Virginia Tech Preview: Defense

It’s Game day!  We continue our preview of the Hokies by taking a look at the players who will attempt to shut down the NC State offense.  In case you missed it, check out our preview of Virginia Tech’s Skill Positions. 

Defensive Line

Rs-Junior DE Ken Ekanem-6’3″/248 lbs (9 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 FF)

RS-Senior DT Corey Marshall-6’2″/266 lbs (6 tackles, 4 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 FF)

Rs-Senior DT Luther Maddy- 6’2″/283 lbs (23 tackles, 4 TFL, 1 Sack)

Junior DT Woody Barron- 6’1″/275 lbs (10 tackles, 4.5 TFL, 2 Sacks)

Rs-Senior DE Dadi Nicolas- 6’3″/223 lbs (12 Tackles, 3 Hurries)

Overview

This may be one of the most underachieving groups in the ACC so far this year.  Dadi Nicolas, and Ken Ekanem have zero sacks on the year combined after both having over 9 last year.  They are both light and quick.  They want to get to the QB fast.  Virginia Tech mostly rotates three tackles and they are all pretty good, if not light.  This is a smallish group in general, but very experienced.

Key to Containment

Establish the pass with the run.  States O-Line is going to have a pretty decent size advantage across the board.  If they can establish the run in the first few possessions, they will be in good shape in general.  The speed on the edge is going to be a challenge for the offensive tackles.  LT Joe Thuney is going to need to move well laterally.

Linebackers

Rs-Senior OLB Ronny VanDyke- 6’5″/215 lbs (12 Tackles, 1 TFL)

Rs-Sophomore MLB Andrew Motuapuaka- 6’0″/238 lbs (15 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INT, 2 FF)

Senior OLB Deon Clarke- 6’1″/227 lbs (28 Tackles, 5 TFL, 2 Sacks)

Overview

There will be some rotation in the group, although the backups have not put up any noteworthy stats.  Motuapuaka is a load.  He has only played in three games this season, and lacks ideal size, but has a good nose for the ball.  Vandyke on the other hand has great tools.  He has good size and speed, and is a versatile linebacker.  Deon Clarke is the best blitzer of the bunch, and will get sent a lot in this game.

Keys to Containment 

Nothing special here.  Getting Motuapuaka off track would be nice.  Wouldn’t be surprising to see some misdirection and sweeps to challenge them on the perimeter.  If the RB’s can pick up a linebacker when they blitz, big plays can be had.

Secondary

Rs-Freshman CB Terrell Edmunds-6’1″/201 lbs (10 Tackles)

Rs-Sophomore CB Brandon Facyson- 6’2″ 196 (7 tackles, 4 PBU)

Freshman S Adonis Alexander- 6’3″/193 lbs (27 tackles, 2 INT)

Junior S Chuck Clark- 6’1″/204 lbs (41 Tackles, 2 TFL, 1 Sack)

Sophomore Nickleback Greg Stroman- 6’1″/ 168 lbs (12 tackles, 1 INT)

Overview

Losing All-ACC performer Kendall Fuller was a big blow.  They are asked to do a lot.  Cornerbacks are going to play almost exclusively man-to-man press coverage.  They dare you to beat them over the top.  Adonis Alexander is just a true freshman, but has good size and ball skills.  Facyson doesnt have many stats, but does a good job in coverage.  Young unit who can get beat deep.

Key to Beating Them

If State can get some points on the board early, this unit is going to feel the need to make a big play.  They will be more aggressive.  They get left on an island, so if a receiver can get behind them it is a potential TD.  NC States wide-outs will have to run crisp routes and be sure handed.  If Jacoby Brissett throws a long pass, the reciever will have to make a play on the ball.

Does Virginia Tech’s defense concern you?  Let us know why in the comments, or head to The Forum and join the discussion!