Defensive Line

The Cardinals will start junior Donovan Jarrett, sophomore Joel Cox, senior Adam Morris and sophomore Nathan Ollie in their traditional 4-3 defense.

Ollie is by far the most dangerous lineman, as he leads the team in sacks as a defensive tackle with five and leads all defensive linemen in tackles with 37.

Quarterback Chandler Harnish said Ollie will be a key player for the Huskies to block.

“He’s a stout player,” Harnish said. “[We have to] be aware of where those guys are on the field.” Grade: D+

Linebackers

Ball State ranks near the bottom in every defensive category in the MAC.

The Cardinals have allowed 33 points per game and rank dead last in total defense.

This may be why starting linebackers Travis Freeman, Aaron Morris and Tony Martin have had to make so many tackles. Freeman highlights the group with four sacks, 101 tackles and one interception.

He’s shown that he is the exception to the Cardinals otherwise dismal defensive showings.

“Freeman’s got over a 100 tackles; he’s a heck of a player,” Harnish said. “We just have to respect them and execute our game plan.” Grade: C-

Secondary

The Cardinals rank dead last in passing defense within the MAC and will have to rely on starting safeties Joshua Howard and Sean Baker.

The two safeties have been relied upon to help support starting cornerbacks sophomore Jeffery Garrett and junior Armand Dehaney.

Baker leads the secondary in tackles and has picked off two passes while Howard has three interceptions.

Harnish said Baker’s experience makes him a pivotal player in the Cardinals’ secondary.

“Baker’s been there for a long time; he’s a heck of a player,” Harnish said. “[He’s] experienced, a great leader, and their corners are awfully aggressive, so I think we just have to stick to our game plan.” Grade: C-

 

Special Teams

Senior wide receiver Briggs Orsbon and junior wide receiver Jamill Smith will split kick return duties. Smith also returns punts. Smith has speed, as he averages 25 yards per return, with his longest being a 78-yarder. Senior punter Scott Kovanda has power and accuracy, with 10 punts for 50 yards or longer and 16 punts inside the 20-yard line. Senior placekicker Steven Schott made 14 of 18 field goals, but has struggled from a long range. Grade: B