Fort Collins – Colorado State defensive tackle Erik Sandie had a flashback as he listened to Rams offensive tackle Clint Oldenburg field questions about the team’s unproductive rushing attack.
Last year CSU’s defense received a lot of criticism for ranking 115th in the country against the run.
“We still have a lot to prove as a defense,” Sandie said. “But we know what it’s like to have a finger pointed at you.”
The Rams came out vastly improved against the run in their first two games, then hit a not-unexpected setback against Nevada’s diverse offense. This weekend’s trip to Fresno State will provide the best test yet for CSU’s rushing defense.
Bulldogs junior running back Dwayne Wright ranks fifth nationally with 149.3 yards a game.
A veteran offensive line led by 6-foot-5, 330-pound senior center Kyle Young, on lists for postseason honors, has been opening the holes.
“(Wright) brings some power. You’re not going to arm-tackle him,” CSU middle linebacker Jeff Horinek said. “He runs hard and straight downhill. If we don’t bring it to him, he’s going to bring it to us.”
Wright (6-1, 220 pounds) has emerged from obscurity. He hadn’t played since the second game of the 2004 season, when he tore a patellar tendon against Kansas State. He took a medical hardship year in 2005.
“We got a lot of points scored against us (28) at Nevada, and we have a lot to prove,” Sandie said. “I think our whole defense feels confident. If we can stop them, we can get a lot of respect around the country.”
Having lined up against Minnesota’s Greg Eslinger (a Broncos draft pick) a year ago and Colorado’s all-Big 12 center Mark Fenton for two years, Sandie figures he has some experience against top-flight centers.
“He’s a big guy,” Sandie said of Young. “I definitely think he has weaknesses that can be exposed. I’ve definitely faced better centers.”
Footnotes
Redshirt freshman offensive lineman Scott Benedict, a 6-4, 299-pound Rangeview product who wasn’t on the three-deep this week, is pressing for playing time at either left guard or center. Said CSU offensive coordinator Dan Hammerschmidt: “He’s tough, scrappy and he has some nastiness. He’s got the temperament we need up front.” … Receiver Dustin Osborn was back at practice this week after missing two weeks with an ankle sprain. He remains doubtful for Saturday. … Safety Ben Stratton will see a doctor today for a series of neck stingers. He hasn’t been able to practice this week. … Running backs coach Mick Delaney said Gartrell Johnson, who started the first two games, will return to the starting lineup.
Natalie Meisler can be reached at 303-954-1295 or nmeisler@denverpost.com.
