In 2007, defense was the Achilles' heel in San Diego State's rebuilding process under then-second-year coach Chuck Long. Then the offense graduated almost in its entirety.

Now, it appears defense will be the motor that carries the Aztecs into the 2008 season.

That SDSU worked hard in the offseason to rectify a defense that was helpless by the end of 2007 was evident during spring practice. As much progress as the defense made, however, the inexperience on offense made it look that much better.

Not only are the Aztecs trying to replace quarterback Kevin O'Connell, whose 3,471 yards of total offense accounted for 76.8 percent of the team's offense, but they're also looking for four new linemen, two wide receivers and a running back to emerge.

That could ...More