Among the best nationally, Gophers defense needs reinforcements

The Gophers defense ranked fifth nationally in fewest yards allowed (285.7 per game) and ninth in fewest points allowed (16.9) last year, relying on depth up front, steady play at linebacker and playmakers in the secondary.

This year, Danny Collins takes over as coordinator after Corey Hetherman left for Miami (Fla.), and he’ll be tasked to fill some key starting roles and develop depth, especially on the defensive line, in order to maintain those lofty stats.

Here’s a look at four defensive position battles for the Gophers, plus one on special teams:

Last year’s cornerback starters, Justin Walley and Ethan Robinson, exhausted their eligibility, and redshirt sophomore Za’Quan Bryan, who started three games last year, appears to be in line to secure one job. At the other corner, Iowa transfer John Nestor and redshirt freshman Mike Gerald appear to be battling for the job, with North Carolina Central transfer Jaylen Bowden and speedy true freshman Naiim Parrish in the mix for playing time. Nestor was a valuable reserve for the Hawkeyes, playing 20 games over the past two seasons, while Gerald has made a strong impression during camp.

The Gophers’ starters on the interior defensive line — Deven Eastern and Jalen Logan-Redding — are entering their third seasons in their roles, but the depth behind them is inexperienced. Redshirt freshman Riley Sunram has had his moments during training camp, and redshirt senior Nate Becker has seen action in 15 career games. Rushawn Lawrence, a transfer from Stony Brook, has 27 games at the FCS level to his credit. Missing from the mix are Purdue transfer Mo Omonode and Theorin Randle because of injuries.

Anthony Smith has one spot locked down, while sophomore Jaxon Howard’s hold on the other end position isn’t secure. The 6-4, 250-pound transfer from LSU played in 10 games last year, collecting nine tackles. He’s being pushed by senior Lucas Finnessy and sophomore Karter Menz.

With Cody Lindenberg off to the Las Vegas Raiders, junior Maverick Baranowski is in line to man one starting job, while senior Devon Williams, a starter in 2023, has the inside track on the second spot. When the Gophers use a three-linebacker alignment, they have a mix of talent and experience to call upon. Redshirt sophomore Matt Kingsbury has stood out during training camp, and the staff will have trouble keeping him on the sideline. Oklahoma State transfer Jeff Roberson missed some time in camp because of an injury but was back practicing last week. He has 38 career games to his credit. Don’t sleep on true freshman Emmanuel Karmo, the four-star recruit out of Cooper whose athleticism is intriguing. Coach P.J. Fleck said the staff will find a way to get Karmo on the field.