4. The defense is locked in and looking improved
If you were disappointed in the overall defense- especially in the secondary- last season, you’re not alone.
The Tigers defense did seemingly take a step back after the 2019 season and, with all the youth, many expected that to happen. What no one expected, though, was for this group to look as bad as it did (even short-handed) against Notre Dame up in South Bend and then, especially, against Ohio State in the Sugar Bowl.
This unit looked good at times, but had far too many problems to be considered elite. The front-seven couldn’t generate a consistent pass-rush, the secondary was beaten far too many times and the linebackers were out of position more times than they should’ve been. That’s a recipe for disaster.
So far this spring- even with injuries holding several guys out- this unit looks much improved. The defensive line is starting to grow up and those reserve linebackers are starting to make plays. The defensive backfield has plenty of talent and it seems that this group, under Brent Venables’ leadership, is really focused on righting the wrongs from a year ago and getting better.