Football | 8/28/2013 7:29:00 AM

After leading the nation with 6 interception returns for touchdowns a year ago, West Liberty will look to pick up right where it left off in the secondary with both starting cornerbacks and a strong supporting cast returning to Russek Field.
    Head coach Roger Waialae comes into the 2013 season with the luxury of returning senior starters at both corners in first-team All-Conference pick Justin Black (5-10, 180) and steady veteran Rod White (5-10, 185).
    The Black and White duo accounted for half of WLU's interception return scores a year ago. White picked off three enemy passes and ran two of them back for touchdowns while Black had two picks with a 75-yard TD return. They also teamed up for 20 passes defended.
    "They've always been good 'cover' corners," Waialae said, "but they've each made significant strides against the run. They're much more comfortable now at coming up and setting the edge. Our corners made more plays on the ball during camp this year than any year I can remember."
    There's plenty of depth behind the starters, as well, with junior lettermen Josh White (5-10, 170) – no relation to Rod – and Omar Crawford (6-1, 190) bringing quality game experience to the table. In addition, true freshmen corners Carlos Atkinson (5-8, 180), Ray Buckner (5-11, 160) and Da'Quan Brown (5-7, 175) were among the most impressive newcomers of the preseason.
    "With Crawford and Josh White, either of whom is capable of starting, it gives us a lot of flexibility in terms of what we can do with our packages," Waialae said. "As much as we ask of our corners, it's pretty rare to see a group come in and pick things up as quickly as this group. I really like seeing them have a chance to grow in the system behind the veterans and learn things the right way."
    The Hilltoppers kick off the 2013 season on the road Sept. 7 when they head south for a non-conference game against Catawba (N.C.).