Linebackers coach Vernon Hargreaves said freshman linebacker Dre Greenlaw made some freshman mistakes but overall he was pleased with his play. He said Greenlaw does some really good things in space, and he's pleased with his direction. Greenlaw said his background as a safety has helped him in facing spread teams. Brooks Ellis said they have to tackle better, get off the field by stopping them behind the chain…pretty simple. He said they're really focused on pressuring the quarterback and getting the quarterback off rhythm.
Regarding some missed assignments, Hargreaves said some of it has to do with what they're calling, how they're getting lined up and communication. He said they're working on getting those issues rectified. They have also focused on making sure everyone gets to the ball.
Hargreaves said injured linebacker Josh Williams "did some good things today," and he's looking forward to seeing him back out there. They will likely stick with the linebackers in the positions that are at for now but may change things depending on the opponent.
Defensive line coach Rory Segrest said they have to do a better job affecting the flight of the ball with the quarterback in the quick passing game. Segrest said A&M center Mike Matthews will be one of the best they will see this year and both tackles are really long. Like Ellis, Deatrich Wise said their main focus is to affect the quarterback and if it's not sacks then they want PBUs. He said they have to do a good job containing both quarterbacks. They had an up-tempo practice today, more up-tempo than they are used to. They worked on smart swarm and all defenders getting to the ball even if it's a deep ball. He also mentioned how well they're coached on the offensive line.
Taiwan Johnson said there should be some positive carryover from the last game in understanding what they did wrong and what they can do better heading into this one.
Wise said he has a lot of people from his hometown (Lewisville near Dallas) coming to the game and a lot of friends asking him about the game.
Secondary coach Clay Jennings said they have to do a better job on third down with communication and bringing their arms with their tackles. Cornerback Jared Collins said he is still adjusting to the cast on his right hand (he had an interception last week) but needs to forget about it and be a better tackler. Collins said the biggest difference with A&M receivers versus Texas Tech receivers is size.
