Just one week away from the season opener at Fort Hays State and depth is still something coach Nick Bobeck is ready to talk about with this year’s version of the Central Bronchos football team.
Jake Gandara. Photo courtesy UCO Photo Servies.
Even with that depth and the return of preseason All-America receiver, Marquez Clark, there are still some big positions to solidify.
There has been competition at the quarterback position this summer. Â And Bobeck said at the MIAA football media day earlier in the month that the running back position, or at least the production provided by Josh Birmingham in the past, might be carried out by committee.
Speaking on the Oklahoma Sports Podcast on Thursday, Bobeck wouldn’t name a starter at quarterback, but did narrow things down as to which running back would take the field first at FHSU.
“Jake Gandara is clearly the starter,” Bobeck said. Â “He’s a really talented kid.”
Even with the endorsement, though, Bobeck was quick to point out the depth at that position, as well.
“But we’ve got kids behind him that we feel good and can come in and take reps. Â So it’s a good feeling to finally have some of those guys that can come in and fill the space.
“We’re young at that position, but we’ve got some really talented kids, really three kids that have been in the program now and this is their second year. Â Jake Gandara, Clay McKenzie, and Bryan Williams – those three guys will be the ones carrying the load.”
UCO opens the season on Thursday, Sept. 4, in Hays, Kan., at 7 p.m.