After surrendering just 25.9 points per game in 2019, the Broncos defense took a step back in some games in 2020. Excluding the game against a developing Akron offense, Western Michigan’s defense did not have the 2020 campaign it envisioned, surrendering 38.4 points per game.
Coaches and players generally do not make excuses, but I do, when the situation calls for it, and I think injuries had a fair amount to do with the Broncos’ 2020 defensive performance in most games.
Multiple key defenders missed games or tried to play through obvious injuries in 2020. Tough guys, just not as effective.