Penn State Football: 5 Predictions for Nittany Lions' Defense

Penn State's defense was the main reason for the team's success last season, and that shouldn't change this year. It's a talented unit from top to bottom.

With the season rapidly approaching, we are starting to get a better feel of the unit's specifics. That means we can start forecasting how next year's players will fare throughout the season.

Let's take a look at five predictions for Penn State's defense next season. 

Top 10 Rush Defense

Penn State's front seven will dominate the competition next season. They are stacked on the defensive line, and especially at linebacker. 

The Nittany Lion pass defense is undergoing a change in mentality (from zone to man-to-man), but their rush defense still has the same assignment: track down the ball. 

Expect the Nittany Lion defenders to stifle opposing run games on a regular basis and provide the foundation for Penn State victories. 

Better-Than-Expected Pass Defense

Penn State's rush defense is easy to predict. They return all starting linebackers and two starters on the defensive line. The pass defense isn't as easy.

The Nittany Lions face a ton of turnover in their secondary. Chaz Powell, D'Anton Lynn, Drew Astorino and Nick Sukay are all gone from the unit, but Nittany Lion fans shouldn't worry as much as they think.

Malcolm Willis has starting experience at safety. He will provide stability. Stephon Morris was a starter last year, and he will only get better in man-to-man coverage. The emergence of Adrian Amos will make these two look even better.

Everyone is anticipating a top performance from the Penn State rush defense next year, but the pass defense will turn some heads as well. 

All-Big Ten Performers

Expect Penn State to have multiple All-Big Ten defenders. 

Michael Mauti, Gerald Hodges and Jordan Hill are the most obvious candidates. They are among the best players at their position. I wouldn't be surprised if Hill or Hodges received All-American honors. 

Penn State's defense has, at least, three bona-fide studs. Others could emerge as the season rolls along. 

One thing is certain. Nittany Lion names will be littered throughout All-Big Ten defensive lists.

Breakout Player

Adrian Amos could see time at cornerback and safety this year. His versatility and overall talent will make him this year's biggest breakout player on defense. 

Amos saw time last year when D'Anton Lynn got hurt, but he never cemented himself as a starter. This year, he will receive starters' snaps, and he will make the most of them. He's an underrated talent, and his ability to play multiple positions increases his value.

Penn State will be searching for a leader in its secondary. Expect Lynn to be the guy by the end of the season.

Back Up 'Linebacker U' Moniker

Penn State's reputation at linebacker won't take a step back under Ted Roof this season. The Nittany Lions' defensive scheme may be different, but the talent is still there. 

Michael Mauti, Glenn Carson and Gerald Hodges are the Big Ten's best starting unit, and Khairi Fortt would start for most other teams. Mike Hull and Ben Kline provide quality depth.

The Nittany Lion defense may take a tiny step back on other units, but their excellent linebackers will keep the entire unit on par. They are that good, and we've seen it many times before.