Hargreaves: Forte has chance to break out

Posted Aug 7, 2011 by Adam Adkins

Updated Aug 9, 2011 at 12:12 AM

VERO BEACH If there’s one defensive player to keep an eye on this fall, it might be redshirt sophomore DE Julius Forte, who defensive ends coach Vernon Hargreaves believes could be in for a big season.

“Julius’ confidence right now is really taking off,” Hargreaves said. “He had a great summer for us, and I think he’s a guy that can break out for us this year.”

Forte (6-foot-2, 265 pounds) said his focus this offseason was to get bigger and stronger, and he’s seems to have accomplished that, adding about 15 pounds to his frame since last fall. He’s listed right now as the top backup to projected starters Ryne Giddins and Patrick Hampton, though he’s doing his best to push for some increased playing time.

“The people in front of me are making it very hard,” Forte said. “They’re working harder and harder every day, and I’m trying to put a flame under their butt so we all get better at the same time.”

BULLS BITS: Roughly 60 spectators turned out for USF’s first workout in Vero Beach. Holtz took a few minutes during practice to pose for pictures and sign autographs for some of the younger fans in attendance. All practices in Vero Beach are open to the public. … Monday’s practice will be the first in full pads. … WR Chris Dunkley, who is sitting out the 2011 season per NCAA transfer rules, had some bright moments Sunday, particularly while hauling in deep passes. Dunkley has gotten extra work the past few days as WR A.J. Love, who missed all of last season while recovering from a torn ACL, has been limited because of some swelling in his knee. Holtz said he isn’t concerned with Love’s knee, and expects him to be a full participant again perhaps as soon as Monday.