Willie Totten believes Mississippi Valley State made some much-needed strides during spring practice, especially on defense.
The Delta Devils are trying to rebound from back-to-back losing seasons. Fixing one of the worst defenses in the Southwestern Athletic Conference is one of the main concerns for Totten and his coaching staff. And for good reason: the Delta Devils finished last in total defense the past two seasons under coordinator Dennis Winston and his 4-2-5 scheme.
MVSU also ranked ninth in the 10-team league in scoring defense the last years.
"Last year, we were young on defense, starting seven freshmen. We just didn't tackle well and gave up too many big plays," said Totten, whose team finished up spring drills Thursday. "I thought we tackled much better this spring."
Winston missed spring practice because he is recovering from hip replacement surgery, Totten said.
"We did change up the scheme a little, going back to a 4-3 defense," Totten said. "We're also going to play more zone and less man-to-man because we gave up too many easy touchdowns on big pass plays last year.
"We're bringing most everyone back on defense. Naturally, we hope that helps us get over the hump."
The eighth-year Valley head coach feels good about his pass-happy offensive attack, which returns the majority of his its starters, including the SWAC's second-leading passer last season in Paul Roberts.
Roberts completed 162-of-304 passes for 2,039 yards, 12 interceptions and 14 touchdowns.
He was ranked eighth, however, in passing efficiency in the SWAC.
"Paul played pretty well last season, but I've been very impressed with work ethic and leadership this spring," Totten said. "That's what you look for in your quarterback.
"He played well in our spring game. He executed the offense and made the right calls and check-offs. He just managed the offense well."
Totten and his staff will spend this week evaluating individual players on their spring performances and figuring out where the incoming freshmen will figure into next season.
The Delta Devils kick off the 2009 season Sept. 5 at Arkansas State.
