Yesterday, we broke down our four biggest offensive predictions. There, we analyzed incoming talents, the promotion of offensive coordinator Jim Zebrowksi, and much more. Today, we wanted to do the same but for the opposite side of the ball with defensive coordinator D.K. McDonald.
The Jayhawks rush defense takes a minimal step forward
Last season, game after game, Kansas allowed decent yards on the ground. So much that the Jayhawks allowed the seventh-worst rush defense in the Big 12 last season, allowing 153 yards per game.
The staff realized this and went hard into the portal and picked up five three-stars, all looking to make an impact on this squad. Newly promoted defensive coordinator D.K. McDonald reeled in edge rushers Leroy Harris III from Chattanooga, Justice Finkley from Texas, and Caleb Redd from Kentucky. Combine that with the defensive tackles Alex Bray from Illinois and Gage Keys from Auburn.
Ratings are taken from 247Sports.
Kansas pass defense improves their aerial prowess
The Jayhawks allowed the fourth-worst pass defense in the Big 12 last season, allowing 239 yards a game.
This wasn't that bad as only 20 yards less through the air would have bumped them down to 10th.
McDonald was able to bring in cornerbacks Syeed Gibbs from Georgia Tech, DJ Graham II from Utah State, and Jahlil Hurley from Alabama.
In the safety spot Laquan Robinson hails from Auburn and Lyrik Rawls from Oklahoma State. All those are three-star prospects.
Kansas must improve on third-down conversion rates
Kansas had a number of heartbreaking plays last season on crucial third downs, and the numbers do not reflect anything different.
The Jayhawks marked a staggering 44% of third downs allowed last season.
This is something that needs mass restructuring. With the improved numbers on the defensive front and the secondary core, things should hopefully improve with that. Even if Kansas moved this number by four percent, it would improve Kansas by four spots.
Kansas keeps the same amount of sacks from last season
28 total sacks last year for Kansas made them a threat on nearly every down. The one thing you can likely tip your hat on next season is going to be McDonald's ability to get to the quarterback.
Final thoughts
D.K. McDonald will have a tall task next season. The Big 12 is always going to be thought of as a pass-heavy conference, and this Kansas side needs improvements in that facet. In this piece, we haven't discussed the incoming transfer of linebacker Bangally Kamara because he is someone we think will pose a threat through the air and on the ground. Kamara will be a linchpin, and to see him at his best would mean all four of these goals are going to be much more easily attained.