Davillier Wants To “Put On A Show” This Fall

Changes to defense could make front more versatile

Arkansas defensive lineman Nico Davillier enters the field against Western Carolina. / Wesley Hitt/GettyImages

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Nico Davillier is confident he will be an impact player this season.  He’s one of allHOGS’ favorites to breakout in 2024. 

Arkansas defensive line is aggressive which benefits guys with swagger like Davillier. 

“I think I’ve waited my time patiently, learning from all the older guys and Coach [Deke] Adams,” Davillier said following Tuesday’s practice. “I think it’s just my time now. I’m ready to put on a show.”

Davillier’s production began to increase during the final three games of 2023. He recorded six tackles and one tackle for loss in late November flashing potential for next season.

He played basketball during his time at Maumelle High School, so his versatile athleticism is sometimes overlooked. Due to that, he’s moved primarily to defensive end at the ‘buck’ position coming off the edge. 

The ‘buck’ is usually one of the best athletes on the defense with specified length and smarts to diagnose plays quickly. 

“It’s basically like a little outside linebacker but a defensive lineman,” Davillier said. “We drop in coverage, we play the run, pass rush. It’s just a stand-up end basically.”

The defensive lineman has the opportunity to display his athletic ability at buck rather than rotating multiple positions. 

“I like it because I get to be more versatile,” Davillier said. “I just get to help my team out a lot more than I would be probably in the 4I. It’s just a mint front. An okie front.”

Davillier’s position will be lined up in between the offensive tackle and tight end, similar to two seasons ago with former linebacker Drew Sanders. Wider splits between linemen will allow each of them one-on-one opportunities to force negative plays.

Spread offenses aren’t going away any time soon. Implementing more of an aggressive, spread front will ideally make Arkansas more versatile on the inside out. 

Under Adams, Arkansas has been one of the top defensive line units in the SEC. Over the past two seasons, the Razorbacks have recorded 72 sacks which sits top five in conference during that time frame. Going back to a 2022-type of scheme shows potential for more production from the Hogs’ front seven.

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Wesley Hitt/GettyImages