College Football Preview: Best of the Rest: San Diego State Aztecs

37. San Diego State Aztecs
QB Ryan Lindley- Senior
RB Ronnie Hillman- Sophomore
TE Gavin Escobar- Sophomore
LB Miles Burris- Senior
CB Leon McFadden- Junior
Since when has San Diego State been happy to begin a college football season? This season is going to be a breakout year for SDSU. Brady Hoke went off to Michigan but the Aztecs still have leadership from senior Ryan Lindley. I really like Lindley. He has a strong arm and his accuracy isn't lacking either. The ground game isn't too bad either as it still returns sophomore Ronnie Hillman. Hillman excelled as a freshman and should be even better in 2011. Fullback Chad Young will be asked to gain yards on short yardage situations. Lindley's options aren't mainly receivers. They're mostly tight ends including All-Mountain West Selection Gavin Escobar. He'll be a threat in the red zone and has great hands. Junior D.J. Shields and sophomore Bryce Quigley will also be asked to catch passes. Lindley still likes a deep threat in Dominique Sandifer and Dylan Denso. The offensive line is pretty strong with guard Alex Johnson and tackle Kurtis Gunther. Defense was a big part of the Aztec's success in 2010. The front seven is okay with senior Jerome Long, Miles Burris and Logan Ketchum. Burris is a true talent and has experience entering his senior season. The defensive line is pretty weak though other than Long now as Ernie Lawson, B.J. Williams and Jacob Tauanuu are all gone. The secondary is headed by cornerback Leon McFadden. The interesting Aztec position will be replaced by Khalid Stephens. The special teams is great thanks to kicker Abel Perez and punter Brian Stahovich, both seniors.

Heisman Hopeful: Ryan Lindley
Mountain West: 3rd