It might seem easy, at least form an outside observation point, to identify the starter and prime backups on a football team. It's whoever plays best, whoever "makes plays", right?
Impact performers certainly grab the attention of coaches, but the first impressions created on the practice field often are modified after film study and review, according to defensive line coach Erik Slaughter. In this interview, he explains the process he uses to evaluate his players, and also discusses how his defense gets work in all of the situations it needs practice for.