MSU defensive coordinator Geoff Collins actually promotes mayhem among his crew. While the “Minister of Mayhem” and “Psycho Defense” sound a bit like a potential box office hit, the Bulldogs’ defensive line and their leader were given those nicknames due to their explosive, powerful performance on the field. Coach Collins tracks every players performance with “Juice Points.”
“Juice Points” or “The Juice” (noun): “the overall enthusiasm and energy exhibited at practice; rated on a scale to encourage friendly competition among the defensive players.”
The greatest strength of the Bulldogs defensive line seems to be a factor of interchangeability. While the usual starters P.J. Jones and Kaleb Eulls will obviously serve as assets to line, Collins also has sophomores Nelson Adams and Chris Jones in his defensive tool belt.
MSU Head Coach Dan Mullen said Jones shone on the defensive line last year and will have increased playing time this season.
“He’s a young guy with a lot of play making ability. He was a play maker for us last year, and he’s learning to become an every down player with great technique,” Mullen said.
Jones’ size, speed and versatility solidifies him as one of the nation’s top pass rushers. He made his first career start in the 2013 matchup against Alcorn State and checked his second career sack against Alabama, downing quarterback A.J. McCarron for a loss of seven yards in the opening quarter. Jones just didn’t live up to the hype during his freshman season – he actually exceeded it.
The unit lost defensive lineman Denico Autry to the NFL Draft, but there’s always a silver lining. A.J. Jefferson, Ryan Brown and Preston Smith have both individual and combined talent. Jefferson made his career debut last season as a redshirt freshman. With 19 tackles (12 solo), two sacks and one forced fumble in the 2013 season, he is projected to be a strong asset to the defensive line as his growth continues to progress under the guidance of Brown and Smith.
The cornerback situation looks to be more of a strength for the Bulldogs this year. Jamerson Love and Taveze Calhoun emergered late in the season as the starters. The duo had their best collective game near the end of the season in the Egg Bowl.
Last but certainly not least, linebacker Benardrick McKinney racked up 71 tackles last season, ranking him fourth among all sophomores in the SEC. While his name sits on several award watch lists, McKinney has versatile talent that ranks him among the best. NFL.com listed him among the top 14 “freakish” athletes in the nation for the upcoming season – and that’s a good thing.
The Bulldogs suffered an abundance of injuires last season. The injuries hurt the team last year, but it has given way to a more experienced and deep defense.
With a surplus of young, developing talent and explosive performances from the more seasoned Bulldogs, it’s obvious that “The Juice” will be in high-demand this season. Let’s just hope our cups runneth over.
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Bulldog team will rely on strong defense, experience to start new season strong
Alex Wilson
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August 26, 2014
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