BLOG 12: Defensive line was solid in win over Tiffin

By Sandy Gholston

Ferris State football player Jake Visser tries to knock the ball away from teammate Kyle Walker during a drill in practice. (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

BIG RAPIDS – Ferris State University head football coach Jeff Pierce talked about the dominance his squad showed at times, defensively, against Tiffin in a 14-12 win last Saturday in Ohio.

It was no big secret the team’s defensive line would be solid led by senior All-American standout tackle Jake Visser and another veteran in senior defensive end Kyle Walker. Visser proved to be mostly unstoppable when he was not double-teamed. His unique combination of strength and quickness had him in the backfield numerous times as the Dragons were often looking for answers. In Tiffin’s favor was its quick passing game. The ball was snapped and out of the quarterback’s hands oftentimes before Visser or anyone else could get to the backfield.

Led by the line, the Bulldogs held Tiffin to -3 rushing yards. Admittedly, the Dragons’ offensive attack was clearly centered on the passing attack. The linebackers (led by Kevin Noe, Jeff Hollandsworth and Jordan Moore) deserve credit, too. Ashland, the opponent this weekend for Ferris, presents a more balanced offense. The Eagles boast a strong running back that is dangerous carrying the football and catching the ball as a receiver. Like Tiffin, Ashland has a veteran quarterback to complement big, experienced and talented receivers.

Ferris’ defense must step up to contain an Ashland team that scored in bunches in a 49-42 loss to Bloomsburg in a game that matched two nationally-ranked teams in Ohio last weekend at Community Stadium.

If you have any questions, ideas or comments feel free to contact Sandy Gholston at sgholston2@netzero.com