Presbyterian could lean on newcomers a lot in 2018

After a 1-4 finish in the Big South conference and 4-7 finish overall in 2017, the Presbyterian Blue Hose return nine starters and 26 lettermen for the fall. Getting newcomers and less experienced players accustomed to Big South competition has been the focus in practice.

“They’re still trying to learn the system and go full speed,” coach Tommy Spangler said. “They need to learn the game at this level. We’ve got a decent core of veterans back that are going to have to be really good for us this year.”

The Blue Hose may be short on experience and depth among this year’s 22 starters, which will make every game critical, Spangler said.

“It’ll go quickly to the newcomers,” he said about how the season will play out. “We’ve got a big group of true freshmen, and there is progress, but we’re still trying to get them to play the game the way it’s meant to be played at this level.”

Key players

John Walker, 6-0, 185, QB, Redshirt Senior: Walker played in only three games last year but throws well, reads defenses, and can provide a spark. “He’s a veteran guy who can put us in the right place and can execute,” Spangler said.

DaShawn Davis, 5-9, 175, WR, Senior: Played in every game last year, with 41 catches for 490 yards and 3 TDs. Also had 102 yards and a score on 14 carries. “We need to make sure he gets his touches,” Spangler said.

Gyasi Yeldell, 6-2, 245, DE, Redshirt Senior: Chalked up 47 tackles last year, including a sack. “He’s got a lot of reps in a ton of football in the Big South. We’re leaning on him to be a leader,” Spangler said.

Can’t miss games

Austin Peay, Clarksville, Tenn., Sept. 9, 7 p.m.: PC looks to get the season off to a good start with a win over the Governors on opening day.

Kennesaw State, Kennesaw, Ga., Oct. 6, 2 p.m.: Big South opener against the defending conference champion looms about as big as any measuring-stick game.

Charleston Southern, Ladson, Oct. 20, 6 p.m.: The Buccaneers escaped Clinton with a 7-0 victory last season.

2018 Schedule

Sept. 8 at Austin Peay, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 Stetson, 7 p.m.

Sept. 22 Bluefield College, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 at Kennesaw State, 2 p.m.

Oct. 13 Hampton, 12 p.m.

Oct. 20 at Charleston Southern, 6 p.m.

Oct. 27 Monmouth, 2:30 p.m.

Nov. 3 at Gardner-Webb 1:30 p.m.

Nov. 10 Campbell 12 p.m.

Nov. 17 at Wofford 1:30 p.m.

This story was originally published August 25, 2018 at 8:19 AM.