Schedule Breakdown And Predictions: Central Michigan

Sep 20, 2014; Lawrence, KS, USA; Kansas Jayhawks tight end Jimmay Mundine (41) is tackled by Central Michigan Chippewas defensive back Tony Annese (18) and defensive back Kavon Frazier (5) in the second half at Memorial Stadium. Kansas won the game 24-10. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports

Defense

Defense was certainly the Chippewas’ forte last season, as their 355.5 yards allowed per game ranked first in the MAC, and 29th overall nationally.

Central Michigan utilized a successful 4-2-5 defensive scheme the last three seasons, but will return to a 4-3-4 scheme under new coordinator Greg Colby, who comes to Mount Pleasant after being let go as the defensive line coach under Tim Beckman at Illinois.

The Chippewas lose a few key starters from last season’s stout unit, but will still be formidable at the defensive line position, which will be anchored by senior end Blake Serpa and junior Joe Ostman, who combined for seven sacks and 22.5 tackles for loss last season.

CMU has plenty of inexperience at the linebacker position, but do return starting safeties Kavon Frazier and Jim Thorpe Award watchlist member Tony Annese, who were responsible for 133 tackles, four interceptions, and 13 pass deflections in 2014.

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