Bud Foster’s defense is recognized across the country as having one of the more talented secondaries virtually every year. However, last season’s performance was a disappointment to say the least. Last year’s defense totaled the lowest number of sacks (26) and interceptions (10) in over decade. After a major overhaul with the coaching staff, there was no better time for Foster to go through a defensive makeover than now.

When Foster’s defense was at its best, he had two key factors that helped build a top-tier defense. First was establishing a relentless pass rush from his defensive front. Having speedy defensive ends with tackles that can clog lanes and cause havoc inside has been a great recipe up front. Secondly, he showcased a talented lockdown corner in his defensive secondary. Every defensive coordinator knows if you can pressure the quarterback and have the ability to shutdown one side of the field, you are capable of dominating a football game on defense by dictating the pace of the game.

In years past, the defense was able to achieve this when they had shutdown corners such as DeAngelo Hall, Jimmy Williams, Brandon Flowers, and both Fuller brothers – Kyle and Kendall. In a recent interview with Roanoke Times writer Andy Bitter, Foster was quoted “If you can put a stud, lockdown corner at least to one side of the field, that’s always been one of our strengths.”

Alexander to Cornerback

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