Crimson Red Sports

One spring priority for this position will be finding not one but two capable nose guards to replace what UA is losing in Chapman and Gentry. Based on the substitution patterns UA has used in the past, that means identifying a run stopper to play on first and second downs, and a more agile nose guard to play on third downs. The 3-4 defense begins with stopping the run on early downs, and that begins at the nose position. Hence, a guy like Brandon Ivory figures to be a key development in the spring for the first time in his career. Williams played end last year in games, but has gotten some practice time inside, and may get some more this spring. UA has significantly more experience at the end positions, but building depth is important at a position that will graduate three key players after the 2012 season. Leading the way will be Square, who has the most SEC experience of anyone in the unit.