Martin Ifedi Favorite to be AAC Defensive Player of the Year for Memphis Tigers

While the Memphis Tigers struggled mightily in 2013 on their way to 3-9 record and 1-7 in conference play, there were some positives to build on as they move into 2014. Without question, the brightest star to come out of their dismal 2013 season was the emergence of Martin Ifedi on the defensive line. The one-man wrecking ball will once again be a force for the Tigers this fall and should be a favorite to win defensive player of the year honors in the AAC.

Ifedi made the switch from defensive tackle to defensive two seasons ago and blossomed into one of the nation’s best pass-rushers. He finished the year with 10.5 sacks, tied for 12th most in the nation and second most in the conference, to go along with 52 tackles and 14.5 tackles for loss. His ability create havoc in the backfield was a major component of the Memphis defense last season and he will be called upon once again in 2014 to do even more.

The senior’s athleticism and length give him a major advantage when getting after the quarterback and should help him break out as one of the top senior defensive linemen in the country this fall. He has the bulk to play strong against the run without sacrificing his speed to chase down the ball-carrier. He’s a unique blend of power and agility that will make him a handful for any opposing offensive linemen this season.

While he likely won’t be enough to make Memphis into a contender in 2014, Martin Ifedi will still be one of the premier defensive talents in the AAC this fall. His monstrous ability to rush the passer should be enough to separate him from the pack as the AAC’s best defensive player in 2014.

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