By Ernie Gonzalez
You’ve probably only heard of Josh Oliver a few times, or maybe you haven’t.
That’s because former San Jose State Spartan and current Detroit Lion Billy Freeman has been dominant at the tight end position since 2012.
On December 19, 2015 with 2:44 remaining in regulation at the AutoNation Cure Bowl against Georgia State, Oliver caught his first touchdown of his SJSU career, resulting in the game-clinching, 27-16 win against the Panthers.
It was a big one no doubt, but with Freeman now in the NFL, he will be the go-to tight end as a senior.
Oliver took a big step forward in last month’s spring game in becoming the team’s tight end, as he had more receptions and yardage during the scrimmage than he had all of last season combined.
Four snags, 33 yards and a few broken tackles during the spring scrimmage was more than all of last season combined, as he only had three receptions for 26 yards.
Obviously, Oliver rarely lined up a the tight end last season, but he will in 2017 and will attempt to solidify himself as the second-and-long or third-and-short type tight end.
Head coach Brent Brennan believes Oliver can fill in Freeman’s shoes, and is thrilled to give him a chance.
“He’s a hard-working kid. He’s tough. He’s got a nice combination of size and physicality — we’re really excited about Josh,” Brennan said.
At 6-foot-5, 250, he’s has been an instrumental piece for the Spartans the last couple of seasons serving more as a run blocker and only on the turf for goal-to-go situations.
Don’t expect Oliver to have the season Freeman had in 2015, but don’t be caught off guard if you see number 89 making athletic plays out on the turf or maybe, just maybe, lead the team in receptions next season.
