by Kristie Boudwin
Daily Lobo
Mike Mohoric will assume the leadership role on the UNM football team this season as the lone veteran of the 2005 linebacking corps.
"I think he will be a leader through his actions and the way he plays every day," defensive coordinator Osia Lewis said.
Mohoric joined the Lobos as a walk-on from Highland High School in 2001. He had a breakthrough season in 2004, with the first 12 starts of his career coming at inside linebacker. Mohoric had 82 tackles for the season, forced two fumbles, broke up six passes and led the defense with 17 quarterback hurries.
Mohoric is expected to step up again this season. The linebacking corps returns without veterans Fola Fashola, Chrishone Harris and Nick Speegle. Those three defensive players made up 237 tackles last season.
Mohoric acknowledges the loss of these seniors as a challenge this season.
"The biggest weakness for the defense is the lack of playing experience at the linebacker position," Mohoric said. "I would say that is the biggest question mark going into the season."
Mohoric said the linebackers that step up to starting positions this season have been around long enough to know what they are doing.
"There is a lot of work we need to do," Mohoric said. "We are watching film and getting experience. I think camp will help a lot."
In his five years as a Lobo, Mohoric worked his way from a walk-on to a team captain.
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"I tried to lead by action the first four years I was here, but now that I am in a captain position I can lead by voice as well," Mohoric said.
He said he learned from older players, and now it is his turn to offer his experience to younger players.
"Those guys would always help out, so now I try to do the same," Mohoric said. "I try to push the linebackers when we are doing drills and I try to help them out the best I can."
Mohoric graduated in the spring and is beginning his graduate studies in sports administration this fall.
Pending this season's performance, Lewis said Mohoric may have a chance to keep playing football after his eligibility is up.
"I think anything is possible with the CFL, the NFL and other football leagues," Lewis said. "I think he has a chance to play at the next level."
Mohoric said he is focused on this season and the team's success. He said if the team is successful, it will help him in the future.
"Whatever happens, happens," Mohoric said. "I want to play football for as long as possible."
