By By Nick Pipitone
OFFENSE: B+The offense posted very good numbers, scoring 26 points-per-game and ranking second in the conference in passing and total offense. Junior QB Anton Clarkson, in his first year as full-time starter, had his growing pains in the Pride's pass-happy scheme, but threw for over 300 yards-per-game.The WRs were the strength all season. The combination of seniors Marques Colston and Devale Ellis was very effective, along with senior Brian Wolman and sophomore Charles Sullivan. Sullivan should step in nicely as starter next year.Junior RB Terry Crenshaw and sophomore Kareem Huggins ran the ball well when given the chance behind an inconsistent offensive line. DEFENSE: B-The defense was solid at times, but largely inconsistent and ranked in the middle of the pack in the conference. Senior LB and team captain Cole Haley led the team in tackles with 117 and helped a run defense that was exposed at times. All-conference defensive ends Stephen Bowen and Daniel Garay were tops on the teams in sacks with six and five-and-a-half, respectively.Even though junior David Darby had a stellar season at safety, the injury problems of senior fellow safety Sherief Little hurt the secondary. The defense won some games, like the 20-17 dogfight with Northeastern, but also lost a couple along the way.
SPECIAL TEAMS: BSpecial teams were a definite strength for the Pride throughout the season. Sophomore kicker Rob Zarrilli, a first-team all-conference selection, had an outstanding season in his first year with the program. Senior punter Joe Nolan, until his injury later in the season, played well.
COACHING: B-There were a lot of times in the season it seemed as if the Pride was out-coached. Whether it was relinquishing a 14-point halftime lead to Richmond or playing too conservatively in the final minutes of close games, the team found ways to lose the big ones.However, the team continues to improve since going 2-10 in 2003 and the coaches should receive credit.