| The Moreno file |
|
College: Southern Cal
|
|
Position: Linebacker
|
|
Height: 6-3
|
|
Weight: 245
|
|
Year: Senior
|
1999 stats:
Tackles - 108
Tackles for loss - 7
Starts - 12
Forced fumbles - 5
TDs - 2
|
|
The scoop: Expected to compete for Butkus Award with teammate Markus Steele as member of one of the nation's top linebacking corps.
|
For inspiration and insight, senior linebacker Zeke Moreno need only speak with his mother, Arcinia Arenas, before a USC football game.
In his youth in Chula Vista, Calif., Moreno played on a Pop Warner team, which led to the mothers of that squad forming the Mighty Mommas. They competed in a San Diego area women's tackle league, and Arcinia played linebacker and fullback.
"She has her little trophy at home and she still talks about it," Moreno said. "From what I hear, it was pretty interesting. She had a blast. I wish she had pictures or film of the games. That would have been awesome."
Arcinia wouldn't want to run against any defense that includes her Zeke. The Trojans led the Pac-10 a year ago in rushing defense, allowing only 117 yards a game. And Moreno led USC with 108 tackles. Both returning starting linebackers -- Moreno in the middle and Markus Steele on the outside -- could get some consideration when the Butkus Award is presented after the season.
Moreno might also see some action as long snapper for the Trojans.
He forced five fumbles, scored on an interception return and fumble recovery against Oregon State, and will start for a third consecutive season in 2000. It'll be his second year at middle linebacker.
"As good as Zeke is, I expect him to take his game to the next level in 2000," said coach Paul Hackett. "He has to compete all year to be the best in the nation, and I think he will do that."
"I still have a lot of things to improve on," Moreno said. "You're not there unless you're at the next level. Even then, you have to keep working. The first play of that first game, I hit a lineman or someone. Once you get that initial contact, your butterflies go away."
Zeke has four brothers, but his parents have also taken in and raised more than 100 foster children in their Chula Vista home. Some accompany them to USC games, where Moreno always says hello. Arcinia always asks about the game plan.
"And I always say," Moreno said, "just win."
Lindy's Football Annuals (National, SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-10, ACC, plus
Pro) are available at newsstands regionally, or can be ordered as a set at
www.lindyssports.com,
or by calling 1-205-871-1182.