Defense is deep all around for Wildcats

by Jason Stone

SurpriseLights.com

Aug. 31, 2007

Willow Canyon football coach Michael Hudnutt is the kind of coach that thinks the best defense is a good offense. The Wildcats’ run-dominated offense is designed to eat up big chunks of time on the clock and keep the opponents’ defense on the field more than their own.

That doesn’t mean Hudnutt doesn’t have faith in his defense heading into the 2007 season. Quite the contrary.

In the Wildcats’ 4-3 base, talented linemen are welcome and Hudnutt certainly has a few to choose from.

In addition to double-duty from key offensive players K.C. Simmons, Gilbert Linares and Justin Jones, Hudnutt will have the services of Joey Tucker, James Forness and Josue Howerton on the defensive line.

To keep players fresh, Hudnutt said he plans to alternate who starts on the offense and defensive lines.

A host of up-and-coming linebackers will help support the line.  Cody Taylor is expected to start at one of the linebacker positions, joining junior Eugene Salsberry and Chris Huber. Hudnutt also is encourage by the play of Collin Stoffel, Micah Henige and Joey Cota on defense.

The secondary also has depth with Scott, two-year starter Justin Weber, Cody Skavarek and Daniel Zamora holding down the cornerback position.

Safeties to watch include Daniel Torres, Chris Robinson and Mason Hughes.

Willow Canyon Offense Preview