- Tailbacks

After a record-breaking first two seasons with the Tribe, junior Jon Smith returns for his second season as the starting tailback. Smith set the school record for rushing touchdowns (13) by a freshman in 2001, and had one of the most prolific single-game performances by a tailback in school history last year when he ran for 198 yards in a 34-27 win over New Hampshire. A third-team all-conference selection last season, Smith is a between-the-tackles runner who has the ability to wear down opposing defenses. He has scored 22 rushing touchdowns in his first two years in Williamsburg, averaging nearly one per game in his career.

Backing up Smith at tailback is sophomore Steven Hargrove, who showed signs of promise as a redshirt freshman in 2002. Hargrove scored on two touchdown runs of over 50 yards, broke the 100-yard mark on two occasions and was also named Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Week once in his first year on the field.

Bringing a new element to the College's backfield this fall is redshirt freshman Delmus Coley, a speedy back who has had an outstanding spring. The staff will look to Coley to use his elusive and explosive style to provide the squad with the big play.

Fullbacks

Senior Nick Rogers, a major contributor a year ago behind the graduated Corey Paxton, comes into the fall as the starter at the fullback position. Rogers, an excellent blocker, is a very physical runner with good ball skills, as evidenced by his three receiving touchdowns last season. One of the strongest all-around players on the roster, Rogers brings explosive ability (35.5-inch vertical leap; 540-pound squat) to the backfield.

Backing up Rogers is talented redshirt freshman Trevor McLaurin, a young fullback with potential to develop into a standout performer. A versatile athlete with outstanding speed and agility, McLaurin could also see action at tailback. Redshirt freshman LeVince Parrott also played well during spring drills and should continue to develop with improved size and strength.

Developing sophomore Chris Faha will continue to work on his technique and understanding of the Tribe's offensive schemes this fall. Faha has good size and solid ball skills for the position and provides the team with quality depth.