Fresno State Athletics
Countdown to Kickoff: 16 Days
8/16/2008 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 16, 2008
FRESNO, Calif. - The Fresno State defensive line is young but talented. After losing All-WAC and sack specialist Tyler Clutts and nose tackle Charles Tolbert to graduation the Dogs still return Jon Monga and Wilson Ramos.
Monga enters his second season as a full-time starter while Ramos was moved outside last season when Jason Roberts suffered a career ending injury, and finished the season very strong. Both players performed well in the spring. Senior Ikenna Ike missed most of last season with an injury but returned for the bowl game victory against Georgia Tech. He has a nice spring and he is one of the brightest players on the squad, earning Academic All-WAC honors. He will again be counted on to provide pressure from the outside.
Chris Carter had a solid freshman season and a good spring. With his burst and athletic ability, Hill projects him to be a rising star in the program. Sophomore Chris Lewis returns to the team and should be a factor as a rush end.
In the middle, sophomore Cornell Banks and Mark Roberts, each close to 300 pounds, will provide the Bulldogs some size they haven't had in a few years. Both saw considerable action last season. Redshirt freshman Bryce Harris had a good spring and appears ready for action at tackle.
Coming next: A preview of Sunday's scrimmage.
"Join the State - Fresno State!" - The first Big Ten team will travel to the Valley as the `Dogs take on Wisconsin in the home opener on Saturday, September 13 at 7:30 p.m. The game can be seen nationally on ESPN2. Be sure to reserve your seat for the Wisconsin game by purchasing a season ticket, family plan or 3-game mini plan for just $99. In the month of August, get your official Wisconsin game day t-shirt at the Bulldog Shop for only $10 with any purchase. To purchase tickets, click on the tickets icon at the top of this page, call the Bulldog Ticket Office at (559) 278-DOGS, or stop by the Bulldog Ticket Office.
