Moorhead, Minn.-- Defense has always been the cornerstone of Concordia football teams. From the start of legendary Cobber coach Jake Christiansen_s tenure, through Hall of Fame mentor Jim Christopherson to current coach Horan, all three understood the importance of being able to shut down the opposing team_s offense. Knowing that keeping the other team from controlling the ball and lighting up the scoreboard will help the maroon and gold on offense, all three coaches have fashioned defenses that can dominate the line of scrimmage and completely shut down even the most complex offenses.

Horan knows that this year will be no different. _Each and every year our number one goal defensively is to stop our opponent_s ability to run the ball. We have done a great job with that in my first four seasons,_ recalled Horan.

Last year the Cobbers led the MIAC in rushing defense and stopping their opponent inside the red zone. They were also second in scoring defense, allowing foes to score a mere 12.6 points per game. The defense was also second in overall defense. Opponents could only muster 231.1 yards per game. They also led the conference in opponents 3rd and 4th down conversion rate. All these parts added up to a sum of a conference crown. They will be much needed again in 2005 if the Cobbers want to be in position to repeat as champions.

Lost to graduation were four critical parts of the defense. Along the line, Adam Campbell led the squad in sacks (11.0) and tackles for loss (16.0). His quickness and pass rushing skills will be missed in big games. The departure of Dietz and Runke in the linebacking corps will leave a vacuum in the middle of the defense, while All-American cornerback Jordan Talge will leave a void in team leadership and the ability to shut down the go-to receiver from the opposing team.

The good news is that several key components from 2004 are poised to step into the spotlight. Defensive tackle Travis Almquist and defensive back Tanner Radermacher will be the new stars on defense and could very quickly make fans forget about Campbell and Talge. Almquist found his stride in the second half of the season and was named to the all-conference honorable mention team, while Rademacher was one of the steadiest performers in the defensive backfield. His seven interception-season helped him garner all-conference second team honors.

Several players will be counted on to show initiative in taking control of starting positions after playing co-starring roles in 2004.