SE DEFENSE PUTS PRIORITY ON SPEED

Following is a position-by-position look at Southeast Missouri State University's defense:

Defensive Line

This unit appears to be thin in numbers, but there is talent, particularly at the tackle spots, where sophomores James Jennette and Marshall transfer Jermaine Motley figure to rule.

Jennette was impressive as a true freshman last season, recording 40 tackles, including 10 tackles for losses. He is the Indians' second-leading returning tackler from a year ago but a broken hand suffered during preseason practice makes him questionable for the opener.

Senior DeMond Williams and junior Charlie Sorter, a converted linebacker, are penciled in at the end positions. Both saw limited action last year, with Sorter recording 10 tackles.

Senior Chad Gwilliam, a part-time starter last year, should see plenty of time at tackle; he is Southeast's third-leading returning tackler with 31 stops.

Senior Rodney Woodall, who saw limited action at linebacker last year, was only recently moved to end and has been impressive.

Among others who could see some action are senior Jonathan Ervin and true freshman Travis Bucher at tackle, along with sophomores Kent Langston and Tatum Kitchen at end.

Linebacker

None of the three projected starters has ever played a down for Southeast at this position, but coach Tim Billings still believes it's an extremely talented group, especially from a speed standpoint.

Senior Asim Thomas was a part-time starter at safety last year, recording 10 tackles. Junior Sturg Cumberford saw limited action at fullback the past two seasons. Junior Corey Mathis was a standout safety in the junior-college ranks a year ago.

Senior Kermith Williams, who saw limited action last year, and sophomore Tyson Gooch are among others expected to contribute while sophomore Justin Hayes and true freshman Travion Brock could also help out. Gooch and Hayes both redshirted last season.

Secondary

This is by far the Indians' most experienced defensive position, with three players who were at least part-time starters last season.

Senior safety Isaac Powell is entering his third season as a starter. He is the team's top returning tackler, his 80 stops ranking fourth on last year's squad, and he also intercepted three passes in 1999, giving him six for his career.

Senior Joe Williams, who had 10 tackles in limited playing time last year, will man the other safety spot.

At cornerback, the listed starters are juniors Isaac Huddleston, who redshirted last year, and Ed McCray, who saw limited playing time.

Junior Andre Clark and sophomore Demar Winston both saw starting action at the corners last year, each recording 27 tackles.

Junior safety Leotis Belcher saw limited action last year while a pair of true freshman, corner Marco Tipton and safety Bruce Turner, have been impressive in the preseason. Sophomore safety Greg Westermayer, who redshirted last year, is also in the hunt for playing time.

Punter

Junior Jason Witczak, a Marshall transfer, has been booming the ball in preseason practice and could make this position a strength.