Youngsters Please Lubick

Fort Collins - Colorado State University football coach Sonny Lubick knew his team would have to depend on a host of young players to replace 11 departed starters, eight on defense.

Tuesday, Lubick said many of the players have impressed him during spring practice.

"We've seen some young defensive players step up and play well," said Lubick following a two-hour workout. He paid particular praise to redshirt freshmen ends Jesse Nading and Bob Vomhof, and tackles Erik Sandie and Blake Smith.

Lubick also said many of the team's younger defensive backs have played well so far.

"They are playing well. They have more confidence, they are playing much better," Lubick said. He noted that sophomore Brandon Cathy and redshirt freshman Liddon Levine have been impressive each cornerback position.

Lubick said a pair of returning starters, Ben Stratton and Patrick Goodpaster, have played well also. Stratton played cornerback the past two years but has shifted to his natural position, safety. Goodpaster is a defensive end. He and Stratton both earned honorable mention all-league honors a season ago.

Lubick said the Rams would return to the practice field for workouts Wednesday and Friday at 4 p.m., then Saturday night at 6 p.m. That workout will include a substantial scrimmage.