Hampton U. expects better production from the defense this season

HAMPTON, Virginia — The bottom line to Hampton University's 2014 season was 3-9, the program's third consecutive losing record. There were many culprits, from red-zone inefficiency to breakdowns on special teams.

But one issue stood out more than the others.

"We weren't very good on defense last year," said Pirates coach Connell Maynor, whose team opens against Kentucky State on Saturday at Armstrong Stadium. "That's no secret."

How bad? HU gave up 31 points and 397 total yards per game — 10th and ninth, respectively, in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The opposition completed 63 percent of its passes and converted 47 percent of its third-down chances. And the Pirates lost three games in which they scored at least four touchdowns.

Looking back, you can see the reasons. In Maynor's first season, and with new defensive coordinator Kenny Phillips, the Pirates switched from a 4-3 alignment to a 3-4. Then, four weeks into the season, Phillips had to leave with health issues

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