UNLV's defensive line, stocked with four freshmen and a sophomore, faces a critical test Saturday against Wyoming at Allegiant Stadium. The Rebels have allowed the second-most rushing yards in the Mountain West, surrendering 430 yards to Air Force and 240 to Northern Illinois in recent weeks.
Defensive line coach Ricky Logo said the transition to college speed and scheme has left the young linemen tentative. "A lot of them were able to dominate in high school, but when they get here, they're playing against guys just as big so they become timid," Logo said. "Then you get to learning a new scheme and terminology and their heads are spinning, which causes them to be a little soft."
Junior Lucas Conti has provided leadership for the inexperienced group. "Conti is constantly making these guys understand things by the way he practices and prepares," Logo said. "The guys follow his lead. By no means are we there. It's a progression. We're trying to make these guys grow some teeth right now."
The absence of senior Cohen Fuller, who started four games last season but is ineligible this year, has compounded the youth issue. "You have an experienced player that leads by example," Logo said. "It's like having two Lucas Contis out there. Cohen brought that leadership and work ethic. Still does."
Linebacker Cam Santee noted that physicality at the college level rarely translates immediately. "It's hard just to walk into college and pick it up right away," Santee said. "Only a few guys are physically gifted enough to do that. Game speed is completely different from practice. You need to get into a rhythm with it." Despite the struggles, UNLV still controls its path to the Mountain West title game.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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