Much of the talk during the spring surrounding the Eastern Michigan football program has involved the Eagles' depth, something that has been severely lacking in past seasons in Ypsilanti. That depth allowed for spirited competition for several starting spots in the spring but at the same time enabled the coaches to hold out several starters in the Eagles' spring game to assess some of their backups who might challenge for starting roles later in the year.

Despite not playing in the spring game, senior tailback Terrence Blevins and sophomore Dwayne Priest clearly emerged as the Eagles' one-two punch out of the backfield. Blevins demonstrated throughout camp that he has the ability to hit the holes and break tackles, while Priest provides quickness on the edges with breakaway speed.

"We're really pleased with the development of both Blevins and Priest," noted head coach Jeff Genyk. "We look at them as being a sort of thunder (Blevins) and lightning (Priest) combination that could present problems for opposing defenses."

Junior QB Andy Schmitt solidified his spot as the likely starter for the Eagles with a strong spring camp, and the receiving corps showed signs of developing into a strong unit led by returning starter, junior Jacory Stone, along with Tyler Jones -- a converted quarterback -- and the emergence of sophomore Tyrone Burke.

The Eagles, though, are still looking for answers on defense, particularly on the defensive line, having to replace All-MAC and second-round NFL draft pick Jason Jones and hard-nosed Eric Young. EMU is still searching for some playmakers to step in to the void left by Jones and Young. The secondary, led by sophomore Ryan Downard, looked ready, and with senior Daniel Holtzclaw anchoring the linebacking crew, the middle of the Eagles' defense looks solid.

If there is a significant area of concern for EMU heading into the 2008 season, it remains on special teams, particularly placekicking, where both Zach Johnson and Sean Dutcher struggled badly throughout the spring, missing on chip-shot opportunities on several occasions.

The Eagles should be in a position to contend in the top-heavy MAC West, but some key areas on defense and special teams will need to be resolved for them to make a move to the top of the division.

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