Style
Gold Star Member
- Joined
- Jul 13, 2005
- Messages
- 3,650
- Reaction score
- 166
- Points
- 63
Just got an email from a friend who's opinion I value, and thought it was good enough to share:
I still need to be convinced that the defense will be able to continue their meteoric improvement and become a shut down unit that is dominating and makes offenses run and hide. However, I think they are fast approaching this level. Consider:
1. Penn State only ran the ball against our nickel zone defense after we were up late 14 - 3. When the game was close we shut them down.
2. Iowa had some success, but we forced several punts and consistently pressured Tate into 3 picks.
3. Texas also had success early, but became predictable once we were up by two scores.
4. We lead the league in scoring defense.
5. We are second in the league in third down defense.
6. We lead the league in TO margin.
7. We lead the league in sacks against.
8. We lead the league in interceptions (11).
Yes, this defense has given up some yards and a few drives, but once you get to our side of the 50 they have been very tough. Another thought to consider: this defense statistically is better than 2002 and nearly as good as the 2005 version. Granted those teams have a larger statistical base, but remember the meat of our schedule is complete. The next good offense we face is MSU, who just imploded against Illinois and then we have UM who has struggled maintaining drives, especially through the air. If Anderson Russell’s replacement gets up to speed this defense should be worthy of a championship.
Add in an offense that should be capable of scoring at least 24 points against anyone’s’ defense (depending on the weather) and this has the potential to be an exciting year!