His command of the Cougs’ defense last season produced the fifth-most turnovers in College Football, securing 15 interceptions and 14 fumble recoveries.

The defensive prowess was particularly exemplified in the Red Zone, with the Cougars finishing the year No. 10 in the nation in Red Zone Defense.

But the defensive guru has passed the torch to new coordinator Brian Ward, who enters his first season in Pullman bolstered by one of the top quarterback transfers in the country.

Cameron Ward followed his former head coach Eric Morris from Incarnate Word to the Palouse to run their proven and explosive offensive system.

Best-Case Scenario

Ward’s familiarity with the system combines with the threat of De’Zhaun Stribling to produce one of the top scoring offenses in the Pac-12, while true freshman running back Jaylen Jenkins has a breakout year.

On the other side of the ball, the defense once again forces plenty of turnovers.

Overcoming questions in the linebacking corps, the defensive backs take advantage of the pressure created by Ron Stone Jr. and Brennan Jackson up front.

Transfer safety Jordan Lee thrives under Dickert’s defensive principles and Armani Marsh proves why he is one of the top defensive players in the league.

Worst-Case Scenario

The duo combined for an astounding 183 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, and three interceptions.

Without the experienced LBs to command the defense, the unit gives up even more rushing yards while generating fewer turnovers.

But, the pain is most felt in the red zone.

After shutting opponents down within the 20-yard line last year, Washington State’s defense isn’t able to replicate that strength without its productive linebackers.

The result is a D that gives up more points per game and is unable to get off the field.

The defensive issues are compounded by an offensive line that’s hard to watch. Abraham Lucas commanded the unit last year, but the All-Conference talent moved on to the NFL and left a gaping hole in his wake.

What Should Happen

The passing game shouldn’t be a problem.

And in the backfield, true freshman Jenkins should secure the starting job from Week One and never look back.

Although the offensive line may remain a question mark for the year, Dickert’s defensive line should shine.

Stone Jr. and Jackson combined for 18 tackles for loss and nine sacks in 2021. The duo should take over the leadership roles on defense and lead by example.

What Must Happen

Henley is a known asset who probably starts every game of the year, but Dickert needs other players to step up.

Travion Brown and Francisco Mauigoa each started two games last year, while former walk-on Kyle Thornton contributed when given the opportunity.

Greatest Strength

Dickert’s decision to bring him into the program along with his head coach might turn out to be a stroke of genius.

Already known as a defensive-focused coach, the addition of a potential offensive powerhouse could be a game-changer. Ward arrived in time for Spring Ball and didn’t have to adjust to a new system.

Biggest Concern

Reports out of Pullman indicate that Jenkins might wind up as the starter, yet there isn’t much proven depth in the group at this point of the year.

Nakia Watson is the only returning back with experience in 2021, and he has just a single start to his name.

Additional players could emerge, but the loss of Max Borghi and Deon McIntosh might sting.

Deciding Factors

The two sophomores posted respectable numbers in their freshmen year, combining for 8.5 tackles for loss and five sacks.

Yet, the WSU run defense was poor, which relegated the Cougars to 59th overall in third down conversion defense.

If Roff and Edson can increase their production when spelling Stone Jr. and Brennan, the Washington State run defense may take the leap it needs.

The up-and-coming edge rushers were too productive in their limited appearances to keep them off the field, and Dickert may look for ways to get them more involved.

Whatever it takes, the Cougars can’t allow opponents to run the ball as effectively as last season.

Similarly, WSU’s offensive line must keep Ward protected and improve its 2.38 sacks allowed per game.

Schedule Analysis

Oregon makes the journey to the Palouse in Week Four, bringing along with them an Upset Alert bell.

If Washington State is going to pull off a surprising upset this season, the matchup with the Ducks is probably the best chance.

October begins with a matchup against California that should end in a WSU win.

The following road games at USC and Oregon State may be different stories.

The contest against the Trojans figures to end in defeat, but the showdown against the Beavers is arguably one of the deciding games of the season.