By Bryan Bloodworth
NORMAL – It’s been well-documented what the Illinois State offense has the potential to do, but what about the defense?
With the return of a number of starters from last year’s 13-2 team, the defense could be the strength of the team, particularly early in the year.
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“We hope so,” said ISU coach Brock Spack, “but you never know how those things come out because you never know how good you are on the other side of the ball.”
The Redbirds line will be anchored by all-conference performer Teddy Corwin at end, but he could shift inside to tackle at times. Corwin ranked second on the team in tackles last year with 98, including seven sacks, 12.5 tackles for loss and three interceptions.
Also returning at end is David Perkins, whose quickness gives ISU a strong pass rush from the outside. He had 64 tackles with 12 tackles for loss and eight quarterback sacks.
Sophomore Dalton Keene is back at tackle along with fellow sophomore Adam Conley. Providing strong backups are David Kenney, Matt McCown, Nathan Iloilo and Matt Swaine.
“We’re a little deeper in the line, but we lost some good players inside, particularly at defensive tackle,” said Spack.
The linebacking corps is strong with as many as six experienced players expected to see action. Leading the way is all-conference performer Pat Meehan in the middle with Alex Donnelly and Alejandro Rivera on the outsides.
As expected, Meehan led the team with 115 tackles, while Donnelly was fourth with 85. Providing the backup support will be Brent Spack, the coach’s son, in the middle with Reggie Spearman and Jalen Battle on the outsides.
“We go a little deeper there and our linebackers are good players,” said the elder Spack. “We can go six deep, so that should give us the ability to keep guys fresh. Our front seven could be pretty formidable.”
The secondary has the least experience, but Spack likes what he’s seen from the group.
“I like our length, speed and intelligence in the secondary,” he added. “Our safeties are going to be good players. We’re not quite as deep there, but we’re better a corner depth-wise.”
Cornerback Josh Burch is the most experienced returnee. He will be joined in the secondary by free safety DraShane Glass, strong safety Alec Kocour and cornerback Davontae Harris.
Five transfers are in the mix to get playing time, including Ryon’e Winters, Stephen Amaoko, Soniel Estime and La’Darius Newbold.
Bryan Bloodworth can be reached at [email protected]
