The DBs have been a known issue. We tried to get some guys in the portal, but it is what it is. We're going to have similar struggles to last year, assuming the DBs don't improve at all.
The good news is that we've gotten deeper and more talented on the DL. Better bodies, fresher bodies, on the DL = better pass rush, which directly benefits the DBs.
The other, bigger factor here is that our offense and our starting QB have had an entire offseason to take their execution to the next level. If the offense can keep the 1st Quarter pedal-to-the-metal pace going into the second quarter at a minimum, then we are 2 wins better. That's without the defense improving at all.
Our staff and players have also had an entire offseason and bowl camp, spring camp, fall camp to know exactly what our issues are.
From a strategy standpoint, we will have to lean on our more experienced safeties, and have them play 2-deep essentially. Don't get beat over the top, which is what ruined us in the bowl game. We know our CBs need time to grow, or will struggle all season. Keep the safeties over the top to limit the huge plays, surrender the run, essentially, and hope we can get aggressive in the red zone. If we can stop the opponent from converting red zone trips into TDs or FGs, or force turnovers in a tighter space, we know our offense can outscore most.