The 2023 Lineup: Youngstown State's Blend of Talent and Experience
The Youngstown State Penguins are preparing for a critical 2023 season ahead. With a mix of seasoned veterans, promising newcomers, and a coaching staff led by Head Coach Doug Phillips, the Penguins are poised to make their mark on the FCS landscape.
Key Players to Watch:
Bryce Oliver: The 2022 first-team All-MVFC wide receiver is coming off a stellar season, catching 59 passes for 821 yards and 10 touchdowns. Oliver's agility and knack for finding the end zone make him a primary target for the Penguins' aerial attack.
Dylan Wudke: The 2022 second-team All-MVFC defensive end is a force on the defensive front. His ability to disrupt plays and pressure opposing quarterbacks will be crucial for YSU's defense. Expectations for him are high this season as he was voted 2023 preseason first-team All-MVFC.
Jaison Williams: An honorable mention in 2022, this offensive lineman will be pivotal in protecting the quarterback and creating lanes for the running game. He also garnered preseason first-team All-MVFC honors.
Looking Back at 2022:
The Penguins showcased their resilience and growth in 2022. After a 3-7 record in 2021, they bounced back with a commendable 7-4 overall record, including a 5-1 record at home. Their offense, which averaged 28.5 points per game, was balanced with 202.6 rushing yards and 196.4 passing yards per game. On the defensive side, they allowed an average of 25.4 points, with notable performances from Dylan Wudke, cornerback Jordan Trowers and safety Quincy Lenton.
However, the star of the show was undoubtedly running back Jaleel McLaughlin. This all-time great broke the NCAA All-Division career rushing yards record with 8,166 yards. After five remarkable seasons, McLaughlin has now taken his talents to the Denver Broncos.
The 2023 Outlook:
With the departure of the record-breaking Jaleel McLaughlin, the spotlight now shifts to who will fill the massive void he left in the Penguins' backfield. Replacing McLaughlin at running back will be critical for the success of the team this season. After all, he was the workhorse of the offense with 227 carries in 2022.
Dra Rushton, who returns this fall, is a familiar face and had the second-most rushes last season. With 71 carries for 329 yards and two touchdowns, Rushton will undoubtedly be a key player in the running game. However, he's not the only one vying for the spotlight.
Tyshon King, a 5-foot-11, 210-pound standout from D2 Northern Michigan, joins the Penguins after a First Team All-Conference season with 984 rushing yards. Alongside him is Cephus Harris III, a 5’9″, 210 lbs three-star recruit who redshirted his freshman year, both bringing a mix of experience and potential to bolster the Penguins' backfield.
Senior quarterback Mitch Davidson is set to make a significant impact in 2023. With a commendable 5-2 record in the last seven starts of 2022, Davidson showcased his prowess by completing 119 out of 201 passes, accumulating 1,613 yards, and throwing 12 touchdowns. His versatility was further highlighted with a mere single interception and an additional four touchdowns on the ground.
The Penguins also boast nine returning starters on both offense and defense, setting the stage for a season filled with experience and determination. As they navigate their challenging schedule, the focus will be on how well they adapt to life after McLaughlin and how the new additions bolster their offense.
Mark Your Calendars:
The Penguins kick off their 2023 campaign at Stambaugh Stadium against the Valparaiso University Crusaders on August 31. However, all eyes will be on the September 9 showdown against Ohio State at the Horseshoe.
Final Thoughts:
The YSU Penguins have all the ingredients for a successful 2023 season: a mix of experienced players, a coaching staff with a proven track record, and a fan base eager for success. As they navigate their challenging schedule, including a face-off against No. 1 South Dakota State, the Penguins will be a team to watch in the FCS landscape.