Former DC Derrick Odum had a strong history of success that suddenly crashed last season. There’s no need to throw salt on his wounds as he moved to Utah, but SJSU ranked near the bottom of many key categories. There is only one returning starter, so it’s more like a startup than a turnaround. Be prepared for surprises in the first few games as we see whether this defensive startup attracts strong fan investment or becomes another Silicon Valley zombie.
Bojay Filimoeatu takes full command after his late-season interim audition. His coaching pedigree indicates an aggressive, attacking strategy. The real test is whether he has the personnel to execute it.
USC is a great test case. Personnel and strategy look great on paper until they smash into an elite team. Filimoeatu will have enough data after this game to know exactly whether he has punishers or posers. Calling exotic five-man pressures against USC in the Coliseum is either a preview of an MWC Champion or a cringeworthy disaster film with bad reviews.
Pay close attention to the nose guard in the 3-4 formation. If he draws a double-team on every play, the defense has great potential. If not, the defense may quickly become another case study of a startup failure.
Discussion Points. Don’t be shy. Share your opinions.
1] Should Filimoeatu save his most deceptive blitz packages for conference games or test them in non-conference games?
2] Is the 3-4 formation too much of a risk with ten new starters, especially an unproven nose guard?
3] Should Filimoeatu simplify the defense to avoid assignment and/or communication errors with ten new starters or demand advanced performance?
Insights By Scott Ernst 