West Virginia football: Neal Brown proving he’s perfect man for job

Veteran defenders look to make major impacts

The Mountaineers didn’t start Neal Brown’s first season well on the defensive side of the ball. Last season, they were ranked 73rd (eighth in the Big 12) in points allowed (28.8) and 74th (sixth in the Big 12) in total yards allowed (399.3). They were also ranked 112th in defensive efficiency as they had problems with young and inexperienced defenders.

The Mountaineers allowed 271 first downs and 43 total touchdowns.

This unit is looking to make significant improvements from last year as they learn the system and potential impact. The lack of spring practices didn’t help gain more experience to grow as an overall defense.

In late July, defensive coordinator Vic Koenning was fired after accusations of player mistreatment. This late into the offseason, West Virginia was not able to find a suitable replacement for a permanent defensive coordinator. Defensive line coach Jordan Lesley was given the role to control the front of the defense. Defensive backs coach Jahmile Addae will control the back half of the defense.

The Mountaineers have some serious potential on the defensive line in terms of productivity and experience. They will be led by two brothers in nose tackle Darius Stills and end/tackle Dante Stills, sons of West Virginia legend Gary Stills. Last season, Darius accounted for 43 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss and six sacks in 11 starts. Dante looks to become a full-time starter after starting three games a year ago. He accounted for 26 total tackles, 14 tackles for loss (team-high) and eight sacks (team-high) as an end.

Darius was named to Athlon Sports’ preseason All-Big 12 first team as well as third-team All-American. Dante was named preseason second-team All-Big 12.

Jeffery Pooler Jr. returns at defensive end after building starting experience in 2019.

In the linebacker corps, some significant talent returns with two starters. Josh Chandler-Semedo is back after playing 10 games, starting in nine of them at bandit and middle linebacker. He’s projected to start at middle linebacker after posting 69 total tackles (second on team). Dylan Tonkery returns as the starting bandit for the Mountaineers. He has played in 31 games in his career at West Virginia.

This unit have a complex defensive system involving their defensive backs. West Virginia will seek to improve its pass defense that was ranked 88th in passing yards allowed (239.9).

Last season, Sean Mahone started all 12 games at safety as he led the team in total tackles accounted for (77) and solo tackles (53). Tykee Smith returns after playing in all 12 games with eight starts as a true freshman. Nicktroy Fortune and Tae Mayo are projected to start at the two cornerback positions. Kerry Martin Jr. played in all 12 games this past season as a free safety and nickelback and looks to become a full-time starter.