ALAMOSA, Colo. – A plethora of new faces walked in the doors of Plachy Hall for the start of Fall Camp in early August, and although many had never seen each other before, each had the same goal in mind. The 2019 Adams state Grizzlies are different. They are focused, disciplined to the point that they roam the facility with their shirts tucked in. While 2018 blossomed a new culture for ASU Football, the 2019 team embodies it. "I think that aspect is the thing that I'm most proud of." Head Coach Josh Blankenship said regarding the culture shift of the program. "I think it's a closer knit group than we've had in the past, and I think last year we tried to get the culture started, but now there is a lot more accountability amongst the group rather than the coaches overseeing the players."
 
Despite losing two-year starting quarterback Nick Rooney and Adams State receiving record-holder and four-year starter Chad Hovasse, leadership would seem as though it is right where it needs to be headed into the 2019 season. "It's fun, we enjoy going to work, and taking pride in doing things the right way not just on the field but in every aspect." Blankenship also added.
 
The Grizzlies open up their season Saturday against a stout Colorado School of Mines Orediggers squad that were Nationally Ranked for the entire 2018 season. The new-look Adams State defense looks to impose their will on a Mines offense who racked up 49 points on 501 yards against the Grizzlies last season. "I think we have some key pieces that we've brought in who have kind of changed the work ethic on that side of the ball. Having a second year to build off of in that system has allowed Coach [Britt] Maughan and his guys to build a real identity and it's been good."
 
The Grizzlies will feature new playmakers on both sides of the ball, including first-year starting quarterback John Buksa, who is coming off of an injury. Regarding the new running backs, the Grizzlies will feature a rotation of players including senior Jamarcus Federickson. The wide receiving corps will also feature a rotation of players, all who look to contribute, including senior Ziere Banner who returns to the Grizzlies lineup after redshirting in 2018. "When the lights come on, we'll so who shows up" Blankenship added.
 
The Adams State Grizzlies kick off against the Colorado School of Mines Orediggers Saturday, September 7^th at 1 PM from Rex Stadium. Live stream will be available through ASUGrizzlies.com.