Despite a massive amount of turnover this offseason, the defensive line group is one of the deepest groups on the roster and has a chance to lead the entire defense.
New position coach Jimmy Brumbaugh has a great problem on his hand with too many talented players to start them all.
The group is led by defensive end Colby Wooden and defensive tackle Marcus Harris, both are returning starters and will be key contributors for the defense. They are backed up by a group that features several returning contributors and multiple newcomers who have a chance to make an impact right away.
One of those is Jayson Jones, who transferred from Oregon and looks like an ideal fit in the middle of the defense. Another noteworthy newcomer is Jeffrey M’ba the No. 1 overall JUCO player from last year’s signing class and could become a great player as he gets more experience.
Departed
Todd Van Emst/AU Athletics
Dre Butler (transfer)
Daniel Foster-Allen (transfer)
Lee Hunter (transfer)
J.J. Pegues (transfer)
Ian Mathews (transfer)
Tony Fair (graduation)
Projected Starters
(AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Defensive End: Colby Wooden
Measuring in at 6-foot-5 and 284-pounds Wooden is one of the best interior defensive linemen in college football and with his size, athleticism, and worth ethic he should continue to improve. He can play on the interior or line up outside, expect another great year before he is an early-round draft pick in the NFL draft.
Defensive Tackle: Marcus Harris
Harris is entering his second season on the Plains after transferring from Kansas and he looks like a great pickup by the coaching staff. He is a prime breakout candidate in his second year starting and expect a drastic improvement of the 27 tackles, 6.0 tackles for loss, and 2.0 sacks he made last season.
Nose Tackle:…
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