re: The returning starter argument

Edwin was hurt but on par with Gilmore probably even as a freshman. He’s obviously an upgrade.

Breiden is an overall better athlete than Lac but his technique is poor right now

Chaisson is going to be one of the most important pieces this season. He’s really our only good pash rusher at OLB.

Replacing Thompson is tough. He’s a guy with safety skills but the physicality of a linebacker. He was taking on blocks and setting the edge like a champion. If he played more against State I think the defense would’ve been a lot better.

ETA: both Thornton and Divinity can match Thompson’s physicality but I doubt they can replace his athleticism at that field position. Divinity can probably drop a little better and Thornton has tremendous length to take on blocks.