ASU receivers have plenty of experience

JONESBORO — Arkansas State returns plenty of experience at wide receiver this season, and it all starts with senior starters Jahbari McLennan and Brandon Thompkins.

McLennan and Thompkins led the Red Wolves in receptions last season, with each catching 32 passes. Thompkins led Arkansas State with 511 receiving yards, while McLennan finished with 451.

"The receivers are going to bring a lot of speed and agility this year and will be able to get the ball down the field," McLennan said after Thursday afternoon's practice. "Along with us being able to catch the ball, we have to be able to get north, south, east and west.

"We have to be able to get into position for the quarterback to get us the ball."

Red Wolves wide receivers coach Tyler Siskey has been pleased with what he has seen from his group throughout fall camp.

"We have a lot of guys that have made plays in games for us before, and that is important," Siskey said. "The older guys can helpcoach and develop the younger guys. These guys pretty much know what we are doing schemewise and are being able to focus on techniques and other things that are important."

One player who has made several big plays during fall practice has been senior receiver Taylor Clements. Clements, a transfer from Butte Junior College in California, caught seven passes for 74 yards last season.

"He has had by far the best stretch of practices since he has been here," Siskey said. "Practice is practice, though. It's going to be game time, and hopefully all the effort he has put in during spring practice and fall camp will carry over into the season."

Other receivers who should be in the mix this fall are freshmen Allen Muse and Andre Smith, who also serves as a backup at quarterback. Redshirt freshman Taylor Stockemer also should be in the rotation.

Siskey said he liked the physical makeup of the receiving corps.

"Those guys bring size to the table," Siskey said. "All of those guys are big, strong and can run.

"It makes my job a lot easier when they have the things I can't coach."