Cmlifegridironguide2014

CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

GRIDIRON • WWW.CM-LIFE.COM • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2014 •

Your complete guide to the 2014 Central Michigan University football team and season

TITUS DAVIS

GUIDE

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Wed., August 27, 2014 | 3

INSIDE: Target Practice: All eyes are on starting quarterback Rush; Kater guns for top position »PAGE 5

»PAGE 18

Life and Football: An interview with CMU Chippewas head coach Dan Enos

Displaying Chippewa Pride

»PAGE 6

Great Expectations: New additions, senior leaders guide team into campaign for MAC Championship »PAGE 10

Central Michigan Life

»PAGE 20

Student section moved to behind football team’s bench in return to historic tradition »PAGE 21

What the Central Michigan University Tailgating Policy means to you

Are You Ready for Some Football?

Students can cash in on unique opportunity by attending home games this fall

»PAGE 13

»PAGE 23

His Finest Hour: Davis gears up for what could be his best season yet.

Central Michigan Football results during the last four years

»PAGE 14

Central Michigan Life | File Art

Chippewas have options, experience in the 2014 backfield

»PAGE 25 COVER PHOTO BY Taryn Wattles | Assistant Photo Editor

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Central Michigan Life

WE AREN’T JUST GIVEN THIS

WE HAVE TO EARN IT

Central Michigan Life | File Photo

Meagan Dullack | Photo Editor Sophomore quarterback Cooper Rush poses for a photo during Media Day at Kelly/Shorts Stadium on Thursday, August 14, 2014.

QBCOOPER RUSH

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Target practice

All eyes are on starting quarterback Rush, Kater gunning for top position

By Dominick Mastrangelo Sports Editor

Sophomore Cooper Rush is the Central Michigan University football team’s starting quarterback heading into Thursday night’s matchup with Tennessee-Chattanooga.

But Rush is not the Chippewas’ only viable option at signal caller. And no one knows that better than Rush. “(The job) feels a little bit different this year, but the preparation stays the same,” Rush said. “It’s all about being consistent. I’ve still got a lot of work to do. I’m just blessed with this opportunity right now.”

Senior Cody Kater was a standout at Grand Rapids Community College before coming to CMU, where he earned the starting job in training camp. He was sidelined with a broken collarbone last season.

Nearly eight months later, Kater put up notable numbers in this year’s spring scrimmage, going 16-of-23 for 257 yards and three touchdowns. Perhaps most importantly, Kater appears to be healthy.

“I feel pretty good overall,” Kater said during training camp. “Coop(er) definitely has more confidence heading into this season, which is good. There is not a controversy. Me and Cooper are friends.”

Kater, now a senior, was giving support to the notion that there is a big difference between controversy and competition. Head coach Dan Enos said the latter is what exists on his team at all positions.

“Controversy means you have

people that are divided,” Enos said.

“That’s not the case here. As with any job on this team, you’ve got to come out here on a day-to-day basis and perform.

(Kater) knows that.”

With a former Michigan State University quarterback coaching the team, both CMU passers say that history shows when Enos works with them.

“I can recall competing (for a starting quarterback job) for the first time when I was in the fifth grade,” Enos said. “My freshman year (at MSU), I was seventh out of seven. I worked my way up. When I did eventually get the job, I never really felt safe with it.”

Keeping the job is harder than earning it – a point Enos said Rush should always be aware of.

“When Cody (Kater) won the job last year, I told him now comes the hard part. You have to keep it,” Enos said.

“You can’t relax. That sense of urgency that got you to that spot has to be the same thing that drives you to keep getting better.”

Those who know Rush best call him a master of the approach, and a true leader in the making.

“You watch the same amount of film, you do the same amount of reps.

It’s all the same stuff,” Rush said. “We don’t have a right to play (football) here.

We aren’t just given this. We have to earn it. We are truly blessed for that.”

However, the undeniable pressure that will be placed squarely on Rush’s shoulder pads will be the last thing on

the starter’s mind.

“The most motivating thing is the fact the other team is out there trying to beat you,” Rush said. “(The competition with Kater) benefits everybody on the team. The intensity we have with each other carries over to everyone else. They know they’ve got both guys working their butts off. I think they like that.”

Enos, meanwhile, is happy to have options at his most crucial offensive position.

“Our team is pretty confident that if something did happen to one guy, the other guy can come in and give us a chance to win,” Enos said. “Our team believes in both players.”

A long offseason, and now holding the opposite role he had last fall, has given Kater time to reflect on the impermanence of the most coveted varsity sports position on campus.

“We are competing with each other but we are mostly competing to move the ball down the field,” Kater said. “There is no glaring difference between us. (Rush) has a whole season under his belt now.

The coaches are confident with both of us.”

“In college football, a lot can change in a year.”

Central Michigan Life | File Photo

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BETWEEN LIFE AND FOOTBALL

Central Michigan University head football coach Dan Enos begins the most crucial year of his coaching career Thursday.

Weeks ahead of the 2014 season, Enos took some time to reflect on his critics, his plans for the future and one of the best compliments he has ever received, during his time at the helm of CMU’s premier varsity sport.

Q: A:

What is special or unique about the 2014 Chippewas?

Our group of seniors. From the day the season ended last year to today, they’ve taken a lot of ownership for everything. It’s been really neat to see them embrace the leadership part of the job. Being able to see them grow like that has been really special.

Head football coach Dan Enos talks mentorship and criticism

Q:

What is it like coaching a senior who you recruited four or five years ago in his last game as a Chippewa? What is that last Saturday afternoon like for both of you?

By Dominick Mastrangelo Sports Editor

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It’s very emotional. When they come here they are all in different places maturity wise. This is a very crucial age for these guys. That’s one of the joys of being a college football coach. We take the impact that we have on our players’ lives very seriously here. So that last game is one that everyone remembers when you look back on the larger picture of a player’s career.

Q:

What is the lesson you want your players to look back on and think “Coach Enos taught me that?”

A:

Doing the right thing. I want them to say that when things get hard, he taught me to do the right thing. It might not always be the most popular or the easiest thing to do. I always tell them, a boy does what he wants to do but a man does what he has to do. Those are the types of lessons we try to teach these guys everyday.

Q:

Every football player idolizes other players. Did you ever think you would be a head coach? Did you idolize any coaches growing up?

–– Continued on page 9 ––

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Know your

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What should I do if I am arrested?

What if the police stop me while walking on or off campus?

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Remember that no one has to answer any questions! Your vehicle cannot be searched without your consent, which you may refuse, unless they have “probable cause.” Probable causes include belief that criminal activity is taking place, your involvement in a crime or evidence of a crime in your vehicle.

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LIFE AND FOOTBALL (continued from page 7)

A:

I loved Bill Walsh when I was a kid.

Nobody was throwing the ball as much as he was back then. It was mesmerizing to me how he used all his wide receivers and tight ends. That’s why we run the west coast system here. The affect it had on me growing up is something I’ll always remember.

Q:

What about this community? What are some things you enjoy about Mount Pleasant?

A:

I usually like to go out to dinner with my family. The best times I have are with my kids. I have a 13-year-old and an 8-year-old. They are both busy with sports, too. We are all really busy but we find time for each other. That’s really important to me.

Q: A:

Have you ever thought about leaving CMU to coach anywhere else?

I think about the task at hand. I’m doing a great job here with some great people.

I don’t get ahead of myself. I’ve seen people make that mistake before and it usually doesn’t work out for them. God has a plan for me and my family. It’s all going to work out. I focus on doing the best job I can and enjoying myself while doing it.

Wed., August 27, 2014 | 9

Q: A:

How do you deal with criticism? Are you aware of your detractors and the “Fire Enos” critics?

I don’t think about them at all. Here is what I know: I know way more than those people do.

They don’t know anything. I know in my heart that I’m doing a great job and I’m doing things the right way. I think having played quarterback my entire career has helped me deal with it. I’ve been getting criticized my whole life. I’ve built up some thick skin over the years.

Q:

Q:

A:

A:

Is there ever a point, perhaps after a bad loss, that you force yourself to turn football off and focus on other aspects of life?

Or is CMU football absolutely consuming?

When I get home, man, it’s off. When I was young in my career, I used to take things very personally. It would have an effect on me when I was home with my family. But I’ve learned to put things in perspective. When I get home, I try to focus on (family) as much as I possibly can.

They’ve been great about all of it.

What do you want the lasting impressions of the Central Michigan University community to be when they reflect on Dan Enos?

That he recruited the right kind of people.

He made academics and being a good person a priority. I had one former players father write me a note when his son graduated. It said that every day he laid down to go to bed he thanked God that Dan Enos was his coach. So that’s how I deal with the criticism. I read notes like that and realize that everything is worthwhile.

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THIS SEASON WE WILL SEE

WHAT ARE MADE OF WE

TITUS DAVIS

! s p i h C p U e Fir

Greg Cornwell | Staff Photographer

Central Michigan Life

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Wed., August 27, 2014 | 11

Great expectations New additions, senior leaders guide team into campaign for first MAC Championship since 2009

By Dominick Mastrangelo Sports Editor

With a powerhouse defense, aggressive new blood and a pool of talented returners, key leaders on the Central Michigan University football team are making their expectations for themselves and their teammates perfectly clear.

“We’re going to win the MAC Championship,” senior defensive lineman Leterrius Walton told reporters during Mid-American Conference Football Media Day. “Our group of seniors has been waiting for this moment their whole careers. The time for greatness is now.”

Some MAC football experts are calling the 2014 Chippewas defense the best Enos has assembled.

“It could be the best unit we’ve had,” Enos said.

“We’ve been very impressed with some of our strength and conditioning on that side of the ball. We feel like we can get some penetration up front and be ready on the back end on a regular basis.”

Walton is regarded by several college football experts as the Chippewas largest asset and most skilled player on defense, in 2014. He will join linebacker Justin Cherocci and safety Kavon Frazier as they collectively protect the goal line at each end of Kelly/ Shorts Stadium.

Cherocci led the conference in tackles last year with 121 in 2013 and earned All-Mac honors with ease.

Frazier burst onto the CMU football scene with seven tackles in CMU’s 2013 season opener in Ann Arbor.

“This year we can already tell we have a focused and intense group of guys that are ready for this opportunity,” Cherocci said.

Sophomore quarterback Cooper Rush started the majority of CMU’s 2013 games after starter Cody Kater went down with injury in the Chippewas seasonopener at the University of Michigan and backup Alex Niznak was benched.

Rush impressed fans during CMU’s Spring Game in April, passing for 232 yards and two scores – good enough for the starting job heading into camp.

“It feels a little bit different, but the preparation is always the same,” Rush said. “It feels good to get things going again. It’s pretty exciting.”

Last season, Rush threw for 15 touchdowns on 2,349 yards in 11 games.

More than half of those yards were to arguably the best receiver in the MAC: Senior receiver Titus Davis.

Davis caught eight touchdowns and averaged more than 18 yards per catch in 2013, setting the stage for what he said he is determined to make a special year for the Chippewas offense.

“This season we will see what we are made of,” Davis said. “Since I’ve been here there has been a lot of pressure on me to do well. I like that. I can’t play any other way. My leadership skills have really improved and I look forward to helping some of the other guys.”

The Chippewas return 91 starts on the offensive line, which is sure to provide extra protection for Rush and the rest of CMU’s backs.

“That’s really huge,” Enos said. “Our big guys are an immense part of our success. That’s one area we are fairly confident we will have some success in.”

The Chippewas have an exciting non-conference schedule which will bring Syracuse to Mount Pleasant Sept. 13. CMU travels to West Lafayette Sept. 6 to take on Big Ten foe Purdue.

“Every team in college football has some uncertains heading into the season. That’s part of what makes it interesting,” Enos said. “We look at who we have this year as a challenge, but one that we can handle if we do things the right way. We always take things one game at a time.”

Kickoff against UTC is at 7 p.m. Thursday night at Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Admission is free with a CMU Student ID.

“Every team in college football has some uncertains heading into the season.

That’s part of what makes it interesting,” Enos said. “We look at who we have this year as a challenge, but one that we can handle if we do things the right way. We always take things one game at a time.”

Dan Enos Head Coach CMU Football

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The Official Central Michigan University

Tailgating Policy

Listed below is the policy Central Michigan University has put in place to ensure safety for all of the Chippewas football fans that will use various on-campus locations to prepare for and celebrate the university’s biggest showcase. This creates an unparalleled atmosphere but can also lead to safety issues. Here are the guidelines that must be followed while tailgating on a blustery fall afternoon:

11. Alcoholic beverages are permitted ONLY

22.

33.

44.

55.

6.

6

7.

7

at football game tailgates. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited at all other tailgates, including those held at other CMU sporting events, without prior written Athletic Department approval.

Michigan laws pertaining to the possession, consumption and distribution of alcohol and controlled substances will be in effect.

Tailgating is permitted no earlier than four hours prior to the start of the game.

Tailgating is not permitted once the game starts.

Tailgating areas may not include containers designed for mass distribution of alcoholic beverages, such as kegs or similar containers.

The CMU Police reserves the right to determine when excessive amounts of alcohol are present.

Drinking games or activities that encourage excessive alcohol consumption are prohibited.

Glass containers are not permitted in tailgating areas.

88. Large trucks (e.g., U-Haul-type, over 2-1/2

tons, etc.) and buses are not permitted in the tailgating area without prior written Athletic Department approval.

99. All service vehicles are required to have the appropriate parking/service pass.

Large or extended recreational vehicles (“RVs”) may be required to purchase multiple passes. Vehicles with trailers must have prior written approval from the Athletics Department.

10.

10 Large grills pulled on their own wheels by vehicles are not permitted in the tailgating area without prior written Athletic Department approval. Open fires are not permitted.

11.

11 The CMU Police Department determines the tailgating area. All tailgating is restricted to designated areas south of Broomfield Road. Alcohol is not permitted outside these designated areas.

12. People participating in tailgate activities 12 are expected to clean up their trash.

Dumpsters and trash receptacles are provided throughout the tailgating area.

13. All stand-alone tents must be placed 13

directly behind vehicles and cannot impede the flow of pedestrian or motor vehicle traffic.

14. Behavior that may increase the likelihood 14 of injury or cause concern for the safety of others or that may be disruptive is prohibited.

15.

15 No animals, with the exception of service animals, are permitted.

16.

16 No alcohol consumption is permitted while waiting in line for entry into designated parking areas.

17. The use of external sound systems is 17 permitted, but is subject to the control of CMU Police

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Central Michigan Life

I’VE ALREADY EXCEEDED ANY expectations I had for myself

Central Michigan Life | File Art

Meagan Dullack | Photo Editor Senior wide receiver Titus Davis poses for a photo during Media Day on Thursday, August 14, 2014 at Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

WR TITUS DAVIS

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Wed., August 27, 2014 | 15

His finest hour

By Dominick Mastrangelo Sports Editor

Titus Davis is set to embark this fall on a defining journey wrapped in immense pressure and placed at the center of the Kelly/Shorts Stadium spotlight.

Central Michigan University’s senior wide receiver and most vocal leader promises to lead the Chippewas both on the field and in the locker room as his team enters its highly prognosticated 2014 campaign.

“The anticipation has been killing me,” Davis said during training camp.

Everyone has been looking forward to this. This group of (seniors) can’t wait to show everyone what we are really made of.”

Davis’ personal statistics during his three years in a maroon and gold jersey have been exceptional. His 2,720 yards receiving and 24 touchdowns are better than any other CMU receiver.

Mid-American Conference experts are expecting major production out of Davis in 2014. One league coach called him a shoe-in for both the Phil Steele and Athlon Sports preseason All-MAC first teams. Most notably, Davis was named to the Biletnikoff Watch List during the summer – an award given to the top receiver in college football each year.

Last year Davis orchestrated his best single-season performance. The Wheaton, Ill. senior totaled 1,109 yards receiving, eight touchdowns and a seemingly unstoppable 100.8 yards per game average in 2013. Those numbers earned him CMU football’s hallowed Herb Deromedi Award; an annual designation given to the best CMU football player.

Despite Davis’ talented showing, the Chippewas finished 6-6 in 2013 and failed to qualify for a college bowl game.

The day the season ended, Davis said he has made it a point to take a more prominent leadership role on the team as he prepares for his last shot at a MAC championship.

“There’s only one thing that’s missing,” Davis said of his college football career. “I’ve already exceeded any expectations I’ve had for myself over the years.

To put a stamp on my career here with a MAC Championship would be great.”

Whether the Chippewas earn a trip to Ford Field in December or not, head coach Dan Enos said he knows exactly why Davis has embraced a commanding role in the offseason.

Davis gears up for what could be his best season yet “I always tell the guys that every touchdown I’ve caught from little league to last season feels the same.

It’s the greatest feeling ...the moments I live for.”

Titus Davis

Central Michigan Life | File Art

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS! VOLUNTEERS! VOLUNTEERS! VOLUNTEERS! VOLUNTEERS! VOLUNTEERS! VOLUNTEERS! GRIDIRON guide

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what might paralyze some players is fuel for Davis cm-life.com

GRIDIRON guide

Wed., August 27, 2014 | 17

ONE OF THE BIGGEST REASONS I COACH is

TO WATCH

young people

“I think he really truly realizes he’s a senior now,” Enos said.

“Of all the guys in our league I think he is the one the NFL is looking at the closest. He was talented when he got here. I’ve seen a much more mature attitude out of him as the years have gone on.

He’s grown up a lot.”

Enos said he and others on the team have noticed major improvements in the rising star’s performance and attitude.

“He’s been much more serious and focused,” Enos said. “He’s always been that way on the field. But off the field, his grades have gotten drastically better. A lot of things have improved. He’s doing very well.”

Through the ups and downs of a college athletics career, coupled with a social life and superstar stigma, Davis finds his greatest thrill on the gridiron.

“I always tell the guys that every touchdown I’ve caught from little league to last season feels the same,” Davis said. “It’s the greatest feeling. Those are the moments I live for. All of us, really.”

Davis’ raw talent and professional draft stock are evident to even the most seasoned and cynical critics.

CMU’s offensive coordinator Morris Watts has coached at powerhouse programs such as Louisiana State and Kansas during his 40-plus year coaching career. Watts recognizes Davis and CMU are lucky to have each other.

“All the different places I’ve been, I’ve always said Titus could play at any of those schools,” Watts said. “You almost can’t describe it. Some guys just have that quality about them. He’s incredible.”

Enos said the Chippewas look up to Davis for a host of reasons – all of which Davis has earned in a growing number of ways.

“Everyday (in practice) we just stand around shaking our heads because of something he did,” Enos said. “One of the biggest reasons I coach is to watch young people develop like Titus has.”

Davis is admittedly one of the biggest CMU football fans on campus.

Inspired by former Chippewa and current Pittsburgh Steeler receiver Antonio Brown, Davis is reminded each day of the opportunities that arestill very realistically before him.

“I just love the way (Brown) plays the position, man,” Davis said. “His work ethic.

He is a complete wide receiver. That’s driven me to be that complete wide receiver. I’ve seen some things that he’s done that I haven’t done so well, so I use that to get better.”

Taryn Wattles | Assistant Photo Editor

DEVELOP LIKE

TITUS HAS

CMU starting quarterback Cooper Rush said he benefits immensely from Davis’ work ethic and newfound, glowingly passionate leadership skills.

“He’s just really smart. He knows how to read a defense,” Rush said. “Having that veteran group, they all know the ins and outs of the offense and they’ve all made big catches. It’s really helpful.”

Davis has already become a major target for both his quarterback and the limelight of CMU Athletics, adding to the ballooning pressure already placed on him.

Yet what might paralyze some players is fuel for Davis to be one of CMU’s most successful competitors.

“I like that kind of pressure … No. I love it,” Davis said. “It just pushes me to keep getting better and better. I’ve still got more work to do.”

GRIDIRON guide

18 | Wed., August 27, 2014

Central Michigan Life

Taryn Wattles | Assistant Photo Editor

Greg Cornwell | Staff Photographer

RBSAYLOR LAVALLII

GRIDIRON guide

cm-life.com

Wed., August 27, 2014 | 19

Carrying the load

Chippewas have options, experience in 2014 backfield

By Joe Judd Staff Reporter

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Several CMU football players are making their case for the starting running back position this year.

Head coach Dan Enos listed Junior Saylor Lavallii as the favorite for starter, based on performance last season and effort in 2014 training camp.

Lavallii appeared in all 12 games and made eight starts for the Chippewas last season. He led CMU in rushing yards with 807 and rushing attempts with 182.

As a starter, Lavallii totaled three 100-yard rushing games and scored five touchdowns.

This year, Lavallii says he is relieved to have support on his biggest mission: Putting the ball in the end zone.

“We’re just trying to get through camp and stay healthy,” Lavallii said of the group. “We’ve got a lot of guys returning with playing experience. I think as an offense we’re comfortable with anyone running out there.”

Speed is everything and running backs are highly-valued in Enos’ system.

But Lavallii said moving the ball down the field is a team effort.

“Right now, as a position group, we’re all battling but we’re all sticking together,” he said. “We know we’re all going to get some reps.”

Lavallii pointed to another friendly competition on the Chippewas’ 2014 offense when explaining the internal battle helps all players involved.

“We have one of the most close knit groups on the team,” Lavallii said of the running backs. “It’s not like a quarterback competition with one guy

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winning at the end.” “We all rotate, share and bring different things to the table.”

Splitting up the workload will likely preserve a healthy backfield depth chart in 2014, Enos said.

“Guys aren’t getting overworked,” Enos said. “They aren’t getting hit too much when we’re able to rotate them. We’ve been trying to do that with the entire team.”

Also in the conversation for the starting running back job is fifth-year senior and University of Michigan senior transfer Thomas Rawls, senior Anthony Garland and sophomore Maurice Shoemaker-Gilmore.

“We like to have fun and compete, push and challenge each other,” Garland said. “It’s just been overall good for our position group.”

Garland played in seven games for CMU last season and totaled 159 total yards on 32 rushing attempts.

Shoemaker, meanwhile, appeared in 10 games in 2013, totaling 261 yards on 50 carries.

Enos said each back is valued and analyzed on a situation-by-situation basis.

“You need to get the right guys and they need to understand when it’s their turn,” Enos said. “Right now we’re making sure we get them all in a lot of different situations.”

GRIDIRON guide

20 | Wed., August 27, 2014

Central Michigan Life

Displaying Chippewa pride

NOT OK

By CM Life Staff Reports

Each year at Central Michigan University football games, a few students wear face painting and eye black that, regardless of their intentions, can be insensitive and demeaning to members of the Anishnaabeg people, known more commonly as the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe.

The issue can be confusing: how does an institution directly tied to the Tribe honor a proud community with a rich history while reconciling the fact that portrayals of that Tribe come with pain from generation-spanning racial abuse?

To help solve the issue, CMU and the Tribe have been working together for decades to educate students on what is acceptable and what is not.

“The relationship between the tribe and university is as strong as it ever has been,” Frank Cloutier, public relations director of the tribe told Central Michigan Life.

Cloutier said there has been open dialogue “time and time again” to work on issues that extend beyond athletics, and both organizations “value each other as two of the largest attractions and employers in mid-Michigan.”

Last fall, the university honored the tribe as grand marshals for homecoming celebrations. CMU had extended the offer in previous years, but the Tribe always had a scheduling conflict.

Before opening kickoff of the homecoming game against Northern Illinois, members of the Tribe performed a traditional drum circle called “Grand Entry” in return for this recognition.

Despite overall good intentions, the issue of appropriate school spirit was raised again last year after Central Michigan Life ran a photo that featured a student with stripes on his face. This picture started a campus-wide discussion about attire and sensitivity.

In a press release, CMU President George Ross explained that eye paint is fine, as are faces that are half maroon and half gold.

But multiple stripes, either vertically, horizontally or as zig-zag lines, are inappropriate.

“Wearing war paint, adorning your person with feathers, or simulating a Tomahawk Chop are not respectful actions nor correct depiction of the Anishnaabeg people,” Ross said.

Cloutier added that CMU has done a good job of making teachable moments out of experiences that challenge cultural sensitivity.

Cloutier said honoring his people comes from recognizing they are a competitive people. He said students choosing higher education are making positive choices that support their school, which connects to values of the tribe.

“When (students) go to those these events, what is best for the many is best for the few,” Cloutier said. “That’s what being a Chippewa is all about, knowing those traits and being proud of them.”

The Anishnaabeg people were historically hunters and gatherers, and warriors.

Sherry Knight, vice president of university communications, said Ross will most likely disseminate another letter to students this football season to inform them of the guidelines. Additionally, students can find these rules online at the CMU athletics website and in the student handbook.

Freshmen orientation also addresses what constitutes appropriate behavior.

Knight said enforcing these rules has not been something the university is concerned with because of the small number of incidents.

In August of 2005, the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) put CMU and 18 other schools on a list of institutions that “display hostile or abusive, racial, ethnic, national origin mascots, nicknames or imagery.” The schools would be banned from displaying this imagery during postseason play, and were prohibited from hosting tournaments.

The university appealed this decision and was exonerated after proving the strength of the relationship with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe through their written approval.

Since the NCAA’s 2005 self-evaluation to examine the use of potentially offensive imagery in schools, all of the colleges using the nickname “Indians” changed them.

“If (students) want to show school sprit, look at the protocols the university put in place to show it appropriately and educate what is being a flying C and what a Chippewa native American is,” Cloutier said.

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A return to tradition

Wed., August 27, 2014 | 21

Central Michigan Life | File Art

Student section moved to behind football team’s bench in return to historic tradition

By CM Life Staff Reports

Students cheering for their favorite Chippewas will be doing it in a brand new location within Kelly/Shorts Stadium this season.

In 2004, the Central Michigan University student section at a home football game was moved from the east sideline to the south end zone. This fall, the football team’s nosiest supporters will stand directly behind the team once again.

NCAA rules prohibit students of the home team from sitting behind the opposing players bench. The association deems the noise factor would be too great, giving the home team an unfair advantage.

Dave Heeke, CMU’s athletic director, said the decision to move the section back to its historic location was a simple one to make.

“We were looking at a number of things to try to enhance and improve our game day environment,” Heeke said. “The long tradition of our students sitting on the east sideline had been a topic of discussion for years. We thought it was time to return to that tradition.”

Heeke said the athletics department consulted various student groups on campus before making the move to

ensure the highest satisfaction of the department’s most passionate customers.

“We took some time to review our plans (for the move) with the Office of Student Life and student government,” said Heeke. “We tried to embed the idea across campus and everyone was very receptive to it.”

Creating a level of intimacy between student fans and players while bringing back a CMU tradition is invaluable to the program, said head coach Dan Enos.

“I think our players will really enjoy having the students right behind them on the bench,” Enos said. “I don’t even think (the players) will realize the impact of the move until our first game.”

Heeke hopes student fans will have an impact on the outcome of home games this fall, as well.

“There is a very strong bond between the football team and the student body and I think this (movement) can only enhance that,” he said. “It’s appropriate that our students, who play such a vital role here on our campus, have an opportunity to sit in some of the best seats in our stadium.”

The Chippewas will open their season at home on Aug. 28 against Tennessee-Chattanooga.

22 | Wed., August 27, 2014

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Wed., August 27, 2014 | 23

OPINION

Are you ready for some football?

Students can cash in on unique opportunity by attending home games this fall

By Dominick Mastrangelo

Central Michigan Life | File Art

Sports Editor

Those of you who are new to this campus are in for a real treat this Thursday night: Central Michigan University football.

This spectacle is completely unmatched in terms of atmosphere and excitement. It is the most riveting event that takes place six times a year on this campus with thousands of passionate attendees.

I cover CMU sports for the school newspaper because I love CMU sports. This is the most memorable and valuable experience I am blessed with while doing this job.

This is our most important and sensational team.

I can picture myself standing on the sidelines at Kelly/ Shorts Stadium. Looking up, I see a full house. A sea of Maroon and Gold mesmerizes all who are sounded by it.

Students and alumni alike; screaming at the top of their lungs on third down and long.

From miles away you can hear the chant: “WE WILL, WE WILL ROCK YOU!” The opposing offense struggling to communicate while the Chippewas defensive players wave their arms up and down, egging the mob on for more volume.

I could not think of anything I would rather be doing on a Saturday afternoon in Mount Pleasant. The roar of the crowd and electricity within the jam-packed stadium will send a chill down your spine.

How could you miss any of the home games this season? You would be cheating yourself out of a moving experience.

You will probably run into one or two fellow students this fall that will discourage you from attending a game, suggesting it is not worth your time.

Here are a few reasons that guy is wrong and you should actively participate in ensuring a Chippewas victory every time they play in your backyard:

It’s fun This is the most obvious reason to show up at games.

Football connects us in a way that no other campus event can. The smell of burgers on the grill at the nearby tailgate and the cool, crisp air blustering your cheeks as you toss the pigskin around just before kickoff will create unforgettable memories.

This the stage on which our success as a university is most public. Nothing more exciting happens here each year. Witnessing this excitement in person is a feeling only attainable by being able to truly claim: “I was there.”

These are the CMU athletes that need you the most.

It’s free This is the most practical reason to go. Almost all of us students are low on cash, even during the first week of the semester.

Students at Michigan State or U-M pay hundreds of dollars to see their fellow students play football at home games each year. You have made a good decision in coming to a school with a football program which finances itself well enough to keep you walking in the door at Kelly/Shorts Stadium for free.

It is an opportunity to involve yourself in a dynamic atmosphere that other students nationwide are forced to go without because they cannot afford it.

You will long for those exciting Saturday afternoons and all the camaraderie they create as soon as you graduate. Alumni will attest to that.

The 12th man It is extremely disheartening to sit in the Kelly/ Shorts press box, as I was so blessed to do later in the season last year, gazing out over a sea of empty student-section seats.

That’s how a reporter feels, can you image what the men on the field think as they raise their arms up and down … to no one? There is no debating that if it generates enough noise, a crowd can directly affect the outcome of a college football game.

You are not on the football team, but you have an opportunity to play a major role in the success of our premier varsity sports squad.

Well after you graduate, the melody of the fight song will find its way into your head and have you longing for just one more Saturday afternoon with your floormates.

There are a lot of older folks who would kill to be in your Sperrys and Uggs this fall.

Meet people, make memories I can’t tell you how many couples I know that met at CMU home football games. It can be an incredibly romantic and quickly bonding experience.

Wrapping your arms around your Greek brothers and sisters, singing the fight song and continuing the party well into the night after a Chippewas victory will stick with you forever.

The exhilaration can take your breathe away.

The moment of the last-chance touchdown drive will have your blood pumping. All of you go through this experience together. Those who are not there will never understand.

A call to arms This is your duty as a representative of this university and a member not of the unofficial CMU football fan club, but a member of the CMU family.

Picture it now. The cannon hoist high above Titus Davis’ head after a thrashing of the Western Michigan Broncos in the season finale at Kelly/ Shorts Stadium.

You’ve attended every home games. Stayed until the end, through the rain, turnovers and longing for your warm bed back at the dorms.

It is at that moment when you will taste delicious pride. A sense of fulfillment and admiration that two or three regular season losses could never take away.

Why would you cheat yourself out of that glorious moment on Nov. 22 when WMU comes to town?

Why would you blow off a group of men proudly wearing the Maroon and Gold, who want nothing more than to make you just as proud?

24 | Wed., August 27, 2014

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cm-life.com

Wed., August 27, 2014 | 25

Central Michigan Football results during the last four seasons 2013 OPPONENT

2012 SCORE

Michigan............. L 59-9 New Hampshire......W 24-21 UNLV...................L 31-21 Toledo.................L 38-17 NC State.............L 48-18 Miami (Ohio).... W 21-9 Ohio.................. W 26-23 NIU......................L 38-17 Ball State.......... L 44-24 Western Michigan........W 27-22 UMass.................W 37-0 EMU................. W 42-10

OPPONENT

2011 SCORE

Southeast Missouri.......... W 38-27 Michigan State....................... L 41-7 Iowa...................W 32-31 NIU.....................L 55-24 Toledo................L 50-35 Navy......................L 31-13 Ball State........... L 41-30 Akron................W 35-14 Western Michigan.........L 42-31 EMU..................W 34-31 Miami (Ohio)... W 30-16 UMass...............W 42-21

2010

OPPONENT

SCORE

South Carolina State..................... W 21-6 Kentucky............ L 27-13 Western Michigan.........L 44-14 Michigan State...................... L 45-7 NIU................... W 48-41 North Carolina State....................L 38-24 EMU................... L 35-28 Ball State............ L 31-27 Akron............... W 23-22 Kent State......... L 24-21 Ohio....................L 43-28 Toledo.................L 44-17

OPPONENT

SCORE

Hampton........... W 33-0 Temple......L (OT) 13-10 EMU..................W 52-14 Northwestern.. L 30-25 Ball State.............L 31-17 Virginia Tech.................... L 45-21 Miami (Ohio)... L 27-20 NIU........................L 33-7 Bowling Green...................L 17-14 Western Michigan.......W 26-22 Navy.................... L 38-37 Toldeo................ L 42-31

Central Michigan Life | File Art NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, left, and former Central Michigan University left tackle Eric Fisher, right, hold Fisher’s new Kansas City football jersey after being selected as the number one pick by the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2013 National Football League Draft at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

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