Aug. 30, 2007
Senior wide receiver Marcus Smith is a former tailback who has developed into a real game-breaker at a pass catcher. An Honorable Mention all-MWC pick and his teammates’ choice for Most Improved Player as a first year starter in 2006, Smith could be one of the premier receivers in the conference with another big jump in 2007.
Coaches have said he has the size, speed, strength and athletic ability to be an NFL receiver and is just starting to master all of the techniques involved at the position. Smith is one of the most explosive players in the MWC, boasting top-flight speed in the open field, and is also the most powerful receiver on the team. He has embraced a leadership role in recent years and was voted offensive team captain, along with fellow receiver Travis Brown, this year.
Smith has been a key member of the offense since 2004, but was used more as a ball carrier in his first two seasons. He has been a standout special teams player throughout his career and has also competed with the UNM track team, placing sixth in the 200 meters at the 2005 MWC Outdoor Track Championships. Smith and former USC Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush were two of the top sprinters in the San Diego area during their prep careers with each earning head-to-head victories over the other during their track rivalry.
Smith is also an avid snowboarder and longboarder, and also a frequent paintball player.
D.J. Renteria: How did it feel to be voted team captain by your teammates?
Marcus Smith: Mixed emotions honestly. Personally I have not been a vocal leader in the past, but now I have to be. Also I have to watch what I do at all times because I must lead by example and carry myself the way a leader should.
DR: What are some of your personal and individual goals for the upcoming season?
MS: As a team: to go undefeated and win the Mountain West Conference and accomplish all the things we expect to this year. Personally, I want to be more productive and better then last year with at least 10 touchdowns and 1,000 yards receiving. Most importantly just win.
DR: After this season has come and gone what will you miss the most about being a part of the team?
MS: Being in the locker room after games, practicing and learning from teammates of mine in the past. Just all the different things that go on in the locker room, especially the whole gameday atmosphere.
DR: What teammate of yours are you expecting big things from this season and why?
MS: Major Mosley. Even though he was not voted a captain he is a leader and a key to the defense. If he is successful the defense will dominate.
DR: What game are you most excited about playing this season?
MS: The Arizona game because this will be the first time I will play a key role in a game against a Pac-10 team which has the potential to be a BCS team. People look at an opponent like Arizona differently and so do players.
DR: What is your favorite food?
MS: Mexican food because it’s always good. Being from San Diego, Mexican food is a must.
DR: If you were not playing football what would you be doing?
MS: I probably would have enlisted in the military. Both my father and grandfather were in the military and I was headed the same route if not for football.