The most glaring component of the Cougar Defense was the D-Line. In particular the push up the middle from the Defensive tackle position. The Cougs lose one D tackle, Brandon Rankin, and return several experienced players. Leading the list along with Justin Clayton isSo. 6’4″, 284lb, Kala Pole RSFr. 6’1″, 295lb and Steven Hoffart, 6’4″, 273lb. The rest of the D-tackle cast will be Freshmen and include Xavier Cooper 6’4″, 285lb., and David Davis 6’2″,275lb. Someone has to step up or it will be the same old thing on defense next year. Few sacks, little pressure and rare tackles in the back field.
Defensive End looks to be the strength and depth of the D-line. 8 returning players with 4 having starting experience. Junior,Travis Long will lead the way into his senior year as both a Buck Linebacker and Down Defensive End. Also returning will be Adam Coerper, Sr.. 6’5″,255lb, Lenard Williams, Sr. 6’2″, 250lb, Mathew Bock, Eddie Releford and Darryl Paulo. Another wild card could be Rubin Mayes son Logan who burned his RS to play as a situational pass rushing end last season. He will be used primarily as a Buck lienbacker in the new 3-4 defense.
The big boys on both offense and defense have to get stronger and meaner in 2012 if Wazzu is going to really become a force to reckon with next year or down the road.
