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BOCA RATON—The positional versatility of two FAU defenders will add an important dimension to Tony Pecoraro’s defense.
Andrew Soroh transitioned from safety to full-time linebacker, and defensive end Tim Bonner is overcoming last season’s mental mistakes to become a multi-faceted weapon for the FAU defense.
Kiffin said the up-tempo, spread out nature of Conference USA offenses allows him to add more speed onto the field. Soroh – an athletic, run-stuffing box safety before the position change – was a natural fit to move down to linebacker and defend against that style.
FAU, in fact, played Soroh at linebacker some last season, a move that’s eased his transition this spring.
“Me being fast, me being physical, and the way I tackle and I fit the run, I feel like I will be able to adapt pretty well.” Soroh said.
Bonner, a JUCO transfer, struggled to get a hold of the playbook last season, taking him out of the defensive line rotation for much of the year. He believes he has finally earned the trust of defensive line coach Eric Mathies, and his dominant play early this spring – Kiffin said Bonner graded out the highest among defensive starters in the spring’s first practice – indicates he could have a major role this season.
Kiffin said the learning curve for juco transfers like Bonner that enroll during the summer and enter the season without a spring to prepare is massive.
Bonner flashes a lightning quick first step rushing the passer; using his explosiveness and length to consistently crash into the backfield. The defensive end found success as both a stand-up rusher and with his hand in the dirt prompting Kiffin to compare that versatility to Leighton McCarthy’s role last season.
Not only has Bonner excelled at getting to the quarterback, he has also shown promise in pass coverage – something that Kiffin said is unusual for a player his size.
Bonner has used his six-foot-five frame to jump into passing lanes and create havoc for quarterbacks trying to sling passes behind his outstretched arms.
The speed of Soroh in the box and the length of Bonner in coverage has the potential to give opposing offenses nightmares next season.
Coach Pecoraro’s attacking style of defense will give players like Bonner and Soroh all the opportunities they can get to make plays this season – which makes Soroh more than excited.
“Music to my ears, because I get to get after the quarterback.” Soroh said.
Soroh said the ball skills he developed as a defensive back gives him an advantage over more traditionally built linebackers. He intends to help the linebacker unit create more turnovers, as the group failed to reel in an interception last season.
The redshirt senior found success as a part-time linebacker last season after Zyon Gilbert briefly pushed him out of a starting safety position early in the season. Soroh is excited for the position change and told his former unit to not hold their breath for his return.
“They say they miss me every day and I believe them, but I am a linebacker now,” Soroh said.
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