Darkhorse Defensive MVP
Question: We know we can expect big games from Kayvon Thibodeaux, Noah Sewell, Mykael Wright, and Justin Flowe. If you take those four players off of the board, who do you think will be the Defensive MVP for the game?
Neel: There are two guys who I really want to give this award to, and I’m having a hard time choosing between DE Brandon Dorlus and FS Verone McKinley III. In the end, I think I will choose McKinley III, because Fresno State will likely have to air it out while playing from behind, giving the veteran ball-hawk ample opportunity to fly around and make plays. However, don’t be surprised to see Dorlus have a breakout day on the defensive line.
Smalley: At 6-foot-3, Trikweze Bridges is going to get an interception. With Wright on the other side, Bridges is going to get a lot of opportunities to make plays and he’s going to make it very difficult for DJ James and Jamal Hill to get back on the field with any regularity.
Patton: Verone McKinley is an elite playmaker in the secondary, and has a great chance to once again lead the conference in interceptions in 2021. It could all start with a pick or two against Fresno State this weekend.