But what about the defense? What does Illinois need? A lot, I think, besides a great DC. What do you think? I need some analysis.
Everything I know about football has been learned by going to Illini games and reading Illini blogs. Obviously, I think that makes me
perfectly qualified to answer this likely to have an opinionat
ed loudmouth on the subject. Let's have a look my five hot teaks.
Unlike numerous posters here, I believe Lovie's defensive scheme will work
if its properly executed. The likelihood of the defense being properly executed next year improves because:
1. Our defense won't be physically overmatched nearly as much next year, particularly late in games & season, because, as mentioned by others above, the age, time in the S&C system and physical maturity of the players. (Endurance isn't a charm of youth.)
2. As Robert pointed out, five of the top seven rated athletes available to take the field next year are on defense, and four of those players weren't on the field last year (Avery,
Beason,
Eifler, V. Brown, and Cooper). [Welcome Mr. Cooper!!!!!]
3. The Defensive Unit now has Lovie's attention, and that is not the kind of attention they want. The right new DC will view that as a huge opportunity, and will help Lovie shift his attention elsewhere by teaching the players to play with discipline, because...
4. ...the number of players out of position and blowing assignments and missing tackles will drop
significantly as a result of #'s 1 and 3 above (age and attention). The 'just do your job' mantra will start to sink in more, too, which will improve the odds that...
5. ...something will 'click', and suddenly the whole unit is just much better.
The potential ceiling for a defensive unit in which all of the above happens? (i.e. better physical match-ups + more disciplined scheme + more PLUS athletes + it Clicks) I think that could be mid-pack B1G in 2019. If we get 4 out of 5, which we absolutely should, we'll be comparable to the top middle of our division by late in the season. Which should be enough to get us to 6-7 wins.
Tl;Dr: We'll match up better physically, play more disciplined, and compete.