Doing so, though, will take a big effort from the defensive line. While deeper than in years past, the line returns only senior Ben Calderwood as a starter. Sophomores Jervon Graves and Nathan Royster should see more playing time this year after getting spot duty as freshman.

The defensive line, Guy said, has become a strength after being a weakness for a few seasons.

"Right now we have 12 guys we could take to UNLV if we wanted to and play with. Normally we have had eight or nine but right now we have 12," he said. "We do feel better. We still have to get to a game. Like I've always said, four man pressure is the key to defense. So we think we have enough guys to move them through there and keep them fresh."

The depth so far is good enough that Guy has yet to move junior college all-American Magnum Mauga onto the two-deep. This may be a formality for now as Mauga may in fact be a significant contributor soon, but according to Guy it is a sign that Utah State is making progress in those trenches.

Season opener

Utah State at UNLV Saturday, 8 p.m.

TV: none

Radio: 1320AM

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E-mail: jeborn@desnews.com