Ball State eyes rotation system to keep defense healthy

Late-game defense is a necessity for the Ball State football team. 

The unit struggled to get off the field at times last year, and yielded about 27 points per game by season's end. Often the defense started well, but wore down by the fourth quarter.

Injuries and lack of stamina plagued the Cardinals' defense last season. But head coach Pete Lembo is looking for a turnaround this season by rotating players during games. 

“I would say the challenge in the fourth quarter for us last year was that we had so many injuries that we were not able to play as many guys that we'd like to play,” Lembo said. “One of the things you hope to be able to do ... is rotate some guys through and keep them fresh.”

A healthy defense is a must if Ball State wants to improve its 5-7 record from last season. The Cardinals return several starters from last season's team, including a strong group of linebackers led by fifth-year senior Ben Ingle, senior Zack Ryan and junior Sean Wiggins. 

While defensive schemes are important, Ingle said stopping the other team's offense comes down to how hard they play.

“110 percent effort,” Ingle said. “All the guys are getting to the ball. We put a big emphasis on that, and just playing hard every play.”

In addition to the veteran players, several inexperienced players had chances through the spring and summer to impress and fill holes left by graduation and transfers.

Lembo said many guys have stepped up to the plate, but one specific player that comes to mind is Wiggins. He has played in 24 games over the last two seasons and recorded 86 tackles.

More importantly, Wiggins can play both inside linebacker positions.

Versatility will be key if Lembo's rotation strategy is to work this season. If Wiggins can stay healthy, the Cardinals will have three guys that can play multiple positions.

Ingle says demanding practices from the summer will benefit the team when they begin the season in a week.

“We've really been practicing the pursuit to the ball and that gets you ready for games,” Ingle said. “We're practicing so hard this year and it's really paying off for us.”

Offense and putting points on the board are important, but Lembo values defense first.

“It's all about playing as a cohesive group," Lembo said. "That's the key to defense.”

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