Fourth-and-blog

Defensive shakeup

Posted by: Bob Asmussen

Wednesday, October 1, 2008 6:41 PM

Ron Zook talked Tuesday about making changes on his defense. He said he wasn't talking about wholesale lineup changes, but did mention the idea of getting more people on the field.

It doesn't take a gigantic intellectual leap to conclude that one of those players who might see less time is linebacker Martez Wilson. Though he's as physically gifted as any player the school has ever had, Wilson still isn't playing the way Zook had hoped he would.

It isn't a lack of effort. Or ability. Or mental preparation. For some reason, Wilson just can't make the jump from good player to great, even though his talents would suggest it's coming.

Don't think about writing Wilson off. Give him some down time, with less pressure, and it might all come together for him.

Maybe too much pressure was placed on Wilson, who is a great kid. Being on the Butkus list before you start a game is high praise and, for some people, high stress. He had to start.  He's too talented not to. But maybe being on the bench at the start of the game might be best for him. Let him play a bunch of special teams and forget about all the stuff whirring around him.

We'll see what happens. Michigan's struggling offense might be the perfect solution for Wilson, who can get in the backfield and make a sack or two.

 

 

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