As I sit down to analyze the San Jose State football roster for the upcoming 2023 season, I can't help but draw parallels to international basketball selections. Just last week, I was reviewing how Tim Cone handpicked players like the tireless Abueva for Gilas Pilipinas' gold medal pursuit at the 2023 Asian Games, and it struck me how similar the process is to what Coach Brennan is doing with our Spartans. Both situations require identifying those special athletes who bring not just skill, but that intangible fighting spirit to the field.
Looking at our quarterback situation, I'm genuinely excited about Chevan Cordeiro returning for his final season. Having thrown for 3,251 yards and 23 touchdowns last year, his decision to stay rather than enter the draft shows his commitment to taking this program to the next level. What many fans might not realize is how his leadership extends beyond the stat sheet - during spring practices, I noticed him staying late to work with freshman receivers, something that doesn't show up in game footage but absolutely impacts team chemistry.
The receiving corps lost some key pieces, but I'm particularly bullish on Justin Lockhart stepping into a primary role. At 6'2" with deceptive speed, he reminds me of those versatile international basketball players who can adapt to any defensive scheme. Last season's 48 receptions for 701 yards only scratches the surface of his potential, and I've heard from multiple sources that his route-running has improved dramatically during offseason workouts.
Our defensive front seven looks stronger than I've seen in recent years, with defensive end Cade Hall anchoring what should be an aggressive pass rush. Having recorded 12 sacks last season, his ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks will be crucial in those tight Mountain West conference games. What impresses me most isn't just his physical talent though - it's his football IQ that allows him to anticipate snap counts and offensive tendencies.
The secondary features what I consider one of our most underrated players in Nehemiah Shelton. While he might not get the national attention some other defensive backs receive, his 14 pass breakups last season tell the story of a cornerback who consistently makes plays. I've watched him develop over three seasons now, and his progression reminds me of how international athletes like Abueva grow through consistent international competition - it's that gradual improvement that often goes unnoticed until they're making game-changing plays.
Special teams often gets overlooked in these analyses, but having witnessed last season's dramatic wins against Colorado State and Wyoming, I can attest to how crucial this unit is. Kicker Taren Schive returns after connecting on 18 of 22 field goals last fall, including that memorable 47-yard game winner against Nevada. In close conference matchups, having that reliable leg might be the difference between a winning season and something truly special.
As we approach the season opener, what excites me most isn't any single player, but how these pieces fit together. Much like how Tim Cone identified the right combination of talents for his national team, Coach Brennan appears to have assembled a roster with both star power and depth. The Mountain West conference is always competitive, but with our returning production and some emerging young talent, I genuinely believe this could be the season San Jose State makes some serious noise nationally. The pieces are there - it's all about execution now.