The Slippery Rock University football team is gearing up for the 2024 season, and anticipation is high. Let’s take an in-depth look at the players and coaches who will be leading The Rock this year.
The Rock’s 2024 Football Roster: A Breakdown by Position
Slippery Rock boasts a diverse and talented roster for the upcoming season. Here’s a detailed look at the players, organized by position:
Offense
- Quarterbacks: The QB room is packed with potential, featuring returning seniors Brayden Long and Jackson Bouslough, alongside junior transfer Demeatric Crenshaw from Tennessee State. Freshmen DaOne Owens and Ben Moore add further depth to the competition.
- Running Backs: Senior Idris Lawrence, a transfer from Notre Dame (Ohio), will likely lead the rushing attack. He’s joined by a strong supporting cast, including returning players like Kenyon Johnson, Luke McCoy and Quentin Harrison.
- Wide Receivers: The receiving corps is a mix of experience and young talent. Seniors Chris D’Or and Latrell Sutton, a Virginia Tech transfer, bring veteran leadership. They are complemented by promising players like Kylon Wilson, Logan Ramper, and Xander McClure.
- Tight Ends: Senior Kam Kruzelyak, a transfer from West Liberty, and junior Andrew Vince, a Rutgers transfer, provide size and athleticism at the tight end position. They are joined by returning players like Reis Watkins and Carson Heckathorn.
- Offensive Line: The offensive line is anchored by seniors Nathan Waltman and Cade Cameron, a Quincy transfer. The group also features several experienced juniors and sophomores, ensuring a solid foundation for the offense. Newcomers like Anthony Jackson and Marshall Futrell will look to compete for starting roles.
Defense
- Defensive Line: The defensive line is a force to be reckoned with, led by senior Munchie Johnson, a Wesley transfer and Todd Hill, a graduate transfer from the University of Pittsburgh. They are supported by returning players like Trever Valenti, Mehki Twillie, and Jake Baker, a Towson transfer.
- Linebackers: Senior Jake Miller, an Akron transfer and Tyree Johnson, an Arkansas at Pine Bluff transfer, anchor the linebacker corps. They are joined by a mix of experienced upperclassmen and promising underclassmen.
- Defensive Backs: The secondary features a blend of veteran leadership and young talent. Seniors Josh Stokes, Kenyon Johnson, and Eddie Faulkner IV provide experience. They’re joined by players like Savion Harrison and Michael Henwood.
Special Teams
- Kickers/Punters: Sophomore Mason Yohn returns as the primary kicker and punter. He will be challenged by junior transfer Kevin Roberts from Lebanon Valley College and freshman Blake Nicholas.
Slippery Rock Football Coaching Staff: Leading The Rock to Success
Head Coach Shawn Lutz leads a seasoned coaching staff with a wealth of experience and expertise.
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Offensive Staff: Offensive Coordinator Joe Marella leads the offensive unit. Chris Conrad coaches the offensive line and also serves as the Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator. Malcolm Henry coaches the running backs, Chris Parry the wide receivers, and Lisa Horton the tight ends.
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Defensive Staff: Domenick Razzano serves as the Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers coach. Cedric Whitaker coaches the defensive backs and coordinates special teams. Zach Bader coaches the defensive line and is the Run Game Coordinator.
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Support Staff: Connor Olson is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, Steve Saylor is the Director of Football Operations, and Al Kirk manages equipment and assists with the tight ends. Cory Dinger serves as a graduate assistant, working with the linebackers. The combined experience and dedication of this coaching staff are crucial to the team’s success.
The 2024 season promises to be an exciting one for Slippery Rock Football. With a talented roster and a dedicated coaching staff, The Rock is poised for a successful campaign.
