Fresno State Athletics
New Leader, But Expect Same Results
4/6/2001 12:00:00 AM | Football
April 6, 2001
By Brian Risso, Fresno State Media Relations
If the early reviews from spring practice are any indication just how good the Bulldog defense may be this season, Fresno State fans have plenty to be excited about.
The potential of the defensive line and secondary are two such areas that the Fresno State braintrust have identified as dominant components of the 2001 squad. The linebacking corps, somewhat depleted due to the loss of three key starters, may be the only weak link. Nevertheless, new defensive coordinator Dan Brown not only views the glass half full, but appears ready to raise it high and make a toast.
"Our first 16 or 17 kids in the entire defense can play with anybody," Brown said. "What we have to make sure early in the year is to get the young kids ready to play. And if we do, then we're going to have a heck of a year."
Brown is now the man in charge and has the opportunity to mold an already-solid Bulldog defensive attack into a great one. The first-year defensive coordinator previously served as Fresno State's linebackers coach, in addition to his duties as recruiting coordinator. Brown, who is in his fifth season with the Bulldogs, has every reason to be thrilled about the Bulldog's makeup on defense this season.
Brown, who lettered two years at Boise State as a linebacker, will continue to employ former defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle's 4-3 strategy once the season begins. The transition for Brown should be fairly easy as well, considering that he and Bulldog head coach Pat Hill have now been overseeing the Bulldog squad together for four seasons.
Two-time All-Western Athletic Conference selection Alan Harper, an All-America candidate who is drawing interest from NFL scouts, anchors the defensive front. Junior Nick Burley is one of the WAC's top pass-rushing ends, while junior tackle Jason Stewart chipped in with 44 tackles last season and will also contribute to the defensive line.
"They're strong, fast and big," said Brown. "Our first group is as good as anybody's first group."
The secondary appears to be a strong point as well. Seniors Vernon Fox and Anthony Limbrick have been first-team All-WAC selections at one point of their career and will highlight a group that is quick and physical. Sophomore Bryce McGill, who garnered honorable mention All-WAC honors in his first season, is poised for a breakthrough campaign after recording 70 tackles and a six sacks.
With Brown at the helm of such a stout defense, Bulldog fans can be expect their team to compete against the powerhouses appearing on this season's schedule.
