September 13, 2001

Emel Vying For Spot In Crowded CMSU Backfield

Despite the graduation of the teams leading rusher in 2000, former SCR-I standout Aaron Emel doesn't look any closer to earning the coveted #1 spot on the running back depth chart for the Central Missouri State University football team.

Emel, who is entering his junior year at the university, still is expected to see plenty of action for the perennial MIAA powerhouse Mules.

Lee Thompson, the team's second leading rusher from 2000 has been penciled in as the team's starting tailback after gaining 657 yards on 144 carries last year as well as six touchdowns.

Emel was the team's third leading rusher with 198 yards on 47 carries. However redshirt freshman Kegan Coleman may take a bite out of Emel's playing time. He sat out last season's schedule after joining the CMSU squad as one of the most heralded runners coming out of Kansas City that season.

As far as an every-down back it is a little crowded back there with Lee Thompson, Kegan Coleman, Brandon Hays and Aaron," said CMSU running backs coach Chris Oswald. "We are sort of like the Denver Broncos in that respect but it is a good problem to have."

The CMSU staff thinks that Emel's experience in the passing game may benefit the team this year as the Mules look to open up the offense more through the air. Emel was the Tigers leading receiver (as well as leading rusher) his final year of high school.

"I expect that Aaron's role will further develop as the season progresses," coach Oswald said. "Aaron had an excellent spring for us and part of that did include pass catching. I see Aaron being a third down back for us, someone who can catch and give us some mismatches as he lines up against linebackers and also he is a solid pass blocker."

Emel did not see action in the team's season-opening 24-10 win over Lincoln except for on special teams.

However he jumped into the backfield fray in game two with a solid performance after Thompson was shutdown by the Ottawa defense.

Emel led the squad with 13 carries for 43 yards as the Mules blew away the Kansas college by a final score of 63-14.

Emel replaced Thompson late in the first quarter and promptly reeled off a seven-yard run followed by another good gain for a first down to get the CMSU offense rolling.

He may have the coaching staff rethinking that depth chart.