Cortland State (4-6, 4-2 NJAC in 2000)
Cortland enters the 2001 season with one primary goal. The Red Dragons are striving to finish first in the New Jersey Athletic Conference, thereby earning the league's automatic berth into the NCAA playoffs. Cortland made its debut in the NJAC last season with a third-place 4-2 record in the seven-team conference.

Although the Red Dragons fared well in league play, they struggled versus a very difficult non-league slate. An 0-4 mark outside the NJAC left Cortland with a 4-6 overall mark. Of the four non-league setbacks, two came to NCAA qualifiers (Springfield and Brockport) and the other two were to rival Ithaca and eventual ECAC Northwest champion Buffalo State.

Fifth-year head coach Dan MacNeill's squad faces an interesting schedule in 2001 that has the team starting the season with three consecutive road games,
including the season opener at Brockport. Next up are four consecutive home games — the Red Dragons' only home contests all season — followed by three road games in a four-week stretch to close out the season. The final game of that road stretch is the annual clash for the Cortaca Jug versus Ithaca on Nov. 10.

The 2001 season marks the final year of Red Dragon home games on Carl "Chugger" Davis Field. The final regular-season home contest will take place versus Rowan on Oct. 13. Cortland started playing its home games on the field in 1959. It was referred to as either Jenman Field or College Field until 1973, at which point it was officially dedicated to Davis, Cortland's head coach from 1932-62. The Red Dragons will move into a 6,500-seat on-campus stadium in 2002.

Here is a position-by-position breakdown of the Red Dragons as the 2001 season gets underway:

Cortland looks to replace graduating signalcaller Ryan McCarthy, who easily established a new school single-season record last autumn with 223 completions. Sophomore J.J. Tutwiler (Grand Island, N.Y./Grand Island) saw action behind center in four games as a freshman, completing 15 of 22 passes for 218 yards and a touchdown. Tutwiler's top competition as the season opens is junior Matt Gates (Cicero, N.Y./Cicero-North Syracuse), who played at Alfred in 1998 and 1999 before redshirting last season with the Saxons.

Also in the quarterback mix is junior Bret Malone (Wantagh, N.Y./Wantagh), who was part of Cortland's program last year but did not see any game action. Malone transferred to Cortland from St. John's (N.Y.).

Cortland does not return any of its top ball carriers from last season, but the Red Dragons are bolstered by the return of junior tailback Dwayne Lewinson (Poughkeepsie, N.Y./Poughkeepsie) after a one-year hiatus. Lewinson, who decided not to play last season, enjoyed a solid freshman campaign in 1999. He rushed 88 times for 400 yards and nine touchdowns and caught eight passes for 169 yards and two scores.

A pair of freshmen — Steven Davis (Central Islip, N.Y./Central Islip) and Mike Stepnick (Marilla, N.Y./Iroquois) — also look to contribute at the tailback slot. At fullback, sophomore Chris Stalker (Medina, N.Y./Medina) is a preseason favorite for starting duties. Joining Stalker at fullback are junior Vince Williams (Watertown, N.Y./Watertown), who is new to the Red Dragons this season after two years at Brockport, and junior Bill Pukalo (Lancaster, N.Y./Lancaster).

Senior co-captain Brian Babst (Mastic Beach, N.Y./William Floyd) and junior Joe Marzullo (Syracuse, N.Y./Cicero-North Syracuse) highlight the Cortland receiving corps as the season gets underway. Babst, a second team All-NJAC selection last year, grabbed an Upstate New York-leading 60 catches for 752 yards and four touchdowns. Marzullo made 20 catches for 147 yards last fall after pulling in 45 passes as a freshman at Alfred in 1999.

A pair of newcomers to the Red Dragon program are preseason backups to
Babst and Marzullo. Senior Tim Lane (Manlius, N.Y./Fayetteville-Manlius)
earned a spot in the preseason two-deep despite no previous on-field varsity experience. Freshman Neal Heaton Jr. (Bellport, N.Y./Bellport), son of the former major league pitcher, is expected to be part of the playing rotation. Other Red Dragon receivers making the opening day travel roster include freshmen Paul Blumenauer (Holbrook, N.Y./Sachem) and Adam Menter (Manlius, N.Y./Fayetteville-Manlius) and sophomore Jon Frechette
(Oswego, N.Y./Oswego).

Sophomore tight end Tony Romano (Baldwinsville, N.Y./C.W. Baker) returns after catching 23 passes for 271 yards and three touchdowns, including a 49-yard score in the Cortaca Jug game versus Ithaca. Junior Mike Gannon (Monroe, N.Y./Monroe-Woodbury) and freshman Chris Cabral (Shirley, N.Y./William Floyd) are expected to compete with Romano for playing time during the season.

You might need to keep a game program handy when watching the Cortland offensive line as the season opens. Of the 16 linemen on the opening day roster, only two saw action on the field for the Red Dragons last season.

The only starter returning is senior center Jeff Leahey (East Greenbush, N.Y./Columbia), who appeared in nine games. Junior Chris Curnan (Kingston, N.Y./Kingston), who played at SUNY Morrisville last fall, is battling Leahey for the starting position as preseason camp ends.

The top candidates for starting spots at offensive guard include sophomore Brian Rissmiller (Queens, N.Y./Christ The King), who started one of the three games he appeared in last season and senior Arold Robert (Greenlawn, N.Y./Harborfields), a redshirt last season, along with senior Tommy O'Hare (East Fishkill, N.Y./John Jay), a converted defensive lineman, and freshman Seth Schiering (Stony Point, N.Y./North Rockland).

The leading contenders for playing time at the tackle spots include three redshirted players from last year, sophomores Kevin Bradley (Mamaroneck, N.Y./Mamaroneck), Emil Loiseau (Nyack, N.Y./Nyack) and James Coughlin (Bellmore, N.Y./Mepham) in addition to junior Frank Bahomonde (Queens, N.Y./John Adams), who played two seasons at Cayuga Community College.

The defensive line boasts the most experience of any position on the Red Dragon squad. Each of the four projected opening day starters played in all 10 games last season. Two other linemen played in at least nine contests.

Junior tackle John Longo (Massapequa, N.Y./Massapequa) was a third team
All-East honoree last year. A starter since the beginning of his freshman year, Longo finished last season with 55 tackles, 13 for lost yardage, along with nine quarterback hurries.

Senior Adam DiPietro (Troy, N.Y./Troy) is favored to start at a tackle slot alongside Longo. DiPietro made 20 tackles, five behind the line of scrimmage, in 10 games last season. Junior Angelo Letizia (Monroe, N.Y./Monroe-Woodbury), a redshirt last year, and sophomore newcomer Jason Lichtenstein (Middletown, N.Y./Middletown) will also vie for playing time at tackle along with freshman Jon Krawchuk (North Babylon, N.Y./North Babylon).

At defensive end, senior Paul Camillo (Colorado Springs, Colo./Air Academy) returns to a starting role after chalking up 35 tackles, eight for lost yardage, two forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries last season. Junior Justin Gualtieri (Rome, N.Y./Rome Free Academy) is a potential starter on the other end of the line after registering nine tackles, four behind the line of scrimmage, in 10 appearances a year ago.

Others contending for defensive end spots are sophomore Matthew Ferreri (Poughkeepsie, N.Y./Our Lady of Lourdes) and junior Dan Deyo (Verona, N.Y./Vernon Verona-Sherrill). Ferreri recorded 2½ sacks as part of his 11 tackles last season. He also amassed eight quarterback hurries and a forced fumble. Deyo made eight stops, two for lost yardage, in nine contests.

The Cortland linebacker contingent is led a quartet of returning players — juniors Todd Goodwin (Poughkeepsie, N.Y./Spackenkill), Doug Luciano (Warwick, N.Y./Warwick Valley) and Danny Nelson (Pearl River, N.Y./Nanuet) and sophomore Brian Garber (Woodbourne, N.Y./Tri-Valley).

Goodwin was the Red Dragons' leading tackler last season with 78 stops, nine for minus yardage. He intercepted two passes and recorded seven quarterback hurries. Goodwin, however, suffered a hand injury in preseason camp and might miss the first two or three weeks of the season. This opens the door for freshman Micah Kurtz (Clarence, N.Y./Clarence) to earn a starting role as the season opens.

Luciano, who started two games last season, finished with 36 tackles while Nelson, a starter in one contest, made 27 tackles, broke up two passes and caused a fumble in 10 contests. Garber also played in all 10 games a year ago, registering 34 tackles.

Others competing for playing time include freshman Travis Costin (Glens Falls, N.Y./Glens Falls) and sophomore John Lawrence (Marilla, N.Y./Iroquois).

Leading the Red Dragon secondary are three familiar faces — seniors Steve Sherwood (Hilton, N.Y./Hilton), Mike Butler (Pearl River, N.Y./Pearl River) and co-captain Dom Narcisco (Tappan, N.Y./Tappan Zee). Sherwood and Butler are expected to see time at strong safety, while Narcisco resides at one of the cornerback slots.

Sherwood was Cortland's second-leading tackler last year with 77 stops. He
also finished with an interception and four quarterback hurries. Butler,
who played in only six games due to injury, recorded 38 tackles, three pass
breakups and two fumble recoveries. Narcisco made 49 tackles and
intercepted two passes. He also registered a team-high five pass breakups
and recovered two fumbles, returning one for a touchdown.

Junior Mark Frinder (Brewster, N.Y./Brewster) moves to free safety after playing at wide receiver last season. Freshman Taurean Frazier (Hempstead, N.Y./Hempstead) is penciled in as a starter at cornerback opposite of Narcisco. Junior Ronald George (Brooklyn, N.Y./Canarsie), sophomore Ryan Day (Ilion, N.Y./Ilion) and freshman Rynell Rucker (Camden, N.J./Ithaca (N.Y.)) are also expected to compete for playing time in the secondary.

One of the intriguing stories from last season was the emergence of placekicker George Oostmeyer (Islip, N.Y./Calhoun). Playing his first season of organized football, Oostmeyer set school regular-season records for field goals in a season (12) and a single game (four, at New Jersey City) and led the Red Dragons in scoring with 60 points (12-for-19 FG, 24-for-25 PAT). He was a first team All-NJAC and honorable mention All-ECAC Northwest selection. Freshman Joe Welsh (Massapequa Park, N.Y./Massapequa) is expected to challenge Oostmeyer.

The loss of first team All-ECAC and All-NJAC punter Scott Harrison to graduation leaves the punting duties to a pair of position players. Sophomore quarterback J.J. Tutwiler averaged 26 yards per punt on two attempts last season. Sophomore wide receiver Jon Frechette will start the season as the team's backup punter.

The punt and kick return games are in the capable hands of senior cornerback Dom Narcisco, who earned honorable mention All-NJAC honors as a return specialist last year. Narcisco averaged 24.8 yards per kickoff return, including a 73-yard runback, and averaged 11.8 yards per punt return, with a long of 45 yards. Marzullo will also be a threat on kickoff returns and Heaton is expected to backup Narcisco as a punt returner.

College of New Jersey (4-5, 3-3 NJAC in 2000)
The Lions enter the 2001 season having had back-to-back 4-5 campaigns, this on the heels of four straight postseason appearances. With 35 letterwinners returning, a talented incoming class that will compete right away for the Lions, The College of New Jersey is planning to make a run for the New Jersey Athletic Conference championship this season.

Over the course of the 1990s, TCNJ appeared in postseason play five times, including NCAA appearances in 1990, 1996, 1997, and 1998. The 1995 season saw the Lions collect their first Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) South Championship. From 1996 to 1998, the Lions combined to go 25-9 while advancing to the second round of the NCAA playoffs twice. Entering the 2000 campaign, TCNJ is 3-4 all-time in the NCAA playoffs and 4-4 overall in postseason play. The Lions are anxious for a return to the postseason this fall.

After 76 seasons of varsity football, the Lions own a record of 289-283-32 under the direction of nine different coaches. The 2001 season marks the 25th year the Lions will be guided by mentor, Eric Hamilton, who now sports a career record of 147-89-6 (.620 win percentage). He starts the 2001 season ranked eighth all-time in victories among active Division III coaches.

Before they can achieve that postseason appearance, the Lions must recover from the loss of 15 players to graduation, including 2000 Gagliardi Trophy finalist Anthony Casciano and Verizon Academic All-American Curt Monday. Despite these losses, the Lions return a lineup that features experience and depth as well as a promising incoming class of talented players. Hamilton is confident the Lions are ready for the challenges the new season will bring. TCNJ is looking to collect the program's seventh New Jersey Athletic Conference title and first since 1998 when it recorded a perfect 5-0 mark.

Hamilton will look to senior Dameon Newman; juniors Tim Kosuda, Chris Franco and Bryan Gallagher as well as Jon Hedgepath and Gregg Silvesti to spur the Lions' offense. Kosuda, a running back, was a First Team All-NJAC selection as a rookie in 1999, and netted 273 yards rushing with four touchdowns last season. Newman led the Lions for the second straight year with his 362 yards rushing and will serve as a team co-captain for 2001. Franco, a fullback, had a breakthrough campaign in 2000, picking up a team-high five touchdowns on 270 yards rushing.

At the helm of that offense will be veteran signal-caller, Steve Bellosi, who transferred to TCNJ last year after a stint at Division II East Stroudsburg. Now a senior, Bellosi played in eight games last year while throwing for 1,141 yards and 10 touchdowns. He completed 88 of 197 (44.7%) pass attempts for a 102.97 pass efficiency rating and 142.6 yards per game in the air. Fast and steady on his feet, Bellosi will be looked again this season to elevate the Lions' offensive attack.

Newcomers Mark Ackermann, Robert Schurtz, and Brian Obuchowski will provide Hamilton with plenty of options at the position, while returning performers such as Joe Franzone and Nick Emken will compete to see time under center as well this year. Schurtz is a midyear transfer from Rhode Island, while Obuchowski comes to TCNJ after two years at Virginia Wesleyan, which does not have football.

TCNJ loses top receivers Marc Glantschnig and Mike Sinisi to graduation, but is confident in the returning players such as Rich Gildner and Joe Gargione. Gildner, senior tight end this fall, returns after averaging 35.9 yards per game receiving with 25 receptions a year ago. Gargione, a junior wide receiver had 21 catches, four for scores — with a team-high 428 receiving yards for the Lions, a 53.5 yards per game average. Junior Matt Dunn and sophomores Mike Communale and Kevin Gleason are among the players expected to step up and fill graduation voids. Look for this group as well as handful of the talented newcomers such as to see increased roles in 2001.

The offensive line loses 2000 NJAC All-Star First Team honoree, Kevin Koveloski, as well as NJAC Second Team pick, Adam Solomon. Hamilton is looking for returnee Michael DiGregorio to make an impact on the line after a strong 2000 campaign. Senior Andrew Cianfano came on strong last year and is looking to solidify his role as the Lions' center after a good finish to the 2000 season. Sophomores Michael Folis, Kevin Galbraith, Brian Kita, Erik Sendel, and Rob McCurley will be looked to this year for an increased role on the offensive line. As a team, the Lions led the league in rushing offense with 149.1 yards per game with 15 touchdowns, a statistic the team looks to improve upon this fall.

Newcomers, such as Fairfield transfer Luke Wepy, will push for a spot in the lineup as will Phil Ganz, Alex Rotsettis, John Martin, Patrick Mahan, Erik Larsen, and James Feeley. Look for the Lions to use many of these players in different roles as they look to develop players as utility performers with an eye on the future. The newcomers as a whole are a talented group and will help the Lions rebuild a powerful offensive line that should continue for a few seasons.

Defensively, TCNJ loses several key performers, including NJAC First Team picks, Casciano and Richard Holt as well as starters, Doug Nagle, Aldo Bartra, Curt Monday, and Rob Haines as well as Ed Aponte and Paul Catley. Despite these tough losses to the defensive unit, TCNJ returns an impressive core of players, including senior co-captain Mike Wendell and junior defensive back Brian Gibson. Last year, the Lions were ranked second in the NJAC in both total defense (298.8 yards/game) and rushing defense (101.2 yards/game) and are looking to continue a tradition of stingy defense once again this year.

Wendell, returns as team co-captain for a second season after being granted a redshirt season. He will find support from a complete cast that includes the likes of senior Josh Cooper, juniors Chet King, Matthew Scaravaglione, Mark Armento and Matthew Weber; as well as a large sophomore class that is led by 2000 NJAC Honorable Mention pick, Bryan Mulholland. The defensive line should be anchored by King, Mulholland and sophomore Scott Paterson. King had 23 tackles in 2000 with 10 for a loss (minus-49 yards) and five sacks, while Mulholland had 24 stops, of which 11 were for a loss (minus-79 yards). Mulholland added six and half sacks for minus-66 yards and had a pair of forced fumbles in his rookie season. Paterson played in all
nine games as a rookie with 23 tackles, including five sacks; and should be among the leaders this year.

The defensive backs will find ample depth in the return of Brian Gibson, Josh Cooper, Mark Armento, Matthew Weber and several sophomores. Gibson is the team's top returning tackler with 50 stops and a team-high four interceptions (49 yards). He added three breakups and two blocked kicks last year and is ready to pick up right where he left off in 2000. Cooper played in eight contests last year and made 16 stops, including 10 solo tackles, while junior Marc Mattesky played in just four games last year after an injury shortened season. Armento played in seven games last year, while
Weber played in five of the team's nine games and saw limited time on defense. The sophomore class includes players such as Jason and Jeremy Julio, Vito DiStefano, Brian Hatz, and Larry Larned. Each will be looked to for increased roles and playing time this fall after limited action as newcomers.

The Lion newcomers on defense include several players that could find their way into the game plan early on in the season. A top the list of players the Lions are hoping make the transition to the college game are Steve Andrews, Eric Batista, Dave Kerwick, Josh Roberts, Ramie Roye and a number of other talented incoming performers that will help the Lions for seasons to come.

TCNJ's special teams feature the return of kicker Matt Hamilton, who will handle the majority of the kicking and punting duties as well as junior Mark Armento, who saw some action as a punter last season. Hamilton will look to juniors Bryan Gallagher and Joe Gargione will be looked upon for the majority of action on punt and kick returns.

Coach Hamilton will look to use the Lions' speed on special teams as TCNJ tallied 3,831 yards of all-purpose running a year ago. Junior Bryan Gallagher returns here after earning a spot on the 2000 NJAC First Team as a return specialist, racking up 239 punt return yards and 314 kick return yards. He led the squad with his 743 all-purpose yards and will figure into the lineup again this year on special teams. Gargione returned 12 kick returns for 251 yards and averaged 86.0 all-purpose yards per game and give the special teams unit depth and speed. Newman has also seen his fair share of time on special teams with his agility and speed and could see some action here as well.

Matt Hamilton has handled almost all of TCNJ's kicking duties the past two years and was named to the NJAC Honorable Mention Team as a punter after averaging 30.9 yards per punt in 2000. As a sophomore, he was 3-for-7 on field goal tries with a long of 22 yards, while also averaging 31.9 yards per punt. Last year, he set the school mark for the longest field goal, a 51-yard strike and finished the year making three of nine field goals with 10 of 11 PATs for 19 points. Armento, a versatile athlete with limited time as a kicker could see time here as well, while newcomer Jonathan Mizglewski could push the pair with a strong preseason camp effort.

New Jersey City (3-7, 2-4 NJAC in 2000)
Many questions are expected to be answered when the 36th season of football at New Jersey City opens Aug. 19. For the first time in seven years, the Gothic Knight training camp will be directed by a new head coach, as Arnold Jeter, a college football coaching veteran, moves from the position of associate head coach to head coach, stressing a family oriented atmosphere.

Among the more than 75 players expected to suit up when camp opens are 32 returning letter-winners, including 21 all-around starters. Despite the returning talent, NJCU has been hurt by both graduation and the loss of 17 letter-winners, including 12 starters, opening the door for Jeter's first recruiting class to step in and make an immediate impact.

Newcomers will have to contribute if the Gothic Knights are to turn around a program that has finished 3-7 and in fourth place of the powerhouse New Jersey Athletic Conference each of the last two seasons.

Once again NJCU has one of the most formidable schedules in the region, with only four home games scheduled for the Thomas M. Gerrity Athletic Complex. However if the Knights can find answers to some of their more perplexing questions early, NJCU can very easily surprise some of the teams they will face amid their 10-game schedule.

The Gothic Knights ranked sixth in the conference in scoring in 2000 with 117 total points (11.7 per game), and improving that figure is one area that will determine how well the Knights will do. Last year, NJCU lost two games to playoff-bound teams by scores of four points or less, and scored less than 10 points in half of their games. They hope to counter that fact this season with a Multiple-I, 2-back attack. First-year offensive coordinator Reggie Beard will work with Jeter to change the fortunes of the offensive unit.

With Honorable Mention All-NJAC passer Darren Miller opting not to return this season, the quarterback position is wide open to be won in training camp. Junior Ralph Feliciano (Clifton, N.J./Paterson Catholic) has the most experience of anyone entering camp, but only attempted two passes last season (2-for-2, four yards). Newcomers Brandon Banks (Lindenwold, N.J./Overbrook Regional), as well as potentially returning letter-winners will be among those vying for the job.

The Gothic Knights' version of "lightning and thunder" proved to be the best running back tandem in the conference last year. Of the two players chosen First-Team All-NJAC at running back, both played for the Green and Gold.

Unfortunately, NJCU loses the most prolific runner in school history in Daniel Harrison (Plainfield, N.J./Plainfield), having graduated after three seasons and 29 games with a school-record 2,592 career yards. Harrison led the league with 679 yards in his third-straight season as an All-NJAC pick.

But the thunder portion of that equation returns for his senior season in powerful runner Frankie Sinclair (Newark, N.J./Lincoln (Brooklyn)), potentially the best back in the league. The 5-8, 190-pounder scrambled for 515 yards on 103 carries and one touchdown. His yardage was third-best in the league, and he led the NJAC with 5.0 yards per carry. Also valuable as a receiver and kick returner, Sinclair was the sixth-rated player in the league with 815 total all-purpose yards.

After beginning his career as a fullback before make the switch to the defensive line, senior Omar McDonald (Plainfield, N.J./American Heritage) will return to the backfield as a fullback again.

NJCU has numerous players who will seek playing time at running back. Among the returning players is sophomore Kelvin Holmes (Irvington, N.J./Immaculate Conception). Sophomore Robert Hightower (Lawnside, N.J./Haddon Heights) returns after seeing limited action in 1999.

The receiver position is another that will be up-for-grabs in 2001. Senior wideout David Irving (Plainfield, N.J./Plainfield) is the most-experienced returning wideout, having caught 30 passes for 319 yards and a 10.6 average a year ago. But NJCU loses two-time All-NJAC pick Lou Turso (Hoboken, N.J./Hoboken) to graduation. Ryshaun Conover (Lakewood, N.J./Lakewood), the NJAC Offensive Rookie of the Year also will not return.

But NJCU may have a wealth of talent to fill their shoes. Sophomore Melvin Hubbert (Flemington, N.J./Hunterdon Central) impressed many with his kick return abilities as a freshman and will likely be a starter when NJCU opens their season on the road against Brockport State on Sept. 8. Among the returning players who will have an opportunity this season include seniors Chad Stone (Hoboken, N.J./Hoboken), and Robert Bing (North Bergen, N.J./North Bergen), who is serving his second consecutive term as student body president at NJCU. A pair of sophomores in Steven Vilas (Jersey City, N.J./Hudson Catholic) and Carlos Franco (Union City, N.J./Weehawken) will have a chance to win jobs. At least three freshmen will be evaluated for the position in camp.

The Gothic Knights were without a proven tight end for the entire 2000 season. It doesn't look like there will be a repeat of that dilemma in 2001. Senior John Mahoney (Waldwick, N.J./Suffern (NY)) has dropped 25 pounds during the off-season after playing on the offensive line last year. At 6-6, 245-pounds, Mahoney will be a weapon. Sophomore Augusto Sikaffy (Jersey City, N.J./Dickinson) handled kickoff duties in a limited roll last season when not playing on the offensive line. A standout middle blocker for the men's volleyball team, Sikaffy, at 6-4 and 294 pounds, can play a valuable part in the Knights' offensive scheme.

Another area where the Knights will look to retool, help may arrive to the offensive line as big Warren Hernandez (Perth Amboy, N.J./Perth Amboy) returns after a year away from the team. Hernandez will tip the scales at around 350 pounds. Junior Will Barra (Newark, N.J./Eastside) returns at center after missing last season. At 6-0, 311 pounds he will be an important part of the line. Also returning is 6-0, 287-pound senior Javin Goodall (Pine Hill, N.J./Overbrook Regional). The other offensive line members will be determined from among newcomers and potentially returning players.

NJCU's 4-3 defense kept the team in many games last season and luckily eight starters will return to what may be one of the best defensive units in the conference. The Knights defense allowed just 301.5 yards per game in 2000, the third-best average in the NJAC. A group of talented defensive backs also held opposing quarterbacks to 169.6 yards per game, the second lowest total in the conference, and just 3.3 yards more than Cortland State. With such experience returning, NJCU, under new defensive coordinator Bob Merritt, has the talent to rebound from the loss of three major standouts.

The Knights suffered a major setback in the second game of last season when senior co-captain Nick Smith (Hopatcong, N.J./Pope John XXIII) went down with a fractured finger on his left hand and a damaged tendon in the hand. The injury sidelined the veteran for the entire season, after surgery. Smith returns to solidify a talented front line, and even could see time on the offensive line.

Senior Curtis Baker (Plainfield, N.J./Plainfield) is another force to be reckoned with on the line. At 6-1, 305 pounds, Baker earned so much respect from his teammates that he was named co-captain in only his first year with the program.

Junior Daniel Tyler (Columbus, N.J./North Burlington) is one of many defensive players that will challenge for a slot on the all-conference team after posting a tremendous sophomore campaign. Tyler was sixth in the NJAC with four total fumbles involved in (three recovered, one forced) and is a steady player on the defensive line.

The other defensive line hole will be filled by several potentially returning athletes or by one of seven freshmen currently labeled as defensive lineman entering camp.

The area where the Gothic Knights will be hurt the most from last season is at the linebacking positions. Ulysses Stinson (Jersey City, N.J./Marist) will not play this season after being named First-Team All-NJAC in 2000 and posting 76.5 tackles, the second-best total in the league. Shane Smith (Teaneck, N.J./Teaneck), who was named NJAC Defensive Rookie of the Year after chipping in 55 tackles (fourth-best in the league), also will not return.

But NJCU will get relief from sophomore Corey Baker (Plainfield, N.J./Plainfield) who after teaming with his older brother on the D-line last season will slide back into a linebacker role. Baker is a proven defensive standout who was named NJAC Defensive Rookie-of-the-Week on two occasions last year (Week 5 and 10).

Senior Adam Florek (Manville, N.J./Immaculata) is the lone returning linebacker from last season. Florek had a standout year on the inside and will again be a stabilizer in that position. Seniors Jamere Tyson (Erial, N.J./Highland Regional) and Chris Wilson (Irvington, N.J./Seton Hall Prep) both have some experience in a linebacker role and will challenge for a slot in the starting lineup. The Knights also expect nine newcomers to enter camp vying for playing time at linebacker.

A similar diagnosis as defensive line can be drawn from Jeter's returning secondary, where talent is in abundance. Senior safety Sharif Battle (Newark, N.J./Eastside) was fourth on the team with 41 tackles, including 32 solo stops. Battle also proved valuable in the air as he picked off five passes. He battled to finish second in the conference in total interceptions. Senior Duane Dates (Summit, N.J./Summit) emerged as a top-notch safety after starting the season as a reserve. Dates earned Second-Team All-NJAC honors, and was tabbed NJAC Defensive Player-of-the-Week in Week 8 of the season.
Junior Dashaun Gourdine (Somerset, N.J./Franklin) earned Honorable Mention honors last season after ranking third in the league with 13 passes defended, including four interceptions.

The only starter in the secondary lost is Jon Lionakis (Jersey City, N.J./Hudson Catholic) who graduated as an Honorable Mention All-NJAC pick. Many players will duel for a shot in the defensive backfield, including senior Ahmik Bryant (Elizabeth, N.J./Elizabeth) and junior Jim Hartkopf (Harrison, N.J./Harrison), in addition to a half-dozen potentials who enter camp as rookies.

Dates will also make his presence felt as NJCU's punter where he has steadily improved over his four-year career. Dates finished his junior season ranked third in the league in punting, booting 47 kicks for 1676 yards and a 35.7 average.

NJCU did not have a true kicker for the entire 2000 campaign, a weakness that may have contributed to close losses to Brockport and Montclair State. Help may arrive in the form of another member of the NJCU men's volleyball team. Senior Robert Manzari (North Bergen, N.J./Weehawken) will attempt to play collegiate football for the first time after last playing in high school in 1997. He might be effective on extra points, an area where NJCU could only convert 6-of-12 attempts last year. Manzari may also help on field goals, where the Knights hit on 1-of-6 chances. Freshman John Hedberg (Forked River, N.J./Lacey) will be used for kickoffs and potentially on field goals and extra points.

Melvin Hubbert demonstrated on his first collegiate punt return opportunity that he was going to be dangerous, when he raced 62-yards for a touchdown as NJCU went on to defeat Pace 21-19 in the season opener. In nine chances, Hubbert yielded 130 yards in punt returns, including a 14.4 average.
Hubbert proved to be even more lethal as a kickoff returner. The 5-7, 163-pounder hauled in 26 returns for 559 yards and a 90-yard score. His 21.5 kick return average was fourth in the league, while his return and yardage totals ranked second overall in the league. He was eighth in the NJAC with 77.6 all-purpose yards per game.

Frankie Sinclair is another weapon on punt returns, having grabbed six kicks for 106 yards and a devastating 17.7 average.

With 12 days until the start of camp, and 32 until the first official kickoff of the Arnold Jeter era, these and many other questions will be answered as New Jersey City University strives to field another competitive football program in one of the most difficult conferences in Division III.

Rowan (7-2, 5-1 NJAC in 2000)
Rowan finished the 2000 season with a 7-2 overall record. The Profs were 5-1 in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC). Montclair State won its second straight conference title with a 17-13 victory against Rowan in the regular season finale in Upper Montclair. The Profs failed to make the NCAA playoffs for the first time since 1994. Head coach K.C. Keeler, entering his ninth season, wants to restore the pride in a program that advanced to the Stagg Bowl five times in eight seasons.

"We are looking forward to a good year," Keeler said. "We want to rebound after a disappointing season. The hallmarks of this year's team will be solid leadership and experience."

Tony Racioppi (sr. Red Bank Reg./Tinton Falls, N.J.) is the starter at quarterback. Last year Racioppi was the Profs' backup to Mike Warker, who has since transferred to Widener. Racioppi completed 25 of 43 passes (58.1%) for 351 yards and four touchdowns. Warker passed for 2,090 yards (117 of 225) and 14 TDs and was named to the NJAC All-Conference second team.

"Tony is tremendously intelligent," said Keeler. "He played very well in the last two games against William Paterson and Montclair State. Leadership is his strong suit. He is a good athlete and we can win with Tony."

Racioppi will have a deep core of talented receivers to work with. Scott Lipford (sr. Ocean City/Egg Harbor Twp., N.J.) and Al Beverly (sr. Cumberland Reg./Bridgeton, N.J.) are the starters. Lipford had 54 catches for 842 yards and five touchdowns. He was selected to the All-Conference first team and received Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Southeast Region honorable mention. The explosive Beverly averaged 29.7 yards per reception (16 for 475) including five TDs. The Profs lost starting wideout Bobby Woolfolk, who hauled in 24 passes for 509 yards and four touchdowns.

"Scott could be as good as we have had here," Keeler stated. "He is very tough to bring down in the open field and on kick and punt returns. Al has the best speed of any wideout here."

Other receivers expected to see time are Michael Osborne (sr. Holy Cross/Burlington, N.J.), Michael Ward (jr. Mainland Reg./Linwood, N.J.) and Jon Berry (fr. Caesar Rodney/Camden, Del.). Osborne (116 yards, 16.6 avg.) had seven receptions and two touchdowns. In six games, Ward had three grabs for 28 yards.

Running back Jason Frabasile (jr. Bishop Ahr/Carteret, N.J.) was the primary starter last year. Frabasile led the Profs with 474 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 116 attempts. Other tailbacks who saw action were Antwine Simmons (jr. Sayreville War Memorial/Parlin, N.J.), Tremaine Hill (so. Kingsway Reg./Swedesboro, N.J.) and Kevin Sinclair (sr. Ocean City/Ocean City, N.J.). Simmons gained 265 yards on 45 carries while Sinclair had 43 attempts for 225 yards and three TDs. At fullback, Carmine Avellino (jr. St. Joseph/Waterford, N.J.) caught two passes for 20 yards and carried six times for nine yards.

"The running back position was injury prone last year," said Keeler. "We have a plethora of tailbacks. It is just a matter of who steps up to be the main guy. We have always had a goal to rotate two main backs and have a third guy we can use in certain situations."

John Gillen (jr. Shawnee/Tabernacle, N.J.) is the returning starter at right tackle while Corey Scott (so. Newark/Newark, Del.) is back at left guard. Scott received All-Conference honorable mention his rookie season. Joe Trexler (jr. Paulsboro/Gibbstown, N.J.) started last season at center. Reserve linemen include guard Brian Silipena (jr. Hammonton/Hammonton, N.J.) and tackle Rob Rieck (sr. Clearview Reg./Mullica Hill, N.J.).

"This is a young group and the starting lineup may not have a senior on it," stated Keeler. "These guys all have at least one year under their belts and we expect them to be a strong group when it's all said and done."

The defense is anchored by the return of of outside line backer Earle Whilby (sr. Dwight Morrow/Englewood, N.J.). Whilby was the team's leading tackler last season. He made 56 tackles, 33 solo and 23 assisted. Whilby registered five sacks and five pass breakups. He was on the All-Conference second team and Football Gazette East Region third team. Prior to camp, the Profs lost outside linebacker Matt Baranyay (sr. Central Reg./Bayville, N.J.) due to a dislocated hip. Baranyay had 44 tackles with five sacks. He led the squad with five interceptions and three forced fumbles. Baranyay was a member of the All-Conference and Football Gazette East Region second teams.

Bobby Fisher (sr. Kington (N.C.)/Newark, N.J.) replaces Roedell Dupree at middle linebacker. Fisher was the team's fifth leading tackler with 38 stops. Fisher labored through the season with a broken hand and received All-Conference honorable mention. Dupree recorded 32 tackles, 10 solo and 22 assisted. He was on the NJAC and ECAC Southeast Region first team.

"This is the strongest part of our team," Keeler said. "This threesome will rival the crews of past years here at Rowan. This is an athletic and vicious group. They can all run and can all hit hard. Fisher, if he stays healthy, can be one of the most dominating players in the country."

Defensive end Gerrit Tosh (jr. North Warren Reg./Blairstown, N.J.) had a breakout season last year. Tosh led the Profs with seven sacks and he finished with 11 tackles for a loss, second most on the team. Jason Knighton (sr. Bayley Ellard/Irvington, N.J.) could play end or tackle while end Earl Nelson (jr. Mount Olive/Union, N.J.) will see some snaps. Knighton had 12 tackles including three for a loss. Nelson had three sacks in only four games.

"Gerrit had a tremendous year for us last season," said Keeler. "He is certainly a preseason All-American candidate. Jason did some nice things for us, and we could play him at tackle or end. He could be really good."

The tackles are Jermaine Ruffin (jr. Paulsboro/Paulsboro, N.J.), Michael Garcia (sr. Woodbury/Woodbury, N.J.) and Stephen Pineda (sr. John Adams/Jamaica, N.Y.). Ruffin finished with 19 tackles including two sacks. Garcia had 15 hits with five behind the line of scrimmage. Pineda had 14 total tackles, seven solo and seven assisted.

"There is some experience and ability on this line," Keeler stated. "As a unit, it should be one of our strongest areas."

Clinton Tabb (sr. Pennsauken/Pennsauken, N.J.) returns for his final season in the secondary. Keeler said Tabb will play free safety again but could be moved to cornerback. Tabb was third on the defense in tackles with 47. He intercepted three passes and had 119 return yards and two touchdowns. Tabb was on the NJAC first team and received ECAC Southeast Region honorable mention.

Cornerback Andrew Ransome (sr. Christiana/Bear, Del.) is a returning starter. Ransome had 15 tackles with four pass breakups last season. He garnered All-Conference honorable mention. Vince DeVine (so. Cherry Hill W./Voorhees, N.J.) has the inside track for the other corner position.

"Andrew is just an all-around steady performer," said Keeler. "He is never flashy, just a solid player."

Keeler does has some holes to fill in the defensive backfield. The Profs are without cornerbacks Ron Gibson and Peter Clarke and strong safety Alex Ferrante. Gibson was named to the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) All-America team. He made 25 tackles with one interception. Ferrante was second in tackles with 49, 36 solo and 13 assisted, and his six pass breakups led the club. He was on the All-Conference second team.

Kicker/punter Nick Frade (sr. Cherry Hill E./Cherry Hill, N.J.) and punter Brian Buchanan (sr. Somerville/Somerville) are returning specialists. Frade made four field goals with a long of 37. He connected on 38 of 40 extra point attempts. Last season, Buchanan shared the punting duties with Frade. Buchanan had a 37.3 average (19 for 709 yards) while Frade had a 32.6 average (22 for 718).

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