Divaad Wilson envisions big things from UCF's defense in year two under Travis Williams.
"We have our whole secondary back, so we should do better with our pass efficiency on third downs," Wilson said. "Controlling the ball in the air and keeping the top on the coverage. If you ask me, I feel we're going to have a way better run defense because we have more depth in the linebacker room.
"The chemistry is amazing. We have a room full of dogs. If you ask me, the secondary is our strongest suit on the team this year."
Here's more from Wilson's interview as the Knights are now days away from kicking off the season opener against South Carolina State.
What's he feeling like with the season almost here?
"I'm very determined. I know what I have to do. I know we've got games to win. I'm focused on trying to wipe the schedule."
Who are the breakout players to watch on defense?
"I would have to say my little man from Miami, (linebacker) Terrence Lewis," Wilson said. "He hasn't played football in two years, so I'm excited see to him back out there. His right-hand man, B-Jenn, Branden (Jennings), No. 44, I'm excited to see him play as well."
Wilson, who will start at strong safety, appears to be in line to start at punt returner as well given the recent injury to Amari Johnson.
"I take a lot of pride in special teams," Wilson said. "That allows you to separate yourself from other players."
Team goals?
"My last ride, I'm trying to end it with a bang," Wilson said. "We're more focused on ourselves. The main goal is winning. If you win, you get everything that comes with it."
Individual goals?
"As you guys know, I just switched to the safety position," Wilson said. "In order for me to be the best safety in college football, I have to better myself at open-field tackling. Everything else is a breeze for me. I probably have the best man-to-man abilities of any safeties in college football because I transitioned from corner."
Looking on the other side, what excites Wilson about UCF's offense?
"Me personally, I'm excited because they have way more targets like Javon Baker and Kobe Hudson," Wilson said. "Amari is out, but there are other moving pieces. (John Rhys Plumlee) has targets to throw to. We have a running back room that is loaded. I can't wait to see how that pans out."
What's his expectation for the defense?
"For us to play lights out every game," Wilson said. "We're trying to set the standard."
