Bowling Green State University Athletics
Falcon Position Preview-Defensive Line
August 15, 2002 | Football
Aug. 15, 2002
No group will be watched more closely that the defensive line of the 2002 Bowling Green State University football team. Last year, the Falcons led the MAC in fewest rushing yards allowed (86.3) and this unit's pressure on the quarterback forced opponent signal callers into a league-high 18 interceptions.
GLANTZIS IS LONE STARTER BACK UP FRONT
Senior tackle Alex Glantzis is the lone returning starter from a group which allowed just 86.3 yards per game on the ground. Glantzis had 33 stops a year ago, including six for a loss. He also had an interception he returned for a TD against Toledo.
Senior D.J. Owchar, a starter in 2000, will play nose guard. He had 10 tackles and two sacks last season. Sophomore Andy Grubb (nose tackle) figured in the rotation last season as did senior Will Teague (defensive end) who has the early nod for a starting spot. Teague had 10 tackles and Grubb added eight last season.
Redshirt freshmen Mitchell Crossley (an early favorite to start at end), Mike Thaler (nose guard), Pascal Kokke (defensive end) both look to have an impact in their first season of action.
BIG SHOES TO FILL
The Falcons must replace three players who signed NFL contracts. All-American nose tackle Brandon Hicks is with the Indianapolis Colts, defensive ends Chris Glantzis and Ryan Wingrove are with the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons respectively.
"You don't have too many teams that have three players sign NFL contracts from one class at defensive line," said BGSU Coach Urban Meyer. "I think we have a chance to be very good, but their is no substitution for game experience and that is an area we lack in right now."
Preseason Depth Chart
Right End Mitchell Crossley (6-3, 240, r-Fr.) Luis Llamas (6-5, 245, r-Jr.)Left End Will Teague (6-5, 240, Sr.) Rick Mauer (6-3, 250, r-Jr.) or
Defensive Tackle D.J. Owchar (6-3, 275, r-Jr.) Andy Grubb (6-4, 270, r-So.)
Nose Guard Alex Glantzis (6-4, 260, Jr.) Mike Thaler (6-1, 290, r-Fr.)
