The Wildcat Defense

Kansas State is leading the Big 12 in scoring defense, total defense, and passing defense. Louisville might be able to take advantage in the run game where Kansas St. only ranks 32nd after two lesser opponents. The defense is looking for players to step before the Wildcats enter the meat of their schedule. Coach Ron Prince has made some changes in recent days in order to halt Louisville’s offense. After the week and a half of practices leading up to tomorrow night’s game there have been changes on both the defensive line and defensive backfield.

Coach Prince has move two time All Big 12 defensive end Ian Campbell from left end to right end. On the left end, Prince will start freshman defensive end Brandon Harold instead of junior Eric Childs. This is supposed to bulk up the line by inserting Harold and his 6-6 264 pound frame.

The linebackers play vital role in the Wildcats 3-4 defense. Kansas State’s inside linebacker spots have been taken over by two junior college transfers Jr. Hansen Sekona and Jr. Ulla Pomele. These two newcomers have played up to par so far, but they haven’t been tested yet. The bright spot of the linebackers so far has to be Jr. Olu Hall who transferred from Virginia. Sr. Antwon Moore starts at the other outside linebacker spot and he adds some athleticism with his quick 5-11 221 pound frame.

The secondary has been without a doubt the bright spot of the defense so far this season. Recently Coach Prince has made several changes in the starting lineup by distinguishing themselves in practice. Sophomore cornerback Joshua Moore remains the star of the secondary. Senior Ray Cheatham has taken over the other corner spot after this week’s practices. The same can be said for Jr. Courtney Herndon at the strong safety position.

The strong point of the Wildcat defense has to be the secondary which isn’t good for already struggling Louisville passing game. You might see the Cards try to take advantage of the Wildcats three man front line with the physical running style of Sr. Brock Bolen. At least the Louisville offense can’t look worse against Kansas State than it did against Kentucky.