Football Preview: Stephen F. Austin
SFA Athletics
Stephen F. Austin Preview (PDF)
STORYLINES
• SFA is coming off its seventh NCAA FCS postseason appearance, looking to make back-to-back appearances for the first time since 2009 and 2010.
• Head coach Clint Conque (Coach of the Year) and quarterback Zach Conque (Newcomer of the Year) return to lead SFA in 2015.
• The Lumberjacks are looking to fill void left by departed All-American and all-time leading rusher Gus Johnson.
OFFENSE
• Junior Zach Conque returns to guide the SFA offense after compiling more than 3,300 yards of total offense and 29 touchdowns in 2014, earning Newcomer of the Year honors.
• Conque will have plenty of targets to throw to as SFA returns seven letter winners at wide receiver with nine newcomers.
• SFA’s offensive line returns all five starters from 2014, giving the Lumberjacks confidence up front.
DEFENSE
• SFA’s defensive line enters the year as one of the best in the conference, anchored by seniors Lance Skyler, Donald Bryant and Shayvion Hatten.
• The Lumberjacks’ linebacking corps is the biggest question mark on defense as senior Justin Owens and sophomore Chance Barney are the only returners with significant playing time.
SPECIAL TEAMS
• SFA will need to replace Jordan Wiggs, the Lumberjacks’ all-time points leader, as someone else will need to take over the primary kicking duties for the first time in four years.
• Senior Nick Bruno returns as SFA’s punter, ranking among the SLC leaders in punting average in each of the last two seasons.