RE: 2016 hinges on defense
I agree that it all hinges on how well the D can come together, especially the linebackers.
MTSU had a great offense and a mediocre defense, and WMU ultimately ran away with it because our defense was better than theirs. Came up with a few stops here and there, and that was the difference. I think it will likely be a similar situation this year. Be good enough to get a few stops when needed, and let our offense do their thing. This defense won't shock the world, but they can still be very good.
The line will be fine, possibly very good. Plenty of experience and talent led by Keion Adams, Nathan Braster and David Curle. Turner has experience and size. Add in Assoua, Finley, Balabani, Jackson and possibly Aguirre...that's a solid 2-deep. I believe Matich is still hurt? Someone correct me if I'm wrong. I think Jimmy Williams, the new position coach, will get a lot out of this group.
Linebackers are the real question. Bailey and Spillane are solid. Asantay Brown is apparently joining the group. Will freshman Tristian Pipp be a difference maker? There's a lot of unknowns and youth behind the starters. 2nd string might be Jackson, Engram and Grace. But it depends on how liberally the coaching staff wants to use freshmen, because I love the incoming class of LBs. Pipp, Culp and Rogers have great size and talent. We'll see what happens with that. Cherocci might see increased playing time as well.
DBs will be interesting. We lose 2 to graduation, and Brown moves to LB. But there's a lot of talent on the back end. Phillips is a lock at corner, and we'll see a battle for the spot opposite him. Obbie Jackson, Sam Beal and Davontae Ginwright all have a shot at it. Tranquill (if healthy) and Rucker (Iowa transfer) will likely be the starters at safety. As with the linebackers, I'm interested in seeing if any true frosh will see playing time. We're bring in about 6 frosh DBs that are extremely skilled. Claiborne, Jackson, Boyd, Tanner...who's it going to be?
Overall I think our defense has playmakers and the depth is filled with talented, if unproven, youth. Time to see how all of these impressive recruiting classes come together. As they say....put up or shut up.
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