Prior to the spring game, this is my position breakdown with how good I feel about the talent we have at each position (on a scale of 1 to 10).
Quarterback--3--I think we'll see fairly average QB play this year. If Daniel Thomas is here in the fall, I think he'll end up at RB due to the lack of talent at that position and also because he won't have much time. As far as the passing game, our WRs could help out whoever is at QB.
Running Back / Fullback--1--Something our team really needs to establish is a running game. While I think our offensive line will be OK, our RBs are not that strong. Maybe our RBs will fit better within Snyder's offensive scheme. It's also possible that the high school guys will figure into the rotation. Also, I like that we're back to utilizing a FB. I think Braden Wilson and possibly Kadero Terrell could end up being solid FBs.
Wide Receiver / Tight End--8--This is certainly the offensive strength of the team. In fact, it's such a strength that the loss of Deon Murphy should not be a major concern. Banks will likely have another strong season. I think Lamark Brown may be in for a big year after receiving better coaching. I think Coach Snyder may look to RS Attrail Snipes (as Prince should have done last year) so that we don't lose quite so many WRs. At TE, it's really too bad that Mastrud couldn't have had Snyder all the way through college, as I believe he would have developed into a bigger and better blocking TE. I can't wait to see the return of the standing TE!
Offensive Line--4--I think our OL will be average because of the returning and RS talent. However, due to how bad the OL was under Prince I'm concerned that things won't get better. Over the next 2 or 3 years, this is the position group that I think will determine how K-State improves. I believe it is a given that the defense will improve over that time. However, if the offense is still stagnant (due in large part to a lack of horses on the OL), K-State will struggle to be a bowl team.
Defensive Line--7--This could be the strength of our defense. Fitzgerald and Harold are both proven BCS Conference DL. Also, guys such as Antonio Felder, Daniel Calvin, Xzavier Stewart, Mike Abana, and Sack Master provide enough depth and (hopefully) talent that I feel positive about our DL's chances. I hope the DTs are all in shape and injury-free this fall (knock on wood).
Linebackers--5--There is solid depth at this position. However, I fear that the position is comprised of #2s and lacks leadership. Regardless, it looks like there will only be 2 LBs on the field most of the time and it appears that Coach Snyder is happy with the progress at this position. Due to the depth, I could see some of these guys redshirting or changing positions.
Defensive Backs--1--This is the most worrisome position, by far...especially at CB. Joshua Moore is a solid CB. However, our depth at the position is iffy and was hurt by the dismissal of Blair Irvin. I'm hopeful that Courtney Thompson or Angelo Pease is a surprise success at the position this fall. Also, I wouldn't be surprised to see Chris Carney get a shot at CB. The thought of Otis Johnson and Billy McClellan being our #2 and #3 (overall) CBs worries me. The S position should be stronger. It sounds like we've had some injuries this spring, but I actually think there will be some good competition for the 3 S positions. In particular, I think some of the HS players will be good enough to start or play right away.
Special Teams--8--This will be our strongest unit and I expect us to be fairly good in all phases of the kicking game. I wouldn't be surprised if our special teams win us a game or two this season.
Prediction: 5 or 6 wins
