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Which Tulane Defensive Players Could Shine Against Tulsa?
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- Which Tulane Defensive Players Could Shine Against Tulsa?
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The Tulane Green Wave's defense found a way to come together late in the team's win against the Charlotte 49ers, but to be fully transparent, the unit struggled heavily through much of the contest.
Defensive problems have been a bit of a theme this season for the Green Wave, and the unit consistently ranks among the worst in the American Conference. The group will stay busy on the field this weekend against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane -- a team that boasts one of the better offenses in the league.
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Despite some shortcomings, a handful of players have put together strong campaigns this year for Tulane. Here's a look at which defensive playmakers could have the biggest impact on the game.
LB Makai Williams
Out of everyone on the team, Williams has had arguably the biggest jump this year.
The senior linebacker did a little bit of everything against Tulsa, and his impact was felt all over the field. Williams finished the night with six tackles, two tackles-for-loss, one sack, one pass breakup and one quarterback hurry. He's been consistently getting better throughout the season and has quickly become a defensive leader.
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Williams should find more success this weekend as he continues putting together a season to remember. He gives it his all every week, and that will never change.
DE Warren Roberts Jr.
Roberts is stepping up in a big way.
The redshirt freshman has become one of the defensive line's strongest pieces, and he is poised to become another Tulane great by the time it's all said and done. Roberts stood out against the Golden Hurricane, picking up four tackles, one tackle-for-loss and one sack. His stats haven't always been the flashiest, but he's cemented himself as a difference-maker in the trenches.
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Roberts has seen his playing time grow -- as he should -- and is expected to contribute just as significantly through the rest of the season.
DB TJ Smith
Smith should be recognized as both a defensive and special teams player to watch.
The defensive back and reigning American Conference Special Teams Player of the Week is coming off of a performance in which he returned a kick for a touchdown and looked strong in the secondary with a pass breakup. He's looked like the Green Wave's best cornerback, and he is sixth in the league with a Pro Football Network grade of 80.5 so far this year.
Smith has had a strong few weeks, and he's got plenty of momentum on his side. How much noise will he be able to make this weekend?
