Feb. 2, 2005
General Comments:
"We had a very successful recruiting season in that we addressed some needs in the offensive and defensive line with community college transfers at both positions, and at tight end and wide receiver. But it is predominantly a high school-oriented class, which we are always going to be committed to."
On local incoming recruits:
"Roberto Wallace (Oceanside, Calif.) was our first commitment. He is a big, tall and strong receiver and has played two years of high school football. He will do well if he can quickly grasp the adjustment to the college game. Jon Toledo (Encinitas, Calif.) is a very bright guy in the classroom and a very strong receiver as well. We believe they are the two best receivers in the San Diego area and we are happy to have them here. We have guys from many states, but it all starts in San Diego."
On which athletes could have an immediate impact next season:
"Looking at the defensive side of the ball, there is no question that Josh Gomez will make an impact right away. He was the CIF defensive player of the year three years ago in high school and should contribute this season. We also expect Sean McMaster and Dallas Mauga to make an impact on the defensive line. Offensively, Tyrell Smith will be very competitive at the flanker position. He has quick feet and will be a great addition, along with Steve Schmidt at the tight end position. We like Nick Smith on the offensive line, too. He is a very dynamic, aggressive player and possesses a different type of mentality that we need here. We look at Steve competing for a starting spot. It is too hard to tell with the freshmen. We have some ideas but we don't put any limitations on the class, because it is such a strong class."
On the best athlete of the incoming class:
"Patrick Gates is our best incoming athlete without a doubt. He is an outstanding player and someone who really wants to be here. He will be a great addition to this football team. DeMarco Sampson also has a chance of making an impact as a freshman. Mekell Wesley is also an intriguing addition. He was heavily recruited by a lot of Pac-10 schools and to land him as a punt/kick return specialist is great for us."
On the comparison to the previous recruiting classes:
"I think we did very well this year for us and that is all that matters. I don't pay too much attention to where people rate us. I look at how we did for the present and the future and we did very well. It is as strong a class as we have had the last few years."
