UConn relies on veteran defensive front for Saturday season opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 7:21 PM
Last updated Sep 2, 2026
UConn enters its season-opening game against Lafayette this Saturday with a reconfigured defensive front led by a group of experienced transfers. New head coach Jason Candle shifts the team to a four-man defensive line, moving away from the previous 3-3-5 scheme utilized under former coordinator Matt Brock. The front seven features captains Avery Dunn, K’Von Sherman, and John Lista, who bring experience from various programs to Ryan Manalac’s defensive system. The coaching staff intends to utilize a deep rotation of linemen, including transfers such as Esean Carter, Andrew Laurich, and Joshua Mickens. While the defensive front draws focus for its physical and fast approach, the secondary remains younger and currently features players looking to establish themselves as reliable starters.
- •UConn plays its season-opening game against Lafayette this Saturday.
- •The defense transitions to a four-man line under coordinator Ryan Manalac.
- •Avery Dunn, Ty Chan, K’Von Sherman, and John Lista serve as team captains.
- •The roster incorporates multiple transfers from programs like Toledo, Ohio State, and Duke.
- •Coaches expect to rotate several players on the defensive line to maintain pressure.
- 7:21 PMYahoo Sports — UConn football expecting ‘big things’ out of its veteran defensive front seven
"STORRS – UConn’s defensive front is ready to get after an opponent. The Huskies’ most-known commodity entering Saturday’s season-opener against Lafayette, the front seven features a number of older players with proven experience at their previous stops now looking to wreak havoc in Ryan Manalac’s system. Both the defensive line and linebacker rooms – deep with talent – have impressed new head ...
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