Position Preview: Defensive Tackle

(Photo courtesy of Larry Sellers)

I had a great conversation with both defensive line coach Christian Smith and assistant defensive line coach Spencer Erickson about both the defensive ends and the defensive tackles.  We're going to focus on the defensive tackles in this post.

One thing that both coaches really stressed is how beneficial it has been to have the entire defensive line together.  The biggest thing that coaches pointed to was communication increasing between the interior and the ends.  There has also been a sense of trust that has increased because they are more on the same page than maybe they had been in the past.  Coach Erickson pointed out that the defensive line is 43% of the defense and if they are all on the same page, moving in a positive direction, than it sets the tone for the entire defensive unit.  With the talent that returns along the defensive line, this certainly is a good thing.

The defensive tackle position is as deep and talented as it has ever been.  I pointed this out to Coach Smith and he joked that they haven't had to convert any linebackers to defensive tackles in a few years so things must be working. This depth should help this group stay fresh for the end of games when collapsing the pocket is crucial.

#69 Krockett Krolikowski, 6-2, 285, is back for his sophomore season after a dominant freshman campaign.  Krolikowski did suffer a knee injury late in the season prepping for Kennesaw State so we'll see if he is ready to go for the first game or if it will be later in the season.  The "Krockpot" finished the season with 28 tackles, 7.5 TFL, and 4 sacks and three additional QBH.  He also showed a knack for blocking kicks with 2 batted down.  This is tremendous production from an interior defensive lineman.  Krockett showed that he can get to the passer and stuff the run.  Given the depth of this position group, I hope he takes his time returning from injury and doesn't rush back. 

#91 Xavier Ward, 6-2, 280, returns for his third season in the lineup.  Xavier had a good sophomore season and seemed to prosper when he was paired with Krockett.  The two work really really well together.  Coach Smith said that Xavier had a great spring and has grown into a leadership role.  Smith also felt that "X" is one of the most underrated players on the roster.  One area that Ward is great at is eating blocks, holding ground, and keeping offensive linemen off of the linebackers. He's a team first guy so the big stats aren't necessarily a worry.
 
#99 Caleb Sanders, 6-1, 280, really flashed as a true freshman in 2018.  He showed the quick twitch ability that creates havoc for opposing offensive lines. Coach Erickson said that Sanders is one of the nicest guys off the field but the switch flips once the pads come on. Sanders is also a bit shorter than his teammates and that seems to build in some natural leverage which coupled with his wrestling background makes him a monster on the interior. Last year, Sanders had 15 tackles but 7 over those were tackles for loss. Smith named Sanders as one of the strongest guys on the team and the team will rely on him to provide high quality depth for the defensive line. Personally I thought Sanders really improved as the year went along and I'm excited to see what he can do in his second year. 

#96 Spencer Hildahl, 6-3, 290, is now a senior and has played a ton of reps for the Jackrabbits.  He started as a sophomore and was the third defensive tackle for most of the 2018 season.  His experience and leadership is important for this group.  Spencer will be able to come into the games this year and provide a fresh big body.  Spencer is good at eating up blocks and holding the line of scrimmage but just needs to stay healthy this season.

#55 Thomas Stacker, 6-4, 280, saw his role grow in 2018 and is being counted on to take another big jump in 2019 after a good spring.  Coach Smith credits Stacker with really working hard to transform his body since he got on campus.  He also said that Stacker is a big football guy. He loves to talk football. He loves to learn and he likes to be coached and improve.  Stacker will be in the rotation this year on the interior and will need to make plays when in there.  Coach Erickson thinks Stacker has been a great mentor for the younger guys in the defensive line room and has really grown into a leader. 

#98 Ryan Van Marel, 6-4, 270, was a highly regarded recruit in 2018 and probably could have played if needed last season. After a year of marinating and practice, I think he could be in line to have a breakout freshman campaign. He was recognized as the Scout Defensive Player of the Year for his efforts in practice.  Both Coach Smith and Coach Erickson spent time talking about Van Marel's intelligence and ability to recognize what the offense is trying to do.  Now, they want Van Marel to take the next step and just let it rip.  He has the physical ability to be an All-American type player for SDSU.

#51 Andrew Mueller, 6-0 255, is a strong leader through his actions.  The senior hasn't seen a lot of game action but busts his butt when given the opportunity because he loves the team and he loves football.  Coach Smith pointed out his dedication by sharing that Mueller holds the school squat record.  Smith said that Mueller could work into the rotation because of what he can do as an interior pass rusher.  I'd love to see Mueller get his opportunities on the field this fall. 

#73 Trajan Walhoff, 6-5, 270, is another freshman coming off of a productive redshirt campaign.  Coach Smith said that Trajan continues to improve and that he has a future with the program.  He needs to continue to get stronger and add weight but his improvement since getting to campus is evident. Trajan was named scout player of the week twice last year, once for offense and once for defense. 

#65 Matt Borowicz, 6'4, 265, is a high motor freshman who did a lot of good work during his redshirt season.  Borowicz spent time playing offense and defense during his first season but has found a home on the defensive side of the ball.  He was recognized as scout player of the week three times for his efforts.  Smith again said that continued growth and building strength will be key to seeing playing time in the future.

The incoming freshman is Jarod Depriest. He may have been the highest rated recruit in the 2019 class.  Unfortunately Depriest suffered a leg injury during his senior year basketball season and will likely redshirt in 2019.  Depriest is a huge man (6-5, 285) and moves really well for his size. He has a chance to play in four games towards the end of the season depending on how his recovery goes.  The future is bring for the Jackrabbit defensive tackle group.

Go Jacks!
Matt