I didn't have time to give you my quick thoughts on the Cougars defense in 2008 in my last blog...so here we go (I'm sure you've been waiting anxiously).

Washington State's defense allowed 302 points last year (the second worst figure in the Pac-10...only ahead of Washington (321)) and I think you can expect more of the same this season. I'm guessing there will be some high scoring shootouts in our future.

There are several returning players on the defensive line. Ah'i Ahmu, Mike Graise, and Matt Mullenix (granted a sixth year of eligibility) are back. Andy Mattingly, who starred as a linebacker during the Bill Doba Era, was moved to defensive end. The dude loves to blitz and that's all he'll do now...I think it's a good fit. The Cougs also added Bernard Wolfgramm (a JC transfer...probably the best player in the recruiting class) who I expect to get plenty of playing time. Kevin Kooyman, who saw some action last year, should also get in the mix.

I really like Wazzu's linebackers. Greg Trent (a team captain last year), Kendrick Dunn, and Cory Evans return. They also get Jason Stripling, who missed all of last year with academic issues, back. I said in my spring practice blog that I thought he'd have a big year...I'm sticking with it! Sophomore Hallston Higgins could also see the field, but after that there's not much depth.

LINEBACKER NOTE: Keep a close eye on walk-on Kevin Baffney...he's going to be a stud. This is actually more of a shout out than anything, but still watch for him!

Finally, the defensive backs...yikes! This is where Washington State will have the most trouble. Chima Nwachukwu moved from corner to safety and Alfonso Jackson moved from safety to corner (both started last year). Devin Giles also started last season (he's staying at corner) and should again this season. Romeo Pellum, who made ten tackles last year, should also get plenty of PT. Otherwise, the roster is full of unproven DB's. I've heard a lot of things about recruit Myron Beck...I honestly don't know much about him (I just hope he can play).

NOTE: Chris Ball is back (co-defensive coordinator/defensive backs coach)! Ball coached at Wazzu under Mike Price and sent Marcus Trufant, Jason David, Karl Paymah (among others) to the NFL. I'm excited to see what he can do with this year's group and beyond.

Let's face it: Washington State will score plenty of points...they'll also allow lots of points.

Hopefully they can score more than they allow more often (don't know if that's grammatically correct, but you get the point).

We'll get our first look at the Cougs when camp opens on August 4th.

1 Comments

Chief Enevold said:

Nothing wrong with some high flying, high scoring Pac-10 offense performances. Great report Tim!

July 29, 2008 1:02 PM

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