2008 OUTLOOK: The effects of a depletion of the offensive line that took place before Chuck Long arrived are being felt now with only three lineman returning with any kind of experience -- and one of those (Lance Louis) is a converted tight end. The unit must grow up fast because year three under Long will be critical for the Aztecs to turn a corner and show progress for the long-term health of the program. The defense's confidence appears to be at its highest during Long's tenure, which could help that unit turn a corner in 2008. But if the offense doesn't grow up quickly, asking the defense to carry the team might be a tall order.

SCOUTING THE OFFENSE
WR DeMarco Sampson finally is healthy after a foot injury robbed him of two seasons. If he can show the athletic ability he had when he came to SDSU, the receiving corps should be the strength of the unit. Senior OL Mike Schmidt is taking it upon himself to get the linemen to practice together in the summer to gain some cohesion heading into fall camp. Redshirt freshman C Tommie Draheim graded out the best of the group. The line must come together to give the new starting quarterback -- at this point, QB Ryan Lindley -- a chance to get comfortable in his role.

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE
The unit has taken a cue from LB Russell Allen's work ethic. It is trying to play more physical and that should translate against the run next season. Steve Fifita thrived at tackle during the spring, and that should help against the run as well. Players at every position stepped up their game. Coach Chuck Long noted the progress of the secondary in the final week of practice, and that was the unit that seemed to progress the most last season.

SCOUTING THE SPECIAL TEAMS
K Bryan Shields struggled early but got better as practice went on. He showed he has the leg strength. P Brooks Beckman also showed improvement during the spring.

ROSTER REPORT

--Tony DeMartinis switched from DE to TE and showed good hands throughout the session, scoring a touchdown in one of the intrasquad scrimmages.

--Siaosi Fifita moved from rover to DT and solidified SDSU's interior defense. The move, coupled with LB Russell Allen's presence, should benefit the unit's play against the run.

--RB Atiyyah Henderson missed the spring game because of a high-ankle sprain but should be ready to go for the fall.

--S Corey Boudreaux, who gained a sixth year of eligibility, was the only other player who was hurt during spring with a foot injury.

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