2: Defensive line rotation showed improvement.
Going into the season, the defensive line was certainly one of the biggest concerns for a lot of fans. It was pretty much the only position group where the Dawgs did not add a blue chip 2018 recruit. They did, however, welcome back several talented players who could contribute to a solid rotation.
The starters were not in an awful lot against Austin Peay. Tyler Clark, Julian Rochester, and Jonathan Ledbetter all looked solid, but they were never needed to be spectacular. The Governors ran the ball a lot and mainly attempted short passes. Neither of these were particularly effective and that was in part because their offensive line never got comfortable.
Of course, the Dawgs should be making an offense like this uncomfortable. Malik Herring and Jay Hayes both saw a decent bit of time as the game went on. I was particularly impressed with Herring who showed that he does have that unique physical skill set that should make him really special. I think he’s a player that we’re going to end up talking a lot about as the year goes on.
One of the most pleasant surprises of the game, when I went back and watched the film, was the performance of a couple of other defensive tackles. Michail Carter who has so far been quiet since arriving in 2016 showed some flashes and an improved motor from last year. Jordan Davis also shoved around the offensive line more than I was expecting from a 3-star freshman who many thought was raw. If both of those guys can translate those performances over to next weeks game, the Dawgs could be in business on the DL this season.