Top Defensive Players from 2011

After looking at the top five players on offense, it is time to shift to the defensive side of the ball and look at the top five players on defense.  The Bulls ranked among the best in the nation in run defense and were one of the best at tackling people in the backfield.  Let's see who makes the list, starting with number five.

Picture Credit: 247 Sports

Coming in at number five on the top five defensive performers from 2011 is defensive end Ryne Giddins.  The sophomore became a dominate pass rusher for the Bulls off the edge.  He finished the season with 44 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble and recovered 1 fumble.

He is a very fast, aggressive rusher that is able to get off the block quickly and works his way up the field to get to the opposing quarterback.  He is also strong enough to hold his ground and contain opposing running backs that try to break out to the outside.  Giddins helped lead a front four that was one of the best in the nation at tackles for loss and now with another year under his belt, he will look to have an even bigger year. Giddins will also have to produce more due to the lack of experience behind him on the depth chart.

So there you have it, Giddins is ranked 5th on the list of the 2011 defensive performers.  Think he should be higher on the list or another person deserves this spot?