It is no secret that the Eastern Michigan defense struggled a season ago. Out of their six games, they held just one team under 30 points and were gashed by opponents, especially on the ground, as teams averaged 241 yards rushing per game and a 5.3 yards per carry average.
Overall, the Eagles allowed 492 total yards and 36 points per game, and struggled to get home, with the team combining for just nine total sacks on the season. Granted, some of the numbers were due to mounting injuries, but the defense must improve against the run if the Eagles expect to make a run towards Detroit.