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Georgia Tech vs USF Recap: Defensive Analysis

By Mitchell Green

TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 08: Blake Barnett #11 of the South Florida Bulls rushes during a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Raymond James Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 08: Blake Barnett #11 of the South Florida Bulls rushes during a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Raymond James Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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TAMPA, FL – SEPTEMBER 08: Blake Barnett #11 of the South Florida Bulls rushes during a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Raymond James Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL – SEPTEMBER 08: Blake Barnett #11 of the South Florida Bulls rushes during a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Raymond James Stadium on September 8, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Outside Linebackers: D+

Starters

  • JACK – Victor Alexander
  • STGR – Jalen Johnson

Main Rotation

  • JACK- Jaquan Henderson
  • JACK – Jordan Domineck
  • STGR – Christian Campbell

Grade: D+

This group did not have a great day, and Victor Alexander’s unfamiliarity with his JACK position showed. He was the main scapegoat on most of Blake Barnett’s read-option keeps, as Alexander continuously committed to the running back leaving the edge wide open. Alexander is also currently a non-factor in the pass rush, but that really is to be expected due to his inexperience in that facet of the game. Not to mention, he is also taking on the other teams best lineman in most cases.

This defense would improve immensely with just one player that could serve as a disruptor in this position. However, I am not sure that player is currently on the roster and they may not be next season either. I hope there will be an improvement in this position as the season goes on, but if the development of rushers the past few years is any indication of what is to come, then the defense will have to find another way to thrive.

The STGR’s had a quiet day overall, with Jalen Johnson making one or two plays in the run game but also giving up a few plays in the passing game. Also, after converting a sack last week, Christian Campbell was shut down on his Blitzes Saturday. In fact, the Blitzes called throughout the game did not provide much of a disruption to the USF offense.

Standout Performer: No One

It was a tough day for this group, and I hope there are better days to come. Filling these two positions was always going to be the biggest project for this defense, as each player is being converted from a different position and has only had a few months to learn new skill sets.