Defensive Line: A
The deepest unit on the team showed why against WCU. On multiple occasions, the defensive line subbed out a fresh there or four guys, and they took turns getting into the Catamounts backfield for tackles for loss or pressures against Cats’ QB Rogan Wells. Perrion Winfrey, one of our defensive players to watch, was everywhere. Despite not being known for his sack numbers, he nabbed 1.5 sacks and two tackles and constantly disrupted the backfield. Ethan Downs, a true freshman, performed well when OU’s starters were still in and continuing that into the second half, and the game was out of reach. Isaiah Thomas, a newly minted team captain, flashed with a sack, while 1st rounder Nik Bonitto caused havoc and faced multiple double teams.
Linebackers: B+
The linebackers played extremely well in containing some really solid running backs for WCU. They tackled well with intent and wrapped up. There weren’t any huge leaks in coverage, and most importantly, guys weren’t scrambling to get set when in the game—all in all, a very good performance for the linebackers. No one player stood out, but it must be noted Danny statesman played a lot of snaps. The true freshman has shot up the depth chart very quickly.