The 2017 season for the UCF football team is just around the corner and now is the time to get your first look at the Knights. UCFKnights.com will preview each position group in the weeks leading into camp to give Knight Nation an idea of what to expect this fall.
DEFENSIVE LINE
Seven of the Knights' top eight defensive linemen from last season return to anchor a defensive unit that was among the best in the nation in 2016.
"Defensive line is one of the strengths of our team this year," head coach Scott Frost said. "I thought they played really well last year. Coach Dawson did a great job with those guys."
Returning starters Tony Guerad, Jamiyus Pittman and Trysten Hill are the likely starters once again. Hill and Guerad started all 13 games, while Pittman saw action in 12 games with eight starts after battling an injury.
"Jamiyus Pittman, Tony Guerad and Trysten Hill kind of led the way last year," Frost said.
Statistcally, Guerad was the most productive of the group. He compiled 62 total tackles, including 10 tackles for-loss and 3.5 sacks. He ranked fourth on the team in TFL.
Playing noseguard in a 3-4 scheme saw Pittman face numerous double teams. He still managed 28 tackles, 4.5 TFL and 2.0 sacks.
Hill started at defensive tackle as a true freshman. He tallied 15 tackles and one-third of them (5.0) were TFL.
While the three aforementioned players will likely lead the group, they have plenty of help returning.
Joey Connors played in all 13 games and recorded 27 tackles last season. A.J. Wooten also played in each game and recorded 22 stops. Seyvon Lowry saw action in each game with 13 tackles and an interception. Brendon Hayes played in 12 games with 10 tackles and a Pick Six at East Carolina.
"I thought Seyvon Lowry had a really good spring and I look forward to him contributing more this year," Frost said. "Joey Connors is a really solid player for us that we expect good things out of. We've got A.J. Wooten and Brendon Hayes and a bunch of other guys that I think can provide us depth. Then we have a couple young guys coming in and we'll see how they fit in with the group."
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW
The second season of UCF Football under head coach Scott Frost is just around the corner. Fans can explore all of the new ticket options at Spectrum Stadium by visiting WeRiseandConquer.com or calling (407) 823-1000.
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