Our first stop on the defensive side will be at the defensive end position. The biggest name on the line is reigning MAC Defensive Player of the Year, Adrian Robinson. After starting 10 games in 2009, the Harrisburg, PA native compiled a conference high 13 sacks. He also led the team in forced fumbles (5), tackles for loss (14), and finished the season with 46 tackles. Heading into 2010, Robinson is a member of the Bronko Nagurski Trophy watch list, as well as the Chuck Bednarik Award watch list.
Backing up Robinson will be Morris Blueford and Sean Daniels. Blueford, a redshirt junior, played in 12 games last season, starting in four of those. He finished with 26 tackles and three sacks, but will be stuck behind Robinson, so his playing time will be limited.
Freshman Sean Daniels has a bright future ahead of him. He won't see too much time at defensive end this season, but he will learn a lot from Robinson and Blueford. As a senior in high school, Daniels also played running back, rushing 1,365 yards with 14 touchdowns, and also had 61 tackles with 3.5 sacks. His athleticism will be a great asset for him heading into his time as a Temple Owl.
At the other side of the line, Shahid Paulhill looks to be the leading candidate for the job. He was redshirted last season, but played in the Big 33 All-Star game following his high school senior season. The potential for Paulhill gives him the advantage in this positional battle, but Kamal Johnson, another redshirt freshman, will also get some shots to prove himself during the season. Coming out of high school, Johnson chose Temple over the likes of South Florida and Syracuse, and was an All-State honoree for Willingboro H.S. Both of these young talents will get their chances to claim the starting gig, but expect Paulhill to get the first opportunity.
Starting up front at defensive tackle is Muhammad Wilkerson. He had a great 2009 campaign, starting all 13 games, finishing the season with 61 tackles, seven sacks, and 10.5 tackles for loss. The Linden, NJ native was named a First-Team All-MAC honoree, and will look to do the same in 2010.
Behind the 6-foot-5, 305 lb. Wilkerson is Jaimen Newman, a freshman defensive tackle. As a senior at Matoaca (located in Virginia), Newman recorded 14 sacks and 40 tackles. He also had six sacks in his junior season. Once Wilkerson graduates, Newman will have gained a lot of experience, and should be a vital part to the Owls' defense down the road.
Starting alongside Wilkerson is senior Elisha Joseph. He's never been a full-time starter, receiving three starts in 2009, as well as 2008, and one start in his freshman year. But he should be a key contributor on Temple's defense this season, as he will be getting a lot of action in 2010.
Behind Joseph is sophomore Jeff Whittingham. He entered his freshman year as an offensive linemen, but converted to the defensive line this spring. We'll have to see how his decision to switch pays off before we can judge him.
Next up in 12 Positions in 12 Days: Linebackers!
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