All-Time Record

The Black Knights are in the midst of their 115th season and seventh as members of Conference USA. Army boasts an impressive all-time record of 622-410-51 (.598) and ranked 27th on the nation's all-time victories list entering the 2004 campaign. The Black Knights ended 108 years of Division I-A independence in 1998 when they joined Conference USA and will return to Independent status next season. Army entered the 2004 season ranked 27th among all Division I-A programs in winning percentage (.600).

This Time Last Year

Army suffered its second straight shutout loss, dropping to 0-5 on the season with a 27-0 loss to TCU. Brandon Hassell passed for 162 yards and two touchdowns and TCU allowed Army just 28 yards rushing.

Cincinnati the Last Time Out

Oct 2, 2004 in Cincinnati, Ohio -- Cedric Hampton's 8-yard touchdown reception from Darrell Hackney midway through the fourth quarter helped UAB beat Cincinnati 30-27 at Nippert Stadium. Will Evans returned an interception 30 yards for a touchdown and Nick Hayes kicked three field goals for the Blazers. Cincinnati pulled close on Gino Guidugli's third touchdown pass of the game, to Hannibal Thomas with 15 seconds left. Guidugli completed 29 of 52 passes for 300 yards with one interception, tying his career high for attempts while passing for at least 300 yards for the 12th time. Hackney completed 12 of 30 passes for 107 yards without an interception. He also hit Roddy White on a 7-yard scoring pass in the second quarter to give the Blazers a 13-3 lead. White finished with six catches for 80 yards. Both teams struggled on offense, with UAB managing just 116 net yards rushing. Dan Burks led the Blazers with 79 yards on 17 carries. Kevin Lovell kicked two field goals for the Bearcats, but he had one blocked midway through the second quarter. The Blazers then marched 67 yards in six plays, capped by Hackney's scoring pass to White.

Scouting Cincinnati

Cincinnati enters this week's contest with Army at 2-3 overall and 1-1 in Conference USA action. The Bearcats have alternated wins and losses this season, opening the year with a loss to Ohio State (27-6), before defeating Miami (Ohio) (45-26), falling to Syracuse (19-7), topping East Carolina (24-19) and losing to UAB (30-27). Senior QB Gino Guidugli heads the Bearcat offensive attack, having passed for 1,030 yards and eight touchdowns this fall. Guidugli has completed 53.4 percent of his pass attempts and is averaging 206.0 passing yards per contest. He has remained one of Conference USA's top quarterbacks since starting as a freshman four years ago. Hannibal Thomas (20 receptions), George Murray (17) and Earnest Jackson (11) lead a talented receiving corps. Thomas has proven to be the most dangerous to date, averaging 17.7 yards per catch while recording four TDs. Senior RB Richard Hall tops Cincinnati's ground attack, ranking fourth among C-USA leaders by averaging 92.2 rushing yards per game. Defensively, the Bearcats have allowed an average of just 24.2 points per game to stand 60th nationally. Cincinnati stands 39th nationally against the run (115.2) and 77th nationally versus the pass (223.6). Senior Doug Monaghan rates as one of the top ball-hawking defensive backs in the conference and has registered three of the Bearcats' four interceptions. Senior LB James Enzor tops the team with 39 tackles.

The Army-Cincinnati Series

Army and Cincinnati have met just five times previously with Cincinnati holding a slim 3-2 series edge. The Bearcats posted their first-ever victory over Army in September 2000, rallying for a 23-17 win during a nationally televised Labor Day affair at Nippert Stadium. Army notched a 22-0 shutout win in the teams' initial encounter at Michie Stadium in 1963. Following a 34-year hiatus, the series resumed in 1998 as Army defeated the Bearcats 37-20. HB Bobby Williams rushed for 108 yards and two TDs in the Black Knights' successful Conference USA debut. Cincinnati spoiled Army's 2001 season opener when Gino Guidugli hit Tye Keith with a 7-yard touchdown pass on a crucial 4th-and-5 situation with seven seconds remaining to cap a wild fourth quarter as the Bearcats slipped past the Black Knights 24-21, knotting the series at 2-2. Cincinnati rallied for a 33-28 defeat of Army last October at Nippert Stadium, scoring the game-winning touchdown with 8:54 remaining. The victory stretched Cincinnati's winning streak over Army to three games. The Bearcats have captured three of four Conference USA battles against Army, winning those games by a total of 14 points.

Return to Independence

Following a brief foray into conference life, Army returns its stately program to the ranks of the Independent next season. Last July, officials at the Military Academy announced their intention to depart Conference USA after the conclusion of the 2004 campaign. Army had spent 108 years as a Division I-A Independent before joining the league in 1998.

Series Finale

With Cincinnati moving to the Big East Conference next fall and Army returning to Independent status following this season, no future games are currently scheduled between the two schools.

Zac is Back

Displeased with his club's performance following Army's 40-3 loss to Connecticut on Sept. 25, head coach Bobby Ross decided to change quarterbacks against TCU. After failing to see any action in the first three games of the season, junior Zac Dahman replaced senior Reggie Nevels in the starting lineup versus the Horned Frogs. Nevels started the first three games of the season and prevailed in a three-way battle with senior Matt Silva and Dahman during the preseason. Dahman started 11 contests for the Black Knights last season and established new single season school records for pass attempts, completions and yardage.

Fast Start

Newly installed as Army's starting quarterback, Zac Dahman responded quickly against TCU. The junior hit on his first three passes for 103 yards, including a 54-yarder to Jacob Murphy on the first play from scrimmage that set up the Black Knights' first touchdown. Dahman's 35-yard completion to Walter Hill on Army's second series, set up another Black Knight touchdown.

Wake-Up Call

Army had gotten off to slow starts, both offensively and defensively, in its first three contests, but broke from the gate much more quickly last week against TCU. The Black Knights had been outscored 28-3 in first-quarter action this fall, before posting 17 points in the opening stanza versus the Horned Frogs. Army scored its first touchdown against TCU just 1:47 into the contest when Tielor Robinson plunged into the end zone from three yards out. In addition to their early offensive struggles, the Black Knights had yielded touchdowns on their opponents' opening drive during each of the season's first three contests. Army held TCU to a "three-and-out" on the Horned Frogs' first series.

Tough as Nails

Senior LB Matt Maimone returned to game action against Connecticut just two weeks after suffering a fractured bone in his left arm. Sporting a heavy cast, Maimone saw reserve duty against the Huskies, entering the contest in the third quarter. The native of Orinda, Calif., missed just one contest due to the injury, suffered during the Black Knights' season-opening loss to Louisville. Maimone earned a starter's berth at linebacker opposite Greg Washington with a solid spring practice showing and maintained the role until the time of his injury. He returned to the starting lineup against TCU, finishing with four tackles.

Day of Firsts

Army was able to shake some nagging negative tendencies with Saturday's fast start against TCU. The Black Knights scored 17 first-quarter points versus the Horned Frogs after Army had registered a combined total of just three first-quarter points (and no touchdowns) in its first three games. Army enjoyed a 17-0 halftime lead, marking the first time the Black Knights held a lead at intermission since boasting a 19-7 halftime cushion against UAB on Oct. 26, 2002. Army's 17-point lead was also its biggest advantage at any time since leading Navy 26-9 in the fourth quarter on Dec. 1, 2001. In fact, prior to Saturday's game, Army had not led in a game at any time this season.

Defensive Turnaround

The Black Knights' defense was beleaguered through the season's first three contests, allowing an average of 42.3 points and 574.0 total yards. Faced with the stern challenge of containing TCU's high-powered offense on Saturday, Army's stop unit was equal to the task. The Black Knights held TCU scoreless for the game's first 39:01 and limited the Horned Frogs to a season-low 21 points overall. TCU entered the game averaging 42.8 points per contest to rank seventh among national leaders. It marked the lowest point total by an Army opponent since Tulane mustered just 10 points in a 14-10 loss to the Black Knights on Nov. 16, 2002, 20 games earlier. That marked Army's most recent victory.

Home Not So Sweet

Army's home losing streak stretched to 15 games following last week's setback to TCU, the longest Michie Stadium winless stretch in school history. The Black Knights last tasted victory on their home turf on Oct. 27, 2001, defeating Tulane 42-35. Army nearly halted the home skid at five games on Oct. 26, 2002, versus UAB, but the Blazers rallied for a 29-26 victory by scoring the game-winning touchdown on a 20-yard pass play with eight seconds remaining. The Black Knights suffered similar heartbreak versus TCU last week, jumping out to a 17-0 halftime lead, only to see the Horned Frogs rally for a 21-17 victory. TCU scored the game-winning points with 41 seconds remaining. Army's previous long home losing streak stood at six games and was established during the 1973 campaign. The Black Knights have posted consecutive winless home showings for the first time in school history.

Heartbreak on the Hudson

There have been several heartbreaking losses during Army's current 19-game losing streak. None may have been more disappointing than Saturday's loss to TCU. Army raced out to a 17-0 lead just 12:32 into the contest and maintained the same margin midway through the third quarter. But TCU rallied for three touchdowns in the final 21 minutes, scoring the game-winning touchdown with 41 seconds remaining. It marked TCU's first lead of the contest. Army appeared to be in solid position to clinch a victory, facing a 3rd-and-2 situation at its 37-yard line with four minutes to play. But the Black Knights could not convert the opportunity and were forced to punt the ball back to the Horned Frogs. Meanwhile, TCU was able to keep its game-winning drive intact, converting a 3rd-and-12 situation from the Army 32 with just over one minute remaining.

Baby Steps

Upon assuming reins of the Army program last winter, head coach Bobby Ross stated that his immediate goal would be to get the Black Knights more competitive so that they would enter the fourth quarter of games with an opportunity to win. Ross' squad has realized the goal in two of the first four games. Army and Houston were tied at 21-21 with seven minutes remaining in the second game of the season; the Black Knights led TCU throughout before the Horned Frogs scored the game-winning touchdown with 41 seconds left.

Zac Attack

Zac Dahman authored the single most prolific passing season in Army history last fall, establishing new single-season highs in completions (230), attempts (436) and passing yardage (2234). The first Black Knight to record 200 completions in a season, Dahman is only the second Army player to throw for 2,000 yards in a season. On the career level, Dahman lists second in completions (331), attempts (646) and yardage (3487), standing behind only Leamon Hall in all three categories. Dahman notched the sixth 200-yard passing game of his career in his return to the starting lineup against TCU, finishing with 214 aerial markers.

Climbing the Charts

Junior RB Carlton Jones put forth another productive performance against TCU, rushing for 108 yards on a career-high 25 carries. It marked the fourth 100-yard rushing game of his career. Jones moved into 18th place on the Black Knights' career rushing list with 1,595 ground yards. He owns 14 rushing touchdowns in his Army career to rank tied for 24th on that list.

New-Look Offense

Army features a much more balanced offensive attack under head coach Bobby Ross than it has in recent years. Gone is the pass-happy attack utilized the past several seasons, replaced by a more conventional two-back set that places a premium on the running game. Army averaged just 63.5 rushing yards per game last season to rank last among 117 Division I-A programs. The Black Knights averaged a school-record 40.4 pass attempts per contest last season, while averaging 31.2 rushing attempts per outing. The previous school record for average passing attempts per game was 34.7, set in 2000. Through four contests, Army has attempted 133 rushes (33.3) and 106 passes (26.5). Ross has stated that he will strive for an equal ratio of rushing to passing plays this season.

Marked Improvement

After Army ranked last nationally in rushing a year ago, head coach Bobby Ross promised to place heavy emphasis on the running game during the preseason. Results of that philosophy have been apparent through the season's early stages. Through four contests, the Black Knights are averaging 158.0 yards per game to rank 58th among national leaders. The Black Knights topped 130 yards in rushing only twice last season, managed less than 30 ground yards on four occasions and averaged just 63.5 rushing yards per contest. Two Black Knights are currently averaging at least 57.0 rushing yards per contest. While junior RB Carlton Jones is averaging 88.0 ground yards per contest to rank 47th nationally and fifth among Conference USA leaders, FB Tielor Robinson is averaging 57.3 rushing yards per game.

Ground Assault

The Black Knights rushed 31 times for 234 yards against Houston. It marked Army's highest rushing output since amassing 250 yards on 39 carries versus Holy Cross on Sept. 7, 2002.

Breakout Performance

Sophomore FB Tielor Robinson made a strong impression on Army head coach Bobby Ross during spring practice. Routinely cited for impressive practice performances, Ross stated often that he expected Robinson to play a major role in Army's offensive scheme this season. Robinson provided a glimpse of that potential versus Houston, putting forth the finest performance of his career. Robinson rushed for 148 yards on 10 carries, reeling off runs of 53 and 57 yards. The native of Greenwich, Conn., entered the contest with just 104 career rushing yards. Robinson's rushing total marked the highest by an Army player since Josh Holden ran for 152 yards versus Holy Cross on Sept. 7, 2002. Robinson averaged a whopping 14.8 yards per carry versus the Cougars with both of his long runs setting up Army touchdowns.

Memorable Grabs

Freshman WR Jeremy Trimble will forever remember his first collegiate reception after hauling in a 25-yard touchdown pass from QB Reggie Nevels against Houston. Trimble outdueled a Cougar defensive back on fade pattern, hauling down a scoring aerial on his first collegiate grab on the first play of the fourth quarter. Trimble is the third member of Army's current roster to experience such an event. Teammates Jacob Murphy and Blaine Cooper also registered touchdowns on their first collegiate receptions. Murphy did so against Houston in 2002, while Cooper accomplished the feat against Tulane later that same year.

Protect the Ball

Army was haunted by turnovers the previous three seasons, totaling 111 giveaways over those 36 games (3.1). The Black Knights have led the country in turnovers each of the last two seasons, registering 34 miscues in 2002 and 44 in 2003. The Black Knights ranked 113th nationally in turnover margin at (-1.5) last season and their opponents scored 113 points off 19 Cadet giveaways. In fact, the Black Knights have managed just three turnover-free contests in their last 36 outings. Twenty of Army's turnovers occurred in three games last season, including eight versus Tulane and six against both USF and Air Force. Army won the turnover battle just three times in 2002 and three times last fall. Bobby Ross stressed the need to improve in the area throughout preseason, and Army has displayed improved ball security during its first four games this season, committing a total of four turnovers. The Black Knights have also registered six takeaways and currently stand tied for 37th nationally in turnover margin at +0.5.

Hold on Tight

Head coach Bobby Ross' emphasis on ball security has been evident through four contests with Army averaging just 1.0 turnover per game this fall. The Black Knights did not commit a turnover against TCU, marking just the third time in the last 36 games that Army has not produced at least one giveaway. The Black Knights have committed more than one turnover just once this season after registering multiple giveaways in 10 of 13 games a year ago.

Give it a Rest

Head coach Bobby Ross has also stressed the importance for his team to dominate in the area of possession time since taking over as Army mentor last winter. But through the first four contests, the Black Knights have experienced a difficult time getting their defense off the field. Louisville enjoyed a 36:30-23:30 possession time advantage against Army in the Black Knights' opener, while Houston controlled the ball for 37:26 against Army the following week. The Black Knights improved in that area against both Connecticut and TCU, but still have held the ball for an average of eight minutes less than their opponents this season. Ross has stated he would like his team to possess the football for at least 33:00 minutes per game. Through four contests, the Black Knights are averaging just 26 minutes in possession time. As a result, Army has run 95 less plays than its opponents to date (334-239).

Run Aground

With the exception of games against Tulane and Air Force, Army managed little rushing production last season. Discounting the 140-yard efforts versus the Green Wave (142) and Falcons (141), Army mustered a total of just 543 rushing yards (49.4) in its other 11 games, averaging 1.7 yards per carry (292 att.) in those outings. The Black Knights' six-yard rushing total versus Cincinnati stands as the Cadets' lowest ground figure since a 38-16 loss at Penn State on Oct. 9, 1976. Army rushed for less than 30 yards four times last year and less than 20 yards on three occasions.

Closing In

Army managed just 826 rushing yards over 13 games last season. Through four contests this fall, the Black Knights have totaled 632 ground yards. While Army topped 100 yards in rushing just twice last season, the Black Knights have rushed for at least 129 yards in all four games this year.

Veteran Group

The Black Knights feature a veteran group on their offensive line with all five starters returning to the fold. That should bode well in head coach Bobby Ross' attempts to invigorate a running attack that ranked last nationally a year ago, averaging just 63.5 ground yards per contest. Senior Joel Glover anchors the group, returning to his familiar spot at left tackle. The three-year starter is a legitimate all-conference candidate and is joined by classmates Andy Dytrych at left guard, Justin Troy at center, Pete Bier at right guard and Seth Nieman at right tackle. The group has combined for 76 starts in all, topped by Glover's 22 lead appearances. The unit possesses quality depth as well, with senior OC David Evetts (11 career starts) and senior OG Adam Wojcik (3 career starts) poised to shoulder heavy workloads throughout the season.

Top Hitman

Senior LB Greg Washington enjoyed a "breakout" season in his second year as a starter last fall. The native of Fayetteville, N.C., closed the season ranked second on the team with 129 tackles, despite missing the majority of two games due to injury. His tackle total stands 11th on Army's single-season list. Washington also led Army with three interceptions last season and tied for the team lead in pass breakups with six. Washington was named a team captain prior to last year's season-ending battle with arch-rival Navy, then repeated the honor during preseason camp when he was voted one of four team captains by his teammates for the 2004 season. Washington boasts 237 career tackles, including 15 for loss. He began last season with 56 career stops and currently stands 19th on Army's career list. Washington has recorded double figure tackle totals in all four games this season and has held at least a share of the team tackle lead in three of four games. He currently leads Conference USA in tackles, averaging 13.0 stops per contest.

Picking up Where He Left Off

After piling up 129 tackles a year ago, senior LB Greg Washington hardly missed a beat during Army's season opener, recording a team-best 17 stops versus Louisville. Washington, who added a sack and two tackles for loss, fell just two tackles shy of his career high. Washington followed up that effort with 12 stops in the Black Knights' loss at Houston, 11 versus Connecticut and 12 against TCU. He boasts 12 career double figure tackle performances and seven straight dating back to last season.

Alexander The Great

WR Aaron Alexander authored a "breakout" season last fall, registering the finest pass-catching season in Army history. A legitimate all-league candidate, Alexander established new single season school records for receptions (64) and receiving yards (861). The previous receptions mark had remained on the Army record books since 1970. With six touchdown receptions, he also fell just one shy of the Academy's single-season record. Alexander entered last season with 26 career receptions to his credit, registering all those catches during his sophomore year. He sat out his freshman campaign after suffering a broken jaw during preseason drills. Alexander garnered a pair of 100-yard receiving games last season, becoming the first Black Knight to accomplish that feat since Myreon Williams notched three 100-yard receiving games in 1990.

Threat on the Edge

On the strength of a "breakout" showing last fall, Aaron Alexander has emerged among Army's all-time pass receiving leaders. Alexander rates third on Army's career pass receiving yardage list with 1,449 yards and third in career receptions with 96. He is one of just seven Army players to total 1,000 career receiving yards. Alexander also lists eighth on Army's career list with eight touchdown grabs. He was voted by his teammates as one of four team captains for the 2004 season. Alexander is averaging 22.3 yards on six receptions this fall. He sat out Army's game against Connecticut due to a shoulder injury, snapping a 26-game starting streak in the process and was banged up again versus TCU. He caught one pass for 41 yards versus the Horned Frogs, but was slowed again by injury. Alexander needs one reception to move into a tie for second place on Army's career list.

Pickoff Parade

Army notched its third and fourth interceptions of the season against TCU when junior DB Delente Brewer and senior DE Will Sullivan registered pickoffs. While Sullivan recorded his first career interception, Brewer notched his fifth career aerial theft.

Three-Headed Monster

One of head coach Bobby Ross' most pleasant surprises since his arrival at the Academy has been the development of the Black Knights' tight end position. Concerned about the position due to Army's limited use of the spot in recent years, Ross has been pleased with the emergence of junior Jared Ulekowski, sophomore Tim Dunn and senior Doug Horaist. The trio provides Ross with three quality players at the position. Ulekowski could boast the "softest" hands on the team, Dunn has developed into a solid run-blocker and Horaist yields yet another dangerous pass-catching threat. All three players promise to see significant playing time in Ross' revamped offensive system. Ulekowski drew the season-opening start against Louisville, while both he and Dunn lined up for the first play against Houston as Army utilized a double tight-end formation to begin the game. Dunn has missed the last two games due to injury. His status for this week's game is doubtful.

Strong Debut

Junior TE Jared Ulekowski made a strong impression in his first varsity start, registering four receptions, including a touchdown catch late in the season opener versus Louisville. Ulekowski finished with four catches for 33 yards, including a long gain of 16 yards. The Katy, Texas, native appeared in 10 contests a year ago, mainly in a special teams capacity, and did not figure statistically. Ulekowski's father, Mike, is a 1975 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy. He currently ranks second on the club with seven receptions and is averaging 9.4 yards per grab. Ulekowski caught two passes for 19 yards against Connecticut. He had one reception for 14 yards against TCU.

Mr. Jones

Carlton Jones became the 22nd player in Army history to record 1,500 career rushing yards against TCU and enters this week's contest ranked 18th on the Black Knights' all-time list with 1,595 ground markers. The Henderson, N.C., native has started at running back in 21 of Army's last 25 contests and topped the Black Knights in rushing each of the past two seasons. Jones owns four career 100-yard rushing games, topping the century mark on two occasions a year ago. He also ranked third on the club with 29 receptions last fall. Two years ago, he became the first freshman to lead Army in rushing since Mike Mayweather did so in 1987. Jones notched his fourth career 100-yard rushing game against TCU, finishing with 108 yards on a career-high 25 carries. He also posted 93 rushing yards against Louisville. Jones is averaging 88.0 yards per game to rank 47th nationally. He also owns 14 career rushing touchdowns, including four this season.

Family Tree

Junior WR Bruce Brown made the most of his first extended playing time versus Louisville, finishing the contest with four catches for 90 yards. Brown teamed with QB Reggie Nevels on a 60-yard touchdown play midway through the third quarter in which he caught the ball near midfield on a slant play, then outran the Cardinal secondary to the end zone. The catches were the first of Brown's collegiate career. Brown is the latest member of his family to excel athletically. While his twin sister, Sally, qualified for the 2000 Olympic Swimming Trials and is a former Massachusetts state champion, his other sister, Connie, also captured a state swimming championship. Sally and Connie attend Arizona State University and the University of Texas, respectively, on swimming scholarships. In addition, Bruce's father, Bruce, played football at the University of Miami and signed as a free agent with the New York Jets. Brown has missed the last two contests due to a knee injury and is questionable for this week.

Off the Bench

Senior QB Matt Silva performed well during a late-game relief appearance against Louisville. Silva entered the game in place of starter Reggie Nevels midway through the fourth quarter and presided over three possessions. The former "walk-on" led Army to its final touchdown, running Army's "two-minute" drill to perfection. Silva directed the Black Knights on a seven-play, 81-yard scoring march that covered 1:16 in clock time. He capped the TD march with a 2-yard scoring strike to TE Jared Ulekowski. He also saw reserve duty versus Connecticut, completing 9 of 20 passes for 87 yards.

Packing a Wallop

Junior FS Dhyan Tarver has put forth a strong effort through the season's early stages. After registering 13 tackles against Louisville, Tarver equaled his career high with 14 stops against Houston. The San Antonio, Texas, native was credited with 10 primary tackles against the Cougars and 11 versus Louisville. He currently stands second on the club with 41 tackles (28 primary) and has added one forced fumble. A year ago, Tarver ranked fourth on the squad in tackles with 97 stops. He ranks fifth among C-USA tackle leaders at 10.2.

Passing Prowess

In addition to standing second on Army's career lists in passing attempts, completions and yardage, junior Zac Dahman ranks sixth in career touchdown passes (16). The Fort Worth, Texas, native has topped 1,000 yards passing each of the past two years and is only the fourth Black Knight to accomplish the feat in consecutive years, joining the likes of Joe Caldwell (1958-59), Kingsley Fink (1972-73) and Leamon Hall (1975-77). Hall is the only Army player to pass for more than 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons. Dahman did not see action in the first three games this season before earning a start against TCU last week.

Bayou Pipeline

Army's roster features three players that attended St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette, La., and all three are slated to see significant playing for the Black Knights this week. Seniors Doug Horaist (TE) and Trey Landry (DT) hold major roles on the Black Knights' depth chart, while Regan Tatford sees action on special teams. In addition to the Lafayette trio, standout wideout Aaron Alexander hails from Hahnville, La.

Seeing Double

Army features a set of identical twins in its defensive backfield, with sophomores Sean and Chris Grevious holding down reserve cornerback roles on the Black Knights' depth chart. Both arrived at the Academy last fall after spending the previous year at the USMA Prep School. The duo injects blazing speed in the Black Knights' secondary, while lending valuable depth behind standout starters Delente Brewer and Jonathan Lewis.

Brother Duo

In addition to the Grevious twins, Army sports two other brother combinations on its roster this fall -- junior LB David Clamon and sophomore DE Alex Clamon hold down spots on Army's three-deep, while freshman QB Kevin Dunn has joined his brother, sophomore TE Tim Dunn, on Army's roster this season. The Clamons hail from Dandridge, Tenn., the Dunns from Challfont, Pa., and the Greviouses from South Plainfield, N.J.

Geographically Speaking

Thirty-three different states are represented on Army's 179-man roster, solidifying the Black Knights' national image. Texas, a longtime Army football recruiting stronghold, leads the way with 34 representatives dotting Army's roster, followed by Florida with 20.

Mr. Everything

Sophomore FB-RB Tielor Robinson continues to shoulder a large role in Army's revamped offensive scheme under the direction of head coach Bobby Ross. Robinson immediately impressed the veteran mentor this spring and remained one of Army's top performers throughout preseason camp. Listed as the starter at fullback, Robinson will see additional playing time at running back. A power blocker with excellent speed and quickness, Robinson also catches the ball extremely well out of the backfield. He rushed for 91 yards on 29 carries as a freshman last season, while adding 12 receptions out of the backfield. He saw action in all 13 contests, drawing one starting assignment. Robinson enjoyed a "breakout" showing versus Houston in September, rushing for a career-best 148 yards on just 10 carries.

Just For Kicks

After being anointed Army's placekicker during preseason camp, it took three games before Austin Miller attempted his first field goal. But Miller made his first attempt count, converting from 44 yards against Connecticut. Miller's kick hit the cross bar, then bounced high in the air, hurtling through the uprights. He added a 25 yarder against TCU, but misfired from 42 yards later in the game.

Change in Scenary

Bobby Ross borrowed a page from former head coach Jim Young's handbook when he opened tryouts for his squad to the Corps of Cadets this past winter. The exercise proved fruitful, uncovering a trio of athletes that have already contributed to the Black Knights' cause at the fullback position. Senior Gary Whidden has the best chance of seeing playing time, entering this week's season opener listed as the top backup to Tielor Robinson. Whidden served as a member of Army's sprint football team during his freshman and sophomore years, earning all-league status at offensive guard. He did not play football last season. The other two "walk-on" fullbacks -- B.J. Laney and Geoffrey Whitfield -- were members of Army's cheerleading squad last fall. Young "found" a fullback named Doug Black in a similar manner back in the early 1980s.

Black went on to rush for 1,148 yards as a junior in 1984 and 950 yards as a senior the following year, helping the Black Knights to a pair of bowl appearances. Whidden has drawn field duty in three contests to date, but has not figured statistically.

Kimsey Athletic Center

The crown jewel of USMA's Bicentennial Campaign, sparkling Kimsey Athletic Center serves as the new home to Army's storied football program. The massive 120,000 square-foot, four-storied facility houses Army's state-of-art strength and athletic training centers, spacious locker room, coaches offices, meeting rooms, equipment room, media room and multi-purpose rooms, among others. Kimsey Athletic Center will also serve as the future home to the Blaik Gallery and Kenna Hall of Army Sports, a thorough depiction of the history of sports at the Military Academy. Kimsey Athletic Center opened in the summer of 2003.

Hoffman Press Box

An 8,000-square foot, two-story facility, Hoffman Press Box features greatly enhanced amenities for those members of the electronic and print media covering the Black Knights. The first floor of Hoffman Press Box houses seating space for over 100 media members and a "state-of-the-art" television broadcast location at the 50-yard line, while the second level features radio, coaches', video, athletic directors' and game operations booths. A climate-controlled priority seating area with capacity of just under 100 is tucked beneath Hoffman Press Box. Hoffman Press Box opened in the summer of 2003.

Conference USA Teleconference

The weekly Conference USA teleconference is conducted Mondays from 1:30 -3 p.m. C-USA assistant commissioner Russ Anderson hosts the call with all 11 league head coaches. Media members may access the teleconference by calling (913) 981-5571. A replay of the teleconference is available by calling (402) 220-1009. The schedule follows:

Players of the Week/Notes 1:30-1:35 p.m.
Jim Leavitt, South Florida 1:35-1:42 p.m.
John Thompson, ECU 1:42-1:49 p.m.
Bobby Ross, Army 1:49-1:56 p.m.
Marc Dantonio, Cincinnati 1:56-2:03 p.m.
Bobby Petrino, Louisville 2:03-2:10 p.m.
Chris Scelfo, Tulane 2:10-2:17 p.m.
Art Briles, Houston 2:17-2:24 p.m.
Jeff Bower, Southern Miss 2:24-2:31 p.m.
Tommy West, Memphis 2:31-2:38 p.m.
Watson Brown, UAB 2:38-2:45 p.m.
Gary Patterson, TCU 2:45-2:52 p.m.
Notes Exchange 2:52-3:00 p.m.

Emerging Talent

Highly regarded freshman WR Jeremy Trimble recorded a season-best two receptions for 34 yards versus Connecticut. Trimble, who registered a 25-yard touchdown reception against Houston, has notched four catches through four games and is averaging 19.3 yards per grab. His reception total currently ranks tied for sixth among team leaders.

Nice Gesture

Thirty-eight youths from local homeless shelters attended last week's Army-TCU contest thanks in large part to the work of sophomore TE Tim Dunn and the generosity of the Philadelphia Sports Congress. Dunn, who serves as the community service sergeant for Company A-4 in the U.S. Corps of Cadets, helped organize an outing for the youths from Gannett and LaGrange House, River Haven Shelter (for kids) and TLC (older youth housing). Their day included a tour of West Point, a pregame barbeque and tickets to the game. Upon learning of the ticket request, one of Army's key corporate partners, the Philadelphia Sports Congress, donated all 38 tickets for use by the group.

Third-Down Blues

The Black Knights have struggled greatly in their attempts to convert third-down opportunities throughout the early stages of this season. Army has converted only 9 of 52 third-down chances this season, or just 17 percent. By contrast, opponents have successfully converted 26 of 55 third-down opportunities (47.3 percent) against Army. Head coach Bobby Ross has continued to stress the importance of improving in the area. Army hit on just 3 of 16 third-down opportunities against TCU and is just 6 of 48 (.125) the last three games.

Weekly Press Luncheon/Teleconference

Army head coach Bobby Ross hosts a weekly press conference in the Kimsey Athletic Center Media Room every Tuesday throughout the season. Lunch is served to media members beginning at 11:30 a.m. with Ross addressing the media from Noon-1 p.m. The week's opposing head coach is available via speaker-phone at 1:15 p.m. Ross' portion of the press conference can be heard live on the Army Athletic Association Web site at www.goARMYsports.com. Those media members unable to attend are invited to join the session via teleconference. Call-in numbers can be obtained by contacting Army's Office of Media Relations at 845-938-3303.

College Sports Pass

Army fans will have more access to audio and video coverage of Black Knight athletic events than ever before this year by virtue of the Army Athletic Association's agreement with College Sports Online. Partnered with Real Networks, College Sports Online offers fans a subscription-based package titled the College Sports Pass. Through College Sports Pass, fans will gain multi-media access to live game audio, live game video, postgame press conference audio, coaches' shows, weekly press conferences, historical game footage, among others. Subscription plans are now available for purchase on Army's official intercollegiate Web site at www.goARMYsports.com. Fans can purchase monthly ($6.95), yearly subscriptions ($49.95). In addition, plans that provide access to College Sports Online's entire package of audio and video streaming inventory are also available.

Black Knight Walk

In an effort to build excitement and provide a "fan-friendly" environment for fans to interact briefly with players on game days, the Army Athletic Association has developed "Black Knight Alley," which runs along Mills Road in front of Michie Stadium, stretching from Gate 1 to Gate 3 of the facility. Buses carrying members of the Army football team arrives at the intersection of Mills Road and Stoney Lonesome Road at 11 a.m. on Saturday mornings of home games. The team then walks "Black Knight Alley" parallel to Lusk Reservoir en route to the squad's locker room. Fans are encouraged to form up "cordon" style to greet the players as they prepare for competition. Game day sponsor displays, mobile concessions, games and various forms of entertainment are stationed along "Black Knight Alley," which is closed to traffic with the exception of emergency vehicles. Additionally, the hour-long "Army Football Tailgate Show," a pregame internet radio show hosted by Army Director of Broadcasting Rich DeMarco, originates from the site, beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Strong Bloodlines

The names of two members of Army's freshman class should be familiar to National Football League followers. While WR Jeremy Trimble's father, Steven, played defensive back for the Denver Broncos, Denver Gold (USFL) and Chicago Bears from 1981-1987, LB Marcus Millen's father, Matt, played linebacker for the Oakland Raiders, San Francisco 49ers and Washington Redskins from 1980-91and now serves as President and CEO of the Detroit Lions. Sophomore FB-TB Tielor Robinson also boasts solid football genes. He is the nephew of Cedric Jones, who played wide receiver for the New England Patriots from 1982-90. Finally, Bruce Brown's father, Bruce, played football at the University of Miami and signed as a free agent with the New York Jets in 1971.

Jacob's Ladder

After registering just two catches through the season's first three contests, junior WR Jacob Murphy snared three balls against TCU. His first reception, a 54-yard strike from QB Zac Dahman on the first play from scrimmage, set up the Black Knights' initial touchdown. He is averaging 15.0 yards on five receptions this fall.

In the Red

Army has reached the "red zone" seven times this season, cashing all seven trips into points (5 touchdowns, 1 field goal) for a 1.000 percent success rating. Black Knight opponents have converted 18 of their 20 drives inside Army's 20-yard line into points (14 touchdowns, 4 field goals) for a .900 success rating. Opponents had scored on 24 straight "red zone" visits dating back to 2003 against Army before TCU was halted in the second quarter last week.

Retro-Look

Army's football players sport a familiar old look this fall under first-year head coach Bobby Ross. One of the sport's most successful coaches at both the college and professional levels, Ross has reinstituted a classic "look" for his club's uniforms, tailoring the design to that worn by the Black Knights during their national championship era of the 1940s under legendary head coach Earl "Red" Blaik. Army's "retro" fashion will include home black jerseys featuring black, gold and gray stripes on both sleeves and gold "tackle-twill" numbers affixed to the front and nameless back. The Black Knights will don solid gold pants matching their timeless gold helmets. The team's road white jerseys will also bear black, gold and gray stripes on both sleeves, complementing solid gold pants. Army's away tops will feature black "tackle-twill" numbers affixed to the front and nameless back. The Black Knights captured three successive national championships (1944-46) while donning the classic uniform style under Blaik. Army has worn similar "throwback" uniform tops on two occasions in recent years, sporting the uniform design for a game against Rice in 1995 and again versus Navy in 1999. The Black Knights celebrated the 50th anniversary of Blaik's national championship winning squads by wearing the jerseys against Rice in 1995, while both Army and Navy sported "throwback" tops in the teams' 100th meeting in 1999.

Streaking

Senior WR Aaron Alexander has caught at least one pass in 22 consecutive games. Alexander's 22-game reception streak marks the longest pass-catching streak by an Army player since Aris Comeaux's 23-game stretch that began in 2001 and ended in December 2002. Alexander's sat out the game against Connecticut due to injury, snapping a 26-game starting streak. It had been the longest active starting streak on the team.

Wrong Way

Army surrendered fumble returns for touchdowns against USF and TCU last season, as well as interception returns for scores versus USF, East Carolina and Hawai'i. In addition, Rutgers recovered a fumble in the end zone for a score against the Cadets. The Black Knights permitted six defensive touchdowns overall last fall. Opponents returned 14 interceptions and six fumbles for touchdowns against the Black Knights from 2000 through 2003.

Army vs. Conference USA

Army sports a 13-43-1 all-time record (.237) against clubs that currently comprise Conference USA. The breakdown: Cincinnati 2-3; East Carolina 0-7; Houston 2-5; Louisville 3-6; Memphis 1-4; Southern Miss 0-3; TCU 0-4; Tulane 5-6-1; UAB 0-4; USF 0-1. The Black Knights own a 7-37 composite record (.159) in their conference games since becoming league members in 1998.

Miller Time

After struggling with depth and placement on its kickoffs in 2002 (managing just one touchback in 45 kickoff attempts), Army was much improved in that area last season thanks to the presence of Austin Miller. The strong-legged plebe blasted 17 touchbacks last season with all but three of his 30 kickoffs landing inside the opponent's 5-yard line. Miller increased his workload this fall by adding placekicking chores after winning a preseason battle for the job. He did not attempt a single field goal or extra point last season. Miller has recorded four touchbacks and drilled six other kickoffs inside the 5-yard line this season. He is also perfect on eight extra point attempts and has converted 2 of 3 field goal tries.

Tough Slate

Only one of the 11 opponents on the Black Knights' 2004 slate finished last season with less than five victories. The combined overall record from last season for the 11 teams included on Army's 2004 schedule is 74-61 (.548). That figure rises to 73-50 (.593) when discounting the 1-11 mark posted by East Carolina last fall. In addition to the annual service academy skirmishes with Air Force and Navy, the Black Knights have already battled Connecticut outside the framework of Conference USA play. Army will square off against eight league opponents and six teams that qualified for postseason bowl games a year ago. Four of those squads received bowl invitations in 2003.

Coming of Age

After boasting just 10 seniors on last year's roster, 30 "firsties" hold down spots on the Black Knights' 179-man squad this fall. Twelve seniors are slotted into starting roles for this week's game. Army's squad breakdown by class follows: seniors - 31; juniors - 28; sophomores - 45; freshmen 75.

Experience on the Edge

Army sports a great deal of experience in its defensive secondary this fall with seniors Delente Brewer and Jonathan Lewis returning to their familiar cornerback spots. The veteran duo has combined for 50 starts at cornerback, with Brewer accounting for 28 of those lead assignments, including 21 in a row. Add Ray Stith (8 starts last season, one this year) into the mix and the Black Knights boast players responsible for 56 of a possible 58 starts at the two corner slots the last three years. Junior Dhyan Tarver also returns to his free safety position after starting nine games at that spot last fall and all four this season.

Plebe Power

Head coach Bobby Ross was pleased with the development of his freshman class throughout preseason camp, stating that as many as 10 newcomers could contribute to the club in their "rookie" seasons. Among the freshmen most likely to see game action this season are WRs Corey Anderson and Jeremy Trimble, FB Mike Viti, DE Brandon Thompson, DE John Wright, W Caleb Campbell, DB Charlie Rockwood and P Owen Tolson. All of those players hold down places on Army's three-deep. Anderson, Trimble, Campbell and Rockwood have all seen action this season.

Captains Selected

Seniors Curt Daniels, Greg Washington, Aaron Alexander and Joel Glover have been selected by their teammates to serve as team captains for the 2004 Black Knight football season. Alexander and Washington were tabbed game and team captains prior to last season's Army-Navy contest and stand as just the fourth and fifth Army players in more than a century to be listed as team captain in consecutive years.

Game Day Coaching Assignments

Head coach Bobby Ross is joined on the sidelines by assistant coaches Stan Brock (offensive line), Eddie Wilson (quarterbacks), Tyree Foreman (fullbacks), Tucker Waugh (wide receivers), Clarence Holmes (defensive line), Bruce Hardin (special teams), Steve Tovar (linebackers), Wally Ake (secondary) and Gary Miller (offensive line). Offensive coordinater Kevin Ross and defensive coordinator John Mumford are accompanied by John Misciagna (tight ends) and Adam Waugh (safeties) upstairs in the press box.

Quarterback Derby

Upon assuming the Army coaching reins, head coach Bobby Ross proclaimed the Black Knights' stating quarterback job to be open. He spent spring practice narrowing a list of eight contenders to three -- seniors Reggie Nevels and Matt Silva, and junior Zac Dahman -- then formally named Reggie Nevels as his starter for the season opener on Aug. 16. Nevels has started each of Army's last three season openers, the first Army quarterback to accomplish that feat. He was replaced in the starting lineup by junior Zac Dahman against TCU after Ross re-opened the starting job following the Black Knights' 40-3 loss to Connecticut. Dahman is expected to return to the lead cast for this week's game against Cincinnati.

Must-See TV

One year after setting a school record with nine television appearances, the Army football team is assured of having its highest seasonal percentage of contests televised, with nine of its 11 contests (82 percent) slated for television this fall. At this time, the only Army games not scheduled for television this season are the Black Knights' dates versus Houston on Sept. 18 in Houston and UAB on Nov. 20 at West Point. In addition to a four-game package produced by the Army Sports Network (ASN) that will air in the tri-state area on Regional News Network (RNN), the Black Knights will appear on ESPN Plus twice, CBS Sports once, and regionally in the South on Cox Sports TV once and WFTS once.

Big Screen

This year's Army team members are the subject of a documentary currently being produced by Bombo Sports and Entertainment. Bombo, which recently released a film on the Boston Red Sox chronicling last season through the eyes of fans, began shooting film for the documentary this past spring and will continue to do so throughout the season. A fall 2005 release date is set.

National Attention

The hiring of Bobby Ross has certainly attracted national attention in the world of college football. Since his hiring last winter, countless publications and media outlets have featured the Army program. The following outlets are included on the list: ESPN, ESPN.com, ESPN2, Sports Illustrated, USA Today, NBC Sports, New York Daily News, New York Times, New York Post, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, San Diego Union-Tribune and Washington Times.

Sneak Peek

Army football fans attending this week's game have an opportunity to sneak a peek at the Army's equipment of the future. A static display featuring high-tech sensors, lasers and weapons will be on display between gates 1 and 3 along "Black Knight Alley" from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored by the Program Executive Office (PEO) Soldier, Ft. Belvoir, Va., the exhibit will showcase the new XM8 proposed weapon system, enhanced night vision goggles, advanced combat helmet, along with various other types of battlefield gadgetry.

Return to Philadelphia

The Army-Navy Classic returns to the city of Philadelphia for the second consecutive year on Dec. 4. It will mark the 105th edition of the time-honored pairing and the second to be held at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles' sparkling new home opened in the summer of 2003 and rates as one of the finest football facilities in the nation. Seventy-seven of the previous 104 Army-Navy battles have been held in the "City of Brotherly Love."

Station Shift

Due to a conflict with the major league baseball playoffs, the radio broadcast of this week's Army-Cincinnati contest will shift from 1050 ESPN Radio to WABC (770-AM) in the New York city area.

The Skinny

Carlton Jones jumped three places to 18th on Army's career rushing list with his 108-yard effort versus TCU ... junior DB Ray Stith made his first start of the season versus TCU, replacing senior Jonathan Lewis in the lead cast ... Stith started eight games a year ago ... Joel Glover's 22-game starting streak marks a team high ... senior SS Curt Daniels recorded the third double figure tackle effort of his career in the loss to TCU ... Daniels also registered a career-best 2.5 tackles for loss and one sack against the Horned Frogs ... Aaron Alexander stands one reception shy of moving into a tie for second place on Army's career list ... he is 51 catches short of the school's all-time record ... Army will not play back-to-back home games the remainder of the season ... the Black Knights will not play at home again the rest of October ... Carlton Jones has accounted for 67 of Army's 133 rushing attempts (50.4 percent) this season ... only seven different players have carried the ball for the Black Knights ... Army quarterbacks have thrown just two interceptions this season ... the Black Knights have not thrown an interception in their last six quarters of action ... Army signal callers accounted for 25 interceptions a year ago ... the Black Knights make their first appearance at Raymond James Stadium next week versus USF ... the Army Athletic Association announced on Monday that the Black Knights' game against Air Force has officially been listed as a sellout ... following Saturday's game against Cincinnati, Army will play just two of its remaining six contests at Michie Stadium ... the Black Knights close out the home portion of their 2004 campaign against UAB on Nov. 20.

What's on Tap

Army heads south for another Conference USA battle next week, vising south Florida for a league battle with USF. The Black Knights and Bulls met for the first time last September at Michie Stadiu, with USF prevailing by a 27-0 margin. It will mark Army's first appearance at Raymond James Stadium, with kickoff slated for 7 p.m. The game will be televised locally by WFTS-TV.