As the Hurricanes gear up for another season, one position that should be much improved is a historically great one at The U – the linebackers. The unit has seen numerous changes, including the addition of Coach Derek Nicholson, who, in a candid interview with Don Bailey Jr., gives us a peek into what we can expect from the linebacker core this year.
Speaking about Francisco "Kiko" Mauigoa, Nicholson remarked, "Francisco,' transferred from Washington State and arrived here this spring. He has done an unbelievable job, not only from a play standpoint – being consistent, being that man in the middle making plays for us in spring practices and fall camp – but he's also been a leader for us. He's not the most vocal, but he leads by example, showing his work ethic in practice, meetings, and preparation."
On veteran Corey Flagg, Nicholson observes the player's impressive growth since February, stating, "Since I arrived here in February, he [Corey Flagg] is one of the players that probably has made the biggest improvement in his game. In the spring, he wasn't able to play or finish all of spring due to some nagging stuff going on with his body. But he's come out this fall camp, and he's done an unbelievable job. He's a player who's played a lot of football for us, but it's the little things – from a technique standpoint, understanding his self-analysis, his strengths, his weaknesses – that he has significantly improved upon during this fall camp. We're excited about his improvement, his transformation within this new scheme and defense, and looking forward to watching him perform."
Nicholson also touched on the strategy of cross-training. “We’re going to play quite a few guys at different spots… it's not that hard to go from Mike to Will to Sam," he added, hinting at the versatility we can expect from the linebackers this season.
"New Transfers Making an Impact" Another transfer standout mentioned by Nicholson was KJ Cloyd, a recent transfer from the University of Louisville. Describing him as a player who brings a physical aspect to the team, Nicholson noted, "He's every bit six two, he's around 228 to 230 pounds right now... and he's physically strong, he's violent." Clearly, Nicholson sees potential in Cloyd, as he coached him previously at Louisville.
"The Future is Bright: Freshmen to Watch" Expressing his excitement about the freshmen linebackers Raul “Popo” Aguirre, Marcellius Pulliam, Bobby Washington, and Malik Bryant, Nicholson didn't hide his enthusiasm. "They're all over six foot... they're all 220 plus." These freshmen bring size and agility to the team, promising a dynamic defense that the Canes have been known for.
"The Aggressive Defense Approach" Discussing the defensive scheme under new defensive coordinator Lance Guidry, Nicholson remarked, "This defense is aggressive in nature... this scheme allows those guys, especially at the mike, the will, and the Sam, to utilize their length, their speed, their athleticism to go out there and make plays."
