Five to mull

The Gophers defense has some questions heading into Saturday's season opener. Here are five to consider.

Last update: August 27, 2007 - 12:15 AM

The Gophers defense has some questions heading into Saturday's season opener. Here are five to consider:

1. WILL THE DEFENSE BE BETTER?

That is an annual question. Defensive coordinator Everett Withers has brought in a more aggressive and attacking scheme. The players love the system, but they have to produce in games.

2. WHERE IS THE BIGGEST UPGRADE?

Defensive line. That hasn't been the case in recent years. But the line has far more depth than in years past and Withers constantly moves the front to keep the offense off balance. Keep an eye on junior college transfer Derrick Onwuachi at defensive end.

3. WHAT IS THE DEFENSE'S BIGGEST CONCERN?

Secondary, especially at cornerback. Senior Desi Steib has yet to show he can be a consistent performer at this level, and behind him is true freshman Ryan Collado. Two more true freshmen, Curtis Thomas and Kyle Theret, will also see significant playing time at safety. That's a lot of inexperience.

4. CAN WILLIE VANDESTEEG DUPLICATE HIS 10-SACK PERFORMANCE FROM 2006?

Maybe. VanDeSteeg is a bona fide star. Plus, he is a star who wants to get better. The junior defensive end had a strong offseason and training camp and has a real chance to be first-team all-Big Ten this season.

5. HOW IS THE LINEBACKER CORPS?

The starters are solid, but there are depth concerns after that. John Shevlin, Mike Sherels and Steve Davis are veteran players with a lot of experience. All three are also capable of being playmakers in Withers' defense. But the Gophers need those three to stay healthy.

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