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The Spring practices on the defense side of the ball for the Southern Oregon football team has consisted of nothing but opportunities for new faces to step up.

Those new faces will get a chance to shine Friday night in the annual Black and White Spring Game at Raider Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

“We have a lot of changes on the defensive side of the ball after losing so many starters to graduation,” SOU head coach Steve Helminiak said. “It’s presented a lot of opportunities for people to step up.”

Newcomers and a returner have shined this Spring on the defensive front line.

Transfers Nate Langi (Golden West CC) and Kyle Kellough (Santa Rosa JC) have both wasted no time getting in the mix on the defensive line.

Senior Jarrod Moroni has emerged as the top defensive end in camp.

“Nate and Kyle have really helped bolster the defensive line,” Helminiak said. “And Moroni continues to step up. We are having a tough time blocking him this Spring.”

Tim Pinkerton and Craig Cofer have also had nice Springs for the Raiders on the defensive line.

At linebacker a trio of returners will need to take on more of important role in the defense.

Senior Kala Haasenritter, sophomore Chad Quiarte and sophomore Scott Graves have all shown progress during the Spring.

“Kala has done a nice job stepping up and playing a bigger leadership role,” Helminiak said. “He’s also a lot more physical this year. Chad has taken big steps forward and Scott continues to fly around and make plays.”

Without a starter returning in the defensive backfield, plenty of newcomers have stepped up.

Returner Josh McOmber looks to put an injury riddled 2009 season behind him and Cody Peebles is poised to play a bigger role after an impressive Spring. Newcomers James Wheeler, Randy Fesser and Wyatt North will also be battling for playing time.

“Josh is starting to come into his own and Cody goes out everyday and makes a lot of plays,” Helminiak said. “The new guys are all positive additions and have helped us reload in the defensive backfield quickly.”

Senior kicker and punter Tyler Crowley is being pushed as both a punter and on kickoffs. Jordan Nielsen has had an impressive Spring punting the ball, while Colin Amsler has made strides on kickoffs.