[Stardust]

Understanding defense
In his second spring running Kentucky’s defense, coordinator Rick Minter said “it’s not even close” how much better the players understand his scheme than at this time last year. Minter is hopeful that’ll help offset the fact that the Cats have to replace six starters on defense.

“We’re not as talented because we’re a much younger football team, but if we know what to do, we have a chance to play,” said Minter, who channeled his inner poet. “Those that have returned and those that have learned are now stepping up, taking their turn. It’s coming to them faster than the group last year because of having heard it before. So we’re a little bit further along in the scheme.”

Minter said he expects the defensive line to be a strength for UK this fall, led by defensive tackles Mister Cobble and Donte Rumph, whom he called “warriors.” He also singled out linebacker Avery Williamson and defensive backs Martavius Neloms and Cartier Rice, both seniors.

“Our older players are playing like older players,” Minter said.http://www.courier-journal.com/article/2...t|Sports|p