The Bakersfield College football program has always benefited from a wealth of local high school talent and the 2006 team is no exception. There are approximately 70 freshmen on this year’s roster which explains why the 2006 Renegades are young and inexperienced.
Even though there is inexperience, there are some players that have stepped up to the plate and made a difference in the outcome of early contests. The 2006 ‘Gades also have a lot of team speed which includes freshman starters.
According to Jeff Chudy, BC head coach, there are a lot of talented freshmen who have been productive and are worthy of mention.
Some of these are:
Freshman quarterback Daniel Hoff from Stockdale High has stepped up and made some key passes in key situations like in the Fullerton game where he connected with receivers for 249 passing yards, four touchdown strikes and no interceptions. The touchdown pass to wide receiver T.J. Lee with 22 seconds left was right on the money and key in getting the win against Fullerton.
Daron Mackey, freshman inside linebacker, played for West High. West won the Div.II Valley Championship in 2005. Mackey has already made key tackles and has been consistent in making tackles in the open field for the ‘Gades this season. Mackey has invaluable speed which helps a very young and inexperienced defense.
Daniel Calvin, freshman defensive lineman has also presented a force to be reckoned with this season for opposing offenses. Calvin played for Bakersfield High, the 2005 Div. I Valley Champions. Calvin who stands 6’4 and weighs 310 pounds is fast and furious at the d-line position. He has accounted for several unassisted tackles as well as helping teammates shut down offenses. Against Fullerton, Calvin’s play on the goal line helped to seal the victory for the ‘Gades.
Terrell Young, freshman running back, also played for the 2005 Valley Champion Drillers. Young has a lot of speed and can fly once he breaks through the offensive line. Young played against a tough Saddleback College team and was BC’s leading rusher for the game as he gained 62 yards on four carries and scored on a 31-yard touchdown.
Mike Papac, freshman offensive lineman from Tehachapi High has also made an impact for the ‘Gades offensively. Against Fullerton, Papac made key blocks that set up scoring opportunities for BC. Not only does Papac block well, he also does a good job of protecting the quarterback and opening up lanes for the rushing game. Papac like Calvin will be a force to reckon with for opposing linemen.
These are just a few of the talented freshmen players that BC has on its 2006 roster. As the season progresses we will get to know more of them.