Photo by: Kelly Gorham
Bobcat Game Day Notebook #7: Clark Cracks Lineup
10/24/2015 9:51:00 AM | Football
Junior defensive end raises number of first-time starters in 2015 to 12
Today is Jessie Clark's time.
The junior defensive end arrived from Amite, La., via LA Harbor College in August, after fall camp had begun. Once on campus, Clark impressed with his athleticism, although internalizing the scheme in a way that allowed him to play fast and naturally while occupying the appropriate gaps and rush lanes.
Saturday, though, marks Jessie Clarks' starting debut. "He's really good in pass rush situations," said Bobcat coach Rob Ash. "But I really want to get him a lot of reps and get plays on film for him."
The new starter at the Bandit position raises the number of players making their starting debut on the MSU defense this season to 12 through seven games. That spot is open because Zach Hutchins moves to the Will linebacker spot. Blake Braun is slated to start today, but Hutchins' presence there is expected to add both physicality and athleticism to the position.
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Justin Paige's last four receptions for the Bobcats have gained at least 40 yards. The sophomore has six catches this season, but averages 47.5 yards per catch.
* * * * *
When John Weidenaar takes his normal position as MSU's starting left tackle to begin today's game, he will move one step closer to the school's iron man record. Today's game marks Weidenaar's 45th consecutive start at left tackle for the Bobcats, which will be tied for seventh on the total starts list and fifth on the consecutive starts list. He chases the school marks of 48 on both lists.
* * * * *
As expected, the offense is without two key contributors today. Starting guard Kyle Godecke and running back and return specialist Gunnar Brekke are both missing with injuries. Dylan Mahoney makes his first career start at guard, while Nick LaSane, Tavon Dodd and Logan Jones each move up in the rotation at running back behind starter Chad Newell.
* * * * *
On Military Appreciation Day in Bobcat Stadium, several current team members will carry flags when the team enters the field representing different branches of the U.S. Military. Curtis Amos (Army), Nate Bignell (Navy), Blake Braun (Marines) and J.P. Flynn (Air Force) are among the flag bearers. John Weidenaar will lead the procession with the American flag.
The junior defensive end arrived from Amite, La., via LA Harbor College in August, after fall camp had begun. Once on campus, Clark impressed with his athleticism, although internalizing the scheme in a way that allowed him to play fast and naturally while occupying the appropriate gaps and rush lanes.
Saturday, though, marks Jessie Clarks' starting debut. "He's really good in pass rush situations," said Bobcat coach Rob Ash. "But I really want to get him a lot of reps and get plays on film for him."
The new starter at the Bandit position raises the number of players making their starting debut on the MSU defense this season to 12 through seven games. That spot is open because Zach Hutchins moves to the Will linebacker spot. Blake Braun is slated to start today, but Hutchins' presence there is expected to add both physicality and athleticism to the position.
* * * * *
Justin Paige's last four receptions for the Bobcats have gained at least 40 yards. The sophomore has six catches this season, but averages 47.5 yards per catch.
* * * * *
When John Weidenaar takes his normal position as MSU's starting left tackle to begin today's game, he will move one step closer to the school's iron man record. Today's game marks Weidenaar's 45th consecutive start at left tackle for the Bobcats, which will be tied for seventh on the total starts list and fifth on the consecutive starts list. He chases the school marks of 48 on both lists.
* * * * *
As expected, the offense is without two key contributors today. Starting guard Kyle Godecke and running back and return specialist Gunnar Brekke are both missing with injuries. Dylan Mahoney makes his first career start at guard, while Nick LaSane, Tavon Dodd and Logan Jones each move up in the rotation at running back behind starter Chad Newell.
* * * * *
On Military Appreciation Day in Bobcat Stadium, several current team members will carry flags when the team enters the field representing different branches of the U.S. Military. Curtis Amos (Army), Nate Bignell (Navy), Blake Braun (Marines) and J.P. Flynn (Air Force) are among the flag bearers. John Weidenaar will lead the procession with the American flag.
Players Mentioned
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LB
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RB
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DE
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RB
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OL
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DL
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RB
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RB
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OL
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RB
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WR
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OL
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Wednesday, May 03
Wednesday, May 03
