2014 PRE-SEASON OUTLOOK <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< no doubt we’ve added to the line, but with what we’ve got coming back, this should be one of the better offensive lines we’ve had since I’ve been here. Bigger, faster, and stronger guys, it should be very competitive.” Defense Defensively, the Lions return seven starters on that side of the ball including defensive backs Michael Burks, Breon Matlock, Jason Brown, Johnquavious McBride and Gaige Washington. Linebacker Dalvin Taylor is also back, as well as defensive lineman Ryon Phillips. Washington and Taylor were both All-Conference selections last year, while freshman Jonquavious McBride impressed the coaches enough to earn All-Conference honors, as well. “Breon Matlock has been a guy that over the past few years has shown just how good of a player he is,” Daye said. “He’s a lockdown corner and does a very good job with his man coverage. We have most of our defensive backs returning and we’re excited about our secondary.” mssulions.com missourisouthernlions @mososports 2014 Missouri Southern Football 19 The Lions signed ten defensive lineman in the offseason that hope to lend a hand to the likes of Xavier Graham, Phillips and Eric Dago who return experience to the line. “Dalvin (Taylor) calls the plays for us on defense and he’ll be one of the leaders we look to on that side of the ball.” Special Teams The Lions will have some new faces on special teams this season as Dominic O’Neill and Stewart Quinn are the only kickers/punters that return any experience from a season ago. Ricky Nichols is back as the return specialist and holder, while Michael Nelson could be tapped for some return duties, as well. Southern recruited those positions and bring in an All-American transfer from Division II Lincoln (PA) in Kyle Jaski at punter. Jaski ranked fourth in Division II in punting with a 44.2 yard per kick av- Junior Quarterback Jay McDowell Senior Linebacker Dalvin Taylor
2014 Missouri Southern Football
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