Gallaudet Bison Football Looks to Get Back on Track

Gallaudet University begins its 104th football season looking for its first win in over a year. Head coach Rich Pelletier entrusts this year’s squad with carrying on the school’s proud history.

“We have many experienced players who know to succeed,” says head coach Richard Pelletier, who also serves as the Bison’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. “We also have some exciting newcomers who will make an immediate impact. We’re ready to win some games.” OFFENSE

Much of the season’s success will hinge on the combination of Eric LeFors and Patrick Deas. Deas (pictured) set the Gallaudet single-season receiving record last year with 831 yards. The All-Seaboard selection led the Bison with eight touchdowns and 1,634 all-purpose yards. Deas, a senior, was also electrifying as the Bison’s kick returner, scoring four touchdowns off punts alone.

LeFors, entering his third year as Gallaudet quarterback, will rely on his mobility and poise in the pocket. Last season, the junior threw for a career high 1,285 yards, despite playing in only nine games. He had a memorable first half against Stevens State, throwing for 195 yards before leaving with a season-ending injury. He rushed or threw for nine touchdowns. Freshmen Daniel Sweet and John Lawson will also vie for time at quarterback. Sweet will be the punter and placekicker, while Adam Vasquez, also a freshman, is the long snapper.

The Bison balance their passing attack with an exciting ground game. In the backfield, sophomore Kenny Austin moves to the fullback position. Austin played in just seven games in 1997, but averaged a gaudy 4.4 yards per carry. The Bison running game will also feature seniors Troy Miles and Stefan Bergan, as well as some freshmen. They will run behind an experienced offensive line, which includes sophomores Jesse Hayes and Michael Taylor. Senior Josh LaVine moves from the defensive line to help create holes for the running game. Versatile senior David Loibman moves from running back to become the tight end, where his blocking skills will be highlighted.

In addition to Deas, the Bison receiving corps will be bolstered by sophomore Gerrrit Hoppe, who averaged 14.1 yards per catch in seven games last season. DEFENSE

Linebacker Raymond Merritt, a senior, is the Bison’s top returning tackler. Along with Deas, Merritt has been named co-captain for the second straight year. Gallaudet returns an experienced bunch of linemen, including junior James Lago and sophomore Benro Ogunyipe. Freshman Lenny Chiddister may also contribute. Senior linebacker and Shain Edmonds will combine with sophomore Luke Ocuto and junior Ayuk Ogork to bolster the defensive unit.

The Bison secondary features three defensive backs who are primed for stellar seasons. All-Seaboard selection Todd Goldberg had a team high four interceptions in 1997. Josh Shaffner is among the squad’s top returning tacklers. Dorian Yanke is a feisty player and a vicious hitter, who will give opposing receivers much to think about.

Three of the Bison’s games last fall were decided by less than a touchdown, including two excruciating losses in which the clock ran out on Gallaudet’s final drive. Pelletier looks for his team to execute fundamentals before trying to overachieve.

“We’re not looking for superstars,” says Pelletier. “We need to play as one cohesive unit. If we do that, we’ll be successful.”

Head Coach: Rich Pelletier (eighth year). More at http://www.gallaudet.edu/~sports