Position Preview: Defensive Ends

(Photo Courtesy of Larry Sellers)

Yesterday, we shared the defensive tackle position group.  Today we are continuing our previews with rest of the #ChainGang; the defensive ends. As that post said, the defensive tackles and ends are now meeting and practicing together which has increased their communication and trust with one another. 

The defensive end group returns every snap taken from 2018.  It also returns three guys who have started the past two seasons.  The group needs to generate a more consistent pass rush.  Last year, Ryan Earith had another really solid season but he needs someone opposite him who can get pressure on the quarterback.  The reports coming out of spring ball were really positive and it sounds like the defense as a whole will look to generate a more consistent pass rush.

#90 Ryan Earith, 6'4, 260, is a model of consistency.  He was recognized as a preseason All-MVFC selection and as a team captain.  The senior led the team with 5.5 sacks last year and really produces in big moments.  He is great against the run because of how physical he is and dangerous as a pass rusher because of his strong hands. His leadership is also being counted on this year as there is an exceptional group of freshman who have the chance to contribute this season.

#97 Reece Winkelman, 6'3, 240, was a player that I wanted to see on the field more in 2018.  It sounds like he had a great spring and is in line to start in 2019.  The sophomore from Marshall, MN is very athletic (former linebacker) and has a good football IQ.  Coach Smith said that he has natural hands and that allows him to fend off blockers.  Last year in limited snaps, Reece had 4 tackles for loss and 10 total tackles.

#66 Elijah Wilson, 6'4, 260, is now a junior and is expected to take another step forward.  Elijah can do some really unique things from a size/speed combination but it is a matter of putting it all together at the same time.  Elijah provides solid run defense but is growing still as a pass rusher.  He's another player that just needs to let it rip because he has all the physical abilities in the world to be wildly successful. 

#34 Austin Smenda, 6'2, 250, started last year and has been a key contributor for the past three.  Smenda was always expected to be a pass rusher but since getting on the field, it has been his solid run defense that has stood out.  Smenda had 28 tackles, 3 for loss, and 3 quarterback hurries in 2018.

#22 Tolu Ogunrinde, 6'1 265, is likely to make a big jump in 2019.  The junior is likely the pound for pound strongest player on the roster.  He is just an animal in the weight room and his combination of strength and speed is so unique.  Coach Smith said he's excited about Tolu's progress and excited to see him consistently bring it on the field.  He said that he is in line to be part of the rotation or even  start with a good fall camp.   In very limited playing time, Tolu registered 3 sacks in 2018. 

#94 Cade Terveer, 6'3, 245, is a player who had a really good redshirt season from all accounts.  He has a high motor and a great get-off the line of scrimmage.  Coach Smith said he has good "farmer strength" and that he has done a really good job of developing over the last year.  He's in a line for playing time with a good fall camp.
 
#93 Malachi Johnson, 6'7 245, is now a sophomore and clearly stands out from the rest of the defensive line group (see height).  Malachi is still learning the position and getting used to playing with his hand in the ground.  He made big strides during his freshman campaign but will need to take an even bigger jump in 2019.

#23 Jassan Eubank, 6'3, 240 is a bit of a wildcard for the group.  Jassan is a juco from Nassau Community College in New York.  His highlight tape is fun to watch as you see a guy who plays with great effort and is also a very gifted athlete.  At Nassau, he finished with 5 sacks, 13.5 tackles for loss and 45 stops.  So far, the coaches really like what they have seen from him and think he is ready to contribute now.  He brings  a really physical nature and tough mindset to the group.  We'll see what he contributes in 2019!

Quinton Hicks, Caden Johnson, Zac Wilson, and Kevin Brenner are the incoming freshmen at defensive end. Quinton and Caden are pushing for playing time in 2019 and will likely get in their four games.  Both have extremely high football IQ's and spent the summer in Brookings taking classes and attending the captains practices.  Wilson is a converted TE and LB and is learning the new position while Brenner is adding strength and weight.  Coach Smith had praise for all four of these guys and thinks they have a bright future.

Go Jacks!
Matt