San Jose State University

Type of Offense: Pro-Style I. This offense is a run oriented offense that uses run plays and play action to get defenders out of position for passes in the 15-25 yard range. The tight end and fullback are more involved in the offense as the fullback is a blocker and the tight end is 70/30 blocking versus running routes. Most known for the isolation running plays in the middle, the offense has evolved to a more off tackle and “counter trey” running offense. This is more of the style of professional ranks allowing for a QB with a strong arm to thrive. San Jose State puts in a wrinkle that they throw more often than run.

Type of Defense: 4-3. Fast OLBs with the WLB being stronger in pass coverage and the SLB being stouter versus the run. MLB is balanced and expected to make most of the tackles, especially versus the run game. A lot of Cover 2 with the MLB expected to get deep (15 yards) on a pass play. Corners on an island playing the edges with help over top. Gap responsibilities on the run game with DL and LB filling gaps and DE normally containing on the edge.

· Run/Pass %: 44-56

· Run/Pass Attempts: 389/436

· Points Per Game: 16.1

· Points Allowed Per Game: 34.7

Key Returning Players:

· Brandon Rutley, RB: Leading returning rusher for SJSU. Had over 500 yards leading the team in 2010. Must improve that number significantly in order for SJSU to be successful in 2011.

· Kevin Smith, LB: Leading returning tackler with 115 in 2010. Should be expected to contend for all conference honors as the unquestioned best player on this defense.

Key Incoming Freshmen:

· Sam Boyd, ATH: Speedy athlete who can play a few positions and has good size and speed should be competing for a position once the coaching staff decides on a position.

· KC Pearce, WR: The 3 star WR out of California is 6-2 and almost 200 pounds as an incoming freshman showing that he has that size to be in the mix for some catches in 2011..  

 

Overall Assessment: It was a rough season for San Jose State in 2010 only winning one game (against a I-AA team). Things will continue to be rough for the Spartans until they get in some players that can compete at the I-A level on a consistent basis. The biggest issue in 2010 was that they were outmanned in 2010 on a talent basis. On offense, there are returning players that will improve the offense, but they must have players step up the depth charts and play earlier than expected. Contributions must be made from newcomers on offense, defense, and special teams. Expect another trying year for the Spartans as they attempt to look like a I-A program this fall.