach Keith Otterbein's 4th season after returning to the 'Dale from a highly successful stint at Ferris St. and then some time in the MAC as an assistant. No one has taken the losses harder or more personally than Otter and his players know it. That is evident in the fact that number one theme you hear is that there won't be another 4-7 season. And there shouldn't.
The Chargers have lots of experience, led by 22 seniors including captains TE Keith Recker and corner Chad Gurica, both who have been recognized as a couple of top seniors not only in the GLIAC but the region as well. Two other key returnees are juniors QB Aaron Scholl and TB Phil Martin. If both stay healthy, Hillsdale's offense should be able to put substantial numbers up this season.
A strong start to the season will be key in turning the corner, getting over the hump, or any other cliche you'd like to insert here. Weeks 1 and 2 are both on the road, with the first home game Saturday September 10th against Ferris St. serving as homecoming. Wins early will not only instill the necessary confidence in the program, but in a student body that usually shows well early but then gets easily distracted as the season progresses.
The Chargers travel to Indianapolis this Saturday to face the Greyhounds coached by HC alum Joe Polizzi in a rematch of last season's 4 OT opener. Hillsdale came away with the win and ended a 7 year drought to UI. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM Michigan time/ 6:00 PM local and will be the first ever night game on the Indy campus. Gone is Indy's all-everything QB Mark Kohn. That can't be too heart-breaking to new Charger defensive coordinator Craig Blanchard who must replace All-GLIAC LB Josh Mott and revamp a defense that was near the bottom of the league statistically all last season. Senior LB Matt Britton played extremely well last season and should fill the void left by the fellow Sarasota, FL area Mott. A couple of true freshman, Marcellus Wade and Tom Korte could play a major role in the linebacking corps as well. Korte was a D1 prospect who ultimately chose Hillsdale. Sam Balone has to be hungry though, missing a hunk of last year due to injury. Look for him to get his nose in the mix as well.
One of Blanchard's goals has been creating more of a pass rush. Saturday night would be a great time to do it. Indy returns the core of its line but will have inexperience replacing Kohn and the core of its running game in also departed leading rusher Donnie McCoy.
Defensively, Indy features one of the league's best in linebacker Bruce Renner.
The game will be available over the Internet through HC's feed of WCSR. Usually the link is posted just prior to gametime at Hillsdale.edu/chargers The UI broadcast can be heard at wicr.uindy.edu.
Fans in the Indianapolis area can watch the game live on the SkyTrack Network.
Game Notes:
Indianapolis Game Notes
Hillsdale Game Notes
This is head coach Keith Otterbein's 4th season after returning to the 'Dale from a highly successful stint at Ferris St. and then some time in the MAC as an assistant. No one has taken the losses harder or more personally than Otter and his players know it. That is evident in the fact that number one theme you hear is that there won't be another 4-7 season. And there shouldn't.
The Chargers have lots of experience, led by 22 seniors including captains TE Keith Recker and corner Chad Gurica, both who have been recognized as a couple of top seniors not only in the GLIAC but the region as well. Two other key returnees are juniors QB Aaron Scholl and TB Phil Martin. If both stay healthy, Hillsdale's offense should be able to put substantial numbers up this season.
A strong start to the season will be key in turning the corner, getting over the hump, or any other cliche you'd like to insert here. Weeks 1 and 2 are both on the road, with the first home game Saturday September 10th against Ferris St. serving as homecoming. Wins early will not only instill the necessary confidence in the program, but in a student body that usually shows well early but then gets easily distracted as the season progresses.
The Chargers travel to Indianapolis this Saturday to face the Greyhounds coached by HC alum Joe Polizzi in a rematch of last season's 4 OT opener. Hillsdale came away with the win and ended a 7 year drought to UI. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM Michigan time/ 6:00 PM local and will be the first ever night game on the Indy campus. Gone is Indy's all-everything QB Mark Kohn. That can't be too heart-breaking to new Charger defensive coordinator Craig Blanchard who must replace All-GLIAC LB Josh Mott and revamp a defense that was near the bottom of the league statistically all last season. Senior LB Matt Britton played extremely well last season and should fill the void left by the fellow Sarasota, FL area Mott. A couple of true freshman, Marcellus Wade and Tom Korte could play a major role in the linebacking corps as well. Korte was a D1 prospect who ultimately chose Hillsdale. Sam Balone has to be hungry though, missing a hunk of last year due to injury. Look for him to get his nose in the mix as well.
One of Blanchard's goals has been creating more of a pass rush. Saturday night would be a great time to do it. Indy returns the core of its line but will have inexperience replacing Kohn and the core of its running game in also departed leading rusher Donnie McCoy.
Defensively, Indy features one of the league's best in linebacker Bruce Renner.
The game will be available over the Internet through HC's feed of WCSR. Usually the link is posted just prior to gametime at Hillsdale.edu/chargers The UI broadcast can be heard at wicr.uindy.edu.
Fans in the Indianapolis area can watch the game live on the SkyTrack Network.
Game Notes:
Indianapolis Game Notes
Hillsdale Game Notes
Hillsdale looks to stay healthy, get over the perennial 4–7 hump
By Paul Costanzo
Hillsdale Daily News
August 24, 2005
When asked what it will take for the Hillsdale College football team to have a successful season, coach Keith Otterbein had a simple and straightforward answer.“We need to stay healthy,” he said. “Stay healthy and stay healthy.”
Last year the team lost a number of starters to injury and another 4–7 record was the result.
Perhaps the most notable injury last year came to quarterback Aaron Scholl, who had completed nearly 62 percent of his passes for 851 yards and eight touchdowns through five games last season. His injury knocked him out for the remainder of the season, but he’s healthy now and his arm and legs should give the Hillsdale offense a lot of firepower.
Full Story
Hillsdale Daily News
August 24, 2005
When asked what it will take for the Hillsdale College football team to have a successful season, coach Keith Otterbein had a simple and straightforward answer.“We need to stay healthy,” he said. “Stay healthy and stay healthy.”
Last year the team lost a number of starters to injury and another 4–7 record was the result.
Perhaps the most notable injury last year came to quarterback Aaron Scholl, who had completed nearly 62 percent of his passes for 851 yards and eight touchdowns through five games last season. His injury knocked him out for the remainder of the season, but he’s healthy now and his arm and legs should give the Hillsdale offense a lot of firepower.
Full Story
College Sports TV:: D-II Preview: Regional Breakdown
D-II Preview: Regional Breakdown
Pittsburg State and Valdosta State lead the pack
Aug. 24, 2005
By Brad Dopke
Special to CSTV.com from College Sports Report
With all do respect to Christmas carolers around the world, everybody knows that we're about to kick off the most wonderful time of the year! Oh yeah, it's football tipme, baby. That means its time to round up the usual suspects to see who will wear the D-II crown.
Full Article
Pittsburg State and Valdosta State lead the pack
Aug. 24, 2005
By Brad Dopke
Special to CSTV.com from College Sports Report
With all do respect to Christmas carolers around the world, everybody knows that we're about to kick off the most wonderful time of the year! Oh yeah, it's football tipme, baby. That means its time to round up the usual suspects to see who will wear the D-II crown.
Full Article
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
D2football.com: Top 25 Poll
August 22, 2005
D2Football.com Top 25 National Rankings
The 2005 D2Football.com Top 25 National Rankings are chosen by members of the D2Football.com Media Voting Panel. D2Football.com will release its national poll every Tuesday during football season.
D2Football.com Top 25 Poll
Rank Team 2004 Record
1 Pittsburg State 14-1
2 Valdosta State 13-1
3 Grand Valley 10-3
4 North Dakota 11-3
5 Northwest Missouri 11-2
6 Texas A&M-Kingsville 9-2
7 Northwood 10-2
8 East Stroudsburg 10-2
9 Albany State 11-1
10 Carson-Newman 9-3
11 Nebraska-Omaha 8-3
12 Edinboro 9-3
13 Winona State 10-2
14 Arkansas Tech 10-2
15 Delta State 6-4
16 Colorado Mines 12-1
17 South Dakota 9-2
18 Michigan Tech 9-2
19 West Chester 11-4
20 St. Cloud 8-3
21 Central Oklahoma 8-2
22 Shippensburg 10-2
23 Tuskegee 10-2
24 Saginaw Valley 7-3
25 Southeastern Oklahoma 8-3
D2Football.com Top 25 National Rankings
The 2005 D2Football.com Top 25 National Rankings are chosen by members of the D2Football.com Media Voting Panel. D2Football.com will release its national poll every Tuesday during football season.
D2Football.com Top 25 Poll
Rank Team 2004 Record
1 Pittsburg State 14-1
2 Valdosta State 13-1
3 Grand Valley 10-3
4 North Dakota 11-3
5 Northwest Missouri 11-2
6 Texas A&M-Kingsville 9-2
7 Northwood 10-2
8 East Stroudsburg 10-2
9 Albany State 11-1
10 Carson-Newman 9-3
11 Nebraska-Omaha 8-3
12 Edinboro 9-3
13 Winona State 10-2
14 Arkansas Tech 10-2
15 Delta State 6-4
16 Colorado Mines 12-1
17 South Dakota 9-2
18 Michigan Tech 9-2
19 West Chester 11-4
20 St. Cloud 8-3
21 Central Oklahoma 8-2
22 Shippensburg 10-2
23 Tuskegee 10-2
24 Saginaw Valley 7-3
25 Southeastern Oklahoma 8-3
D2football.com: Week 1 Northwest Region Notebook
D2football.com Northwest Region Correspondent
August 22, 2005
If you're a college football junky like me, January through August seems like an eternity. Sure, recruiting is kind of fun to follow and spring football helps break up the long off-season, but not even a beautiful summer night at the ballpark watching my favorite steroid-enhanced slugger can make up for no football. If you look at things like I do, I'm sure you would agree that this coming weekend's season opener is like a long awaited holiday.
And speaking of season openers, no one does it better than the GLIAC. While other conferences let their schools ease into the season and tune up for league play with a few non-conference games, the GLIAC hits the ground running by not only starting conference play in week one, but also by pitting bitter rivals against each other. There are a few other good match ups around the region this week, but all eyes should be on the GLIAC.
Bob's Full Column
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
2005 Hillsdale Football Preview
Hillsdale College Release
Many football teams strive for consistency. However, when it comes to the 2005 Hillsdale College football team, consistency with the recent past is something they want to get away from.
Hillsdale enters the 2005 season coming off three straight 4-7 campaigns. But with the program's biggest senior class in several years, and a renewed dedication to offseason training, head coach Keith Otterbein and his staff have high hopes for a marked improvement this season.
Read Full Preview
Many football teams strive for consistency. However, when it comes to the 2005 Hillsdale College football team, consistency with the recent past is something they want to get away from.
Hillsdale enters the 2005 season coming off three straight 4-7 campaigns. But with the program's biggest senior class in several years, and a renewed dedication to offseason training, head coach Keith Otterbein and his staff have high hopes for a marked improvement this season.
Read Full Preview
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Scrimmage Update
The scrimmage scheduled for this morning will begin at 10:00 AM on the new turf of Muddy Waters Stadium. There will be no barbecue. That tradition has been moved to the Spring as part of Hillsdale's final Spring practice.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Charger Parents: Scrimmage and Apparel News
Thanks to Sandy Balone for keeping everyone updated on all that is happening with the Charger Parents' Group. Here is the latest regarding Saturday's scrimmage and the items the group will have for sale this season.
"We are invited to check out the football team this Saturday morning! So slap those magnets on your cars and head over to Muddy Waters Field to see what's going on. I had some questions about the "Oakley Box Lunch" that is on the football calendar for Saturday. Those lunches will be distributed to the players only after the scrimmage.
Clothing - We will be offering screen printed T-shirts, sweatshirts and new baseball type 3/4 sleeve t-shirt as well as embroidered items which include hats, three button polo shirt, fleeces & a Champion V-neck pullover all with Charger logos and your son's jersey number on them! I have a feeling this year that the blockbuster item will be our new Russell Athletic replica game day jersey with your son's number on it! I will have some samples and different sizes of the clothing line with me at the scrimmage as well as order forms for both the sports buttons and apparel. Continue to watch your email as I will send the order form as a download attachment as soon as I get it from Team Sports.
Sports Buttons - What a great buy at just $4.00 each! You and yours get to wear a button with your son's football picture on it. See Vonnie Sandner for order information and sample.
Rear Window Stickers - Show your Charger spirit around town on the rear window of your vehicle. Decals are $5.00 and are cash & carry. See me at the scrimmage!
Freshman parents, we all welcome you and look forward to meeting you this Saturday. Please come and see me at the scrimmage or drop me an email if you have any questions. This all sounds overwhelming but don't worry, in a few weeks you will be all decked out in blue and be a rabid Charger Fan like the rest of us. Only 9 more days til kickoff!"
Email Sandy with any additional questions or if you are not on her email list yet.
"We are invited to check out the football team this Saturday morning! So slap those magnets on your cars and head over to Muddy Waters Field to see what's going on. I had some questions about the "Oakley Box Lunch" that is on the football calendar for Saturday. Those lunches will be distributed to the players only after the scrimmage.
Clothing - We will be offering screen printed T-shirts, sweatshirts and new baseball type 3/4 sleeve t-shirt as well as embroidered items which include hats, three button polo shirt, fleeces & a Champion V-neck pullover all with Charger logos and your son's jersey number on them! I have a feeling this year that the blockbuster item will be our new Russell Athletic replica game day jersey with your son's number on it! I will have some samples and different sizes of the clothing line with me at the scrimmage as well as order forms for both the sports buttons and apparel. Continue to watch your email as I will send the order form as a download attachment as soon as I get it from Team Sports.
Sports Buttons - What a great buy at just $4.00 each! You and yours get to wear a button with your son's football picture on it. See Vonnie Sandner for order information and sample.
Rear Window Stickers - Show your Charger spirit around town on the rear window of your vehicle. Decals are $5.00 and are cash & carry. See me at the scrimmage!
Freshman parents, we all welcome you and look forward to meeting you this Saturday. Please come and see me at the scrimmage or drop me an email if you have any questions. This all sounds overwhelming but don't worry, in a few weeks you will be all decked out in blue and be a rabid Charger Fan like the rest of us. Only 9 more days til kickoff!"
Email Sandy with any additional questions or if you are not on her email list yet.
Monday, August 15, 2005
Around the GLIAC: High Expectations Await Huskies
High expectations await football Huskies
Daily Mining Gazette
By Brad Salmen Gazette Writer
HOUGHTON - Things are vastly different going into this season for the Michigan Tech Huskies football team compared to last year.
As players complete their first week of practice, they have to contend with something they haven't had to in years past: hype and high expectations.
After all, going into last season they were unheralded and unnoticed, something that definitely won't be the case this year after finishing 9-1 in the conference and making the playoffs for the first time ever. As a result, they now find themselves ranked 24th in the nation and picked fourth in the GLIAC by the coaches.
It would be easy to get caught up in all those off-field distractions, but Head Coach Bernie Anderson has his team focused on one thing only: the Aug. 27 opener at Northern Michigan.
"We expect the same thing we expected last year, that's to go 1-0 this week," said sophomore defensive lineman Lee Keys. "That's what we're looking for, nothing more, nothing less ... right now we're focused on Northern, and that's about it."
Daily Mining Gazette
By Brad Salmen Gazette Writer
HOUGHTON - Things are vastly different going into this season for the Michigan Tech Huskies football team compared to last year.
As players complete their first week of practice, they have to contend with something they haven't had to in years past: hype and high expectations.
After all, going into last season they were unheralded and unnoticed, something that definitely won't be the case this year after finishing 9-1 in the conference and making the playoffs for the first time ever. As a result, they now find themselves ranked 24th in the nation and picked fourth in the GLIAC by the coaches.
It would be easy to get caught up in all those off-field distractions, but Head Coach Bernie Anderson has his team focused on one thing only: the Aug. 27 opener at Northern Michigan.
"We expect the same thing we expected last year, that's to go 1-0 this week," said sophomore defensive lineman Lee Keys. "That's what we're looking for, nothing more, nothing less ... right now we're focused on Northern, and that's about it."
Around the GLIAC:Oilers Dreaming Big in 2005
Delphos Herald
August 15, 2005
by Brian Lester
FINDLAY — The University of Findlay football team hit rock bottom during the most critical stretch of the season in 2004.
Instead of proving its worth as a contender, UF fell apart, collapsing under the weight of a nasty 4-game tailspin.
A 42-26 road loss to winless Indianapolis in October was the final blow, leaving the Oilers staring at a pile of ashes, dreams of a league title and NCAA Division II playoff berth buried.
The Oilers (6-5, 5-5 GLIAC) did secure its third consecutive winning season despite the slide but mediocrity is hardly what it was expecting in the preseason.
But as August nears its end and the dawn of a new season peaks over the horizon, hope has been restored.
Tired of middle-of-the-pack finishes — they’ve been 6-5 the last two seasons — they hope to regain the form of three years ago when they went 9-2 and nearly won a conference title.
They are confident they can do it despite returning four starters on each side of the ball.
Full Story.
August 15, 2005
by Brian Lester
FINDLAY — The University of Findlay football team hit rock bottom during the most critical stretch of the season in 2004.
Instead of proving its worth as a contender, UF fell apart, collapsing under the weight of a nasty 4-game tailspin.
A 42-26 road loss to winless Indianapolis in October was the final blow, leaving the Oilers staring at a pile of ashes, dreams of a league title and NCAA Division II playoff berth buried.
The Oilers (6-5, 5-5 GLIAC) did secure its third consecutive winning season despite the slide but mediocrity is hardly what it was expecting in the preseason.
But as August nears its end and the dawn of a new season peaks over the horizon, hope has been restored.
Tired of middle-of-the-pack finishes — they’ve been 6-5 the last two seasons — they hope to regain the form of three years ago when they went 9-2 and nearly won a conference title.
They are confident they can do it despite returning four starters on each side of the ball.
Full Story.
Blue-White Scrimmage Saturday at 10 AM
The 2005 Hillsdale College Chargers will scrimmage at 10 AM this Saturday, August 20. The controlled scrimmage will take place in Muddy Waters Stadium on the new turf playing surface. No further details have been released. I fanyone has more information for me to post please email me so it can be shared.
Saturday, August 13, 2005
The Delphos Herald Inc. - Recker downplaying preseason AA honors
HILLSDALE, Mich. - Keith Recker will go into his senior football season at Hillsdale College as an NCAA Division II All-American candidate.
But the star tight end out of St. John's doesn't care about individual accolades.
He'd much rather see the team bask in the spotlight.
It would be great to be an All-American but it's not going to mean anything if we don't have a winning season, Recker said. It's my senior year and I'm looking for us to have a great season; we don't want another 4-7 record.
Recker is coming off a season in which he caught 40 passes for 489 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
Recker has caught 100 passes in his career, eight for scores, and 82 of them have come in the last two seasons.
During his rookie campaign, Recker made an immediate impact, hauling in 18 passes for 272 yards and a team-best four TD receptions.
Yet, as impressive as his numbers have been over the course of his collegiate career, the first-team All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Conference Selection isn't satisfied.
I'm happy about what I've accomplished but I can always be better, he said. I've really improved my understanding of the game. I'm better at changing routes to get open and I just feel like I see everything so much better.
The Chargers have been 4-7 in each of the last three seasons but Recker will tell you the attitude of this year's team is decidedly different.
Full Story:
But the star tight end out of St. John's doesn't care about individual accolades.
He'd much rather see the team bask in the spotlight.
It would be great to be an All-American but it's not going to mean anything if we don't have a winning season, Recker said. It's my senior year and I'm looking for us to have a great season; we don't want another 4-7 record.
Recker is coming off a season in which he caught 40 passes for 489 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
Recker has caught 100 passes in his career, eight for scores, and 82 of them have come in the last two seasons.
During his rookie campaign, Recker made an immediate impact, hauling in 18 passes for 272 yards and a team-best four TD receptions.
Yet, as impressive as his numbers have been over the course of his collegiate career, the first-team All-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Conference Selection isn't satisfied.
I'm happy about what I've accomplished but I can always be better, he said. I've really improved my understanding of the game. I'm better at changing routes to get open and I just feel like I see everything so much better.
The Chargers have been 4-7 in each of the last three seasons but Recker will tell you the attitude of this year's team is decidedly different.
Full Story:
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Chargers Deal With Hot Weather
www.hillsdale.edu
Chargers deal with hot weather as 2005 preseason practice commences
hot weather pic 1
hot weather pic 2
Hillsdale, Mich. — Sweat pours off a football player's forehead like a miniature dam. Clenched fists tug on the bottom of shorts, searching for support of a body that is closing in on exhaustion. A mid-afternoon sun beats down mercilessly, only adding to the oppressive practice atmosphere.
Scenes like this one are very common across the country this time of year, as football teams at all levels begin their preparations for the 2005 season. It's the same here at Hillsdale College, where head coach Keith Otterbein and his coaching staff will instruct 99 players in the philosophy and practice of Charger football over the next three weeks, leading up to the season-opening game at the University of Indianapolis Aug. 27.
Pre-season practices have long been dreaded by players for the tough conditioning drills and the unending heat that this time of year comes with. But many new precautions have been implemented by the NCAA, and by some individual programs, to protect players from the elements in these early weeks of practice.
Teams cannot conduct back-to-back two-a-day practices anymore. There is also a staggered system in place for how players are dressed for early-season practices.
The first two days, players can only wear helmets with T-shirts and shorts. The second two days, shoulder pads can be added. Only on the fifth day of workouts, can players practice in full football gear. Plus, there has to be a minimum of three hours of recovery time in place for players between practice sessions.
Chargers head coach Keith Otterbein said he likes the precautions the NCAA has put in place.
"We had a scare here a couple years ago, of some guys who had trouble with the heat," he said. "It saves on the physical wear and tear the guys might be experiencing those first couple days back. A lot more of our practice planning goes into taking the heat into account than it ever had before."
With the Summer of 2005 going down as one of the hottest on record, the heat is a constant issue surrounding these early-season practices. This week, temperatures are forecast to be above 90 degrees every day.
full story
Chargers deal with hot weather as 2005 preseason practice commences
hot weather pic 1
hot weather pic 2
Hillsdale, Mich. — Sweat pours off a football player's forehead like a miniature dam. Clenched fists tug on the bottom of shorts, searching for support of a body that is closing in on exhaustion. A mid-afternoon sun beats down mercilessly, only adding to the oppressive practice atmosphere.
Scenes like this one are very common across the country this time of year, as football teams at all levels begin their preparations for the 2005 season. It's the same here at Hillsdale College, where head coach Keith Otterbein and his coaching staff will instruct 99 players in the philosophy and practice of Charger football over the next three weeks, leading up to the season-opening game at the University of Indianapolis Aug. 27.
Pre-season practices have long been dreaded by players for the tough conditioning drills and the unending heat that this time of year comes with. But many new precautions have been implemented by the NCAA, and by some individual programs, to protect players from the elements in these early weeks of practice.
Teams cannot conduct back-to-back two-a-day practices anymore. There is also a staggered system in place for how players are dressed for early-season practices.
The first two days, players can only wear helmets with T-shirts and shorts. The second two days, shoulder pads can be added. Only on the fifth day of workouts, can players practice in full football gear. Plus, there has to be a minimum of three hours of recovery time in place for players between practice sessions.
Chargers head coach Keith Otterbein said he likes the precautions the NCAA has put in place.
"We had a scare here a couple years ago, of some guys who had trouble with the heat," he said. "It saves on the physical wear and tear the guys might be experiencing those first couple days back. A lot more of our practice planning goes into taking the heat into account than it ever had before."
With the Summer of 2005 going down as one of the hottest on record, the heat is a constant issue surrounding these early-season practices. This week, temperatures are forecast to be above 90 degrees every day.
full story
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Camp Notes: The Grind Begins
As 90 degree temperatures spread across Southern Michigan, the Hillsdale College football team prepares to begin its most serious work of the pre-season. The testing, the walk-throughs, the waiting have ended and as head coach Keith Otterbein calls it, "the nitty gritty" of football can begin.
Today will be the Chargers' first fully padded, two-a-day workout of the season. Per NCAA rules, tomorrow will be a single padded practice and a walk through. The schedule alternates on 2,1,2,1 pattern. This will remain through next week before the focus switches to a gameweek preparation for the August 27th opener at Indianapolis.
All reports out of camp highlight the fact that only 6 returning players failed to pass fitness testing on the first try (but all passed the next morning) and that team chemistry is tremendously positive.
Today will be the Chargers' first fully padded, two-a-day workout of the season. Per NCAA rules, tomorrow will be a single padded practice and a walk through. The schedule alternates on 2,1,2,1 pattern. This will remain through next week before the focus switches to a gameweek preparation for the August 27th opener at Indianapolis.
All reports out of camp highlight the fact that only 6 returning players failed to pass fitness testing on the first try (but all passed the next morning) and that team chemistry is tremendously positive.
Monday, August 08, 2005
Keith Recker named All-Amercian
Hillsdale College press release:
"Hillsdale, Mich. Hillsdale College senior tight end Keith Recker was recently named a Division II pre-season All-American by Don Hansen's Football Gazette, a leading authority on pre-season teams.
Recker was the Chargers' leading receiver last season, catching 40 passes for 489 yards and two touchdowns. For his career, Recker has played in all 33 games, catching 100 passes for 1,256 yards and eight scores.
Recker was Hillsdale's only First Team All-GLIAC player after the 2004 season, and was a Second Team All-Region selection. Only six players from the GLIAC were selected to the Hansen pre-season All-American team, including three others on offense.
Recker is a 2002 graduate of St. Johns High School in Delphos, Ohio."
"Hillsdale, Mich. Hillsdale College senior tight end Keith Recker was recently named a Division II pre-season All-American by Don Hansen's Football Gazette, a leading authority on pre-season teams.
Recker was the Chargers' leading receiver last season, catching 40 passes for 489 yards and two touchdowns. For his career, Recker has played in all 33 games, catching 100 passes for 1,256 yards and eight scores.
Recker was Hillsdale's only First Team All-GLIAC player after the 2004 season, and was a Second Team All-Region selection. Only six players from the GLIAC were selected to the Hansen pre-season All-American team, including three others on offense.
Recker is a 2002 graduate of St. Johns High School in Delphos, Ohio."
Special Hotel Rate for Parents Attending August 27th Opener in Indianapolis
The Charger parents group has blocked 20 rooms at the Holiday Inn Express South in Indianapolis for Saturday 8/27. The hotel is located 5 minutes from the U of I campus. The block of rooms will be held until 8/19 so you need to call and make your reservations ASAP. The special rate for a double is $74.00 + tax, smoking or non-smoking. Cancellations are accepted up until 6:00 PM of that day. Check in time is 3:00 PM, check out is 11:00 AM (Indy time) with a free continental breakfast. There is a Red Lobster, Denny's and Bob Evans located directly across the street from the hotel. When you call for reservations our group is 'Hillsdale College/University of Indianapolis football'. Should you have any problem booking, ask for Joy Piety, sales manager.
For those of you using mapquest,
Holiday Inn Express South
5151 South East St. (Hwy 31)
Indianapolis, IN 46227
317-783-5151
University of Indianapolis
1400 E. Hanna Rd.
Indianapolis, IN
For those of you using mapquest,
Holiday Inn Express South
5151 South East St. (Hwy 31)
Indianapolis, IN 46227
317-783-5151
University of Indianapolis
1400 E. Hanna Rd.
Indianapolis, IN
New LB Tom Korte is area's triple crown winner
By PAUL KONYNDYK
Grand Rapids Press
This summer, Catholic Central's Tom Korte is focusing all of his energy on preparing himself for the transition from high school to college football at Hillsdale.
But after football season is over, Korte is hoping veteran Charger skipper Paul Noce will allow him to hook on with the Hillsdale baseball team.
"I'd like to play baseball for Hillsdale, but that is going to be up to the coaches," said Korte, a first-team all-state third baseman. "My football coaches are open to it, but it is going to be up to the baseball coach. I hope he'll let me play."
Let him?
Noce would be insane not to give a roster spot to Korte, who has been the area's most productive baseball player in his four-year varsity career at Catholic Central.
This year Korte was exceptional, claiming the area "Triple Crown" -- leading the area in home runs, batting average, and RBIs.
"Stats aren't something I think a whole lot about," said Korte, who put eight balls over the outfield fences, while hitting .574 and driving in 51 runs. "My main concern is doing whatever I can to help my team win games. Putting up big numbers doesn't mean a whole lot unless you're helping your team win games."
Full Story
Grand Rapids Press
This summer, Catholic Central's Tom Korte is focusing all of his energy on preparing himself for the transition from high school to college football at Hillsdale.
But after football season is over, Korte is hoping veteran Charger skipper Paul Noce will allow him to hook on with the Hillsdale baseball team.
"I'd like to play baseball for Hillsdale, but that is going to be up to the coaches," said Korte, a first-team all-state third baseman. "My football coaches are open to it, but it is going to be up to the baseball coach. I hope he'll let me play."
Let him?
Noce would be insane not to give a roster spot to Korte, who has been the area's most productive baseball player in his four-year varsity career at Catholic Central.
This year Korte was exceptional, claiming the area "Triple Crown" -- leading the area in home runs, batting average, and RBIs.
"Stats aren't something I think a whole lot about," said Korte, who put eight balls over the outfield fences, while hitting .574 and driving in 51 runs. "My main concern is doing whatever I can to help my team win games. Putting up big numbers doesn't mean a whole lot unless you're helping your team win games."
Full Story
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Chargerblue.com Welcomes Voice of the Chargers
Saturday, August 6, 2005
It is with great enthusiasm that I introduce the newest member of the Chargerblue.com team. Andy Brown, the play-by-play voice of Hillsdale College Football on WCSR radio will be lending his insight and commentary this season as the Chargers battle in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Few follow Charger football closer than Brown; his willingness to share that knowledge is greatly appreciated. Look for Andy's commentary throughout the season.
Aside from his radio duties, Andy is a teacher and the new head football coach at Camden Frontier High School.
It is with great enthusiasm that I introduce the newest member of the Chargerblue.com team. Andy Brown, the play-by-play voice of Hillsdale College Football on WCSR radio will be lending his insight and commentary this season as the Chargers battle in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Few follow Charger football closer than Brown; his willingness to share that knowledge is greatly appreciated. Look for Andy's commentary throughout the season.
Aside from his radio duties, Andy is a teacher and the new head football coach at Camden Frontier High School.
Thursday, August 04, 2005
100 Chargers Open Camp
August 4, 2005
Andy Losik
Editor: Chargerblue.com
HILLSDALE, MI: Hillsdale College Head Football Coach Keith Otterbein was very upbeat following day one of his Chargers' pre-season camp. There weren't many x's and o's today as Otterbein and his staff focused on the administrative duties that accompany the beginning of a season.
"We had 100 players report, and in shape," Otterbein stated. "We are excited to have them back. We did our run testing today and will do some lift-testing tomorrow, but it is quite apparent that our guys really got after it, and work tremendously hard in the off-season."
Offensive line coach Nate Shreffler said, "We are definitely in better shape than we were a year ago, especially the big guys. That should be a huge help in the first couple of weeks.
Due to NCAA regulations requiring an acclimation into the season, pads won't be popping for several days. According to Otterbein, the Chargers can hardly wait. "The kids are excited, fired up, optimistic and really anxious, but it will be a couple of days before we can get into the nitty gritty of football.
The Chargers open the season on August 27 at the University of Indianapolis.
Andy Losik
Editor: Chargerblue.com
HILLSDALE, MI: Hillsdale College Head Football Coach Keith Otterbein was very upbeat following day one of his Chargers' pre-season camp. There weren't many x's and o's today as Otterbein and his staff focused on the administrative duties that accompany the beginning of a season.
"We had 100 players report, and in shape," Otterbein stated. "We are excited to have them back. We did our run testing today and will do some lift-testing tomorrow, but it is quite apparent that our guys really got after it, and work tremendously hard in the off-season."
Offensive line coach Nate Shreffler said, "We are definitely in better shape than we were a year ago, especially the big guys. That should be a huge help in the first couple of weeks.
Due to NCAA regulations requiring an acclimation into the season, pads won't be popping for several days. According to Otterbein, the Chargers can hardly wait. "The kids are excited, fired up, optimistic and really anxious, but it will be a couple of days before we can get into the nitty gritty of football.
The Chargers open the season on August 27 at the University of Indianapolis.
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