Offseason transformation has Ira Lewis primed for big season

Most coaches that fail in the first couple years with a new program do so because the team wasn’t built for their coaching style or schemes (see: Charlie Strong). Looking from inside, it looks like a non-issue down most of the roster, especially along the defensive line thanks to players like nose tackle Ira Lewis.

“Ira Lewis is a guy that just always stands out to me,” Rhule said Tuesday. “He’s really transformed his body and has become a really good player.”

Lewis’ potential was already exciting before Rhule came to town and to see he’s performed to Rhule’s liking is plenty encouraging. After 7.5 tackles for loss and three sacks last season at the nose of Phil Bennett’s three-man front, Lewis looks primed for another big season in Phil Snow’s 4-3 under front.

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The depth chart currently has Lewis listed in an “or” situation with Bravvion Roy, but that’s actually part of what makes Lewis’ potential all the more intriguing. Roy seems hot on Lewis’ tail to work as the run stuffer in the middle. As Rhule noted, Lewis has transformed a lot this offseason, potentially giving him the chance to move along the d-line to throw a wrench at the Big 12’s game plans.

“You can’t just play four guys through the whole game,” defensive line coach Elijah Robinson said Wednesday. “See what guys playing a few different things, so we’re trying to teach our guys how to play all four positions.”

Though Lewis is best known for his skill inside, bull rushing the A-gap, he played across the whole line in high school (Lamar, Houston). He was even recruited as a strong-side defensive end.



Now that he’s trimmed down to at least 290 pounds (down 15 pounds from last year), it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him slide over to give Roy some reps and give K.J. Smith a breather at end. Getting reps at every position down the line, subbing in for Brian Nance at the RUSH position may come into play too- it’s a position Lewis occasionally ran as a recruit.

But he’ll undoubtedly be playing along the A-gap for the majority of snaps. He has an innate sense and ability to control his gap. Even in pass rushing situations, he’s able to shove his way into the pocket while also protecting the possibility of a draw play or scramble. That discipline to stick to his assignment is perhaps his greatest strength beyond his muscle or first step.

The versatility of the rest of the line like Smith playing defensive tackle and backups like Xavier Jones or Tyrone Hunt’s depth holds power but Lewis’ flexibility looks like the key to making this transition season go smoothly.