Fresno State Athletics
Young Receivers Gain Speed
8/15/2011 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 15, 2011
19 Days Until Bulldog Football:
FRESNO, Calif. - The start of fall camp brought much excitement for wide receivers coach Keith Williams as he immediately noticed improvement in his young group of Bulldogs.
Sophomore returners, Jalen Saunders and Isaiah Burse were no exception to improvement and showed obvious increase in speed and talent.
"These guys really worked hard this summer and it's obvious they are better," said Williams. "Their work ethic is great and they trained hard to improve."
Saunders (Elk Grove, Calif.) comes off his true freshman season as a Bulldog leading the team in kick returns averaging 23.2 yards per return and also leading in the average receiving yards with 15.4 per reception. He was a stand out on special teams and saw a lot of action as a receiver. He was one of the `Dogs most consistent receivers playing in all 13 games, recorded 30 receptions for 462 yards and racked up three touchdowns.
In the off-season the student-athletes really take the time to improve their strength and speed. They work on the physical aspect of the game while continuing to learn and grow in their position. Saunders had the young spirit and wanted to train in everything during his off-season.
"I really wanted to get better at everything, so I focused on improving my whole game," said Saunders. "I didn't focus on one thing, but wanted to improve overall."
Speed was definitely an improvement in Saunders' game and with the Bulldog Stadium surface upgrade to FieldTurf, the speed will be even more noticeable.
"Turf means speed," said Williams. "Turf allows for better footing and a great showcase of the `Dogs speed."
Burse a sophomore from Modesto, Calif., is definitely looking forward to the FieldTurf. During the off-season he really focused on improving his speed which will be even more evident when he starts running on the new field. He also really focused on learning more and applying what he learned to his game performance.
When it comes to connections and range Burse explained the offense is gaining a lot more variety with sophomore quarterback Derek Carr.
"Working with Carr has been good," said Burse. "He is very versatile and with him we have been able to open up our playbook and add a lot more to our offense."
Burse's increased speed and Saunders' overall game improvement bring strength and skill to the game. With the new FieldTurf, the new quarterback, and the new and improved receivers Fresno State Football will see big strides.
"We Are Your Team"--- There are still tickets for sale for the 2011 season opener at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Calif. Get your tickets at gobulldogs.com or call 278-DOGS.
