Kramer, 'Cats Land Solid Recruiting Class
2/7/2001 12:00:00 AM | Football
to improve our passing game with experienced receivers, improve ourselves in the defensiveline, get quality kids out of Montana, and re-establish our presence in California," said MSU’ssecond-year head coach.
Mission accomplished. With Wednesday’s 23 signees, as well as the six transfer students thathave already enrolled at MSU, Kramer has satisfactorily addressed each situation. "First, wefound players that are proficient beyond high school, guys who have demonstrated the abilityto get things done," he said. "We had to improve ourselves at receiver and in the defensiveline, which we’ve accomplished with transfers. We’ve also created competition at quarterback
and cornerback, which will improve our situation at both spots.
"In addition, we signed three quality players from Montana, and 16 from California," he said.
"We put six coaches in California to get enough talent out of there to make a difference, and
we’re certainly not disappointed. It was fun to make a renewed presence in San Diego, and to
continue to develop our southern California ties. And it was good to pry two quality players
out of Valley High in Sacramento."
Kramer said the prep players MSU landed this year adds to a strong foundation built by the
last two or three recruiting classes. "This is a different group than last year, but it’s a
high-quality group," Kramer said. "This class is heavy in linemen. The young guys are
developmental players who need weight training and time. The older guys have explosion and
pop and add to a very solid group of returning offensive and defensive linemen." MSU could
add a couple players in the next few days, as well as this spring and summer.
Transfers Already Enrolled
Name, Pos. Ht Wt Class Hometown High School JC/4-Year
Junior Adams, WR 5-10 185 Jr* Fremont, CA Amador Valley Oregon State
Kimball Bowdin, OL 6-5 275 Jr Tualatin, OR Tualatin Foothill College
Jacques DeMarais, DT 6-1 255 Fr* Rathdrum, ID Rathdrum Idaho
Bryan Molen, WR 5-10 185 Jr Salt Lake City, UT Copper Hills Dixie College
Justin Reber, WR 6-3 185 Jr* Sacramento, CA Capitol Christian Sacramento City
Tyler Thomas, QB 6-4 185 Jr* Prosser, WA Prosser Oregon State
Transfers Enrolling Next Fall (*-already used redshirt year)
Travis Busse, DL 6-4 240 Jr Anchorage, AK East Ventura College
E.C. Fults, WR 6-2 185 Jr San Diego, CA Madison Mesa College
Danny Lockhart, DT 6-2 270 Jr Lynwood, CA Carson El Camino College
Sherrod Richards, CB 6-2 195 Jr Merced, CA Downey Modesto College
High School Signees
Marcus Davis, WR 6-2 185 Fr Pittsburg, CA Pittsburg
Lawrence Frierson, CB 5-10 185 Fr Sacramento, CA Valley
Otis Garnett, CB 5-11 170 Fr Oakland, CA McClymonds
Billy Griffin, OL 6-3 270 Fr Ventura, CA Ventura
Steve Gunnels, DL 6-4 255 Fr Spokane, WA Mead
Anthony Hardgraves, OL 6-5 225 Fr Merced, CA Merced
Jason Holmes, DB 6-1 190 Fr Paso Robles, CA Paso Robles
Lawrence Letuli, RB 5-10 205 Fr Carlsbad, CA Carlsbad
Nick Marudas, LB 6-2 185 Fr Bozeman, MT Bozeman
Greg Moore, LB 6-0 205 Fr San Diego, CA Hoover
Bryant Munday, OL 6-3 240 Fr Dillon, MT Beaverhead Co.
Marquise Myers, DB 6-0 180 Fr Sacramento, CA Valley
Ben Smith, DL 6-3 235 Fr Pleasanton, CA Foothill
Zach Ueland, RB 6-1 200 Fr Butte, MT Butte
Matt Yocam, OL 6-5 255 Fr Lakewood, CA Lakewood
JUNIOR COLLEGE TRANSFERS ENROLLED AT MSU
Junior Adams, WR (5-10, 185, Jr, Fremont,CA/Oregon St)
Missed last season with an ankle injury, and missed the 1998 season with a broken thumb
after earning a spot on the varsity as a true freshman... saw limited time in ‘99 as a redshirt
freshman... was a high school teammate of Bobcat linebacker Mike McCafferty, where he was
a two-way starter for three years... rushed for 3,385 yards and scored 53 TDs at Amador
Valley... was also an outstanding return specialist. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Junior Adams
is athletic, fast, and has good quickness. He had a rough experience at Oregon State, but is
well-liked by the staff there and judging him by his high school standards has some competitive
skill. He will compete right away for a starting position. He may play on the inside, but he may
also play on the outside. he’s part of the general effort to increase the ability of our receiving
corps."
Kimball Bowdin, OL (6-5, 275, Jr, Tualatin,OR/Foothill JC)
A JC Gridwire Second Team All-America selection who could redshirt at MSU this year... a
two-year starter at Foothill... was also a unanimous all-conference, all-region and all-state
choice as a sophomore... was a two-time all-conference choice at Tualitin, Ore., High... also
played center on the basketball team that finished seventh in the state, and was a 50-foot shot
putter. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Kimball is destined for a redshirt season if we can at all
make that possible. He is tall and strapping with long arms, and is in dire need of weight
training. He was a two-year starter at Foothill College, where he played in a pretty competitive
situation and played well."
Jacques DesMaires, DT (6-1, 255, FR, Rathdrum, ID/Idaho)
Was a three-time all-conference choice and an all-state selection as a senior at Lakeland
High... was named All-North Idaho as a junior and senior... was enrolled at Idaho last fall
before transferring to MSU. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "We recruited Jacques somewhat
last year, and he told us that he wanted to attend the University of Idaho under any
circumstances. It didn’t work out for him there, and we’re happy to have him. He is a player
we hope can come in and compete for playing time in the defensive line. The loss of Raymond
Sebastyan academically and the loss of William Kofe to his LDS mission has made that
academic class very thin in the defensive line, with only Roger Cooper and walk-on Jason
Richardson available. So what we needed was a young interior lineman."
Bryan Molen (5-10, 185, Jr, Salt Lake City, UT/Dixie JC)
Was an all-conference receiver at Dixie College in Utah last year... caught 15 passes for 252
yards and a touchdown in ‘00. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Bryan Molen is a legacy, his
father played football here in the ‘60s. He is a quality wide receiver who played at Dixie
College who has displayed competency at catching the ball. He is very competitive and tough,
but is very mature, as is witnessed by his 23 years of age and his recent marriage."
Justin Reber, WR(6-3, 185, Jr, Sacramento, CA(Sac City JC)
Was Sac City’s Offensive MVP last year, and was the offensive MVP of the Shrine Bowl...
was an Optimist All-Star at Capitol Christian High in Sacramento... caught 134 passes for
2,200 yards in two prep season... was a freshman walk-on at Sac State before transferring to
Sac City. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Justin is a tall, strapping receiver, very much in the
mold of (current MSU receiver) Toby Winters. He is a guy that has proven he can play at the
Big Sky level by his performance at Sacramento City College."
Tyler Thomas, QB (6-4, 185, Jr, Prosser, WA/Oregon St.)
Played quarterback at Oregon State for three seasons, completing one of his five passes last
year for 11 yards... was second on the Beaver depth chart throughout his sophomore season,
playing in three games... was 15-for-33 for 99 yards in three spring scrimmages last year... did
not play as a redshirt freshman or a true freshman... was named prep All-America by PrepStar
Magazine and was ranked as the 12th-best QB in the west by SuperPrep Magazine... was
honorable mention on the Tacoma News Tribune’s Northwest Nuggets list for Oregno,
Washington and Alaska... led Prosser to a 10-1 record as a senior. MSU Coach Mike
Kramer: "Tyler Thomas is a young quarterback at the mid-point of his college career. He has
excellent physical attributes - height, weight, speed, foot quickness. He has tremendous
competitive instincts, as evidenced by the fact that he never lost a regular-season high school
game, ever, in four years as a starter at Prosser High School. He is a guy that is really at the
cusp of being a top-flight Pac 10 starter. The situation at Oregon State with the return of
Jonathan Smith precludes his ability to get on the field in a competitive situation next fall there.
He was looking for an opportunity, and we’re more than willing to provide him that
opportunity."
JUNIOR COLLEGE TRANSFERS ENROLLING IN FALL
Travis Busse, DL (6-4, 240, Jr, Anchorage, AK/Ventura JC)
Was an honorable mention all-conference choice at Ventura College as a freshman, and
earned second-team honors last fall... earned Ventura football’s Academic Athletic Award for
his 3.46 grade point average was an all-state first team defensive lineman as a senior at
Ancorage, Ak., East High, earning second-team honors as a junior... was a second team
offensive lineman as a senior, as well... played for a year at Bemidji, Minn., State, earning
Defensive Scout Team Player of the Year honors in ‘98-99. MSU Coach Mike Kramer:
"Travis is a tall, lean, multi-purpose defensive lineman who can play end or tackle. He has
good arm strength and plays at a good pad level. He has an engaging personality, and will
probably back up Nick Morasko at tackle."
E.C. Fults, WR (6-2, 185, Jr, Mesa, CA/Mesa College)
Was a standout receiver at Mesa College in San Diego, catching 44 passes for 600 yards and
six TDs last fall... returned one kick for a touchdown, as well... was an all-conference choice
and team captain at Madison High in San Diego, earning team MVP honors as a senior. MSU
Coach Mike Kramer: "This kid is a dream receiver for us. When we began recruiting him we
felt we had no chance. The fact that he is signing with us is a testimony to the doggedness of
Rob Christoff and Don Bailey. He has a redshirt available, but is a classic receiver in the mold
of (former Northridge receiver) Aaron Arnold."
Danny Lockhart, DT (6-2, 272, Lynwood, CA/El Camino JC)
An all-conference defensive lineman who could challenge for starting duties for the Bobcats
this fall... registered 120 tackles, two sacks, caused five fumbles and recovered three last fall at
El Camino... was a first team all-conference choice, earned his team’s Big Hitter Award, and
was his team’s Defensive Player of the Year... is the school career (345) and season (200)
record-holder for tackles at Carson, Calif., High... was named Prep Star Magazine
All-America, was a first team Long Beach Press-Telegram Dream Team choice, a first team
all-area choice by the Daily Breeze as a junior and senior, and was a first team All-Samoan
selection, as well. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Danny Lockhart should aproach for starting
time as our nose tackle. He was a linebacker as a freshman at Long Beach City College, and
as a sophomore at El Camino College anchored a very solid and emotional defensive line.
Danny is a relative of Kane Ioane’s, and has a very strong Samoan heritage."
Sherrod Richards, CB (6-2, 195, Jr, Modesto, CA/Modesto JC)
Was a first team all-conference choice at Modesto JC last year... picked off eight passes in
two seasons for over 200 return yards... had three TDs as a frosh... was his team’s MVP as a
senior at Modesto’s Downey High... the two-time all-conference choice picked off 9 passes
and rushed for 800 yards on 70 carries. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Sherrod is a tall,
long-armed corner a la Joey Thomas. I will do everything in my power to redshirt Sherrod,
unless he can come in and start. He is a young, aggressive defensive back that played a lot of
man-to-man coverage at junior college."
HIGH SCHOOL SIGNEES
Marcus Davis, DB (6-1, 185, Fr, Pittsburg, CA/Pittsburg)
Scored 12 touchdowns last year as a receiver, catching 36 passes for 732 yards... also rushed
for 180 yards, and returned one kick for a touchdown... was a first team all-league choice, and
was his team’s offensive MVP. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Marcus Davis is a very tall and
physical safety who was a great wide receiver and all-around athlete at Pittsburg High School.
His high school basketball team is one of the best in the nation, and he is a great all-around
athlete."
Larry Frierson, CB (5-10, 185, Fr, Sacramento, CA/Valley)
Was an outstanding quarterback as a senior, rushing for 954 yards and 12 TDs, and
completing 32 of his 55 passes, including seven TDs... had three interceptions and one TD
return as a senior, breaking up or deflecting 25 passes... picked off five passes as a junior,
returning two for scores... deflected or broke up 10 passes... earned all-district, all-conference
and all-league honors as a senior. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Larry was a starting
quarterback who hated every minute of it. He is a born and natural quarterback with
tremendous temperament, skills and competitive instincts. He will see time next year as a true
freshman."
Otis Garnett, CB (5-11, 170, Fr, Oakland, CA/McClymonds)
Played on the top-ranked defense in the East Bay, serving as a two-time team captain... he
was all-city first team as a senior, as well... was a three-year starter... was part of the CIF
State Finals 4 x 100 m relay team that finished 9th, 10th and 11th at state. MSU Coach Mike
Kramer: "Otis Garnett is an athletic, slender corner from McClymonds High School in
Oakland who needs strength and skill development. He has a tremendous upside in terms of
his potential, growth and maturity. He is a tremendous hitter."
Billy Griffin, OL (6-3, 265, Fr, Ventura, CA/Ventura)
Earned first team all-state honors and was named to the CIF Elite Team last fall... chosen for
the California-Texas prep all-star game... was named Ventura County Lineman of the Year,
and was earned all-league, , All-CIF Division IV, All-Ventura County and LA Times honors.
MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Billy Griffin brings to us a can-do attitude in the offensive line. He
was one of the main cogs in the offensive line that produced the nation’s all-time leading rusher
Tyler Ebell, whose father played for Montana State."
Steve Gunnels, DL (6-4, 255, Fr, Spokane, WA/Mead)
A two-time all-conference choice who registered 130 tackles in his three years as a starter...
logged 11 sacks and recovered five fumbles, as well... was team captain and Defensive
Lineman of the Year. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Steve Gunnels is a very tall, long-armed
defensive tackle. He was a very productive player at Mead High School in Spokane."
Anthony Hardgraves, OL (6-5, 225, Fr, Merced, CA/Merced)
Earned all-district honors at Merced High as a senior, when he registered 13.5 sacks... had 12
sacks as a junior... also threw the shot and discus and ran the 300 m hurdles. MSU Coach
Mike Kramer: "Anthony Hardgraves played tight end and defensive end in high school, and
will move to the offensive line in college. He just turned 17, so he is very young and has a lot of
room to grow and mature."
Lawrence Letuli, RB (5-10, 205, Fr, Carlsbad, CA/Carlsbad)
Earned Team MVP and Most Inspirational honors last fall, was elected team captain by his
teammates... was a first team all-league, All-North County, All-CIF and All-State choice...
carried 251 times for 1,595 yards last year, scoring 14 TDs... caught 21 passes for 188 yards
and a touchdown. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "He played in one of the nation’s best high
school programs as a two-year starter. He plays with an irrepressible spirit. He is a bull, a
power running back with the ability to slash away from tackles but also to bowl them over."
Nick Marudas, LB (6-1, 185, Fr, Bozeman, MT/Bozeman)
A first-team all-state fullback and honorable mention all-state linebacker... rushed for 1,268
yards as a senior, and was chosen for the East-West Shrine Game... was part of Bozeman
High’s second-place 4 x 100 m relay at the State AA meet last spring and the fourth-place 4 x
400 m relay squad... led Bozeman in tackles last year. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Nick
Marudas was a very tough and productive running back at Bozeman High School, the best
fullback in the school’s history and at times the best running back in the state. We’ll move him
to linebacker, where he’ll be able to use the same range he demonstrated as a running back.""
Greg Moore, LB (6-0, 215, Fr, San Diego, CA/Hoover)
Has led his team in tackles for three straight years, averaging over 100 per year in that span...
has five career interceptions, one for a touchdown... rushed for 800 yards and seven
touchdowns as a junior... earned the Willie James Jones Award for Most Inspirational Player
in San Diego County... was named team MVP, and was runnerup for the defensive player of
the year award in San Diego. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Greg Moore comes out of one of
the most competitive programs in the nation at Hoover High School, where potentially eight
guys will sign Division I scholarships. Greg was a two-year starter, and maybe the most
productive player on their team."
Bryant Munday, DL (6-3, 220, Fr, Dillon, MT/Beaverhead)
Earned all-state honors at linebacker and offensive tackle on Beaverhead’s 11-0 State A
championship team... was a Great Falls Tribune Superstate choice... had 100 tackles as a
senior... chosen for the Mon-Dak and East-West Shrine All-Star Games. MSU Coach Mike
Kramer: "Bryant Munday was a three-year starter for the defending State A Champions
playing linebacker and offensive tackle, he never came off the field. He’s rail thin compared to
the size he’s going to be. He’s very equivilant in terms of attitude and high school production to
Devlan Geddes. He reminds me a lot of Devlan."
Marquise Myers, DB (6-0, 180, Fr, Sacramento, CA/Valley)
Was a defensive back standout at Sacramento Valley High... was a teammate of MSU signee
Larry Frierson... picked off two passes and had 408 kick return yards... had 62 tackles and
nine interceptions as a sophomore... was an all-city defensive back last fall. MSU Coach Mike
Kramer: "Marquise Myers is a smooth, athletic, ferocious-hitting safety. He’s a teammate of
Larry Freirson’s. He has good physicality."
Ben Smith, DL (6-3, 235, Fr, Pleasanton, CA/Foothill)
Earned first team all-league honors was his team’s MVP, and was named a "Rising Star" by
Gridiron Greats Magazine... had 120 tackles, five sacks and an interception as a senior...
helped lead his squad to a 2A and a 3A championship. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Ben
Smith is a good-sized defensive lineman who could play tackle or end. He was a high school
teammate of (MSU punter) Nate Cook."
Zach Ueland, RB (5-11, 185, Fr, Butte, MT/Butte)
The son of former Bobcat standout Dan Ueland, he rushed for 1,048 yards last fall and was
named second team All-State running back... was chosen as an alternate for the East-West
Shrine and Mon-Dak games... is the defending 200m champion (21.9), and was second in the
400 (48.9)... MSU women’s basketball coach Frank McCarthy and former Bobcat greats
Don and Ron Ueland are his uncles. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "We offered Zach last spring
as a result of his athletic prowess in track and his football family legacy. He will start at tailback
here, but who knows where he will end up. He has good athleticism and speed."
Matt Yocam, OL (6-5, 255, Fr, Lakewood, CA/Lakewood)
Was a first team all-league choice, and was named to the Long Beach Press-Telegram Dream
Team first team and the LA Times All-Star Team... was the Lakewood Hall of Fame Player of
the Year, and was first team All-CIF... had 24 pancake blocks and 78 tackles, four forced
fumbles and four sacks. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Matt Yocam is like Billy Griffin, he is a
mean-spirited, mobile offensive lineman from a very solid high school program. He is an athlete
that we would not be available for us to recruit. We were surprised to have a chance at him,
but when other schools came around we did not back down and it paid off. He is a prototype
offensive tackle.
Mission accomplished. With Wednesday’s 23 signees, as well as the six transfer students thathave already enrolled at MSU, Kramer has satisfactorily addressed each situation. "First, wefound players that are proficient beyond high school, guys who have demonstrated the abilityto get things done," he said. "We had to improve ourselves at receiver and in the defensiveline, which we’ve accomplished with transfers. We’ve also created competition at quarterback
and cornerback, which will improve our situation at both spots.
"In addition, we signed three quality players from Montana, and 16 from California," he said.
"We put six coaches in California to get enough talent out of there to make a difference, and
we’re certainly not disappointed. It was fun to make a renewed presence in San Diego, and to
continue to develop our southern California ties. And it was good to pry two quality players
out of Valley High in Sacramento."
Kramer said the prep players MSU landed this year adds to a strong foundation built by the
last two or three recruiting classes. "This is a different group than last year, but it’s a
high-quality group," Kramer said. "This class is heavy in linemen. The young guys are
developmental players who need weight training and time. The older guys have explosion and
pop and add to a very solid group of returning offensive and defensive linemen." MSU could
add a couple players in the next few days, as well as this spring and summer.
Transfers Already Enrolled
Name, Pos. Ht Wt Class Hometown High School JC/4-Year
Junior Adams, WR 5-10 185 Jr* Fremont, CA Amador Valley Oregon State
Kimball Bowdin, OL 6-5 275 Jr Tualatin, OR Tualatin Foothill College
Jacques DeMarais, DT 6-1 255 Fr* Rathdrum, ID Rathdrum Idaho
Bryan Molen, WR 5-10 185 Jr Salt Lake City, UT Copper Hills Dixie College
Justin Reber, WR 6-3 185 Jr* Sacramento, CA Capitol Christian Sacramento City
Tyler Thomas, QB 6-4 185 Jr* Prosser, WA Prosser Oregon State
Transfers Enrolling Next Fall (*-already used redshirt year)
Travis Busse, DL 6-4 240 Jr Anchorage, AK East Ventura College
E.C. Fults, WR 6-2 185 Jr San Diego, CA Madison Mesa College
Danny Lockhart, DT 6-2 270 Jr Lynwood, CA Carson El Camino College
Sherrod Richards, CB 6-2 195 Jr Merced, CA Downey Modesto College
High School Signees
Marcus Davis, WR 6-2 185 Fr Pittsburg, CA Pittsburg
Lawrence Frierson, CB 5-10 185 Fr Sacramento, CA Valley
Otis Garnett, CB 5-11 170 Fr Oakland, CA McClymonds
Billy Griffin, OL 6-3 270 Fr Ventura, CA Ventura
Steve Gunnels, DL 6-4 255 Fr Spokane, WA Mead
Anthony Hardgraves, OL 6-5 225 Fr Merced, CA Merced
Jason Holmes, DB 6-1 190 Fr Paso Robles, CA Paso Robles
Lawrence Letuli, RB 5-10 205 Fr Carlsbad, CA Carlsbad
Nick Marudas, LB 6-2 185 Fr Bozeman, MT Bozeman
Greg Moore, LB 6-0 205 Fr San Diego, CA Hoover
Bryant Munday, OL 6-3 240 Fr Dillon, MT Beaverhead Co.
Marquise Myers, DB 6-0 180 Fr Sacramento, CA Valley
Ben Smith, DL 6-3 235 Fr Pleasanton, CA Foothill
Zach Ueland, RB 6-1 200 Fr Butte, MT Butte
Matt Yocam, OL 6-5 255 Fr Lakewood, CA Lakewood
JUNIOR COLLEGE TRANSFERS ENROLLED AT MSU
Junior Adams, WR (5-10, 185, Jr, Fremont,CA/Oregon St)
Missed last season with an ankle injury, and missed the 1998 season with a broken thumb
after earning a spot on the varsity as a true freshman... saw limited time in ‘99 as a redshirt
freshman... was a high school teammate of Bobcat linebacker Mike McCafferty, where he was
a two-way starter for three years... rushed for 3,385 yards and scored 53 TDs at Amador
Valley... was also an outstanding return specialist. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Junior Adams
is athletic, fast, and has good quickness. He had a rough experience at Oregon State, but is
well-liked by the staff there and judging him by his high school standards has some competitive
skill. He will compete right away for a starting position. He may play on the inside, but he may
also play on the outside. he’s part of the general effort to increase the ability of our receiving
corps."
Kimball Bowdin, OL (6-5, 275, Jr, Tualatin,OR/Foothill JC)
A JC Gridwire Second Team All-America selection who could redshirt at MSU this year... a
two-year starter at Foothill... was also a unanimous all-conference, all-region and all-state
choice as a sophomore... was a two-time all-conference choice at Tualitin, Ore., High... also
played center on the basketball team that finished seventh in the state, and was a 50-foot shot
putter. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Kimball is destined for a redshirt season if we can at all
make that possible. He is tall and strapping with long arms, and is in dire need of weight
training. He was a two-year starter at Foothill College, where he played in a pretty competitive
situation and played well."
Jacques DesMaires, DT (6-1, 255, FR, Rathdrum, ID/Idaho)
Was a three-time all-conference choice and an all-state selection as a senior at Lakeland
High... was named All-North Idaho as a junior and senior... was enrolled at Idaho last fall
before transferring to MSU. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "We recruited Jacques somewhat
last year, and he told us that he wanted to attend the University of Idaho under any
circumstances. It didn’t work out for him there, and we’re happy to have him. He is a player
we hope can come in and compete for playing time in the defensive line. The loss of Raymond
Sebastyan academically and the loss of William Kofe to his LDS mission has made that
academic class very thin in the defensive line, with only Roger Cooper and walk-on Jason
Richardson available. So what we needed was a young interior lineman."
Bryan Molen (5-10, 185, Jr, Salt Lake City, UT/Dixie JC)
Was an all-conference receiver at Dixie College in Utah last year... caught 15 passes for 252
yards and a touchdown in ‘00. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Bryan Molen is a legacy, his
father played football here in the ‘60s. He is a quality wide receiver who played at Dixie
College who has displayed competency at catching the ball. He is very competitive and tough,
but is very mature, as is witnessed by his 23 years of age and his recent marriage."
Justin Reber, WR(6-3, 185, Jr, Sacramento, CA(Sac City JC)
Was Sac City’s Offensive MVP last year, and was the offensive MVP of the Shrine Bowl...
was an Optimist All-Star at Capitol Christian High in Sacramento... caught 134 passes for
2,200 yards in two prep season... was a freshman walk-on at Sac State before transferring to
Sac City. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Justin is a tall, strapping receiver, very much in the
mold of (current MSU receiver) Toby Winters. He is a guy that has proven he can play at the
Big Sky level by his performance at Sacramento City College."
Tyler Thomas, QB (6-4, 185, Jr, Prosser, WA/Oregon St.)
Played quarterback at Oregon State for three seasons, completing one of his five passes last
year for 11 yards... was second on the Beaver depth chart throughout his sophomore season,
playing in three games... was 15-for-33 for 99 yards in three spring scrimmages last year... did
not play as a redshirt freshman or a true freshman... was named prep All-America by PrepStar
Magazine and was ranked as the 12th-best QB in the west by SuperPrep Magazine... was
honorable mention on the Tacoma News Tribune’s Northwest Nuggets list for Oregno,
Washington and Alaska... led Prosser to a 10-1 record as a senior. MSU Coach Mike
Kramer: "Tyler Thomas is a young quarterback at the mid-point of his college career. He has
excellent physical attributes - height, weight, speed, foot quickness. He has tremendous
competitive instincts, as evidenced by the fact that he never lost a regular-season high school
game, ever, in four years as a starter at Prosser High School. He is a guy that is really at the
cusp of being a top-flight Pac 10 starter. The situation at Oregon State with the return of
Jonathan Smith precludes his ability to get on the field in a competitive situation next fall there.
He was looking for an opportunity, and we’re more than willing to provide him that
opportunity."
JUNIOR COLLEGE TRANSFERS ENROLLING IN FALL
Travis Busse, DL (6-4, 240, Jr, Anchorage, AK/Ventura JC)
Was an honorable mention all-conference choice at Ventura College as a freshman, and
earned second-team honors last fall... earned Ventura football’s Academic Athletic Award for
his 3.46 grade point average was an all-state first team defensive lineman as a senior at
Ancorage, Ak., East High, earning second-team honors as a junior... was a second team
offensive lineman as a senior, as well... played for a year at Bemidji, Minn., State, earning
Defensive Scout Team Player of the Year honors in ‘98-99. MSU Coach Mike Kramer:
"Travis is a tall, lean, multi-purpose defensive lineman who can play end or tackle. He has
good arm strength and plays at a good pad level. He has an engaging personality, and will
probably back up Nick Morasko at tackle."
E.C. Fults, WR (6-2, 185, Jr, Mesa, CA/Mesa College)
Was a standout receiver at Mesa College in San Diego, catching 44 passes for 600 yards and
six TDs last fall... returned one kick for a touchdown, as well... was an all-conference choice
and team captain at Madison High in San Diego, earning team MVP honors as a senior. MSU
Coach Mike Kramer: "This kid is a dream receiver for us. When we began recruiting him we
felt we had no chance. The fact that he is signing with us is a testimony to the doggedness of
Rob Christoff and Don Bailey. He has a redshirt available, but is a classic receiver in the mold
of (former Northridge receiver) Aaron Arnold."
Danny Lockhart, DT (6-2, 272, Lynwood, CA/El Camino JC)
An all-conference defensive lineman who could challenge for starting duties for the Bobcats
this fall... registered 120 tackles, two sacks, caused five fumbles and recovered three last fall at
El Camino... was a first team all-conference choice, earned his team’s Big Hitter Award, and
was his team’s Defensive Player of the Year... is the school career (345) and season (200)
record-holder for tackles at Carson, Calif., High... was named Prep Star Magazine
All-America, was a first team Long Beach Press-Telegram Dream Team choice, a first team
all-area choice by the Daily Breeze as a junior and senior, and was a first team All-Samoan
selection, as well. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Danny Lockhart should aproach for starting
time as our nose tackle. He was a linebacker as a freshman at Long Beach City College, and
as a sophomore at El Camino College anchored a very solid and emotional defensive line.
Danny is a relative of Kane Ioane’s, and has a very strong Samoan heritage."
Sherrod Richards, CB (6-2, 195, Jr, Modesto, CA/Modesto JC)
Was a first team all-conference choice at Modesto JC last year... picked off eight passes in
two seasons for over 200 return yards... had three TDs as a frosh... was his team’s MVP as a
senior at Modesto’s Downey High... the two-time all-conference choice picked off 9 passes
and rushed for 800 yards on 70 carries. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Sherrod is a tall,
long-armed corner a la Joey Thomas. I will do everything in my power to redshirt Sherrod,
unless he can come in and start. He is a young, aggressive defensive back that played a lot of
man-to-man coverage at junior college."
HIGH SCHOOL SIGNEES
Marcus Davis, DB (6-1, 185, Fr, Pittsburg, CA/Pittsburg)
Scored 12 touchdowns last year as a receiver, catching 36 passes for 732 yards... also rushed
for 180 yards, and returned one kick for a touchdown... was a first team all-league choice, and
was his team’s offensive MVP. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Marcus Davis is a very tall and
physical safety who was a great wide receiver and all-around athlete at Pittsburg High School.
His high school basketball team is one of the best in the nation, and he is a great all-around
athlete."
Larry Frierson, CB (5-10, 185, Fr, Sacramento, CA/Valley)
Was an outstanding quarterback as a senior, rushing for 954 yards and 12 TDs, and
completing 32 of his 55 passes, including seven TDs... had three interceptions and one TD
return as a senior, breaking up or deflecting 25 passes... picked off five passes as a junior,
returning two for scores... deflected or broke up 10 passes... earned all-district, all-conference
and all-league honors as a senior. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Larry was a starting
quarterback who hated every minute of it. He is a born and natural quarterback with
tremendous temperament, skills and competitive instincts. He will see time next year as a true
freshman."
Otis Garnett, CB (5-11, 170, Fr, Oakland, CA/McClymonds)
Played on the top-ranked defense in the East Bay, serving as a two-time team captain... he
was all-city first team as a senior, as well... was a three-year starter... was part of the CIF
State Finals 4 x 100 m relay team that finished 9th, 10th and 11th at state. MSU Coach Mike
Kramer: "Otis Garnett is an athletic, slender corner from McClymonds High School in
Oakland who needs strength and skill development. He has a tremendous upside in terms of
his potential, growth and maturity. He is a tremendous hitter."
Billy Griffin, OL (6-3, 265, Fr, Ventura, CA/Ventura)
Earned first team all-state honors and was named to the CIF Elite Team last fall... chosen for
the California-Texas prep all-star game... was named Ventura County Lineman of the Year,
and was earned all-league, , All-CIF Division IV, All-Ventura County and LA Times honors.
MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Billy Griffin brings to us a can-do attitude in the offensive line. He
was one of the main cogs in the offensive line that produced the nation’s all-time leading rusher
Tyler Ebell, whose father played for Montana State."
Steve Gunnels, DL (6-4, 255, Fr, Spokane, WA/Mead)
A two-time all-conference choice who registered 130 tackles in his three years as a starter...
logged 11 sacks and recovered five fumbles, as well... was team captain and Defensive
Lineman of the Year. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Steve Gunnels is a very tall, long-armed
defensive tackle. He was a very productive player at Mead High School in Spokane."
Anthony Hardgraves, OL (6-5, 225, Fr, Merced, CA/Merced)
Earned all-district honors at Merced High as a senior, when he registered 13.5 sacks... had 12
sacks as a junior... also threw the shot and discus and ran the 300 m hurdles. MSU Coach
Mike Kramer: "Anthony Hardgraves played tight end and defensive end in high school, and
will move to the offensive line in college. He just turned 17, so he is very young and has a lot of
room to grow and mature."
Lawrence Letuli, RB (5-10, 205, Fr, Carlsbad, CA/Carlsbad)
Earned Team MVP and Most Inspirational honors last fall, was elected team captain by his
teammates... was a first team all-league, All-North County, All-CIF and All-State choice...
carried 251 times for 1,595 yards last year, scoring 14 TDs... caught 21 passes for 188 yards
and a touchdown. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "He played in one of the nation’s best high
school programs as a two-year starter. He plays with an irrepressible spirit. He is a bull, a
power running back with the ability to slash away from tackles but also to bowl them over."
Nick Marudas, LB (6-1, 185, Fr, Bozeman, MT/Bozeman)
A first-team all-state fullback and honorable mention all-state linebacker... rushed for 1,268
yards as a senior, and was chosen for the East-West Shrine Game... was part of Bozeman
High’s second-place 4 x 100 m relay at the State AA meet last spring and the fourth-place 4 x
400 m relay squad... led Bozeman in tackles last year. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Nick
Marudas was a very tough and productive running back at Bozeman High School, the best
fullback in the school’s history and at times the best running back in the state. We’ll move him
to linebacker, where he’ll be able to use the same range he demonstrated as a running back.""
Greg Moore, LB (6-0, 215, Fr, San Diego, CA/Hoover)
Has led his team in tackles for three straight years, averaging over 100 per year in that span...
has five career interceptions, one for a touchdown... rushed for 800 yards and seven
touchdowns as a junior... earned the Willie James Jones Award for Most Inspirational Player
in San Diego County... was named team MVP, and was runnerup for the defensive player of
the year award in San Diego. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Greg Moore comes out of one of
the most competitive programs in the nation at Hoover High School, where potentially eight
guys will sign Division I scholarships. Greg was a two-year starter, and maybe the most
productive player on their team."
Bryant Munday, DL (6-3, 220, Fr, Dillon, MT/Beaverhead)
Earned all-state honors at linebacker and offensive tackle on Beaverhead’s 11-0 State A
championship team... was a Great Falls Tribune Superstate choice... had 100 tackles as a
senior... chosen for the Mon-Dak and East-West Shrine All-Star Games. MSU Coach Mike
Kramer: "Bryant Munday was a three-year starter for the defending State A Champions
playing linebacker and offensive tackle, he never came off the field. He’s rail thin compared to
the size he’s going to be. He’s very equivilant in terms of attitude and high school production to
Devlan Geddes. He reminds me a lot of Devlan."
Marquise Myers, DB (6-0, 180, Fr, Sacramento, CA/Valley)
Was a defensive back standout at Sacramento Valley High... was a teammate of MSU signee
Larry Frierson... picked off two passes and had 408 kick return yards... had 62 tackles and
nine interceptions as a sophomore... was an all-city defensive back last fall. MSU Coach Mike
Kramer: "Marquise Myers is a smooth, athletic, ferocious-hitting safety. He’s a teammate of
Larry Freirson’s. He has good physicality."
Ben Smith, DL (6-3, 235, Fr, Pleasanton, CA/Foothill)
Earned first team all-league honors was his team’s MVP, and was named a "Rising Star" by
Gridiron Greats Magazine... had 120 tackles, five sacks and an interception as a senior...
helped lead his squad to a 2A and a 3A championship. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Ben
Smith is a good-sized defensive lineman who could play tackle or end. He was a high school
teammate of (MSU punter) Nate Cook."
Zach Ueland, RB (5-11, 185, Fr, Butte, MT/Butte)
The son of former Bobcat standout Dan Ueland, he rushed for 1,048 yards last fall and was
named second team All-State running back... was chosen as an alternate for the East-West
Shrine and Mon-Dak games... is the defending 200m champion (21.9), and was second in the
400 (48.9)... MSU women’s basketball coach Frank McCarthy and former Bobcat greats
Don and Ron Ueland are his uncles. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "We offered Zach last spring
as a result of his athletic prowess in track and his football family legacy. He will start at tailback
here, but who knows where he will end up. He has good athleticism and speed."
Matt Yocam, OL (6-5, 255, Fr, Lakewood, CA/Lakewood)
Was a first team all-league choice, and was named to the Long Beach Press-Telegram Dream
Team first team and the LA Times All-Star Team... was the Lakewood Hall of Fame Player of
the Year, and was first team All-CIF... had 24 pancake blocks and 78 tackles, four forced
fumbles and four sacks. MSU Coach Mike Kramer: "Matt Yocam is like Billy Griffin, he is a
mean-spirited, mobile offensive lineman from a very solid high school program. He is an athlete
that we would not be available for us to recruit. We were surprised to have a chance at him,
but when other schools came around we did not back down and it paid off. He is a prototype
offensive tackle.
WBB - Montana State vs Portland - Behind the Mic
Friday, March 27
2025 Code of a Champion
Monday, March 23
Spring Football Preview Press Conference
Friday, March 13
WBB - #2 Montana State vs #1 Idaho - Behind the Mic
Thursday, March 12

















