Michigan Football: How the defensive line can protect the secondary
Michigan football has a young and unproven secondary. So it’s a good thing the Wolverines have one of the best defensive lines in the country.
When it comes to the secondary, Michigan football has a lot of questions to answer. There are a few players with some experience, but for the most part, it’s going to be a fresh start across the board.
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There is talent on the back end of the defense to be sure. But at cornerback, there is a group of mostly freshmen and sophomores that will be vying for playing time. The story is the same at safety.
Now, it’s possible that the secondary will come of age quickly and will turn out better than we think. There is no doubt that the competition will be fierce and that usually brings out the best in players, so at least whoever ends up starting will have earned it.
But regardless of how much raw ability exists in the secondary, there are sure to be some growing pains. By next season, it may be one of Michigan’s strengths. But this year, the defensive line is the position group that needs to put the defense on its shoulders.
Good thing the Wolverines have what projects to be an elite defensive line. Some experts even argue its one of the 10 best in the country.
Rashan Gary has been selected a preseason All-American by the Sporting News and appears ready to turn into a dominant force this season. Maurice Hurst is another elite player at defensive tackle, while Brian Mone and Chase Winovich should both be standouts.
There is a also a slew of young players behind the first group ready to make an impact in the rotation, including highly-touted defensive tackle Aubrey Solomon, who is similar to Gary in size and skill to Gary.
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Last year Michigan football dominated games up front. The Wolverines were fourth in the nation in sacks with 46. They were also 15th in run defense. Meeting those numbers might be a tall order, but the D-line is capable of being in the ballpark.
The secondary played a part in that production, as did Jabrill Peppers, but the defensive line, was the most critical factor. If Michigan football can replicate that in 2017, the defense shouldn’t experience much of a drop off.
Gary will play a big part in it. He has the ability to be one of the top defenders in the country and needs realize his potential. Hurst and the rest of the guys also need to meet or exceed what they did a season ago.
Stopping other teams from running the football will be a big key. But the pass rush will be just as important. That’s where Gary comes in. He, Winovich and Hurst could realistically get 20-25 sacks between them. Don Brown will no doubt create some as well with his constant pressure packages.
Putting pressure on the quarterback is the best way to disrupt a passing game. That and forcing teams in predictable down-and-distance.
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The defensive line can make both of things happen next season consistently and if it does that, Michigan’s defense should be able to mask a young secondary and be one of the top groups in the Big Ten.