CSU Football Preview - Defensive Backs

The last line of defense, Charleston Southern has had a number of solid defensive backs throughout the years, including six players who have tallied more than five interceptions in their career.

Junior Philip Ashley (5-11, 175) is trying to join that group, and is well on his way with five interceptions in his first two seasons. Ashley will help lead a group of veterans in the back, including hard-hitter Okeba Rollinson (R-Sr., 5-11, 201). Rollinson was second-team all-conference last year after finishing third on the team with 55 total tackles. He also had three pass breakups, two fumble recoveries, and made the tackle to record the team’s only safety of the season.

Redshirt senior Mike McCann (6-0, 200) will also add experience and leadership while Matt Bach (Jr., 5-10, 192) will be depended on more heavily this season after coming on strong last year to record 25 tackles.

After earning the most improved defensive back award in spring practice, Jacques Bazile (R-Fr., 5-10, 165) is also slated for a starting role and looks to make an immediate impact. Also looking to make an impact are talented corners, Reggie Ellington (R-Jr., 5-9, 181) and C.J. Dancy (R-Fr., 6-0, 185).

With such depth in the back, the coaching staff again leans on the comfort of Proverbs 27:17 “Just as iron sharpens iron, so does one man sharpen another.”