Past behind him Miami Hurricanes DT Gerald Willis ready for big 2018

After sitting out two of the past three football seasons Miami Hurricanes defensive tackle Gerald Willis is ready for a big season in 2018.

Willis is being counted on with the Miami Hurricanes losing their top three defensive tackles from 2017. Backup Anthony Moten graduated and starters R.J. McIntosh and Kendrick Norton left a year early for the NFL Draft.

Willis was a vital part of the Miami Hurricanes rotation as a Sophomore in 2016. He finished the season with 19 tackles, 5.5 for loss, 1.5 sacks and two passes defended. Miami Head Coach Mark Richt has repeatedly said that Willis was dominant as a member of the scout team in 2017.

He took last season off for unspecified personal reasons. Willis’ presence on the scout team gave him a chance to practice and not get rusty. He should challenge for a spot on the All-ACC team at the end of the 2018 season if he lives up to the hype Richt has been giving him.

Willis is the most experienced defensive linemen the Miami Hurricanes will have in 2018. Junior Pat Bethel is the favorite to star alongside Willis. Bethel had 18 tackles last season. He was complimentary of the progress Willis has made in his season off. Bethel spoke to HurricaneSports.Com.

"“That’s just a testament to him as a person…No matter the role you get, never giving up and working hard is every day even when it’s on scout team."