Scrimmage Recap: Defense

The defense did a much better job defending the run than it did the pass. Here is a break down on how they did.

D-line: the tackles did a good job stuffing the run. The only big run was when Dusty Kiel broke one loose up the middle against the 2nd string. Adam Replogle and Larry Black didn't allow many runs longer than 3 or 4 yards. The defensive ends are pretty quick and did a good job today. Fred Jones and Darius Johnson both got sacks. Darius Johnson and Javon Cornley were usually standing up instead of down on the line but both showed off good quickness today. Javon almost got an interception and did a good job reading the offense. Darius Johnson laid a big hit off the edge to stop the running back in the backfield.

LB: The linebackers came to hit today. Tyler Replogle had multiple tackles around the line of scrimmage where he delivered some big hits. Jeff Thomas had a good day in run support and almost intercepted Dusty Kiel. Damon Sims did a good job chasing down Dre Muhammad on a screen play by the sideline. He has some good speed and started alongside Replogle and Beckum as the1st string. Beckum had some big tackles against the run. Chad Sherer also came to hit today. He had multiple big hits and did a good job tackling in the open field. Jack Denton made a leaping interception during 7 on 7 drills.

Secondary: the offense had a lot of success through the air. Albeit, our wide receiving core is very good. I felt like the best all around corner today was redshirt freshman Lawrence Barnett. He did a very good job in coverage and made some great plays on the ball. He showed good technique and knocked down a pass intended for Tandon Doss with his left hand in single coverage.Richard Council had a few good plays on the ball and broke up a pass. Jerimy Finch did a good job in run support and made some plays around the line of scrimmage. Yatta Kiles also did a good job in coverage and made some good open field tackles. Donnell Jones delivered a blow on Jamonne Chester when he came across the middle.

Overall: the defensive line did a good job against the run. Tyler Replogle and Jeff Thomas were the best linebackers but, many different linebackers made plays. It will be interesting to see if Thomas starts at middle linebacker and Tyler moves back outside or if he continues to back up Tyler at middle linebacker. Barnett was the best corner in coverage but will be having surgery on his wrist next Friday.