He has big shoes to fill
In at No. 4 on our Most Important Player rankings is Keith Watkins, who looks to slide into the starting cornerback slot vacated by the departed Nick VanHoose. Watkins got a lot of experience last season and generally looked pretty solid in his time. But his role this season will be much, much expanded. Is he up to the task? Zach Pereles and Ian McCafferty debate.
Zach Pereles (Rank: 3): Ask why Northwestern was so successful last year, and any somewhat knowledgeable fan will tell you "the defense.