GREENVILLE, S.C. -- As is the case in virtually every group, Furman boasts returning starters and experienced backups at both the bandit and spur slots on defense.

At bandit the Paladins count three veteran performers: Luke Clark (6-3, 250, R-Jr.), Alex Maier (6-4, 238, R-So.), and Emmanuel Adebayo (6-2, 225, Gr.).

Clark has seen action in 30 games and started in all 13 contests a year ago, totaling 41 tackles, four sacks, and a team-leading seven quarterback pressures.  He is part of a Paladin defense that returns 10 regulars who combined for 31 sacks in 2022.  In fact, all 13 players who scratched in the sacks category last season are back.

"It starts with Luke, who has played a lot for us," said Furman head coach Clay Hendrix.  "He has good size and is a good pass rusher who we'll also ask to do some things in coverage.  Whether it's a 3-4 look or a four-man front, he has the ability to rush the passer."

Maier logged extensive duty in the Paladins' heavy defensive rotation last year, totaling 24 tackles and 4.5 sacks.

Adebayo, who contributed a sack in his first season with the Paladins, is expected to again see duty this fall while also contributing on special teams.

"AD, as he is known around here, has continued to get better and has had a good preseason.

"Those are our three main guys, and we have a couple of young players at bandit.  David Alabi (6-2, 225, Fr.) has ability to rush the passer, and we feel good about Tanner Schuck (6-3, 230, Fr.).  Those two guys are going to provide depth."

As for the spur position, Hendrix is equally appreciative of the talent he has available.

"It's a good group and a position that has evolved, now that we're playing more nickel (defense).  It used to be more safeties there, but now it's more cornerbacks.  That's happening because offenses are continuing to change."

To face the challenge Furman will turn to Jalen Miller (5-11, 211, R-Sr.), whose Paladin career has seen him post significant duty at both inside linebacker and at spur.  The Duncan, S.C., product owns playing time in 43 games and has logged 13 starts as a Paladin, including nine a year ago in a campaign that saw him tally 36 tackles, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, and a pair of interceptions.

"Jalen will be our main guy, and we also have Caden Richards (6-1, 202, Sr.), who played some safety before we moved him down to spur."

Brandt Babin (6-1, 215, R-So.) is now in his third season in the program.

One familiar face on Furman's defense who appears set to contribute in a major way this fall at spur is Cally Chizik (5-9, 183, R-Sr.).  A veteran of 31 games that has seen him post significant action at cornerback, nickel back, and as a punt returner, Chizik notched 29 tackles and intercepted three passes a year ago, two of which he returned for touchdowns.  Two of his pickoffs, including a 36-yard "pick-six," came against Incarnate Word in FCS second round playoff action. 

"Cally Chizik will play a lot there (at spur).  He's very experienced and makes big plays, which we saw in a number of games, including Incarnate Word and Chattanooga (24-20 win over the No. 6 Mocs)."

Luke Smith (6-2, 205, Fr.) is expected to provide depth at spur.