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Sam Houston State Football: Will Bearkats see success in first FBS season?

By Dante Pryor

Sep 3, 2022; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Anthony Lucas (8) and Sam Houston State Bearkats offensive lineman Moses Johnson (73) in action during the second half at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2022; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Anthony Lucas (8) and Sam Houston State Bearkats offensive lineman Moses Johnson (73) in action during the second half at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports /
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September 03, 2022; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Ainias Smith (0) stiff arms Sam Houston State Football linebacker Trevor Williams (1) during the third quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports
September 03, 2022; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Ainias Smith (0) stiff arms Sam Houston State Football linebacker Trevor Williams (1) during the third quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports /

Will the defense hold up in Conference USA?

The offense had issues last season, resulting in a 5-4 season. However, the defense was not the issue. The Bearkats were a respectable 37th in total defense last season and 15th in points allowed. SHSU allowed over 20 points three times; one was to Texas A&M. The Bearkats have a wonderful group of linebackers led by junior Kavian Gaither.

Defensive coordinators Joe Morris and Clayton Carlton look to cause havoc with their 4-2-5 defense. Sam Houston State football was 23rd in FCS with 21 turnovers. One weak spot from last season’s team was the pass rush.

The Bearkats were 106th with 15 sacks. However, they did have 30 quarterback pressures. So, they were in the backfield, but they were not finishing. That area must get cleaned up in FBS. You must get the quarterback to the ground when you have the opportunity.

Health is also key defensively. If there is a large talent disparity between the starters and backups, Morris and Clayton must hope the first until stays as healthy as possible.

If the Bearkats can get off the field on third downs and cause some turnovers, they can stay in many games this fall.

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