⚡ CFB Dashboard

It seems apparent to me that the group that will determine how successful this season can be is the defensive line, and specifically that edge spot across from Sahir West. So far the DL has been entirely ineffective in causing havoc, and consequently we cannot stop the run or pressure the QB without bringing extra guys. Like too many DCs before him, Hitschler is forced to choose between aggression to stop the run and force errors or sitting back and getting picked apart by a QB with all the time in the world. I think we all prefer Hitschler's aggressive approach, but what we saw on Saturday is the downside, exposed by an offense and gameplan built to exploit aggression. Purdue has 2 very good slot WRs that can get open quickly against a blitz for an easy completion with room to run after the catch. They did it repeatedly with seam routes, slants, and quick outs. Purdue's 2 slot receivers accounted for 64% of Purdue's total yardage (311/488 yds). I don't think our secondary is bad, but not many safeties or nickels can cover those slots in space. Bottom line is this is going to be a problem all year unless we can get better play up front. I know the DTs catch a lot of flack, rightfully, but they are at least eating blocks, and we don't have many possibilities to upgrade that unit. However, good edge play opposite West would absolutely change the game. We have a lot of possibilities. Can any of them rise up and be the guy?