The way the Washington Huskies have rotated defensive linemen in and out of the lineup this season – hurriedly and liberally – nobody other than Daniel Te’o-Nesheim has played a long string of plays in any game.
Injuries have played a big part.
So has ineffective play in Nick Holt’s new scheme.
But lately, especially last weekend in the Apple Cup against Washington State, Holt stayed with his veteran defensive ends – Te’o-Nesheim and Darrion Jones, both seniors – exclusively.
“We weren’t out there very long. There weren’t a lot of long series, except maybe for the first one,” Holt said. “The guys were fresh. We want to get some kids in, but they were playing so well, and weren’t tired, so we went with them.”
Given more snaps the past two games, Te’o-Nesheim (11/2 sacks, two fumble recoveries) and Jones (first two career sacks, forced fumble, pass breakup) have contributed bigger impact plays.
“Darrion is a great player,” Te’o-Nesheim said. “These last couple games, his stats have shot out of the roof.”
Holt started tightening the rotations in mid-November against Oregon State. True freshman Talia Crichton, listed as the starter on the depth chart for much of the latter half of the season, did not play at all. Newcomers Andru Pulu and Kalani Aldrich played sparingly behind Jones.
In that game, Beavers quarterback Sean Canfield was sacked three times. And against the Cougars – even if it was only for 60 plays, that took up 271/2 minutes – it was Te’o-Nesheim and Jones, all to themselves, at defensive end.
“I’ve always had great continuity with Daniel. I’ve been around him a long time,” Jones said. “I have great chemistry with him.”
No question, Jones has had the best two-game stretch of his career.
“It’s a nice feeling when you don’t have to worry about looking over your shoulder,” Jones said. “Being in the game, if something is working, I know coach Holt won’t take you out unless it’s because of an injury.”
Te’o-Nesheim and Jones are fifth-year seniors. They’re the most physical defensive ends on the roster. And they have the most game experience.
It’s a working formula Holt plans on sticking with heading into the season finale Saturday against 19th-ranked California.
“They deserve to be out there playing,” Holt said, “when they’re doing OK.”
Extra points
Cal star tailback Jahvid Best won’t play Saturday. Best is still recovering from a frightening fall and concussion that sidelined him last month. … UW defensive tackle Cameron Elisara (neck stinger) came out of the WSU game feeling fine. He practiced Monday. But on Tuesday, the pain returned – and the junior sat out practice. “It was bothering him. He couldn’t get out of individual (drills),” Holt said. “I think he’s going to be OK.” ... Center Ryan Tolar missed his second consecutive practice. Coach Steve Sarkisian noted the lineman was sick, and not headache-related like it was Monday. ... Safety Victor Aiweya (head) and running back Chris Polk (shoulder) wore the non-contact red jerseys.
todd.milles@thenewstribune.com
