When it comes to the FAU Owls, the defense is in a position to lead the team.
While the offense has had to be rebuilt through the transfer portal, the defense has multiple assets that should help keep the unit thriving. They have an unproven yet talented group of defensive linemen, and the linebackers are some of the best in the conference.
However, one of the biggest strengths on the FAU defense is the secondary, in large part due to the contributions of cornerback Daedae Hill. Hill is a scrappy player who has made constant improvements in his tackling and ball-hawk abilities throughout his tenure at Florida Atlantic. In other words, he is only getting better as he prepares to lead the Owls into a pivotal 2024 season.
FAU Player Spotlight: Daedae Hill
Like many players on this FAU Owls roster, Hill did not start his career in Boca Raton. The cornerback played his first two seasons at Central Michigan of the Mid-American Conference.
2021 was the first year he played consistently for the Chippewas. Hill had three pass breakups and gave up 306 yards on 12 receptions. He also added a sack as a pass rusher and 16 overall tackles on defense.
It was a solid foundation for Hill to build off of in 2022, which was his first season for the Owls. Hill immediately showed signs of improvement and had a better year in coverage; he dropped his yards allowed from 306 to 208 and dropped his reception percentage by almost three whole points (57.1 from 60.0). His defensive stops jumped up from 5 to 11, as did his tackles from 16 to 28.
Yet, there was still more improvement to be made. He was much worse as a tackler in 2022 and saw his run defense metrics drop off as well, at least according to PFF. 2023, as a result, was the culmination of what Hill is as a player.
The cornerback saw his PFF tackling grade jump into elite territory, posting an 84.8 compared to 2022’s 64.0. Hill’s run defense moved in the same direction, leading to 84.5 from 57.3. He also dropped his missed tackle percentage to 5.7% and had a career-high in tackles with 37.
In coverage, Hill had his most productive year. He only allowed 193 yards on 19 receptions and 41 targets. He had two interceptions, three pass breakups, and a passer rating allowed of 64.4.
By showing this steady improvement, Hill ultimately solidified himself as one of the most important Owls on defense and on the overall team.
A big role in 2024
It is no secret that Hill has a big role to play in the Owls’ 2024 season. In order for the team to take a big step forward in its development, the cornerback needs to be at his best.
Hill’s tackling needs to remain consistent and productive. As a coverage corner, Hill needs to take advantage of quarterback mistakes and continue to force turnovers. Additionally, he may need to help provide a little bit of pass rush to ease the new defensive line unit into live game action.
Essentially, Hill has to continue to play like himself. The Florida native has improved year after year on defense and has arguably become an all-around player worth watching.
The cornerback will likely face adversity, though. There will be some games and opponents where he is not his usual, dominant self.
Yet based on his track record and talent level, people should expect Hill to be productive once again in 2024. If he can do so, Hill will help lead the Owls’ defense from the back end and play a big role in helping the team take another step forward.
