Warbirds' Crenshaw prepares for Rage
June 21, 2005 - National Indoor Football League (NIFL)
Dayton Bulldogs News Release
DAYTON, Ohio - The wide grin and friendly quietness is genuine with Sam Crenshaw. He's the former Penn State football player who has helped the expansion Dayton Warbirds come a step closer to the National Indoor Football League playoffs this season.
The many faces of Sam could be construed as the many positions on the football field for the 6-foot-3 Crenshaw. Since arriving at the Warbirds camp, he has "played just about every position," said Dayton head coach Matt King.
The Warbirds (6-6) will need the ruggedly-built Crenshaw when Dayton meets the River City (Mo.) Rage at 7 p.m. Friday in possibly the final regular season game of the year.
'BIRDS' PLAYOFF BOUND
Dayton was to make a trip to New Jersey to meet the Xtreme on July 2, but the NIFL has closed down the franchise and any remaining games will be counted as forfeitures. That means the 'Birds could fly into the playoffs with an 8-6 record if they defeat the Rage (10-2) Saturday night.
"Sam has played just about every position for us this season," said King. "I'm going to move him to some wide receiver play this weekend and that could be a good combo with him and Maurice Lee."
Lee leads the team in receiving with 65 catches (743 yards) and 14 touchdowns. From his defensive back position, and sometimes linebacker, Sam has led the team in tackles with 57, but also has an interception and four pass break ups.
CRENSHAW GOES WIDE
"When we worked him at receiver, we realized how well he ran the routes," said King. "I think he's anxious to play wide receiver. I will still play him on the other side of the ball."
Considered an outstanding athlete, Crenshaw in the 1998 Penn State season for the legendary head coach Joe Paterno, had three receptions for 47 yards, including a long of 23. That same year he had four kickoff returns for a 21.3 per yards average. In 2000, he had five catches for 64 yards.
"I think people forget when I first went to Penn State, I was a wide receiver," said Sam, who hails from Youngstown's Rayen High School where he was all-State in both football and basketball. "I really like the variety of positions I get to play. I've been waiting for an opportunity to play receiver, so when coach came to me; I was ready to jump at it.
"I like the physical part of game," he said. "I think I have a size advantage - so give me a jump ball."
BEGINS INDOOR CAREER
Sam began his indoor football career in 2003 with the af2 Cincinnati Swarm, he quickly moved to the Peoria Pirates that same season. Last season with the Louisville Fire, he has his finest indoor season to date. He had 11 receptions for 87 yards and one touchdown. On defense, he was just was as effective collecting three break ups and an interception.
So Sam does have a lot of experience on both sides of the line.
He also likes the closeness of the fans. "I like it when the fans get into the game," he said. "Makes for a real exciting, fast-paced game too."
This season, Crenshaw also has two kickoff returns and a blocked kick. But what about playing for the 'legend; Joe Paterno? He's as famous as the late Woody Hayes.
PLAYING FOR PATERNO
"It was quite an experience," said Sam. "Unlike a lot of coaches with that stature, he does know all the players and treats you well."
Coach King said anyone who plays for a coach of Paterno's magnitude, brings some things to the table others may not have experienced. "The thing about Sam is, his motor never stops. He never complains and is a leader others look up to."
Whatever the call, Crenshaw will be ready for a run in the playoffs.
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National Indoor Football League Stories from June 21, 2005
- Warbirds' Crenshaw prepares for Rage - Dayton Bulldogs
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