The team went 6-7 last season, its final defeat coming to San Jose State in its first bowl game, the Cure Bowl in Orlando.

Coach Trent Miles’ squad returns nine starters on defense, six or seven on offense and has a depth that it hasn’t since he took over three seasons ago.

Continuing the position group breakdown.

Defensive line

Who is competing? This group is dominated by seniors: Shawanye Lawrence, Jalen Lawrence, Tevin Jones, Carnell Hopson and Tevin Jones. Mackendy Cheridor, DeQueszman Kelley, Will Cunningham and Julien Laurent will be redshirt juniors. Also in the mix are freshmen Terry Thomas and Clifford Amazan.

Key stat? Two, one good and one bad: the run defense improved by more 122 yards per game compared to 2014, allowing 181.4 yards per game last season. However, the linemen combined for 5 ½ sacks. Cheridor had 3, Hopson 2. That's not enough.

Who has the edge? The starters will most certainly be Shawanye Lawrence (41 tackles, 3 ½ for loss), Jalen Lawrence (21 tackles, 1 ½ for loss) and Cheridor (34 tackles). The remaining players will be used in certain packages, situations or injuries. The good news is the group is so deep that defensive coordinator Jesse Minter and position coach Rick Minter can platoon players, if they want. They will also have the luxury of redshirting certain players, should they decide.

If the line can help the defense reduce those rushing yards per game at the same rate as they did last year, the defense should be considered one of the best in the Sun Belt this season.

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