In the Troy defense, the spear is essentially a nickelback – a hybrid between linebacker and defensive back. Last year’s starter at spear, Demetrius Cain, has moved over to linebacker, while his backup A.J. Smiley will miss the season with a foot injury suffered in the spring.
Trojans head coach Neal Brown said both Russell and Marshall have flashed the ability to perform well at the position in preseason camp.
“Josh Marshall’s grown a lot, on the field (and) off the field. I want to see if he still shows up when we put the pads on,” Brown said.