Welcome to the 2020 FCS Jersey Countdown.
Throughout the May-August months, HERO Sports is going to name the best returning FCS player by jersey number, 99-1. Due to rosters being updated at different times for teams across the country and to keep things consistent, jersey numbers are based on the 2019 season.
The full 99-1 countdown/schedule can be found here.
*Note: Jersey numbers are based on 2019 rosters.
90: Trace Mascorro, DL (Sr.) — Sam Houston State
In 2018, SHSU allowed 28.1 points per game and 208.5 rushing yards per game.
In 2019, SHSU allowed 17.8 points per game and 69.9 rushing yards per game.
What was the difference?
As always with a good defense, it starts up front. And the Bearkats had three new names on the defensive line last year that made a huge difference: Texas Tech transfer Joseph Wallace, true freshman Jevon Leon and UTEP transfer Trace Mascorro.
We featured Wallace at No. 95, Leon at No. 94 and now we recognize Mascorro at No. 90.
Mascorro arrived at SHSU after two successful seasons at UTEP, earning All-Conference USA Freshman Team honors in 2017 and playing in all 12 games in 2018. He started in every game for the Bearkats last year, totaling 41 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. Mascorro was named the Southland Conference Newcomer of the Year and also earned a spot on the All-Conference First Team.
Wallace, Leon and Mascorro all return in 2020 in what should be another great year for the SHSU defense.
