Football | 9/1/2019 4:00:00 PM

    The West Liberty University defensive line has established a tradition of excellence over the years and Coach Roger Waialae's 2019 group appears primed to build on that legacy.
    "I really like the experience and depth we have up front," Waialae said. "We have the most speed on the perimeter that we've had in a very long time and we have some guys inside who are proven difference-makers. The best part is that we have enough talent to run a 6 or 7-man rotation on the outside and inside. With 12 to 14 guys rotating in and out, we should be able to keep everybody fresh and fast."
    Senior Cody Rine (6-4, 300) and junior Cody Enrietti (6-3, 255) are returning starters at the two down tackle spots. Rine, an All-MEC selection a year ago, could be poised for a breakout year after successful off-season surgery while Enrietti has been outstanding during the preseason.
    Returning lettermen Brendan Nichols (6-3, 270) and Francesco Borsellino (6-2, 290) join juco transfer Lupeni Fonua (6-4, 255) as key members of the inside rotation along with true freshmen Dell'Von McIntyre (6-2, 270) and Michael Cullinane (6-3, 275). Sophomore Trevor Cherry (6-1, 275) adds even more size and depth.
    Sophomores Kenyon Felder (6-2, 250) and David Gilcreast (6-3, 225) will get the starting nod at defensive end. Felder missed last season due to injury after turning in an impressive true freshman campaign in 2017 while Gilcreast had 22 tackles and 6 tackles-for-loss as a redshirt freshman last fall.
    Junior Zach Haught (6-4, 240) and converted linebacker Jack Davis (6-1, 210) will be in the rotation along with the true freshman tandem of Desmond Powell (5-10, 240) and Zach Vincenti (6-1, 240). Returning starter Trevor Hoosier (6-5, 240) will sit out 2019 on injury rehab.
    "We also have some versatility here," Waialae noted. "Depending on the matchups, Enrietti and Nichols could also move outside to give us a 'big' package. We're looking for a big year from our defensive front."
    Action gets under way Saturday when West Liberty makes the short trip down Route 88 for the 1 p.m. season opener at Wheeling.