Notre Dame Football: Top Defensive Players Irish Will Face in 2018

ANN ARBOR, MI - SEPTEMBER 16: Rashan Gary #3 of the Michigan Wolverines***Brad Robbins #3 of the Michigan Wolverines warms up prior to the start of the game against the Air Force Falcons at Michigan Stadium on September 16, 2017 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.(Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

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EVANSTON, IL – NOVEMBER 05: Joe Gaziano #97 of the Northwestern Wildcats rushes against Troy Fumagalli #81 of the Wisconsin Badgers at Ryan Field on November 5, 2016 in Evanston, Illinois. Wisconsin defeated Northwestern 21-7. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

10. Joe Gaziano (Defensive End, Northwestern)

Gaziano is one of the most disruptive players in Northwestern’s front seven. He has all the attributes to make an impact defending both the run and the pass.

While he normally lines up at defensive end, his 6′ 4″ 280-pound frame gives him the versatility to move inside to tackle when needed. This helps the Wildcats to generate a more effective pass rush in clear passing situations.

Gaziano finished the 2017 season with 12.5 TFL, 9 sacks, 12 QB hurries, 5 PBUs, and 4 forced fumbles.

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