UCF coordinator Williams encouraged by defense’s progress
As UCF football reaches the midway point of training camp, defensive coordinator Travis Williams is putting together the answers for his players.
“It’s getting closer,” Williams said Monday, two days after UCF’s second scrimmage in preparation for the opener at home against South Carolina State on Sept. 1 at 7 p.m.
Williams said linebacker remains the biggest question for the Knights’ defense.
“We have a good problem — I say problem because a lot of the guys are showing really good things,” he said. “They’re doing a good job.”
Although UCF has senior Jeremiah Jean-Baptiste back and has added transfers such as Terrence Lewis (Maryland), Jason Johnson (Eastern Illinois) and Branden Jennings (Kansas State) in addition to a pair of freshmen in TJ Bullard and Sanford Seminole product Kam Moore, there’s only so much room on the field for playing time.
“We actually have a linebacker this year for each situation,” Williams said.
While Williams didn’t share which linebacker fits which situation, he explained that the different roles include short-yardage scenarios, someone who’s an enforcer, linebackers who blitz and those who can provide pass coverage or stop the run.
“Now, it’s just putting those guys in the right seats so they’ll be able to make plays,” he said.
With so many new faces at linebacker, there’s been an emphasis off the field for the group to get to know each other. Activities have included fishing with Williams, eating lunch together and watching practice film with one another.
“They really like each other and that’s a good thing,” Williams said. “There’s no ego and they actually root for each other.”
Naturally, there’s bound to be some headaches once the games start and playing time is divided among the linebackers.
As the one making the decision on who gets on the field this season, Williams relies on what he considers a tell-all.
“One thing as a coach that you always have is film. The film never lies,” he said. “Even if you’re a competitor and you want to play, you can always go back to the film.
“The relationships, I’m pleased with how close they are.”
As Williams determines the linebacker hierarchy, he said he feels confident about the rest of the defense. Cornerback Corey Thornton has seen firsthand how UCF’s defense has progressed in Year Two under Williams.
“We’re more aggressive,” he said. “This is the second year with them, so we’re more comfortable.”
Thornton has high expectations for his team and knows that defense is crucial.
“We went 9-4 last year and now we’re trying to go undefeated,” he said. “Defense win games.”
Thornton kept his answer short when asked what his message is for teams who will try to target UCF’s secondary in the passing game.
“Don’t.”
Email Jason Beede at jbeede@orlandosentinel.com or follow him on Twitter at @therealBeede.
