So far in the countdown we’ve been kind to the big guys on the offensive line. It’s time we showed some love for the interior defensive linemen now…
#14 Dominique Easley
The Florida Gator defense is the unit that is supposed to bring Will Muschamp’s team to glory, and Dominique Easley is the key component to that unit. With Sharif Floyd gone from that defensive line, it’s time for Easley to step up.
This defensive tackle missed out on two games due to injury, but he still managed to lead the team in sacks with four, and he’s the leading returner in tackles for loss with eight and a half. For an interior lineman to come up with numbers like these on a defense with other stars means he’s doing something right.
The numbers don’t begin to tell the story here though, as is the case with most players at this position. Easley played defensive tackle in 2011 and was a force inside, but moved to a more suitable defensive end spot in 2012. He can play either, but at 280lbs, end is more ideal for his size and speed. He eats up blockers, forces quick throws and alters an opponent’s game plan.
Now that Floyd and Matt Elam are gone, Easley is the man on this defense. If he wants to truly live up to his billing, this is the year for him. The Gator’s schedule has plenty of big games for him to showcase his talents and put his name firmly in the first round of next year’s NFL draft.
It has gotten to a point where you expect a handful of nobodies from LSU’s defense to step into starting roles and become All-SEC caliber players every year. As a sophomore Barrow had 17 tackles. A year later, he had over 100. That’s how you quickly make a name for yourself.
