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Bowling Green State University Athletics
Defensive Backs
August 12, 2002 | Football
Aug. 12, 2002
In 2001, Bowling Green State University finished third in the nation in turnover margin with a +1.55 ratio. A big reason for that mark was the oustanding play of a secondary which helped the Falcons lead the MAC with 18 interceptions. A year stronger and wiser, this group is the most expereinced unit on the defensive side of the ball.
Depth Chart
Cornerback Janssen Patton (6-0, 180, Jr.) Anthony Hicks (6-0, 180, r-So.)
Cornerback Keon Newson (6-0, 170, So.) Emmanuel Hendrix (5-10, 180, Sr.)
Strong Safety Michael Malone (5-10, 185, r-Jr.) Mike Crumpler (5-11, 180, r-Fr.)
Free Safety T.J. Carswell (6-1, 185, So.) Daniel Sayles (5-11, 185, So.)
Nickel Jason Morton (6-0, 180, Jr.) Jerry Wagner (5-11, 200, 5-Sr.)
Last year, the Falcons were able to pick off 18 passes thanks to an exciting group of young defensive backs. Junior Janssen Patton is a two-year starter at cornerback and second team All-MAC performer who has eight career interceptions in 19 games. He had 40 tackles last season. Sophomore Keon Newson returns at the other corner position. He started the final six games of the season and had 35 tackles and four pass deflections.
Juniors Michael Malone and Jason Morton are experienced and seasoned performers who will contribute in many ways. Malone (13 tackles) will move to strong safety, while Morton will start at nickel back.
Senior Jerry Wagner provides versatility and could provide a similar role to the one Karl Rose played (situational) in 2001. Sophomore T.J. Carswell (eight tackles) could start at free safety along with sophomore Daniel Sayles (6 tackles).
