Monmouth football fall camp highlights competition and defensive strength

As Monmouth football's fall training camp progresses, coaches are observing heightened competition among players. The Hawks, ranked No. 22 in preseason polls, prepare for their season opener against No. 14 Tennessee Tech on August 29. Defensive leaders Charlie Sasso and Jaeden Jones have emerged, with Jones earning recognition as the Coastal Athletic Association's Preseason Defensive Player of the Year. Monmouth's defensive unit shows promise, driven by strong performances from returning starters and motivated by the memory of late defensive coordinator Louis DiRienzo Jr. The team is focusing on building chemistry and communication as they adapt to new schemes ahead of the upcoming season.

• 9:01 AMYahoo Sports — 4 takeaways from the second week of Monmouth football fall camp