SEC Football:  The West’s Most Important Defensive Players in 2015

Sep 27, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies running back Trey Williams (1) runs with the ball against Arkansas Razorbacks safety Rohan Gaines (26) and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr (48) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

With the loss of Martrell Spaight, Darius Philon and Trey Flowers, the biggest keys in the turnaround of the Razorbacks’ defense, to the NFL… Arkansas must have solid contributions from the defensive line.

Deatrich Wise had a strong season in 2014 in the middle of Arkansas’ defensive line and must step up even more in 2015 for the Razorbacks to continue to grow.  Wise’s biggest responsibility will be that he replaces Philon.  He will be subjected to more double-teams without Spaight, Philon, and Flowers, so it will not be easy.

Philon produced 10.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 5 quarterback hurries and 45 tackles.  Wise reproducing those numbers with the added addition will mean Arkansas’ defense has a huge chance to keep the momentum building.  With fewer snaps, Wise produced 3 sacks… so it is very possible.

Next: LSU