--QB Andy Schmitt has clearly emerged out of the spring as the Eagles' primary offensive weapon, and much of EMU's success in 2008 will ride on the shoulders of their junior signal-caller. If Schmitt stays healthy and can avoid the injury bug, he could emerge as a top-tier MAC quarterback, possessing an accurate arm and elusiveness.

--WR Tyler Jones looked to be in midseason form throughout the spring, which is partially attributable to the fact that he played on the basketball team as a sometimes starter in the backcourt. Jones' physical conditioning, transitioning directly from basketball to football, showed as he made several catches and solidified a probable starting role.

SPRING MOVERS

LB Tim Fort -- Fort, a sophomore, had an impressive spring and had the opportunity to show his talents with the Eagles searching for a replacement for Darran Matthews and starter Andre Hatchet being held out to focus on academics. Fort made the most of his opportunity, showing playmaking potential, and might have played himself into a more prominent role in the fall.

WR Tyrone Burke -- Burke had an impressive outing in the spring game with most of the starters being held out and could become a reliable third option in the Eagles' passing attack.

DL Spenser Smith -- Smith surprised many by returning quickly from a hamstring injury and showed leadership on a defensive line that is depleted by graduation. Smith came on strong at the end of 2007 and is being counted on as one of the Eagles' defensive playmakers in 2008. His spring performance did nothing to dissuade such expectations.

DL Brandon Slater -- Slater, a redshirt freshman, had a chance to play in the spring game and the coaching staff came away impressed with his performance. Slater might threaten for a major role on the Eagles' restructured defensive line.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"We had a very physical spring and had some young guys step up. I feel like we continue to improve and saw a lot of positives, especially in developing our young players." -- Eastern Michigan head coach Jeff Genyk

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