BLOG 8: Wilson looking to rebuild his defense

Ferris assistant head coach and defensive coordinator Duane Wilson gives some advice to a player during a break in practice on Tuesday (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

By Sandy Gholston

BIG RAPIDS – Assistant head coach and defensive coordinator Duane Wilson has built some strong defensive units during his time at Ferris.

Entering the 2009 campaign, Wilson will be doing so with a defense that lost quite a bit to graduation – including all three starting linebackers (Kevin Noe, Jordan Moore and Jeff Hollandsworth) and an All-American tackle (Jake Visser). But, this time of the year is for reestablishing the foundation that will lead to success in the fall season. Spring ball is the perfect setting the young guys, and veterans who did not get to play as much last season, to tighten up the fundamentals and prove to the coaches they’re ready to step up.

“You have to go back to the basics of playing football during the spring,” Wilson remarked in response to how he will approach coaching a younger group of players. “Since we don’t have as many seniors as we had, coming into last year, we’re going to work on a lot of the little things we’re going to need to be successful. We’re going to be coaching all the little things like stances and more.”

Last season, the defense was a little bit ahead of the game with its experience and ability to make things happen on the field. Having such a high level of senior leadership, to lead a strong defense, allowed Ferris to stay in a lot of games that were low-scoring affairs. This year, with the added experience, the offense may be called upon to lead the way a little more.

With the pads on, the defense is getting its opportunities to show its stuff on the gridiron this spring.

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