This is the latest in our series of stories previewing the 2018 Washington State Cougars football season. For other installments, click here.
Last year was a revelation for the WSU defense. The Cougs finished the season ranked 16th in the nation in total defense, vaulting up from 62nd in 2016 and 84th in 2015 (rankings are via CFBStats.com). They shut out two opponents and just about single-handedly won the game at Utah with seven takeaways.