The Defensive Line

AP Photo/ Nam Y. Huh

Many Northwestern fans' first thought when thinking about the defensive line is probably, "Oh crap! We lost Wootton! We're freaking screwed!" Well, if this is you, you are somewhat justified in your opinion. It is easy to make a case for a healthy Wootton as the greatest player in Northwestern history. However, the fact is Wootton was anything but healthy last year. He did win us the Iowa game, (sorry, Stanzi) but, overall, he was merely a shadow of his former self. He only managed half the tackles he got in 2008 (21 to 42) and only 4 sacks compared to 10.  That being said, it was still nice to have him on the line, as he scared the other team, and he frequently was double teamed, meaning fewer blockers left for the other members of the line. Vince Browne played the other defensive end position as a sophomore. He did a very good job racking up 39 tackles, 8 for loss, and 5 sacks. Fortunately, he is returning next year. Kevin Watt, the junior, figures to fill Wootton's shoes, and has experience doing so, as he filled in for Wootton when he was unable to play due to injury. He did a decent job with 10 tackles and 2 sacks. The sophomore Quentin Williams also figures to see playing time. He managed 14 tackles and an interception last year, so he knows how to play the position. All things considered, the defensive end position looks pretty good, but I have trouble calling it an improvement simply because losing Wootton is a blow. 

One starting defensive tackle last year was the junior Corbin Bryant. He did a good job in the position with 30 tackles, and he will be returning for the role this season. The other defensive tackle position was just a mess, mostly due to injuries. So many people played it that I don't even know who to call a starter.. For this year, however, the starter will be Jack DiNardo, a junior. He saw some playing time last year but was badly slowed by injury. Overall I'm happy with how the DTs look, especially when compared to last year. They were probably the team's worst position last year, but simply having someone, anyone healthy next to Bryant should be a big improvement.