Coaches have to replace players every year, and every few years they have to replace great players.
But this season, Morehead State football coach Matt Ballard and defensive coordinator John Gilliam will need to replace more than one great player, they need to replace three. Defensive line stalwarts Andrew Doan and Derik Steiner, along with Pioneer League Defensive Player of the Year Wes McDermott have all finished their careers at MSU, giving the coaching staff some big shoes to fill.
The coaching staff will get a chance to see their new-look defense in action Sunday at 2 p.m. in the annual Blue-White Spring game.
There are already a couple of candidate emerging as possible defensive leaders on the line. Jerome Raymond and Mark Hall, both of whom had strong years last year are poised to take the reigns.
“We can’t block Jerome Raymond right now,” Ballard said. “His hard work in the offseason has really paid off. It’s amazing what experience does, knowing and understanding your position better. Mark Hall has had an outstanding spring as well.”
Ballard noted that defensive tackle will be by rotation but that Kyle Manley “has made a lot of plays for us,” and that Chris Burns has been consistent this spring.
The linebacking corps has good returning talent that will help offset the loss of McDermott. Keaton May is “seeing the field batter and making plays,” according to Ballard and Tony Bachman will be the middle linkbacker.
D.J. Smith and Kameron Scott bring experience into the secondary at the two corner positions. Chase Meadows will also be in the mix at corner.
“Those guys have taken a step up and are important guys in what we’re doing,” Ballard said.
Ryan Williams will see time as a safety as should Sean Blair, whom Ballard calls “capable and a guy who needs to step up.”
Secondary depth will be something Ballard will look to improve on by developing younger players and letting them earn playing time.
Despite having several holes to fill and a wide range of candidates, Ballard is encouraged by the defensive play through the spring.
“I’m pleased with how we’re getting to the football and when Hall and Raymond are in there, look out!” Ballard said. “I’m pleased with our aggressiveness, how we help out and how our depth is developing.”
