As spring practice unfolds, Southern fans have their eyes mostly on the three quarterbacks auditioning for the starting job. Defensive end Darius Harry has his eyes on the quarterbacks, too, but for different reasons.
Harry appears to be an answer for the loss of All-American defensive end Jordan Lewis, who completed his eligibility last season. Lewis finished his career with 38½ sacks but had his lowest career total last season with 4½.
“Sacks get money. That’s what gets you paid,” said Harry, a transfer from Southeastern Louisiana who played at East Jefferson High School in Metairie. “I’ve always been a pass rusher. I can stop the run, but I love to rush the passer.”
Southern defensive coordinator Henry Miller is hoping Harry can help beef up an area where the Jaguars were inconsistent last fall.
Harry, a 6-foot-2½, 245-pound junior, spent three seasons at SLU and made a significant contribution last year with 30 tackles (4½ for loss) with two sacks, six quarterback hurries, a forced fumble and a pass breakup.
“He’s a great, great athlete; strong, fast and physical,” Miller said. “I think he’s going to bring a lot to the table. I’m looking forward to see what he has. He’s going to be a rush edge and give us some pass rush.”
Harry will bring more of what Southern coach Eric Dolley felt his defense needed: speed. The Jaguars staff recruited speed at every position, and Harry has made a positive impression on his teammates in that area.
“We don’t recruit them if they ain’t no guy,” linebacker Derrick Williams said. “We feel he can come and help the Jags get another championship. He can play. He’s got speed and he’s real strong. I see him going against tackles and holding his own. I know he’s seen as a pass rusher, but he can come off the edge and play the run, too.”
Harry said he chose Southern for its tradition and the aggressive scheme Miller employs. He felt the emphasis on the pass rush fits his style.
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