Oklahoma State Football: Full 2018 season preview, predictions

Previewing the defense

It’s hard to see this defense getting any worse in 2018. They gave up chunk plays too frequently, and couldn’t get off the field on third downs in 2017. They struggled with mistakes, poor coverage, and a lack of pass rush. All of that should be improved in 2018, because they return a ton of talent.

That production starts up front. Tackles Darrion Daniels and Trey Carter should both be awesome, and will set the tone up front. It’s going to be very tough to run on those two, and in a league with so many pocket passers, interior pass rush can be devastating. The ends will be even better, led by All-Big 12 selection Jordan Brailford, and consistent contributor Cole Walterscheild.

Behind them is more experience. Justin Phillips was one of the best players on this defense last year, and should be even better this year. The rest of the group has a few more questions, but as long as two of Calvin Bundage, Kenneth Edison-McGruder, Kevin Henry and Amen Ogbonbemiga step up, they should be just fine. The linebackers need to provide more pass rushing than they did last year, but I’m pretty confident they will.

The problems start in the secondary, just like last year. This group was downright awful at times in 2017, and was a big part of all three losses. When Oklahoma State got burnt, it was usually in the air, and it was usually because of bad coverage. The good news is that both cornerbacks are back, and should be better. A.J. Green flashed potential last year, as did Rodarius Williams.

The bad news is that both Tre Flowers and Ramon Richards are gone. Thabo Mwanik should be able to fill in nicely at free safety, but strong safety has no convincing answer. Za’Carrius Green seems like the likely choice, but he’s only a sophomore, and doesn’t have enough experience to inspire confidence.

Change of pace

With Jim Knowles set to take over for Glenn Spencer, the days of bend-don’t-break are gone in Stillwater. Knowles is aggressive, and wants to force turnovers. The biggest question isn’t if this defense is going to try to force mistakes (they will), it’s if they can do it enough. Trying to force turnovers with a young secondary is easier said than done.

If these corners can bait quarterbacks into throwing interceptions without getting burnt, this defense could be greatly improved. If they can’t, it might be a rude awakening for Knowles.