2012 Spring Preview: Special Teams

With Spring practices beginning on March 21st, it is time to start taking a look at the roster as the team continues to work hard to prepare for the 2012 season. These previews will be looking at each position and the players that will be battling for positions and spots on the depth chart as the summer approaches. These previews will not account for incoming freshmen that are not on campus yet.

The first preview takes a look at the special teams unit. The Bulls have a few questions on the depth chart for the special teams unit as they enter Spring. Let's take a look at each position.

Justin Brockhaus-Kann (6-2 224-pounds) returns for his senior season after a sub-par 2011 season as the starting punter. JBK led one of the best coverage units, allowing some of the fewest returns in the nation, but his overall average punt average (close to 35 yards) was one of the worst in the nation as well. Freshman Chris Veron (6-3 215-pounds) pushed JBK last year and was the punter coming out of Spring, but Holtz decided to go with JBK for the season, choosing experience over the young Veron. This year, Veron will have another shot and if he can prove consistent and show a stronger leg, there could be a possible change or a very heated race at the very least.

The place kicker position is solid with Maikon Bonani (5-10 190-pounds) holding the position. Although freshman kicker Mattias Ciabatti (6-0 185-pounds) might get a few kicks in during the practices since Bonani is entering his senior season. Freshman Marvin Kloss (6-0 203-pounds) became the kickoff specialist last season and should have the job secured, but Ciabatti could push through practices as well. The Bulls will also be working on a new long snapper to replace Mike Walsh. David Burdetsky (6-1 212-pounds) could get the job.


The returner position for both punts and kick returns could be an interesting battle. At punt returner, wide receiver Terrence Mitchell had the job before missing most of the season after a scary concussion. Tight end Evan Landi and wide receiver Victor Marc split time returning kicks and could be in the mix again, but Mitchell, wide receiver Andre Davis, or others could get a look at returns. At kick return, junior Lindsey Lamar (5-9 172-pounds) returns as one of the most explosive special teams players for USF. Alongside sophomore running back Marcus Shaw (5-9 182-pounds), they could provide huge returns due to their speed. Expect other players to get their chances at returns, but Lamar and Shaw are the guys to beat.

Overall, the special teams unit returns in tact to start the Spring practices. There will be some competition to watch at the punter position (remember that players that are part of recruiting class and preferred walk-ons like James Lincoln, won't be here until Summer and Fall, so for Spring, these are the names that will be on the field). Punt return as well will be a position to watch as the Bulls prepare for the 2012 season.