Offensively, the Dukes are still eyeing Jordan Anderson and Juaun Latney for the backup running back position and have not been happy with the play of many of their wide receivers. But the offensive line, the tight ends and – most notably – the quarterbacks are set.
“We’re pretty set on offense,” junior quarterback Justin Thorpe, who beat out backup Jace Edwards and third-stringer Billy Cosh for the nod behind center. “We know what can do. We’re just going out there trying to execute.”
Senior Roane Babington will start at center, with Matt Krout and Josh Wells at right guard and tackle. Earl Watford will be the left guard, lining up next to Marshall
Brian Barlow will be the starting tight end, though Jonathan Sharp should see plenty of playing time, especially in some two tight end sets.
Defensively, seniors Mike Allen and Taveion Cuffee are still battling for the second cornerback position and junior safeties Jakarie Jackson and Ryan Smith are locked in competition to start.
“There are just some guys who are really close,” Matthews said, pointing to the rotation at defensive line as an example. “There are still some really competitive things.”
Right now, JMU has senior Nick Emmons and junior Sean O’Neil at defensive tackle, though senior Lamar Middleton is right there with them.
Seniors D.J. Bryant and Aaron Harper are at defensive end.
Junior Leavander Jones will be one cornerback, with Allen or Cuffee holding the second spot.
Sophomore Stephon Robertson will be the middle linebacker. Senior Pat Williams will be at one outside linebacker spot. Senior Vidal Nelson seems to be leading at the other outside position, though junior Jamie Veney is right there with them. Chase Williams had been in that mix but has been sitting out with an injury.
Redshirt freshman Dean Marlowe will start at free safety, while Jackson and Smith are competing for the second safety position.
Matthews still hasn’t named a starting place kicker. Cameron Starke and Graham Sharple are vying for that job.
Thorpe said the good thing about this year’s competitions is that Matthews and the assistants are choosing between players who are all performing well.
“Offense and defense, we’re loaded at every spot,” Thorpe said. “I feel like it’s a blessing to have all this talent surrounding me.”
Catch of the day: Quintin Hunter made a great catch on a comeback route thrown by Justin Thorpe. Hunter broke back toward the sideline then leaped and pulled the ball away from a defensive back.
Hit of the day: Tight end Brian Barlow blocked defensive end Brandon Lee into the ground on the backside of a play near the end of Friday’s workout.
Quote of the day: “You’re not getting anything for Christmas from me. That was your present,” said quarterback Jace Edwards after throwing an interception right into the arms of safety Jakarie Jackson.
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