PonyFans.com

Here is the link:

http://smu.scout.com/a.z?s=357&p=2&c=879661

A couple of nitpicks with this preview.

1. The rationale for moving to a 3-4 has more to do with matching up better against the pass happy nature of CUSA rather than the strength of the defense being LBs (which I don't believe it is).

2. It's highly premature to call the strength of the D linebackers. In fact, that's the most unsettled and inexperienced part of the D. The only guy with any real pedigree is Fleps. Kennemer has been a backup, and Yenga and Fleming are moving to LB from DE. The jury is still out on whether Smart fits at LB or not, though more than any other, he certainly looks the part.

I'm personally looking forward to seeing the defensive line. For the first time in forever, we're huge! Nose guards are 6'0 298 and 6'1 335. The DEs are 6'6 256 and 6'4 281. Not to mention backups Margus Hunt at 6'8 267 and Kevin Grenier at 6'5 255. Could this be the year we're finally able to stuff some people?

I also think that if Bryce Hudman can come back near his former self, our DBs could be a STRENGTH rather than a weakness – especially with a little help from a pass rush. Hopefully, they'll move him to SS across from Banjo. At CB, McCann is da man, and Bell (who the coaches are enthralled with) could be dynamite once he learns to finish off plays (i.e. don't let receivers run free and catch gimmes in the end zone).

I think it's also a bit premature to "watch out" for Justin Willis returning punts. He had a horrible injury last year and is just now running again.

Overall, this D has been so thoroughly retooled, it's almost impossible to project what we'll have. But at least this year's group doesn't feature a bunch of freshmen, and the addition of Frazier and Hudman should offer a significant improvement. On paper, this looks pretty good. The chief weakness I perceive is still a lack of quality, experienced depth.

Word is that DE Taylor Thompson is up to 280 now. We also have some depth with DE Torlan Pittman at 275. But the proof will be when we get on the field. I also heard that James Scott, Sterling Moore, and Keivon Gamble are looking good as well.

Thompson's growth and development will be one of the interesting storylines of the year to watch.

PerunaPunch, your analysis seems right on to me. Another factor that looms large for the defense is how often the offense turns the ball over. Some improvement there could really help the defense. It is hard to believe that Smart will not play a role on that defense. If he is not good enough to play somewhere, SMU has got better players than I thought.

yea SMU does have talent on the defense. Its just a shame they open against Moses and the Lumberjacks. Maybe they can recover after this season opener and go on another 1-11 run. Great talent, they never quit.

Whoa...lumberjack smack...enjoy it while you can.

I think the major question with the defense is have they learned how to tackle. The only two that consistently tackled were Yenga and Bell. The others just jumped on the ball carrier's back and rode him awhile. If they have learned to hit and wrap up then they will be much improved as they have the guts, skills, and speed.

Im sure SFA isnt worried too much about this SMU defense. SMU gave up 24 rushing touchdowns and 33 passing touchdowns last year. Haha, I bet SMU's kickoff return team better get ready. But great kids, great talent, never quit. SMU 1-11 baby

LeroyThaLumberJack wrote:Im sure SFA isnt worried too much about this SMU defense. SMU gave up 24 rushing touchdowns and 33 passing touchdowns last year. Haha, I bet SMU's kickoff return team better get ready. But great kids, great talent, never quit. SMU 1-11 baby

That will work to our advantage

advantage? SMU's KR team didnt return a kick for points all season.  But im sure SMU's punter will shine this year

ProudMama wrote:

LeroyThaLumberJack wrote:Im sure SFA isnt worried too much about this SMU defense. SMU gave up 24 rushing touchdowns and 33 passing touchdowns last year. Haha, I bet SMU's kickoff return team better get ready. But great kids, great talent, never quit. SMU 1-11 baby

That will work to our advantage

Maybe you can get Evan to tape that quote to his locker... ...Then see if Leroy's still talking smack on Sept. 6th.

PerunaPunch wrote:

ProudMama wrote:

LeroyThaLumberJack wrote:Im sure SFA isnt worried too much about this SMU defense. SMU gave up 24 rushing touchdowns and 33 passing touchdowns last year. Haha, I bet SMU's kickoff return team better get ready. But great kids, great talent, never quit. SMU 1-11 baby

That will work to our advantage

Maybe you can get Evan to tape that quote to his locker... ...Then see if Leroy's still talking smack on Sept. 6th.

Leroy will learn on 9/5/09 that it isn't wise to talk smack on a Polynesian Warrior

must be talkin about evan huahulu. doubt he will make a difference. he only plays on extra points. SMU wont be kickin any of those. he should just go sit wit his mama in the stands or next to me. but he has a lota heart, great attitidude on life, and one amazing student. He never quits

LeroyThaLumberJack wrote:must be talkin about evan huahulu. doubt he will make a difference. he only plays on extra points. SMU wont be kickin any of those. he should just go sit wit his mama in the stands or next to me. but he has a lota heart, great attitidude on life, and one amazing student. He never quits

He'll be with his mama after the game. As for you....hope you're lucky enough to meet him because you got the last part of your post absolutely correct