By Jordan Shim–
The defense has been the Louisville football’s calling card over the past three years. Consistently winning the battle in the trenches is often the formula for a great defense. After losing their best defensive lineman in Sheldon Rankins to graduation, DeAngelo Brown now looks to fill his void.
Originally a three-star recruit out of high school, Brown has developed into one of the Cards’ most influential players. Brown had career highs in tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks last season. Rankins’ stellar season may have overshadowed Brown’s performances, but not unnoticed. His experience earned him the role of defensive captain, and for his production, a selection on the All-ACC preseason team.
The Savannah, Georgia native is the only returning starter on the defensive line. He will be counted on by defensive coordinator Todd Grantham to set the tone of the game at the line of scrimmage. His role as defensive captain will garner respect from his teammates, and he looks to play that role.
“I need to stay focused and just do my job. I need to make sure I take care of things I need to take care of before I get on other guys. Make sure everyone is doing what they’re supposed to be doing,” Brown said.
His position of nose tackle in a 3-4 defense carries big responsibilities, pun intended. Often being the largest player on the defense, a nose tackle often occupies multiple blockers. Other players, usually the linebackers are often able to take advantage and make plays. His ability to provide interior penetration played a significant role in the team allowing only 3.28 yards per rush, seventh best in the country.
Nose tackles often sacrifice their personal stats for the better of the team. With that being said, Brown was still able to have a presence in the box score. He had a season-high six tackles against #6 Auburn in the season-opening Chik-fil-A kickoff game, and five games where he recorded at least four tackles.
With the season opener around the corner, Brown and the Cards are hungry and ready just to play football.
“I’m just looking forward to Charlotte. First game of the year, Thursday night. It’s going to be exciting,” Brown said.
Photo by Wade Morgen / The Louisville Cardinal
