2012 Louisville Positional Preview – Defensive Line

In his third season at the University of Louisville Coach Hurtt has a group of defensive lineman thatlook promising. This line has speed, size, and strength, as well as depth and experience.The coaches are hoping the front four can take care of business this season.  Past injuries no longer seem to be a problem and everyone seems healthy and ready to go.

Many believe Dunn is the heart of this U of L defense.

As of now the starters for the defensive line are B.J. Dubose, defensive end, Brandon Dunn, D tackle, Roy Philon, D tackle, and Marcus Smith, Defensive end. Dunn, a hometown kid, is considered by some the heart of this team. He was slowed by injuries last year but is healthy and ready to show his talent. Coach Kenny Carter said Dunn is the player you would pick to represent the Cardinals.

The others who are competing are Deiontrez Mount, Defensive End, Jamaine Brooks, D Tackle, Lorenzo Mauldin, Defensive end, and B.J. Butler, defensive end. Mount appeared in nine games last season making five starts. His first college game was against North Carolina where he made quite an impression. Butler, who is now a junior, had a great freshman year, but was slowed down due to injuries during fall camp last year. He is now healthy but wil have to work very hard to regain his status due to the depth of the defensive line.

Of the three freshmen on the defensive line Sheldon Rankins seems to be the name that stands out and the guy that is making the most noise. Rankins is competing for a starting spot at defensive tackle. He is in a head to head battle with Roy Philon. De’AngeloBrown from Georgia was a three star recruit and class A all-state defensive player of the year. He chose Louisville over Georgia Tech and the University of South Florida. Pedro Sibiea, another three star recruit, is very athletic and has good body control. He has the speed to beat the offensive lineman. He had offers from Cincinnati, Florida and Florida International.

With a defensive coach like Charlie Strong we can expect this team to improve as the season moves along. Since Charlie has arrived the defense has been ranked in the top 25 in total defense. Heading into the season with experience and the expertise of Strong, we can look forward to another successful defensive season.