2019 Utah State Defense - Justin Ena

The 2019 Utah State defense, under defensive coordinator Justin Ena, had a notable season in the Mountain West Conference. Justin Ena, who joined Utah State in 2019, implemented a defensive system that focused on aggression, discipline, and stopping both the run and the pass effectively.

Under Justin Ena, Utah State ran a 3-4 defense, which featured three defensive linemen and four linebackers. However, this scheme was hybrid in nature, meaning it was adaptable to different offensive formations, and often used a nickel package with an extra defensive back, depending on the situation. The 3-4 defense is designed to be flexible, allowing defenses to blitz from multiple angles and cover a wide variety of offensive strategies.

Justin Ena's approach to defense emphasized aggressive play, with a focus on forcing turnovers and creating pressure. While the team had ups and downs, the defensive scheme allowed Utah State to remain competitive in many games and keep opponents on their toes. The hybrid nature of the defense gave them the flexibility to adjust to different offensive schemes, a trait Ena prioritized throughout the season.