There’s been speculation surrounding the job security of Michigan Wolverines defensive coordinator Don Brown following yet another blowout loss to the rival Ohio State Buckeyes on November 30.
He and his defense will have their hands full with the Alabama Crimson Tide in their Citrus Bowl matchup on January 1 in Orlando. While quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will not be playing, capable backup Mac Jones will be under center for the Tide.
Brown described the challenge that his defense will be facing in Jones, describing him as both capable and a solid competitor.
“Doesn’t run very much, but neither did Tua,” Brown said. “But he is a very capable pocket thrower. Has a great understanding of their offense and is a very solid competitor. I haven’t seen much differently. Obviously, you look at the Auburn game and it’s a 48-45 shootout. He was going step for step with Auburn as well. He’s a good quarterback. He’s very capable. He can make all the throws. He’s certainly going to present us some challenges.”
Currently, Jones is a 70% passer who has thrown 11 touchdowns.
However, Brown has confidence in his guys will be ready to face the Tide.
“We’re pretty talented up front as well,” Brown said. “Aidan Hutchinson’s really had a tremendous year. Really all the way through. So obviously he and Kwity Paye and Mike Danna will all three of those guys divide pretty much the tackle’s attention, both tackle’s attention. We feel like we matchup there really well. But obviously the one thing, when you think about us, we can’t be stagnant. We can’t stand still in front of them. We’ve gotta move and groove and do the things that have gotten us to be fifth or sixth in the country in total defense.”