In the aftermath of a disappointing 5-7 season in 2022, West Virginia’s coaching staff, led by head coach Neal Brown and defensive coordinator Jordan Lesley, took a hard look in the mirror. They realized that they had been focusing too much on complex strategies and not enough on the fundamentals of football. This realization led to a shift in their approach for the 2023 season, with a renewed emphasis on tackling, shedding blocks, and other basic skills.
Lesley admitted that in the previous season, they had made the mistake of overcomplicating things and vowed never to make that mistake again. The coaching staff dedicated themselves to getting back to the basics and being good at football. This change in mindset paid off, as the Mountaineers improved their defensive performance significantly in 2023.
One of the key factors in their defensive improvement was the team’s commitment to working on fundamental skills during practice. They focused on tackling, blocking, and other essential aspects of the game, which translated into better performance on the field. The coaching staff recognized the importance of building a strong foundation and ensuring that their players were well-prepared for game situations.
As they look ahead to the upcoming season, the Mountaineers are building on the progress they made in 2023. With a veteran team on both sides of the ball, they have a wealth of experience to draw upon. This experience, coupled with their renewed focus on fundamentals, bodes well for their prospects in the upcoming season.
Lesley highlighted the growth that the defense experienced in 2023, citing improvements in points allowed per game and total yards given up. The team’s commitment to being good at football paid dividends, and they are looking to continue that trend in the upcoming season. With a healthy and experienced team, the Mountaineers are poised to make even greater strides in 2023.
One of the key changes for the defense in the upcoming season is the positioning of Aubrey Burks, a standout defender, in a hybrid safety/linebacker role. This move allows Burks to showcase his athleticism and football IQ while adding a new dimension to the defense. The coaching staff believes that this adjustment will benefit both Burks and the team as a whole.
Overall, West Virginia’s defensive coordinator Jordan Lesley is optimistic about the team’s prospects for the upcoming season. With a renewed focus on fundamentals and a talented roster, the Mountaineers are well-positioned to build on their success from the previous year. As they continue to expand on their approach and fine-tune their strategies, West Virginia’s defense is poised to be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.
