Liberty’s 2023 defensive line was one that was a work in progress.
The Flames were coming off a season in 2022 that the defensive line was arguably the strength of the team with its ability to pressure the quarterback and wreak havoc on opposing backfields. In 2023, Liberty had several young and new faces that stepped into the limelight. Now, entering 2024, this unit looks poised to take the next step and help improve the defensive front.
Guys like TJ Bush, Bryce Dixon, and CJ Bazile all got significant reps last fall in their first year playing a prominent role for the Flames. As a true freshman, Bush started every game at defensive end. He finished the season wi th 32 tackles, 7 tackles for loss and 2 sacks. He has spent the spring focusing on his ability to rush the passer. Couple that with the extra year of development at the college level, and Bush could be poised to break out into an all-conference type performer.
Former Georgia Tech transfer Gray Carroll provides depth behind Bush. He held that position in 2023, his first year in the program, and, like Bush and some others, Carroll should also take a step forward this season. Larry Jones III is also a name to watch that could be used in specific packages where he can showcase his ability to rush the passer.
On the interior of the line, Liberty will turn to Jay Hardy and Bryce Dixon to anchor the unit up front with Chris Boti being a valuable member of the interior rotation as well. Hardy finished 2023 with 31 tackles, 5 TFLs, and 2 sacks while Dixon had 35 tackles, 3.5 TFLs, and 1.5 sacks. Both of them will enter the year expected to compete for starting spots while providing valuable experience for the team on the defensive line.
Chris Boti received additional playing time while Kendy Charles was fighting through injuries throughout much of the year. Boti also missed some time, but he still finished the season with 15 tackles, 3.5 TFLs, and 2.5 sacks. In addition to Boti, the Flames could also utilize Wake Forest transfer Eli Hall to help solidify the interior of the line. Redshirt-freshman Eliyt Nairne played in three games last year and could also provide some depth.
At the Joker position, Bazile also brings back some experience for the Flames. Last year, his second season with the program, he finished with 49 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, and 11 quarterback hurries. Bazile showcased his ability to rush the passer and he should only get better with additional experience.
Behind Bazile, Bryson Jennings is the most likely to step into the second string role where he can provide valuable depth for the Flames.
