PAC 12 Football Preview 2018
By Tyler Smith
Tyler has been predicting the PAC 12 conference since 2012. He is always near the top of the standings. He has won a couple of accolades according to Stassen.
2012 Most Accurate
PAC 12 South |
2016 Most Accurate
PAC 12 North |
North
#1 Washington 11-1 (9-0)
Coach: Chris Peterson
Offensive Coordinator: Bush Hamdan and Matt Lubick
Defensive Coordinator: Pete Kwiatkowski and Jimmy Lake
Stadium: Husky Stadium (70,500)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 10-3
2016 12-1
2015 7-6
2014 8-6
2013 9-4
Offensive Coordinator: Bush Hamdan and Matt Lubick
Defensive Coordinator: Pete Kwiatkowski and Jimmy Lake
Stadium: Husky Stadium (70,500)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 10-3
2016 12-1
2015 7-6
2014 8-6
2013 9-4
Overview
Jake Browning and Myles Gaskin are back for one final ride. Both have started since they arrived on campus. Browning didn't put up the monster numbers he did in 2016 but he did complete 68.5% of his passes which was a career high. He will miss his favorite target in Dante Pettis. With Pettis departing that will open things up for the WR unit. So open that true freshman Marquis Spiker is virtually a shoe-in starter. Getting TE Hunter Bryant will be huge for Browning (Braynt got injured, possible return is NOV.). Chico McClatcher went down with an injury last season as well. He is the teams deep threat so having him available will improve Browning's numbers.
Biggest concern is the uncertainty at kicker. Van Soderberg will get another shot at it after getting pulled last season.
Getting to see Myles Gaskin run behind this great offensive line will be must see TV. Gaskin had 21 scores. Gaskin is a sleeper for the Heisman. The line features four starters. Three of which are pretty much a lock to be drafted into the next level.
Washington had one of the best defenses in the nation last year. They held opponents under 300 yards a game and 16.1 ppg. Nine starters are back including all five secondary players. Their safeties, Jojo Mcintosh and Taylor Rapp are both first team talents. Sophomore corner Byron Murphy returns after having 3 interceptions and 7 pass breakups.
You may think the line would take a hit with Vita Vea gone but that is not the case. They still have the top line in the conference. NT Greg Gaines has been a staple of the last three seasons. He doesn't get the credit he deserves.
Linebacker will be strong with Ben Burr-Kirven and Tevis Bartlett back. Bartlett had 12 TFL while Burr-Kirven led the team in tackles.
This team is loaded with seniors. Seniors that have had a taste of the playoff and are ready to get back. Don't be surprised if they do it. They are loaded on both sides of the ball. Monster week 1 matchup vs. Auburn will not eliminate the Huskies if they lose but a win would put them in the driver seat for a spot. Last season was the year of the injury, avoid that and this going to be a hard beat each week.
Biggest concern is the uncertainty at kicker. Van Soderberg will get another shot at it after getting pulled last season.
Getting to see Myles Gaskin run behind this great offensive line will be must see TV. Gaskin had 21 scores. Gaskin is a sleeper for the Heisman. The line features four starters. Three of which are pretty much a lock to be drafted into the next level.
Washington had one of the best defenses in the nation last year. They held opponents under 300 yards a game and 16.1 ppg. Nine starters are back including all five secondary players. Their safeties, Jojo Mcintosh and Taylor Rapp are both first team talents. Sophomore corner Byron Murphy returns after having 3 interceptions and 7 pass breakups.
You may think the line would take a hit with Vita Vea gone but that is not the case. They still have the top line in the conference. NT Greg Gaines has been a staple of the last three seasons. He doesn't get the credit he deserves.
Linebacker will be strong with Ben Burr-Kirven and Tevis Bartlett back. Bartlett had 12 TFL while Burr-Kirven led the team in tackles.
This team is loaded with seniors. Seniors that have had a taste of the playoff and are ready to get back. Don't be surprised if they do it. They are loaded on both sides of the ball. Monster week 1 matchup vs. Auburn will not eliminate the Huskies if they lose but a win would put them in the driver seat for a spot. Last season was the year of the injury, avoid that and this going to be a hard beat each week.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Jake Browning, SR, QB
Rushing
Myles Gaskin, SR, RB
Receiving
Aaron Fuller, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Byron Murphy, SO, CB
Sacks
Ryan Bowman, SO, OLB
Tackles
Ben Burr-Kiven, SR, LB
Passing
Jake Browning, SR, QB
Rushing
Myles Gaskin, SR, RB
Receiving
Aaron Fuller, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Byron Murphy, SO, CB
Sacks
Ryan Bowman, SO, OLB
Tackles
Ben Burr-Kiven, SR, LB
#2 Stanford 10-2 (8-1)
Coach: David Shaw
Offensive Coordinator: Tavita Pritchard
Defensive Coordinator: Lance Anderson
Stadium: Stanford Stadium (50,000)
Last Five Year's Win Totals
2017 9-5
2016 10-3
2015 12-2
2014 8-5
2013 11-3
Offensive Coordinator: Tavita Pritchard
Defensive Coordinator: Lance Anderson
Stadium: Stanford Stadium (50,000)
Last Five Year's Win Totals
2017 9-5
2016 10-3
2015 12-2
2014 8-5
2013 11-3
Overview
Bryce Love went for over 2,100 yards last season. The Heisman hopeful will look to go back-to-back on going over 2,000 yards. With the best offensive line in the PAC 12 this season, there is little doubt that he won't be able too. All four of the returning linemen have a shot at landing on first or second team All-PAC12 this season.
The passing attack features top receiver JJ Arcega-Whiteside. He had 9 scores last season with 781 yards. Colby Parkinson will get a chance to be the top TE option this season. Redshirt freshman Osiris St. Brown could be the top target for QB K.J. Costello by the end of the season. Costello played well enough last season. He will need to improve on his accuracy to take this team to the top of the PAC 12. They do have 5 star Davis Mills waiting in the wings if things go south. Costello has proven he can handle the big stage as he was under center for wins over Notre Dame and Washington.
This defense might not be as good as the ones we have become accustom to. The D-line and secondary are down for their standards. The secondary lost two players to the NFL. They bring back three starters including Alijah Holder. Holder has faced the injury bug the past two seasons. The defensive line is young. They lose their top 7 players in sacks from last years team. True freshman Thomas Booker could be the guy who takes over at DE.
Bobby Okereke is the teams leading tackler. Okereke will be joined by Sean Barton who played a few games before an injury ended his season. Former five star Curtis Robinson has a chance to start at OLB. They have plenty of talent at LB making this the strongest unit on defense.
The offense will go as far as Costello can take them. We all know Love will get his. The defense might struggle at times. They are lacking the stars up and down the defense that we are used to seeing. Stanford will know their fate by week 6. They face San Diego State, USC to start the season. Then go to Oregon and Notre Dame in weeks 4 and 5. That is a rough way to open the year.
The passing attack features top receiver JJ Arcega-Whiteside. He had 9 scores last season with 781 yards. Colby Parkinson will get a chance to be the top TE option this season. Redshirt freshman Osiris St. Brown could be the top target for QB K.J. Costello by the end of the season. Costello played well enough last season. He will need to improve on his accuracy to take this team to the top of the PAC 12. They do have 5 star Davis Mills waiting in the wings if things go south. Costello has proven he can handle the big stage as he was under center for wins over Notre Dame and Washington.
This defense might not be as good as the ones we have become accustom to. The D-line and secondary are down for their standards. The secondary lost two players to the NFL. They bring back three starters including Alijah Holder. Holder has faced the injury bug the past two seasons. The defensive line is young. They lose their top 7 players in sacks from last years team. True freshman Thomas Booker could be the guy who takes over at DE.
Bobby Okereke is the teams leading tackler. Okereke will be joined by Sean Barton who played a few games before an injury ended his season. Former five star Curtis Robinson has a chance to start at OLB. They have plenty of talent at LB making this the strongest unit on defense.
The offense will go as far as Costello can take them. We all know Love will get his. The defense might struggle at times. They are lacking the stars up and down the defense that we are used to seeing. Stanford will know their fate by week 6. They face San Diego State, USC to start the season. Then go to Oregon and Notre Dame in weeks 4 and 5. That is a rough way to open the year.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
KJ Costello, SO, QB
Rushing
Bryce Love, SR, RB
Receiving
JJ Arcrega-Whiteside
Defense
Interceptions
Frank Buncom, JR, S
Sacks
Bobby Okereke, SR, ILB
Tackles
Bobby Okereke, SR, ILB
Passing
KJ Costello, SO, QB
Rushing
Bryce Love, SR, RB
Receiving
JJ Arcrega-Whiteside
Defense
Interceptions
Frank Buncom, JR, S
Sacks
Bobby Okereke, SR, ILB
Tackles
Bobby Okereke, SR, ILB
#3 Oregon 9-3 (6-3)
Coach: Mario Cristobal
Offensive Coordinator: Marcus Arroyo
Defensive Coordinator: Jim Leavitt
Stadium: Autzen Stadium (54,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 4-8
2015 9-4
2014 13-2
2013 11-2
Offensive Coordinator: Marcus Arroyo
Defensive Coordinator: Jim Leavitt
Stadium: Autzen Stadium (54,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 4-8
2015 9-4
2014 13-2
2013 11-2
Overview
Oregon has their QB for the next couple of years. Justin Herbert was putting up good numbers before he got injured and missed 5 games. In a full season he could have hit 4,000 yards. His top target Dillon Mitchell is back. Who steps up to be the next big wideout at Oregon is the biggest question. In the past two recruiting classes they had several four star receivers. From the 2017 class Jaylon Reed could be your guy, 2018 class, Jalen Hall. TE Jacob Breeland was a top target in the red zone. He had 5 TDs on 18 catches.
The line looks strong with with everyone on the interior back. The two deep will be full of freshman with the strong recruiting classes they have put together the past two seasons. OG Penei Sewall was their top recruit in the 2018 class. The running game will be without Royce Freeman for the first time in four years. Tony Brook-James and CJ Verdell should step in just fine.
The defense is coming along nicely. They averaged an abysmal 41.7 in 2016. Last season they got it down to 29 ppg. They have good reason to believe they can improve on that number this season. Their front four is strong with five of seven starters returning. ILB Troy Dye has first team All-PAC 12 capabilities. He had a team high 107 tackles last year. Between him, Justin Hollins and La'Mar Winston they had 33 tackles for loss. Up front they have DE Jalen Jelks. Jelks is the team leader in sacks and TFL.
The secondary will feature 3 sophomores and one senior. Safety Ugochukwu Amadi is a former corner. He had 3 interceptions last season. Thomas Graham did as well. The secondary will be better than what people are projecting.
This team could breakthrough this season. They have all the weapons on offense and defense. The biggest issue is the schedule features big games at home vs. UCLA, Washington and Stanford. NOV. 10th vs. Arizona will tell you how this team is going to finish the season as their schedule eases up after that game. A win and they could be in contention.
The line looks strong with with everyone on the interior back. The two deep will be full of freshman with the strong recruiting classes they have put together the past two seasons. OG Penei Sewall was their top recruit in the 2018 class. The running game will be without Royce Freeman for the first time in four years. Tony Brook-James and CJ Verdell should step in just fine.
The defense is coming along nicely. They averaged an abysmal 41.7 in 2016. Last season they got it down to 29 ppg. They have good reason to believe they can improve on that number this season. Their front four is strong with five of seven starters returning. ILB Troy Dye has first team All-PAC 12 capabilities. He had a team high 107 tackles last year. Between him, Justin Hollins and La'Mar Winston they had 33 tackles for loss. Up front they have DE Jalen Jelks. Jelks is the team leader in sacks and TFL.
The secondary will feature 3 sophomores and one senior. Safety Ugochukwu Amadi is a former corner. He had 3 interceptions last season. Thomas Graham did as well. The secondary will be better than what people are projecting.
This team could breakthrough this season. They have all the weapons on offense and defense. The biggest issue is the schedule features big games at home vs. UCLA, Washington and Stanford. NOV. 10th vs. Arizona will tell you how this team is going to finish the season as their schedule eases up after that game. A win and they could be in contention.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Justin Herbet, JR, QB
Rushing
Tony Brooks-James, SR, RB
Receiving
Dillion Mitchell, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Two tied at 3
Sacks
Jalen Jelks, SR, DE
Tackles
Troy Dye, JR, ILB
Passing
Justin Herbet, JR, QB
Rushing
Tony Brooks-James, SR, RB
Receiving
Dillion Mitchell, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Two tied at 3
Sacks
Jalen Jelks, SR, DE
Tackles
Troy Dye, JR, ILB
#4 Cal 6-6 (3-5)
Coach: Justin Wilcox
Offensive Coordinator: Beau Baldwin
Defensive Coordinator: Tim DeRuyter
Stadium: Cal Memorial Stadium (62,717)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 5-7
2015 8-5
2014 5-7
2013 1-11
Offensive Coordinator: Beau Baldwin
Defensive Coordinator: Tim DeRuyter
Stadium: Cal Memorial Stadium (62,717)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 5-7
2015 8-5
2014 5-7
2013 1-11
Overview
Cal took a hit this summer when WR Demetris Robertson decided to transfer. Roberston was injured last season but his freshman year he made the freshman All-American list. They still have plenty of talent here though. Vic Wharton III caught 67 balls and Kanawai Noa had 56. A freshman that could make an impact is four star Nikko Remigio. Running back Patirck Laird gets in involved in the passing game too. He had 45 catches to go along with his 1,127 rushing yard last year.
Safe to say Ross Bowers has plenty of weapons. He threw for over 3,000 yards last season. If he can cut down the turnovers and improve his completion percentage just a tad, he could put up monster numbers this season. He will have all five starting lineman. They gave up 35 sacks last season but with all five back that should improve.
If this offense doesn't average over 30 ppg this season I will be very confused.
The Bears went from 42 ppg given up to 28.4 last season. Justin Wilcox and Tim DeRuyter did a fantastic job in year one. Continuing that trend will be important for this team to compete this season. The overall talent level isn't great but the experience that Cal has from last season is a plus. Many of the returning starters are juniors or sophomores. The secondary brings back all 4 starters which are comprised of juniors and sophomores. Look for the sophomore corner combination of Camryn Bynum and Elijah Hicks to take a step forward this season. The secondary should be the top unit on the defense.
Linebacker has potential too. ILB Jordan Kunasyzk leads the team in tackles with 74. He only played in 9 games though. OLB Alex Funches leads the team with 4 sacks and 10.5 TFL last season. He will be asked to be the one to apply pressure on the QB with the defensive line struggling with their 3 man front. If the front three lineman can improve this defense will not take a step back this season. With the loss of James Looney the line will need to find someone to emerge to take his spot.
Cal missed out on a bowl last year. This year they have a decent shot of making one. The three non-conference games are all winnable. They do get a tough break with Arizona and USC being on the schedule this season. With the offensive playmakers they have if they don't make a bowl this season, trouble is lurking in Berkeley.
Safe to say Ross Bowers has plenty of weapons. He threw for over 3,000 yards last season. If he can cut down the turnovers and improve his completion percentage just a tad, he could put up monster numbers this season. He will have all five starting lineman. They gave up 35 sacks last season but with all five back that should improve.
If this offense doesn't average over 30 ppg this season I will be very confused.
The Bears went from 42 ppg given up to 28.4 last season. Justin Wilcox and Tim DeRuyter did a fantastic job in year one. Continuing that trend will be important for this team to compete this season. The overall talent level isn't great but the experience that Cal has from last season is a plus. Many of the returning starters are juniors or sophomores. The secondary brings back all 4 starters which are comprised of juniors and sophomores. Look for the sophomore corner combination of Camryn Bynum and Elijah Hicks to take a step forward this season. The secondary should be the top unit on the defense.
Linebacker has potential too. ILB Jordan Kunasyzk leads the team in tackles with 74. He only played in 9 games though. OLB Alex Funches leads the team with 4 sacks and 10.5 TFL last season. He will be asked to be the one to apply pressure on the QB with the defensive line struggling with their 3 man front. If the front three lineman can improve this defense will not take a step back this season. With the loss of James Looney the line will need to find someone to emerge to take his spot.
Cal missed out on a bowl last year. This year they have a decent shot of making one. The three non-conference games are all winnable. They do get a tough break with Arizona and USC being on the schedule this season. With the offensive playmakers they have if they don't make a bowl this season, trouble is lurking in Berkeley.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Ross Bowers, JR, QB
Rushing
Patrick Laird, SR, RB
Receiving
Vic Wharton III, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Two tied at 2
Sacks
Alex Funches, SR, LB
Tackles
Jordan Kunaszyk, SR, LB
Passing
Ross Bowers, JR, QB
Rushing
Patrick Laird, SR, RB
Receiving
Vic Wharton III, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Two tied at 2
Sacks
Alex Funches, SR, LB
Tackles
Jordan Kunaszyk, SR, LB
#5 Washington State 5-7 (2-7)
Coach: Mike Leach
Offensive Coordinator: Mike Leach
Defensive Coordinator: Tracy Claeys
Stadium: Martin Stadium (32,248)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 9-4
2016 8-5
2015 9-4
2014 3-9
2013 6-7
Offensive Coordinator: Mike Leach
Defensive Coordinator: Tracy Claeys
Stadium: Martin Stadium (32,248)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 9-4
2016 8-5
2015 9-4
2014 3-9
2013 6-7
Overview
For the first time in a long time the Cougars go into the spring and fall camps with a QB battle. They don't even have a player on the roster that threw a pass last season. With so many contenders it will be hard to get everyone the amount of reps to prove themselves in fall camp. ECU transfer Gradner Minshew will be one of the favorites for the job. A player that has been in the program that has a strong chance to start is Trey Tinsley. They will be protected by a line that brings back two strong starters but will have some growing pains at the other 3 positions.
They have some nice targets in the passing game. WR Tay Martin is a top tier talent as just a sophomore. RB James Williams was targeted a lot last season in the passing game. He had 71 catches but only 482 yards. He nearly had as many receptions as he did rushing attempts last year.
The Cougars made massive strides on defense the past few seasons. Last season they only gave up 25.8 ppg. This season they have a new DC and lose the soul of their defense Hercules Mata'afa. The line still has a chance to be strong with Nnamdi Oguayo back. He had 4 sacks plus 7 tackles for loss as a sophomore.
Washington State brings back plenty of skill at LB. Peyton Pelluer will play in his 6th season as he was granted a medical hardship. Jahad Woods was second in tackles last season in his first season. The Cougars top tackler is safety Jalen Thompson. Thompson also leads the team in interceptions.
The past few years I have been all in on WSU. This season I take a major step back. The uncertainty at QB is what drives me away. The O-line may struggle as well. Defensively they are still viable with the 7 starters they bring back. The schedule doesn't swing their way with the top two teams from the South USC and Arizona featured. Don't be surprised if this team misses a bowl in 2018.
They have some nice targets in the passing game. WR Tay Martin is a top tier talent as just a sophomore. RB James Williams was targeted a lot last season in the passing game. He had 71 catches but only 482 yards. He nearly had as many receptions as he did rushing attempts last year.
The Cougars made massive strides on defense the past few seasons. Last season they only gave up 25.8 ppg. This season they have a new DC and lose the soul of their defense Hercules Mata'afa. The line still has a chance to be strong with Nnamdi Oguayo back. He had 4 sacks plus 7 tackles for loss as a sophomore.
Washington State brings back plenty of skill at LB. Peyton Pelluer will play in his 6th season as he was granted a medical hardship. Jahad Woods was second in tackles last season in his first season. The Cougars top tackler is safety Jalen Thompson. Thompson also leads the team in interceptions.
The past few years I have been all in on WSU. This season I take a major step back. The uncertainty at QB is what drives me away. The O-line may struggle as well. Defensively they are still viable with the 7 starters they bring back. The schedule doesn't swing their way with the top two teams from the South USC and Arizona featured. Don't be surprised if this team misses a bowl in 2018.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
None
Rushing
James Willaims, JR, RB
Receiving
James Williams, JR, RB
Defense
Interceptions
Jalen Thompson, JR, S
Sacks
Nnamdi Oguayo, JR, DE
Tackles
Jalen Thompson, JR, S
Passing
None
Rushing
James Willaims, JR, RB
Receiving
James Williams, JR, RB
Defense
Interceptions
Jalen Thompson, JR, S
Sacks
Nnamdi Oguayo, JR, DE
Tackles
Jalen Thompson, JR, S
#6 Oregon State 1-11 (0-9)
Coach: Jonathan Smith
Offensive Coordinator: Brian Lindgren
Defensive Coordinator: Tim Tibesar
Stadium: Reser Stadium (45,674)
2016 Record: 4-8
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 1-11
2016 4-8
2015 2-10
2014 5-7
2013 7-6
Offensive Coordinator: Brian Lindgren
Defensive Coordinator: Tim Tibesar
Stadium: Reser Stadium (45,674)
2016 Record: 4-8
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 1-11
2016 4-8
2015 2-10
2014 5-7
2013 7-6
Overview
If you watched every Oregon State offensive series last season, I feel sorry for you. The good news is that QB Jake Luton is back after his season was cut short after 4 games. They are changing their offensive scheme to a pro-style look. Problem is they don't have the talent at WR or RB to make massive strides this season. One player that could become their guy at WR is Isaiah Hodgins. Last seasons top target is back TE Noah Togiai.
If you were looking for good news from one of the units on offense keep looking. The O-line is just as bad as the other units.
43.0 PPG. Ouch. Will things get much better this season? no. They are near or at the bottom in each unit. One area that might make improvements is LB. Two starters are back including Jonathan Willis who should have a good senior year. If leads the team in tackles that will be a good sign. The top two in tackles from last season are both safeties. Jalen Moore and David Morris had 75 tackles each.
The line is in major trouble if they can't put any pressure on the QB. The returning players on the line have a total of 2 sacks. 2 sacks!
Having to go to Ohio State in week 1 is not exactly ideal for a team that is coming off a 1 win season and putting in a new offense. At Colorado and Southern Utah are the top two chances for wins. This is going to be an ugly season for new HC Jonathan Smith.
If you were looking for good news from one of the units on offense keep looking. The O-line is just as bad as the other units.
43.0 PPG. Ouch. Will things get much better this season? no. They are near or at the bottom in each unit. One area that might make improvements is LB. Two starters are back including Jonathan Willis who should have a good senior year. If leads the team in tackles that will be a good sign. The top two in tackles from last season are both safeties. Jalen Moore and David Morris had 75 tackles each.
The line is in major trouble if they can't put any pressure on the QB. The returning players on the line have a total of 2 sacks. 2 sacks!
Having to go to Ohio State in week 1 is not exactly ideal for a team that is coming off a 1 win season and putting in a new offense. At Colorado and Southern Utah are the top two chances for wins. This is going to be an ugly season for new HC Jonathan Smith.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Jake Luton, SR, QB
Rushing
Artavis Pierce, JR, RB
Receiving
Noah Togiai, JR, TE
Defense
Interceptions
Three tied at 1
Sacks
Jonathan Willis, SR, LB
Tackles
Jalen Moore, JR, S and David Morris, SO, S
Passing
Jake Luton, SR, QB
Rushing
Artavis Pierce, JR, RB
Receiving
Noah Togiai, JR, TE
Defense
Interceptions
Three tied at 1
Sacks
Jonathan Willis, SR, LB
Tackles
Jalen Moore, JR, S and David Morris, SO, S
South
#1T Arizona 11-1 (8-1)
Coach: Kevin Sumlin
Offensive Coordinator: Noel Mazzone
Defensive Coordinator: Marcel Yates
Stadium: Arizona Stadium
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 3-9
2015 7-6
2014 10-4
2013 8-5
Offensive Coordinator: Noel Mazzone
Defensive Coordinator: Marcel Yates
Stadium: Arizona Stadium
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 3-9
2015 7-6
2014 10-4
2013 8-5
Overview
Arizona has one of the top offenses in the country. They were third in points, third in rushing and 12th in YPG. Things aren't about to slow down either. Khalil Tate is back under center and has a good chance at winning the Heisman trophy. Tate had 1,400 yards on the ground last season. He had a pretty good year through the air which the Wildcats didn't go to too often. He completed 62.5 of his passes. If he can just cut down on the turnovers this offense will be even more difficult to slow down. His numbers will look slightly different though with Sumlin coming into town. I see Sumlin still working in Tate as a runner but more passing attempts are certainly going to happen. He has top targets Shun Brown and Tony Ellison back. TE Bryce Wolma will be featured more this season, he had 28 catches last season as a freshman.
The O-line is just as strong as the other units. They have one of the best LT in the conference, Layth Friekh. Add in the talented center Nathan Eldridge and Michigan State transfer Tshiyombu Lukusa, this line will be great for Tate and Co. They will also pave the way for RB J.J. Taylor, Nathan Tilford and Gary Brightwell.
The defense was not good last season. Sumlin chose to keep DC Marcel Yates on staff despite his poor performance. With 9 starters back there is no doubt they will improve.
The strongest unit is linebacker. They feature three sophomores Kylan Wilborn, Colin Schooler and Tony Fields II. Wilborn led the team in sacks, Fields in tackles and Schooler in tackles for loss. With these three back it brings hope for improvement. The secondary will be good too. Another sophomore making an impact is corner Lorenzo Burns. They are talented at safety as well. This secondary will be in the top half of the PAC 12 this season.
Where the defense needs a massive improvement is defensive line. The line has been a weak point for the Wildcats for awhile now. They look to be OK at DT. DE needs to emerge as a threat. Lee Anderson III and Justin Belknap are the two that will be first options to start. Don't be surprised if true freshman Adam Plant gets into the rotation.
I have high hopes for this defense and that could come back to bite me. They look to be much improved throughout the D though. The offense is going to keep rolling with all the talent they have coming back. The schedule is why this team will make a lot of noise this season. At Houston is likely their toughest road game on the schedule. You could make an argument for UCLA too. If we are deciding between those two teams as the toughest the schedule most be very manageable. Their two biggest games will be USC and Oregon. If they can just split those games they will be in great shape.
The O-line is just as strong as the other units. They have one of the best LT in the conference, Layth Friekh. Add in the talented center Nathan Eldridge and Michigan State transfer Tshiyombu Lukusa, this line will be great for Tate and Co. They will also pave the way for RB J.J. Taylor, Nathan Tilford and Gary Brightwell.
The defense was not good last season. Sumlin chose to keep DC Marcel Yates on staff despite his poor performance. With 9 starters back there is no doubt they will improve.
The strongest unit is linebacker. They feature three sophomores Kylan Wilborn, Colin Schooler and Tony Fields II. Wilborn led the team in sacks, Fields in tackles and Schooler in tackles for loss. With these three back it brings hope for improvement. The secondary will be good too. Another sophomore making an impact is corner Lorenzo Burns. They are talented at safety as well. This secondary will be in the top half of the PAC 12 this season.
Where the defense needs a massive improvement is defensive line. The line has been a weak point for the Wildcats for awhile now. They look to be OK at DT. DE needs to emerge as a threat. Lee Anderson III and Justin Belknap are the two that will be first options to start. Don't be surprised if true freshman Adam Plant gets into the rotation.
I have high hopes for this defense and that could come back to bite me. They look to be much improved throughout the D though. The offense is going to keep rolling with all the talent they have coming back. The schedule is why this team will make a lot of noise this season. At Houston is likely their toughest road game on the schedule. You could make an argument for UCLA too. If we are deciding between those two teams as the toughest the schedule most be very manageable. Their two biggest games will be USC and Oregon. If they can just split those games they will be in great shape.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Khalil Tate, JR, QB
Rushing
Khalil Tate, JR, QB
Receiving
Shun Brown, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Lorenzo Burns, SO, CB
Sacks
Kylan Wilborn, SO, LB
Tackles
Tony Fields II, SO, LB
Passing
Khalil Tate, JR, QB
Rushing
Khalil Tate, JR, QB
Receiving
Shun Brown, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Lorenzo Burns, SO, CB
Sacks
Kylan Wilborn, SO, LB
Tackles
Tony Fields II, SO, LB
#1T USC 9-3 (8-1)
Coach: Clay Helton
Offensive Coordinator: Tee Martin
Defensive Coordinator: Clancy Pendergast
Stadium: Los Angeles Memorial Stadium (93,607)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 11-3
2016 10-3
2015 8-6
2014 9-4
2013 10-4
Offensive Coordinator: Tee Martin
Defensive Coordinator: Clancy Pendergast
Stadium: Los Angeles Memorial Stadium (93,607)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 11-3
2016 10-3
2015 8-6
2014 9-4
2013 10-4
Overview
USC losses several of their top offensive players, the biggest being Sam Dranold. The Trojans may look to a true freshman to handle things under center. JT Daniels comes in highly regarded out of high school. If Daniels isn't the guy, redshirt freshman Jack Sears seems like the next best option. The line will give these guys a good opportunity to succeed. They have several guys that could earn first or second All-Pac 12 this season.
The skill spots will be in good shape with RB Stephen Carr taking over. Carr was limited last year but they will let him lose this season. At WR they bring back Tyler Vaughn who had a monster year as a freshman. A freshman that could emerge this season is, USC's top recruit, Amon-Ra St. Brown.
The defense was pretty strong last season. They got to the QB often and never let up throughout the season. You will see more of the same this season with 7 starters back. Cameron Smith is one of the best MLB in College Football. Add in OLB Porter Gustin who is back from injury who will certainly be in contention to be the team leader in sacks and TFL this year. This years top returning sack leader is DE Christian Rector. Rector had 7.5 sacks and 11 TFL. A key spot they have to replace is NT. Brandon Pili and Marlon Tuipulotu will be the top two players to fill that hole.
The secondary had some concerns last season. Four of the five starters return. They will need to make strides at corner. Iman Marshall started last year and struggled. One corner who could see time at corner is Greg Johnson. They need someone to emerge as the guy and he could be the one. Safety Marvell Tell is back at FS. He was third in tackles in 2017.
With the talent they have at OL, WR and RB the QB transition shouldn't be bad. The defense will be strong this season. The secondary will improve on last season's poor numbers. You will know who this season fares after game vs. Arizona. Arizona is their biggest threat in the division. They also will play at Stanford (week 2) and at Texas (week 3) in their first five games.
The skill spots will be in good shape with RB Stephen Carr taking over. Carr was limited last year but they will let him lose this season. At WR they bring back Tyler Vaughn who had a monster year as a freshman. A freshman that could emerge this season is, USC's top recruit, Amon-Ra St. Brown.
The defense was pretty strong last season. They got to the QB often and never let up throughout the season. You will see more of the same this season with 7 starters back. Cameron Smith is one of the best MLB in College Football. Add in OLB Porter Gustin who is back from injury who will certainly be in contention to be the team leader in sacks and TFL this year. This years top returning sack leader is DE Christian Rector. Rector had 7.5 sacks and 11 TFL. A key spot they have to replace is NT. Brandon Pili and Marlon Tuipulotu will be the top two players to fill that hole.
The secondary had some concerns last season. Four of the five starters return. They will need to make strides at corner. Iman Marshall started last year and struggled. One corner who could see time at corner is Greg Johnson. They need someone to emerge as the guy and he could be the one. Safety Marvell Tell is back at FS. He was third in tackles in 2017.
With the talent they have at OL, WR and RB the QB transition shouldn't be bad. The defense will be strong this season. The secondary will improve on last season's poor numbers. You will know who this season fares after game vs. Arizona. Arizona is their biggest threat in the division. They also will play at Stanford (week 2) and at Texas (week 3) in their first five games.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Matt Fink, SO, QB
Rushing
Stephen Carr, SO, RB
Receiving
Tyler Vaughns, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jack Jones, JR, CB
Sacks
Christian Rector, JR, DE
Tackles
Cameron Smith, SR, LB
Passing
Matt Fink, SO, QB
Rushing
Stephen Carr, SO, RB
Receiving
Tyler Vaughns, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Jack Jones, JR, CB
Sacks
Christian Rector, JR, DE
Tackles
Cameron Smith, SR, LB
#3 UCLA 6-6 (4-5)
Coach: Chip Kelly
Offensive Coordinator: Chip Kelly
Defensive Coordinator: Jerry Azzinaro
Stadium: Rose Bowl (92,542)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 6-7
2016 4-8
2015 8-5
2014 10-3
2013 10-3
Offensive Coordinator: Chip Kelly
Defensive Coordinator: Jerry Azzinaro
Stadium: Rose Bowl (92,542)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 6-7
2016 4-8
2015 8-5
2014 10-3
2013 10-3
Overview
The Bruins moved on from Jim Mora after a 6-7 season. They hire PAC 12 great Chip Kelly after his stint in the NFL. Kelly will have his work cut out for him now that Josh Rosen has moved on. Lets get this out of the way, if UCLA has to turn to Wilton Speight, it won't be pretty. The likely candidates are Sophomore Devon Modster and freshman Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Thomas-Robinson will likely become the full time starter at some point this season. He has the intangibles for Chip Kelly's offense. As it stands things don't look great at WR. TE is looking really good though. The combo of Caleb Wilson and Devin Asiasi should give their QB two good options. WR should feature several freshman this season. Chase Cota and Kyle Philips will be the two with the greatest chance to start.
The running game was one of the worst in the country last season. We have been talking about Soso Jamabo and Bolu Olorunfunmi since they came to UCLA. They are now in their final season and need to make some noise. Chip Kelly always has a good running attack so hopefully they can work in this offense. The biggest concern is how an already poor line transitions too Chip Kelly's offense. Like some of the other units they have freshman that could see time. Any improvement here would go a long way.
The Bruins have a new DC, Jerry Azzinaro. He brings in a 3-4 defense. Azzinaro has a tall task ahead of him as the Bruins ranked last in rush defense last season. The line brings back one starter, Chigozie Nnoruka. He had a huge sophomore season with nearly 50 tackles and 8.5 TFL. At DE they have several freshman and sophomore candidates.
They are stronger in the back 8. Former five star Jaelan Phillips should have a breakout season at OLB. Phillips leads the team in sacks going into the season. They bring back another 5 star who had originally left the team, Mique Juarez. they bring back two starters, Krys Barnes and Keisean Lucier-South. The secondary is the strength of the team. Darnay Holmes established himself at corner last season. They also bring back Nate Meadors. Meadors could earn an all-Pac 12 accolade this season. He leads the team in interceptions with 3. Strong safety Adarius Pickett leads the team in tackles.
Chip Kelly is back and that is great news. The bad news is this roster isn't all that great. The defense should make strides. The offense may take a few games to find their footing. They have a tough non-conference schedule with Oklahoma and Fresno State in weeks 2 and 3. They draw Washington, Oregon and Stanford from the North. All eyes are on the trip to Eugene this year!
The running game was one of the worst in the country last season. We have been talking about Soso Jamabo and Bolu Olorunfunmi since they came to UCLA. They are now in their final season and need to make some noise. Chip Kelly always has a good running attack so hopefully they can work in this offense. The biggest concern is how an already poor line transitions too Chip Kelly's offense. Like some of the other units they have freshman that could see time. Any improvement here would go a long way.
The Bruins have a new DC, Jerry Azzinaro. He brings in a 3-4 defense. Azzinaro has a tall task ahead of him as the Bruins ranked last in rush defense last season. The line brings back one starter, Chigozie Nnoruka. He had a huge sophomore season with nearly 50 tackles and 8.5 TFL. At DE they have several freshman and sophomore candidates.
They are stronger in the back 8. Former five star Jaelan Phillips should have a breakout season at OLB. Phillips leads the team in sacks going into the season. They bring back another 5 star who had originally left the team, Mique Juarez. they bring back two starters, Krys Barnes and Keisean Lucier-South. The secondary is the strength of the team. Darnay Holmes established himself at corner last season. They also bring back Nate Meadors. Meadors could earn an all-Pac 12 accolade this season. He leads the team in interceptions with 3. Strong safety Adarius Pickett leads the team in tackles.
Chip Kelly is back and that is great news. The bad news is this roster isn't all that great. The defense should make strides. The offense may take a few games to find their footing. They have a tough non-conference schedule with Oklahoma and Fresno State in weeks 2 and 3. They draw Washington, Oregon and Stanford from the North. All eyes are on the trip to Eugene this year!
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Devin Modster, SO, QB
Rushing
Bolu Olorunfunmi, SR, RB
Receiving
Theo Howard, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Darnay Holmes, SO, CB
Sacks
Jaelan Phillips, SO, LB
Tackles
Adarius Pickett, SR, S
Passing
Devin Modster, SO, QB
Rushing
Bolu Olorunfunmi, SR, RB
Receiving
Theo Howard, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Darnay Holmes, SO, CB
Sacks
Jaelan Phillips, SO, LB
Tackles
Adarius Pickett, SR, S
#4 Utah 5-7 (3-6)
Coach: Kyle Whittingham
Offensive Coordinator: Troy Taylor
Defensive Coordinator: Morgan Scalley
Stadium: Rice-Eccles Stadium (45,807)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 9-4
2015 10-3
2014 9-4
2013 5-7
Offensive Coordinator: Troy Taylor
Defensive Coordinator: Morgan Scalley
Stadium: Rice-Eccles Stadium (45,807)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 9-4
2015 10-3
2014 9-4
2013 5-7
Overview
The offense was middle of the road in the PAC 12 last season. They bring back 7 starters including QB Tyler Huntley. Huntley showed some flashes of being the guy. For every flash of, "he is the guy", he had a moment when you questioned everything. He is the favorite to win the job this year but true freshman Jack Tuttle will certainly push him.
They will need to find their top targets this season since Darrin Carrington is gone. Two players that could emerge as that guy are Britain Covey and Solomon Enis.
The line should be improved after having some experience issues last season. This year however they bring back four starters. Zack Moss will hope the line continues their trend of improving. Moss had over 1,100 yards plus 10 touchdowns last year. Expect to see a heavy dose of Moss this season.
The front four actually has a little concern for once which is rare for Utah. They bring back star DE Bradlee Anae but he is their only returning starter. The interior of the line will be the biggest watch out for this defense. Linebacker has concerns as well with their lack of experience. Chase Hansen moves from the secondary to LB. Senior Cody Barton had a good year sophomore season but fell back a bit last year. He will be the primary LB this season for the first time in his career.
The secondary is very strong at safety. Corrion Ballard and Marquise Blair combined for 96 tackles last year. Starter Julian Blackmon and Jaylon Johnson both had 6 PBU last season. Blackmon leads the team in interceptions.
Utah should be fine on offense if Huntley and WR's grow this season. The defense doesn't seem to be as strong as it has been in the past. Utah gets hit with Stanford, Oregon and Washington which is not a good recipe for success. I don't see them as a bowl team this season but I wouldn't be surprised if they made it to one.
They will need to find their top targets this season since Darrin Carrington is gone. Two players that could emerge as that guy are Britain Covey and Solomon Enis.
The line should be improved after having some experience issues last season. This year however they bring back four starters. Zack Moss will hope the line continues their trend of improving. Moss had over 1,100 yards plus 10 touchdowns last year. Expect to see a heavy dose of Moss this season.
The front four actually has a little concern for once which is rare for Utah. They bring back star DE Bradlee Anae but he is their only returning starter. The interior of the line will be the biggest watch out for this defense. Linebacker has concerns as well with their lack of experience. Chase Hansen moves from the secondary to LB. Senior Cody Barton had a good year sophomore season but fell back a bit last year. He will be the primary LB this season for the first time in his career.
The secondary is very strong at safety. Corrion Ballard and Marquise Blair combined for 96 tackles last year. Starter Julian Blackmon and Jaylon Johnson both had 6 PBU last season. Blackmon leads the team in interceptions.
Utah should be fine on offense if Huntley and WR's grow this season. The defense doesn't seem to be as strong as it has been in the past. Utah gets hit with Stanford, Oregon and Washington which is not a good recipe for success. I don't see them as a bowl team this season but I wouldn't be surprised if they made it to one.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Tyler Huntley, JR, QB
Rushing
Zack Moss, JR, RB
Receiving
Demari Simpkins, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Julian Blackmon, JR, CB
Sacks
Bradlee Anae, JR, DE
Tackles
Chase Hansen, SR, LB
Passing
Tyler Huntley, JR, QB
Rushing
Zack Moss, JR, RB
Receiving
Demari Simpkins, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Julian Blackmon, JR, CB
Sacks
Bradlee Anae, JR, DE
Tackles
Chase Hansen, SR, LB
#5T Arizona State 3-9 (2-7)
Coach: Herm Edwards
Offensive Coordinator: Rob Likens and Billy Naiper
Defensive Coordinator: Phil Bennett
Stadium: Sun Devil Stadium (71,706)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 5-7
2015 6-7
2014 10-3
2013 10-4
Offensive Coordinator: Rob Likens and Billy Naiper
Defensive Coordinator: Phil Bennett
Stadium: Sun Devil Stadium (71,706)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 7-6
2016 5-7
2015 6-7
2014 10-3
2013 10-4
Overview
In comes Herm Edwards. Yes, Herm Edwards. He will bring in a new OC, Rob Likens. Their 4th OC in as many years. The good news is they have the players to handle another change. Manny Wilkins and his top target N'Keal Harry form the top QB/WR combo in the league. Wilkins connected with Harry 82 times last year. While Harry gets all the love Kyle Williams is damn good too.
We will see how things develop on the O-line. They have experience mixed in with grad transfer LT Casey Tucker. The bad news is all that returning talent gave up 41 sacks last season. The line did a fine job run blocking last season but they will be blocking for a new set of running backs. Eno Benjamin should be the top guy this season. He was a 4 star recruit out of high school.
Major concerns surrounding the defense. They will move to a 3-3-5 which doesn't really suit this team as it stands. Their two biggest weaknesses are the secondary and linebackers. The secondary got torched last season. They ranked 121st in yards given up. They have three starters back. They should be good at corner with Kobe Williams and Chase Lucas. Lucas had 53 tackles last year plus 2 picks in just his freshman season. The safety position looks weak. That is not good when three of them will be featured in this scheme. Linebacker has its issues as well since they lost their top three linebackers. OLB Koron Crump is the best of the returning cast. He comes back from an injury that limited him to just 4 games last year. In the previous season he had 9 sacks.
The front 3 will be in good shape with Renell Wren back. Wren has a ton of experience having played in 26 games the past two years. Shannon Forman should establish himself on the line this season.
With so much changing scheme wise on offense and defense it is hard to say how much this team will move the needle this season. The defense might be slightly better at best. The offense has the fire power in the passing game but what will happen on the O-line this season. The road schedule is brutal. Games at Arizona, Oregon, USC, Washington and San Diego State. I just listed off 5 losses already. Good luck this season Sun Devils.
We will see how things develop on the O-line. They have experience mixed in with grad transfer LT Casey Tucker. The bad news is all that returning talent gave up 41 sacks last season. The line did a fine job run blocking last season but they will be blocking for a new set of running backs. Eno Benjamin should be the top guy this season. He was a 4 star recruit out of high school.
Major concerns surrounding the defense. They will move to a 3-3-5 which doesn't really suit this team as it stands. Their two biggest weaknesses are the secondary and linebackers. The secondary got torched last season. They ranked 121st in yards given up. They have three starters back. They should be good at corner with Kobe Williams and Chase Lucas. Lucas had 53 tackles last year plus 2 picks in just his freshman season. The safety position looks weak. That is not good when three of them will be featured in this scheme. Linebacker has its issues as well since they lost their top three linebackers. OLB Koron Crump is the best of the returning cast. He comes back from an injury that limited him to just 4 games last year. In the previous season he had 9 sacks.
The front 3 will be in good shape with Renell Wren back. Wren has a ton of experience having played in 26 games the past two years. Shannon Forman should establish himself on the line this season.
With so much changing scheme wise on offense and defense it is hard to say how much this team will move the needle this season. The defense might be slightly better at best. The offense has the fire power in the passing game but what will happen on the O-line this season. The road schedule is brutal. Games at Arizona, Oregon, USC, Washington and San Diego State. I just listed off 5 losses already. Good luck this season Sun Devils.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Manny Wilkins, SR, QB
Rushing
Manny Wilkins, SR, QB
Receiving
N'Keal Harry, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Chase Lewis, SO, CB
Sacks
Koron Crump, SR, LB
Tackles
Chase Lewis, SO, CB
Passing
Manny Wilkins, SR, QB
Rushing
Manny Wilkins, SR, QB
Receiving
N'Keal Harry, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Chase Lewis, SO, CB
Sacks
Koron Crump, SR, LB
Tackles
Chase Lewis, SO, CB
#5T Colorado 5-7 (2-7)
Coach: Mike Macintyre
Offensive Coordinator: Darrin Chiaverini and Klayton Adams
Defensive Coordinator: D.J. Eliot
Stadium: Folson Field (50,183)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 10-4
2015 4-9
2014 2-10
2013 4-8
Offensive Coordinator: Darrin Chiaverini and Klayton Adams
Defensive Coordinator: D.J. Eliot
Stadium: Folson Field (50,183)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 10-4
2015 4-9
2014 2-10
2013 4-8
Overview
If you are a Buffs fan you have to like what you saw out of Steven Montez last season. Nearly 3,000 yards passing and 18 touchdowns. He did have 9 interceptions but that isn't a major concern. Montez losses several proven commodities at WR. This opens things up for Juwann Winfree and Laviska Shenault. Those two will have to step up this season. Jay Macintyre is the teams top returning receiver.
The biggest concern is the offensive line. Two starters are back from last years team which struggled. They couldn't protect the QB or get the push they needed up front. They desperately need the line to provide more of a punch up front since they brought in grad transfer Travon McMillian. McMillian went over 2,000 yards in his career at VT.
The Buffs bring back 6 starters from last years disappointing team. In their last 3 games they gave up 113 points. This year they went to the JUCO ranks to help bolster the squad. The best JUCO transfer is LB Davion Taylor who will fill the Buff role. He will be joined by two returning starters at ILB. ILB Drew Lewis had 119 tackles last year. Another JUCO transfer that is sure to get plenty of playing time is DE Mustafa Johnson. Red shirt freshman Terrance Lang will also be in the DE rotation.
The secondary will put Chris Miller out to start at corner as a red shirt freshman. He will be joined by sophomore Trey Udoffia. Safety Evan Worthington led the team in interceptions.
Major issues on both the offense and defensive lines. The defense has more overall concerns but they do bring in several JUCO players. The conference road schedule will hold this team back from making a bowl.
The biggest concern is the offensive line. Two starters are back from last years team which struggled. They couldn't protect the QB or get the push they needed up front. They desperately need the line to provide more of a punch up front since they brought in grad transfer Travon McMillian. McMillian went over 2,000 yards in his career at VT.
The Buffs bring back 6 starters from last years disappointing team. In their last 3 games they gave up 113 points. This year they went to the JUCO ranks to help bolster the squad. The best JUCO transfer is LB Davion Taylor who will fill the Buff role. He will be joined by two returning starters at ILB. ILB Drew Lewis had 119 tackles last year. Another JUCO transfer that is sure to get plenty of playing time is DE Mustafa Johnson. Red shirt freshman Terrance Lang will also be in the DE rotation.
The secondary will put Chris Miller out to start at corner as a red shirt freshman. He will be joined by sophomore Trey Udoffia. Safety Evan Worthington led the team in interceptions.
Major issues on both the offense and defensive lines. The defense has more overall concerns but they do bring in several JUCO players. The conference road schedule will hold this team back from making a bowl.
Top Returners
Offense:
Passing
Steven Montez, JR, QB
Rushing
Steven Montez, JR, QB
Receiving
Jay Macintyre, SR, WR
Defense:
Interceptions:
Evan Wirthington, SR, S
Sacks:
Drew Lewis, SR, LB
Tackles:
Drew Lewis, SR, LB
Passing
Steven Montez, JR, QB
Rushing
Steven Montez, JR, QB
Receiving
Jay Macintyre, SR, WR
Defense:
Interceptions:
Evan Wirthington, SR, S
Sacks:
Drew Lewis, SR, LB
Tackles:
Drew Lewis, SR, LB