Zac Alley Preaches Fixing Containment Issues to Improve WVU Defense

After a stellar first half against Coastal Carolina, WVU football struggled to keep freshman quarterback Deuce Bailey in check. Defensive coordinator Zac Alley revisited the performance Monday and gave his thoughts on the team’s defensive effort.

“I think positives were we saw what we could be. Played the first half really well. Had some adversity, but were able to overcome in critical moments,” Alley said in a press conference Monday

However, the defensive line had success Saturday, with five sacks on the day.

“I think we forced 40 pressures and had five sacks there and probably should’ve had 10 more. We touched him and missed him like 12 times in the backfield, like free runners and whatnot. I really felt like we showed what we could do if we played to a standard,” Alley added.

One of WVU’s shortcomings was letting Bailey break containment in the backfield. After shutting CCU out in the first half, Bailey threw three touchdowns in the second.

Bailey found open space in the backfield because of WVU’s struggles with keeping contain. He also took advantage on the ground which included a 20-yard rush.

Alley attributed the struggles to mistakes being made by the defense rather than a lack of preparation.

“I think it was more mistakes we made. I mean, we’re bringing interior pressures where we got three guys coming through, and we’re playing heavy at the defensive end, so we’re trying to bull guys instead of working up the field and containing him in the pocket… You’ve gotta be able to contain and, and force him back to your help, and we didn’t do a great job of that,” Alley added.

When it comes to fixing the issues, Alley said the coaching staff is consistent on telling players what their roles are. He emphasized players focusing on doing their job.

“We tell them, ‘This is what you’re supposed to do on this play or this blitz,’ and if you decide you wanna go inside when you’re not supposed to go inside, then you’re gonna cause problems,” Alley said.

Find more coverage of Zac Alley and the WVU football program at WV Sports Now.