Texas' Defensive X-Factors: Justus Terry, Wardell Mack, Tyler Atkinson
Will Muschamp's defense figures to be a top defense in the SEC this season. These players could elevate the unit from great to elite this season:
Last week, we broke down the true X-factors in each position group on the offense . This time around, we’ll move to the defensive side of the ball. Will Muschamp’s unit figures to be one of the best in the country but there are certain players that could take it over the top.
Colin Simmons, Rasheem Biles and Jelani McDonald will steal the headlines but these are the players I think could turn Texas’ defense from great to elite: Defensive Line: Maraad Watson This defensive line can be one of the best in the country. Hero Kanu and Alex January will lead the way but Maraad Watson is the difference maker in my eyes. He can play both nose tackle and defensive tackle and can do great things in pass rush and run defense.
He’s capable of taking a leap and making the Texas DL one of the toughest units to deal with in the country. Watson could move from a backup to start the season to an early NFL Draft pick this time next year. EDGE: Justus Terry You could argue this is a cop-out but I do think Terry will get plenty of snaps at EDGE this season.
He’s someone that will get snaps at both defensive tackle and edge defender but I believe he’ll be a difference maker off the edge. Texas has pass rushing ability in droves with Colin Simmons, Lance Jackson and Smith Orogbo. Terry(along with Umeozulu and Vasek) can add the elite run defense the Longhorns had with Ethan Burke, making the pass rush even more dangerous.