2008 OUTLOOK: Don't expect the Rockets to finish with another 5-7 record. They have too much talent, motivation and history to suffer through a third straight losing season. Tailback DaJuane Collins has big shoes to fill. Junior quarterback Aaron Opelt has flashed potential to become an elite player in the MAC. The defense returns several injured players and must build some confidence and force turnovers to take the pressure off the offense. The Rockets allowed a MAC-high 39.2 points a game last year. They must lower that figure tremendously to challenge for the league crown.

SCOUTING THE OFFENSE
The offense lost two key starters in tailback Jalen Parmele and left tackle John Greco, but won't lack for playmakers. DaJuane Collins headlines the running game and talented receivers Stephen Williams and Nick Moore return to give junior quarterback Aaron Opelt plenty of weapons at his disposal. The Rockets must keep Opelt healthy and limit their turnovers while moving the chains to keep the defense rested in order to challenge for the West title.

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE
Injuries along the defensive line led to a porous nine team sacks last year. Coach Tom Amstutz spent plenty of spring practice shoring up the depth and adding talent to the defensive line. Several young players got quality playing time last year because of the injuries on defense. The return of Doug Westbrook, Sean Williamson and Tyrrell Herbert from season-ending injuries last year is a plus for the defense.

SCOUTING THE SPECIAL TEAMS
Finding a quality replacement for kickoff returner Jalen Parmele and punter Brett Kern is a big concern. Bill Claus is first in line to take care of the punting duties for Kern, who was considered one of the best punters in the nation last year. Kicker Alex Steigerwald is a stunning 20-of-21 on field goals in his first two years. He made all 13 of his field goal attempts last year.

ROSTER REPORT

--Junior D.J. Summers and Terrell Willis were both moved from linebacker to defensive end.

--New recruit Albertson Alexandre enrolled in January to practice in the spring.

--Wide receivers Stephen Williams and Tim Cortazzo both missed spring practice because of injuries.

--LB Archie Donald is back after sitting out last year. Donald displayed good ball skills and leadership for the Rockets in the spring.

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