- Wilson and DuBose were a big part of the offensive production.
Wilson was a preseason star last summer and looked like it again, carrying 13 times for 67 yards and the TD, including a 23-yard run when he broke free. He got a little more work than expected because rookie third-round pick MarShawn Lloyd left the game early in the third quarter with a hamstring injury.
“He was running hard,” LaFleur said of Wilson, the second-year undrafted prospect out of Fort Valley State. “He lowered his pads, was able to stick his foot in the ground and get outside.
“We all know the speed he has. He’s got real speed. The challenge to him pregame was to keep his feet running on contact and run through people, and I thought that happened.”
Meanwhile DuBose, a seventh-round draft pick last year who dealt with injuries in camp and spent his rookie year on the practice squad, was Clifford’s go-to guy in the passing game with five catches on six targets for 66 yards. The third-and-9 conversion on the no-huddle series at the end of the half was good for 23 yards, with a nifty toe drag to stay in bounds.
In an open battle for the No. 5 receiver spot, DuBose took a significant step forward, and showed up as a blocker as well.
“It’s not surprising,” Love said. “Since we started camp, Grant’s been making plays every day, knowing what he needs to do with his assignments …
“He’s been doing it all camp. Definitely look forward to seeing more from him.”
LaFleur acknowledged DuBose was disappointed to not make the 53-man roster last year and is channeling his energy into a strong response in Year 2.
“He shows up every day and competes hard,” he said. “The DBs know that they’re going to feel him, whether it’s a run play, pass play. They’re going to get his best effort on every play.”
- The reserve defensive units rose up in some key moments.
Cornerback Robert Rochell effectively defended a fourth-down pass from the Green Bay 23-yard line to thwart a drive, defensive lineman Colby Wooden got a third-down sack late in the first half, rookie safety Evan Williams forced a fumble on the first play of the second half (recovered by linebacker Kristian Welch), and defensive lineman Arron Mosby batted away a fourth-down pass at the Green Bay 11 early in the fourth quarter.
On balance, there was a lot to like from the debut of new coordinator…
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