University of Cincinnati linebacker Perry Young says the defense is much more prepared, comfortable in 2nd year under Luke Fickell. Tom Groeschen, tgroeschen@enquirer.com
WEST HARRISON, Ind. - Luke Fickell built his football coaching reputation as a defensive assistant at Ohio State. At the University of Cincinnati, the second-year head coach is demanding major improvement in 2018 after the Bearcats ranked 93rd nationally in scoring defense (31.8 ppg) last year.
Fickell's fellow Ohio State alumnus, Marcus Freeman, also returns for his second year as UC defensive coordinator as the staff seeks more pressure on the quarterback and more "disruption" plays.