EDINBURG — The relationship between defensive linemen and defensive backs is symbiotic.
The pass rusher/run stopper/block eater wreaks havoc at the line of scrimmage and eventually ends in the backfield blowing up handoffs and pressuring passers into uncomfortable throws for defensive backs to pick off.
Meanwhile, the ball-hawk/human-blanket/playmaker flies around on the back end in the secondary protecting a “No Fly Zone”, forcing quarterbacks to hold the ball which leads to more time for the defensive line to bring him to the ground for a sack.
Edinburg Vela’s tag-team of Jake Dufner and Justin Navarro have mastered the art. The two helped the SaberCats roll out the top defensive unit in yards allowed per game in 2021 and are back for their senior seasons in black and blue.
“It’s a good thing having (Jake) there, pressuring the quarterback. We’ve been working for this all of high school and we’ve been starting since our sophomore year, so we already had the chemistry and it’s a lot of help coming from the defensive end rushing the quarterback,” Navarro said.
Dufner also attributed his success as a disruptor to Navarro’s play in the secondary.
“He’s a key-factor when it comes to my sacks. When he’s out there, the receivers are locked down and it gives me time to sack the quarterback,” he said.
Dufner totaled 52 tackles, 19.5 TFL, 7.5 sacks and two blocked punts during the 2021 season. Navarro shined as a safety and punt returner with seven interceptions, two punt return touchdowns and two interceptions returned for touchdowns. Navarro is set to spend time at receiver this year as one of the top athletes on Vela’s roster.
“During punt returns or turnovers, anytime I get the ball in my hands, I have to do something with it for the team. I have to put some points on the board, do whatever I can and give it all I have anytime I touch the ball,” he said.
The dynamite duo could propel the SaberCats to a third straight district title and past the regional semifinals now that Vela is at the Class 5A level after the latest UIL realignment.
“We have to set the tone, especially because we’re seniors now. We have to set the standard and be leaders out there,” Navarro said.