For once, Kentucky’s success dependent on defense

By NaNa  |   Tuesday, August 19, 2008  |  Comments( 2 )

Kentucky Wildcats
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The trademark of college football's Southeastern Conference has long been a stingy defense. Contrarily, over the last few successful seasons in Lexington, the Kentucky Wildcats have been known for an explosive offense. However, after losing several key components to the NFL during the offseason, Kentucky has been forced to replace its former offensive stars with a unit of inexperienced players.

With the unseasoned Mike Hartline leading a bland offensive attack at the team’s first scrimmage, it has become clear that Kentucky’s success will hinge on its defense. Moreover, with a bevy of starters returning and experience and depth being a null issue, the Wildcats now appear more like their historically stronger conferencemates.

Let's take a look at Kentucky's defense entering 2008.

Defensive line:

Probably the strongest unit on the defense, the line returns all four starters, including All-SEC second-teamer Jeremy Jarmon. The Tennessee native was fourth in the conference in sacks a season ago, and he is poised to return to that form in his junior year. He is joined by tackles Corey Peters and Myron Pryor, with senior Ventrell Jenkins manning the other end spot. Ricky Lumpkin, who was recently cleared to play after having a rare hip injury, will also factor prominently on the line.

Linebackers:

Though the Cats lost their leading tackler from a season ago in Wesley Woodyard, they may have a better overall unit this year. Micah Johnson, a top recruit a few years ago, will play in the middle. Braxton Kelley, a freshman All-American in 2005, will replace Woodyard at the outside linebacker spot. Senior Johnny Williams will start opposite Kelley, but there are many hungry and able players itching for time in this group.

Defensive backs:

Usually the weakest link of the Kentucky defense, the Cats finally have a lock-down corner to go along with a speedy and experienced group of safeties. Trevard Lindley, who has been named second-team preseason All-SEC, has been instrumental in several of Kentucky’s big wins in the last couple of seasons. Marcus McClinton is an experienced safety who has a knack for making big plays. Overall, the group should fare well against the SEC’s best.

After a season in which the Wildcats allowed nearly 200 yards of rushing offense per game, there is no place to go but up. It does appear, though, that this defense will be more than “improved.” On paper, the squad has the speed and power mix to go along with the experience and depth. If the unit can perform to its potential throughout the season, look for another bowl appearance for Kentucky.

If not, expect another long year in the bluegrass.
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