| ATU opens the season, hosting Lambuth on Sept. 2 |
Provided below is the second 2010 season preview of the 11 Gulf South Conference Football Teams. Additional previews will be available each Monday, Wednesday and Friday until August 20th.
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Arkansas Tech University |
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Location: |
Russellville, Ark. |
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Nickname: |
Wonder Boys |
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Stadium: |
Buerkle Field at Thone Stadium |
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Head Coach: |
Steve Mullins |
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Record at ATU: |
85-54 (13 years) |
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2009 Overall Record: |
9-3 |
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2009 GSC Record: |
6-2 (2nd) |
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Starters Returning/Lost: |
10/18 |
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Letterman Returning/Lost: |
45/22 |
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2010 GSC Coaches Poll: |
5th place (62 points) |
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Key Returning Players: |
Derrick Smith, JR, OL |
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Cody Burns, SR, RB |
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Tario Dansby, SR, DB |
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RonDerrick Jackson, SR, DB |
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Danny Martin, SR, LB |
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Brandon Wright, SR, LB |
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Derandus Frye, SR, DT |
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Top Newcomers: |
Ricardo Kemp, SR, RB |
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Season Preview: |
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What a difference a year makes. Last season was one for Arkansas Tech’s record books. The Wonder Boys advance to the Second Round of the NCAA Playoffs and also provide a Harlon Hill Trophy Finalist. Gone from 2009 are 18 starters, but Head Coach Steve Mullins will not let that lower his expectations for a successful season. The defense features six senior returnees led by 2009 All-GSC Second Teamers, defensive back Tario Dansby and linebacker Brandon Wright. Linebacker Danny Martin is a three-year starter, while defensive back RonDerrick Jackson is the top returning tackler (73 total). The offense must replace its top two receivers and All-American signal caller Nick Graziano. The top mission entering spring practice was to solidify the quarterback spot with junior transfer James Landry and redshirt freshman Rico Keller leading the charge. Senior running back Cody Burns is back after running for 479 yards in 2009, while Derrick Smith is an All-GSC Second Team offensive lineman. Newcomers will also be featured on Special teams. |
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