Buffalo Football: Preview, prediction for 2019 season

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OXFORD, OH – OCTOBER 21: The Buffalo Bulls defense tackles Alonzo Smith #26 of the Miami Ohio Redhawks during the second half at Yager Stadium on October 21, 2017 in Oxford, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

Previewing the defense

This team got to the 10-win mark based on the playmaking of Tyree Jackson. In terms of overall output, from both sides of the ball, it was still very average. The defense, however, does not retain the foundation that the offense does.

Where the offense returns a 1,000-yard rusher, the defense only brings back two starters from 2018. Senior Joey Banks is a safety, and sophomore James Patterson will lead the defense from the middle linebacker position.

Tyrone Hill got action in 2018 when Banks was hurt, and now they’ll start next to each other at the two safety spots this year.

There were a few players who shined in limited roles, such as Defensive end Taylor Riggins, who had five sacks a year ago. Sophomore Cornerback Aapri Washington also made an impact with two interceptions in his freshman campaign.

Malcom Koonce and Ledarius Mack also got time in the rotation up front, and they should contribute to a defense that is replacing so many players this season.

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