The UC Davis Aggies football program is strategically fortifying its roster, with a keen focus on enhancing depth across both the offensive and defensive lines, a critical move as the team sets its sights on an impactful upcoming season. Following the conclusion of the 2024 campaign, head coach Tim Plough identified the recruitment of robust players for the trenches as a paramount objective, aiming to build a more resilient and dominant front.
Coach Plough’s deliberate approach reflects a clear understanding of collegiate football’s physicality, where success often hinges on controlling the line of scrimmage. This strategic emphasis on linemen is designed to provide the Aggies with the necessary strength and versatility to compete at the highest level within the Big Sky Conference and beyond.
As of late last week, the Aggies’ roster boasts a formidable presence with a combined 40 players designated as offensive and defensive linemen. This significant number highlights the coaching staff’s commitment to creating a deep and competitive unit, fostering growth among younger talents while leveraging the experience of seasoned veterans.
Among the promising additions vying for significant playing time is UC Davis center AJ Hasson, a 2024 Davis High graduate who transferred from Washington State. Hasson, a three-year starter for the Blue Devils, brings a valuable blend of athleticism and adaptability, having demonstrated proficiency at both center and guard during recent practices.
Coach Plough expressed strong confidence in Hasson, remarking on the player’s intrinsic connection to the program’s values. “We talk about UCD DNA, and he’s got that running through his blood,” Plough stated, acknowledging Hasson’s family legacy, with his father, Paul, being a former Aggie football player and a current coach at Davis High.
While acknowledging the inherent talent within the current squad across all three phases of the game, Coach Plough emphasized the ongoing process of cultivating a championship-caliber team. He noted that while talent is evident, the “traits” necessary for a championship run are built through rigorous camp training and sustained effort throughout the season, a challenge the staff and players are eager to embrace.
The Aggies are poised for an exciting start to their season, with the kickoff scheduled for Saturday, August 23. They will face a formidable opponent in No. 12 Mercer in the highly anticipated 2025 Football Championship Series Kickoff Game, an event that will be televised nationally on ESPN from Montgomery, Alabama.
Following their opener, the Aggies’ non-conference slate includes road contests against Utah Tech and Washington State. After a bye week, they will conclude their non-conference schedule by hosting Southern Utah at Health Stadium on Saturday, September 20, preparing them for the rigors of conference play.
