(S9) - PT 5 - Revisiting Expectations

[GoonerBear]

Kolby Deringer finished second in the DSFL in tackles, was among a few who forced a fumble at all and fewer who forced two, recorded two tackles for loss, an interception and four pass deflections. It is only at the back end of this season, I realize the expectations spoken of earlier were based on a different defensive setup that worked at a different time and did not in this iteration.

LBs were plotted better against and sacks from the second level fell off almost entirely. The bulk of duty was to get the tackle and secure it before they hit the first-down marker. Not getting the flashy play meant no DPotG honors in the regular season, though with a 9-5 campaign and home-field in the NFC Final, the aid to the team effort matters more now.

It was a bit disappointing for that, though understandable that it couldn't last and someone would find some way to stop that tactic from working. All in all, though, still at least one of the best LBs in the S9 NSFL Draft class, one of the best in this DSFL campaign and looking strong headed into the playoffs and into the pros from here. I'm still of firm belief this sets a record to consider Deringer for League award nominations, even if I'm not as certain now of him achieving top honors.