Preseason Honors Highlight Mustangs’ Defensive Strength
Phil Steele’s annual preseason All‑Big Sky team has named four Cal Poly players to its first and second units, underscoring the program’s rising defensive profile. The recognition comes as the Mustangs prepare for their 2026 campaign, which opens on August 28 at Mustang Memorial Field.
Senior linebacker Mikey D’Amato earned a first‑team nod after leading the Big Sky with 137 tackles last season, a total that also placed him fourth nationally in the category. His relentless pursuit has become a cornerstone of Cal Poly’s defensive identity.
Joining him on the first team, sophomore defensive tackle Kenny Olson posted 117 stops in 2025, ranking second in the conference and tied for 13th across the country. Olson’s interior presence has been praised for disrupting opposing backfields and anchoring the line.
Offensive Playmakers Bring New Dynamics
Transfer running back Jaden Green, who amassed 854 rushing yards and ten touchdowns at Lehigh University in 2025, has been slotted onto the second team. His addition is expected to diversify the Mustangs’ ground attack and provide a potent weapon in short‑yard situations.
Offensive lineman Leif Magnuson, who started all nine games he was healthy for last season, also received a second‑team selection. Coaches note his consistency in the trenches as a key factor in protecting the quarterback and opening lanes for Green.
The upcoming opener against Idaho will be streamed live on ESPN, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. The broadcast marks the first time the Mustangs’ season debut will receive national exposure, heightening anticipation among fans and alumni.
Cal Poly’s athletic department, in partnership with the Big Sky Conference, has emphasized the importance of these preseason accolades as a barometer for competitiveness in the league. The recognition also reflects the broader growth of the program under recent coaching initiatives.