OFFENSE

        QB — Ben Roethlisberger is bigger and stronger one year after re-writing MU's record book as a freshman.

        RB — Luke Clemens and Cal Murray combined for 837 yards last season despite injuries. Clemens earned the No.1 spot in the offseason. Backups Mike Smith and Jay Wallace complete what coach Terry Hoeppner calls “maybe the best four we've had at the position since I've been here.”

        FB — Andy Capper (6-2, 248) should see few carries but will try to lead the way for MU's tailbacks.

        OL — Starters Frank Smith, Justin Smith and Ben Herrell return. The line averages 287 pounds, but Hoeppner says it features “smaller but more athletic guys.”

        WR — MU's top three receivers last season — Eddie Tillitz, Mike Larkin and Jason Branch — are back. The trio accounted for 1,814 yards and 16 touchdowns last season.

        TE — The tight end slot offers almost no experience. Junior Geoff Robinson is expected to start; he played on special teams last season.

        K — The RedHawks were 8-of-18 on field goal attempts last season, something Hoeppner said “will not happen again.” Incumbent Jared Parseghian is expected to get the early kicks, but freshman Todd Soderquist has exhibited a strong leg.

        DEFENSE

        LB — Starters Matt Robillard, Terrell Jones and Nathan Clayton return. Robillard and Jones combined for 246 tackles last season en route to All-MAC selections.

        DL — Left end Phil Smith is the lone returning starter. He was second on last year's squad with five sacks.

        DB — Cornerback Milt Bowen and safety Matt Pusateri return to start.

        P — Mike Wafzig is back after walking on to average 38.6 yards per punt and placing 13 punts inside opponents' 20-yard line.