Defensive Line: B-

How much pressure does Ball State’s three-man front provide? Let’s just say figuring out what book to read on a Hawaiian beach provides more of a strain.

But pressure isn’t the job of linemen in a 3-4 defense and this experienced group understands that.

The two fifth-year seniors and junior have 25 tackles in four games this season — pretty good for three on five.

Nose tackle William Wise has wrapped up over half of these opponents with 13 tackles.

The 6-foot, 290-pound lineman also is the only one of the bunch to have recorded a sack.

But the group hasn’t clogged the middle like the defense was designed for. Rushers are averaging 4.9 yards per carry against the three lineman.

Linebackers: C-

Ball State’s defense can’t be judged on looks alone. For evidence, I present Exhibit A: Purdue’s running game.

Two weeks ago the Boilermakers could only muster 117 yards against the Cardinals’ 3-4 defense.

It looks like seven years of service has prepared the linebackers to hold opponents’ ground game to a minimal.

And then there’s the fact that the youngest member of the group, Bryant Haines, is leading the corps with 26 of its 72 tackles.

The group has been sketchy, letting teams average 143.5 rushing yards per game — fifth in the MAC.

And considering the 3-4 defense is designed for opponents to average more like 43.5 rushing yards per game; Not too pretty.

Secondary: D+

Preventing third down conversion has become a speciality for Ball State

The Cardinals are holding opponents to a success rate of only 32.7 percent, only 1.2 percent behind MAC leader Western Michigan.

A little secret though for NIU, if it’s third down, throw a pass.

Averaging 325.5 passing yards, the Cardinals rank second to last in passing defense in the MAC.

Strong safety Erik Keys leads the team with 33 tackles this season.

Story by Ben Gross and Sean Ostruszka