Mapps (John Schreiber)

The Mustangs return a solid core of last year’s players. But there will also be plenty of new faces on the field this season.

Quarterback

Sophomore Jutin Willis proved that he has what it takes to be an elite collegiate quarterback. After one season and a school-record 29 touchdowns, Willis should look more comfortable than he did last season against the Red Raiders.

Running back

The roster will see a healthy return of DeMyron Martin, who suffered multiple injuries last season. But it could be running back by committee as James Mapps and Cederick Dorsey proved that they can make plays in Martin’s absence last season. Bennett says whoever produces will play.

Tight End

Vincint Chase saw little playing time last season with senior Ryan Kennedy on the team. But tight end production as a whole was down last season. Bennett looks to incorperate the position into the offense more this year.

Wide Receivers

Receivers are the most dangerous position on the field for this year’s team. The Mustangs are young and deep at wide reciever. Returning Emmanuel Sanders, Columbus Givins and Zack Sledge along with the addition of Zach Zimmerman.

Offensive Line

The offensive line will be most important to the SMU success this year. If they can make holes for the backs to run through and give Willis time to throw the ball the Mustangs offense could be almost unstoppable. The key is the move of Ben Poynter from center to left tackle and the addition of sophomore Mitch Enright at center.

Linebackers

The return of seniors Tony Hawkins and Wilton McCray make the SMU linebackers dangerous. The Mustangs also return junior Will Bonilla who will see substantial playing time this year.

Cornerbacks

There should be noticeable improvement in the secondary this season. Not with new players, but with experience. Sophomore Bryan McCann and senior Jonathan Lindley both return for the 2007 season.

Safeties

The loss of Joe Sturdivant does weaken this position for SMU. But the emergence of Bryce Hudman will more than fill the hole. The injury to Rock Dennis was another blow to the SMU safeties, but David Haynes will replace Dennis bringing in two years of experience.

Defensive Line

This could be the biggest question mark for the team this year. Graduating three of the four starters left just Cory Muse with substantial in-game experience. But with Muse battling injuries the Mustangs could have four new d-linemen starting. And after last season’s dominance there are questions about it this year.

Willis (John Schreiber)