The Top 5 Players of 2008: Defensive Lineman

2008 was a great year for defensive lineman. These huge tackling machines were pivotal in shoring up staunch run defenses, along with providing superb pass rushing. Now for the top 5 defensive lineman of 2008:


Ole Miss Defensive Tackle Peria Jerry

1. Peria Jerry (Mississippi) - Defensive Tackle Peria Jerry is a 6'2", 290 lbs beast when it comes to rush defense. Jerry was named first-team All-American by ESPN and the AP, consensus All-SEC, and was first in the SEC in TFL with 18. With 48 tackles (24 solo), 6 sacks and 2 forced fumbles, I can see why he gets so many accolades.
2. Gerald McCoy (Oklahoma) - Gerald McCoy had a great 2008 helping Oklahoma win the Big 12 Championship and play for a national title as well. McCoy at 6'4" - 288 lbs, posted 26 tackles (13 solo), 6 sacks, and 1 INT this past season. McCoy has decided to return to Oklahoma in 2009 after flirting with the possibility of entering the 2009 NFL Draft. He was expected to be a high pick for defensive lineman.
3. Mitch King (Iowa) - Mitch King was a tackling machine for the Hawkeyes in 2008, recording 53 tackles (26 solo) and 4 sacks. King was added to the Bronko Nargurski Trophy and Lott Trophy watch lists in pre-season 2008. Look for King to be a menace to NFL offenses in 2009!
4. Terrence Cody (Alabama) - Terrence Cody is a behemoth at nose guard for the Crimson Tide at 6'5", 385 lbs. Cody is nicknamed "Mount Cody" for his tremendous size. Cody had a breakout year in 2008, recording 23 tackles (7 solo), 4.5 TFL, 1 sack and 1 forced fumble. Cody was instrumental in helping to hold Clemson's dynamic duo of Spiller and Davis to 0 net rushing yards. He was named AP All-SEC first team and All-American honors from AP, CBS, Rivals.com, Sporting News, Sports Illustrated, and Walter Camp.
5. Fili Moala (USC) - Fili Moala was key in helping the Trojan's defense become impenetrable in 2008. At 6'4" - 303 lbs, Moala has nice size and very good speed. He posted 30 tackles (16 solo) and 4 sacks in 2008. Moala was hampered for the early part of the season with back spasms. Look to see Moala on the NFL grid iron in 2009!

There are 5 very impressive defensive lineman for 2008. Expect to see Terrence Cody rise on this list for 2009. Tomorrow I will bring the top 5 linebackers of 2008. Until then, have a good one!