Northern Colorado coach Scott Downing expects backup place-kicker Michael York and starting strong safety Jason Hildenbrand to share punting duties Saturday when the Bears play at Division 1-AA No. 23 Texas State.
Downing was forced to scour his roster for a punter after the bizarre incident between starting punter Rafael Mendoza and backup Mitch Cozad.
Cozad is accused of attacking and stabbing Mendoza in his kicking leg on Monday night outside Mendoza’s apartment.
“Rafael is doing fine,” Downing said. “He’s mending and we’re happy to know that. I’m not a doctor, but I can assure you he will recover.”
Cozad, a walk-on transfer from the University of Wyoming, has been removed from the team and suspended from school. He faces second-degree assault charges and is free on $30,000 bond.
Mendoza, who is recovering from a deep cut, released a statement Thursday through UNC officials:
“I would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support. Most of all I would like to thank my family and coach for being by my side through the whole ordeal. I appreciate all the concern for me, but my biggest concern right now is getting healthy enough to return to school and to my team.
“I want everyone to know I am doing well and recovering. I would like to wish my team good luck this weekend in their game against Texas State. Also I’d like it to be known that my thoughts and prayers are with (former teammate) Sam Safken as he battles cancer.”
Meanwhile, Downing – whose first UNC team is 0-2 and has been outscored 83-10 – is trying to avoid seeing his team lose its 12th consecutive road game since 2003. The Bears lost 45-3 last Saturday at Portland State.
“I want the kids to understand there is an itinerary, a routine, that we need to follow,” he said. “Last week was the introduction. Athletes, particularly at a higher level, like to know what’s coming and love the routine. Last week we set the standard for that routine. Once players get comfortable with that, we’ll get better because of it.”
On the field, Downing said the Bears must stop turning over the ball. UNC has thrown five interceptions and has lost four fumbles.
“We obviously have to improve our ability to hang on to the football,” he said. “Turnovers have killed us.”
