A new defense means new hope for the New Mexico Sate defensive backs.

One of those trying to make a contribution in NMSU's new 3-3-5 defense is Alphonso Powell.

Powell has had his moments during NMSU's first two scrimmages, including an interception last Saturday in the second of two scrimmages prior to this Saturday spring game at Aggie Memorial Stadium.

"I like the new defense, it allows us to attack, it gets me up closer to the line of scrimmage where I can help with the run," Powell said.

Last year, the 5-foot-9, 182-pound freshman played in 12 games for the 4-9 Aggies, collecting eight tackles and one pass break-up. He also played on special teams.

"It's a good feeling to get a chance in a new defense to show what I can do, but we're all trying to improve and learn the new defense," Powell said. "I'm still learning a great deal out there."

The Aggies learned last weekend that starting cornerback Chris Woods will be out some time with an injured shoulder. With Woods out, the rest of the defensive backfield will have to step up.

"It's unfortunate that we lost Chris," Powell said. "He's a good player. The rest of us have to step up and make plays."

Powell was a standout at Copperas Cove High School in Copperas Cove, Texas. As a senior, he collected 48 tackles and picking off six passes.

"I've learned a lot about technique and that's where I feel like I have improved since the fall," Powell said. "I'm going to do the best I can out there. I have a chance to earn a spot, but that's what I have to do, earn it. I'm listening as much as I can to the coaches and I feel like I'm picking up more and more all the time."

Powell was one of three Aggies to intercept a pass last Saturday against NMSU's pass-happy offense. One of the goals this year for NMSU is to limit big plays by opposing quarterbacks.

New Mexico State defensive backs coach Kendall Roberson said that Powell has shown ability in the defensive backfield.

"Alfonso has improved," Roberson said. "We're still working with him on being aggressive all the time and working on his coverage of receivers out of the slot."

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