Bowen looks fast on defense

Bowen

2007 record: 1-8

Coach: Robert Cook (10th year)

Returning starters: 6

Players to watch:

WR/DB Shurell Johnson, 5-10, 160, Sr.

RB Garrett McKinney, 5-9, 170, Jr.

Outlook: The Boilermakers are eager to wipe out the disappointing memories of last year's youthful team. Coach Robert Cook is optimistic the team is going to turn around its fortunes. He also admits many of the players have to prove their abilities in game situations. He looking for players other than Shurell Johnson and Garrett McKinney to step up and show the way.

Coach's take: "Johnson and McKinney are our two best players. Everybody else has to prove it in a game situation. Potentially, we have the making of a very good offensive team. Our strength right now is at the skill position, especially the wide receivers and running back.

"Defensively, we should be very fast. The big concern is the offensive line. We're going to start a freshman at center, and that shows you how young we are. Depth is also a factor. We can throw out 15 pretty good ball players, but after that it falls off pretty significantly. In our conference, Bogan and Hyde Park are going to be very good. I'm looking for us to finish in third." -- Robert Cook

Patrick Z. McGavin