MOORHEAD, Minn. (8/29/08)-- If continuity is the key for success in a defensive backfield, then Concordia should be one of the top teams in the MIAC. The Cobbers return four starting players from last season and have five players that have a lot of collegiate experience.

Cornerbacks Levi DeVries, Xavier Carroll and Tom Flynn were all starters at some point last season and all three have speed and outstanding athletic ability. DeVries is the most experienced of the three, having been a two-year starter, while Carroll is the most explosive of the group. Carroll was the team’s top shut down man last season and will be counted on to go against the top receivers in the league this season.

Safeties Levi Pole and Andrew Larson also bring superior athletic ability to their positions as well as a wealth of football knowledge. Pole has led the team in interceptions the past two seasons and Larson, a converted quarterback, is finally at home in the defensive backfield.

The Cobber defensive backs have the chance to be one of the top units in the conference and will give CC an equally tough pass defense to go along with their tradition-rich rushing defense.

Horan Says: “We have our most experienced crew back. It should be a great year for our defensive backs who have a ton of experience and will help our defensive improve on last year’s numbers.”