Auburn, Ala. (EETV) – Auburn held its twelfth practice on Tuesday. Afterwards, defensive coordinator Kevin Steele spoke with the media. Here is an update on the defensive side of the ball:
Steele wants the defense to be “process oriented” over result oriented, focusing a heavy emphasis on takeaways. He is also looking for consistency this season from all positions.
When asked about what he wants to see from his defense on Saturday nights, Steele replied with four simple words, “effort, physicality, tackle well.”
Steele is worried about depth at safety. He has been moving some players around in the secondary. Jeremiah Dinson and Javaris Davis have practiced at start. Dinson and Danial Thomas have seen time at safety. The linebackers have stayed the same. Only defensive linemen to see a different spot is Nick Coe, who has seen action at end instead of the buck position he usually plays.
Early enrollees Malcolm Askew and Chandler Wooten were described as having “good skill set” and are improving. Most important thing was to learn the language. Steele emphasized that multiple times during the press conference.
Senior Tray Matthews has “performed well.” Steele said he is the “quarterback of the defense.”
Mike Sherwood has been getting praises from coaches and players all spring. When asked about him, Steele described him as a “utility guy”. He can grab and send him anywhere in the secondary and Sherwood knows how to play the position. Steele said he was a “coach on the field.”
Byron Cowart “looks more comfortable” at tackle instead of end. He brings a pass rush to the position that will be a good advantage come fall.
