DENTON, Texas (8/9/07) New scheme, new coaches, no problem.

That’s the attitude of the Mean Green defense as it returns nine starters; led by the trio of Jeremiah Chapman, Brandon Monroe, and Maurice Holman. All three have been prominent leaders in the North Texas defense for the last three seasons.

With the arrival of Mean Green head coach Todd Dodge, the new look spread offense has seemed to generate much of the buzz around opening practices, but over the last few days, the defense has been the ones to show they’re capable of making some noise of their own.

“I think everyone knows how good the offense can be this year, but I think when we get out there, people are going to see how good the defense really is,” said senior linebacker Brandon Monroe. “I think we can be the best defense in the conference this year. We worked hard all summer and it’s just a matter of going out there and proving it.”

DEFENSIVE HIGHLIGHTS FROM DAY FOUR:

          The Mean Green defense forced three interceptions on the day. Desmon Chatman, Colt Mahan and Corey Paris all pulled down picks during 11-on-11 drills.

          The first-team defense held the first-team offense to four-of-10 through the air during the two-minute drill, including one interception.

          Working against the first-team offense for the second time of the day, the Mean Green defense forced and recovered consecutive fumbles by running back Jamario Thomas.

          The hustle play of the day came after Roderick Cotton was beat on a post route on what looked like a sure touchdown. Cotton caught up with Casey Fitzgerald and stripped the ball from behind to prevent the TD.