TicketsAug. 11, 2006
This is the seventh in an eight-part series, previewing the University of Cincinnati football team as it prepares to open the 2006 season on Sept. 2 vs. Eastern Kentucky. In this installment, the Bearcats' defensive backs are previewed.
Mike Mickens, an All-BIG EAST second team selection as a first-year frosh last season, returns to lead the secondary. The 6-foot, 165-pound cornerback finished second nationally in passes defended (breakups plus interceptions) to earn Freshman All-American honors.
Haruki Nakamura, a hard-hitting 5-10, 185-pound junior who raised his level of play with an outstanding performance in spring practice, will key UC's strike force from his free safety position. He made 76 stops and led the Bearcats in interceptions to lead UC in tackling in 2005.
The senior trio of Antoine Horton, John Bowie and Dominic Ross helps make the secondary the most experienced area of the defense. Horton, a two-year starter, will battle Bowie, the BIG EAST Conference reigning 100-meter dash champion, at the other cornerback position. Ross returns at strong safety, where he has alternated as a starter the past two seasons.
There is ample depth to spell the starters and compete for playing time. Sophomore Cedric Tolbert made a start at free safety last year and gained experience on the special teams. Senior JaJuan Hall has attained ample experience playing in a backup role at safety. Redshirt freshman Brad Jones and several of the incoming freshmen will contribute depth.
"We will continue to play the players who have proven that they can tackle in space," explained UC head coach Mark Dantonio. "We will continue to look for big play production from this group. We need to create more big play opportunities on defense."
Cornerbacks2005 Starters:
Antoine Horton 5-11, 190, Sr.
Mike Mickens 6-0, 165 So.
Returning Vets:
John Bowie 5-11, 190, Sr.
Marshwan Gilyard 6-1, 180 So.
Returning Redshirt:
Brad Jones 6-2, 190 Fr.
Strong Safety
2005 Starter:
Dominic Ross 6-0, 200 Sr.
Returning Vets:
Evan Sparks 6-0, 200 Jr.
Cedric Tolbert 6-0, 195 So.
Free Safety
2005 Starter:
Haruki Nakamura 5-10, 185, Jr.
Returning Vet:
JaJuan Hall 6-0, 195, Jr.
Newcomers:
Peter Carriere 6-0, 202, Fr.
Brandon Miller 6-2, 185, Fr.
Aaron Webster 6-3, 207, Fr.
Jason Whitehead 6-1, 185, Fr.