Written by: Felix Chavez/Sun-News Reporter
LAS CRUCES, N.M. - Both Randy and Ryan Franzoy are hopeful that 2008 will be fruitful in terms of playing time for the New Mexico State Aggies football team.
Both are also recovering from knee injuries, which required surgery.
Both also got their fair share of time on the field during Saturday's first full-blown scrimmage at Aggie Memorial Stadium.
The 6-foot-3, 221-pound Randy Franzoy is trying to make it as a linebacker and special teams player, while the 6-foot-4, 238-pound Franzoy is trying to make noise at tight end.
"I feel good," Ryan Franzoy said. "I started going full force in December and I'm actually faster right now than I was before my surgery. My hands are good right now, I'm just trying to find consistency. I really want to make a difference and help the team out."
Ryan Franzoy caught five balls for 34 yards and a touchdown in last weekend's scrimmage. He'll battle the injured Kyle Nelson in the spring for time on the field to replace the departed Nick Cleaver.
"Last year was tough with the injury, but that's behind me now," he said. "I'm just trying to get better every practice."
Added NMSU head coach Hal Mumme: "Ryan has great hands. He's doing really well this spring. He had to battle through a tough injury and he's bounced back."
Randy Franzoy said he likes the new defense and getting on the field for new defensive coordinator Joe Lee Dunn is a chance for him to showcase his skills.
"The new 3-5-3 defense is great, it's comparable to our offense in the sense that not everyone runs it and it's tough to prepare for," Randy Franzoy said. "I'm just out there giving it my best effort. I'm still learning and growing, but getting the chance to play Division I football was a goal of mine."
Both Franzoy's were stars at Hatch Valley during their time as Bears, helping lead the team to three 2A state titles and a pair of other state playoff appearances.
Playing together on the Division I level has given credence to their abilities as players, but the reunion on the field has made their journeys worth it.
"Hopefully, we can both see time together on the field, but it's great playing with my brother again," Ryan Franzoy said. "Randy is coming along well and he has a chance to be a contributor here."
Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@lcsun-news.com
