Demon Deacons adjusting to new defensive alignment

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Wake Forest coach Jim Grobe said Tuesday he likes what he has seen so far from his defense, which has adjusted to a new scheme.<br> <br> The Demon Deacons switched their base defense from a 3-4 to a 4-3, utilizing an extra down lineman in an effort to better fit their personnel this season. Grobe said he has seen several positives through three games, but would like to see even more improvement.<br> <br> ``We&#39;re still evolving a little bit, but I think we&#39;ve got the personnel where we need it now,&#39;&#39; Grobe said.<br> <br> ``I think we are making improvements and except for some mental lapses ... I kind of like some of the things we are doing,&#39;&#39; he said.<br> <br> In Grobe&#39;s first three seasons, Wake Forest (2-1) typically used a base defense with just three down linemen. Opponents responded many times by loading up with tight ends and fullbacks, allowing them to power through the front line.<br> <br> That was especially evident late last season, when the Demon Deacons lost their final three games.<br> <br> Wake Forest&#39;s new-look defense will be tested Saturday against future Atlantic Coast Conference member Boston College (3-0), which has a large offensive line. Three starters are 6-feet-7 or taller.<br> <br> Defensive end Matt Robinson, a 6-2, 240-pound redshirt freshman, said he is excited about the challenge. He also said the switch to the 4-3 alignment has been beneficial, allowing linebackers to roam a little more while allowing defensive backs to cover man-on-man.<br> <br> The Demon Deacons would like to challenge the opposing quarterback more. The 4-3 is supposed to get more pressure on the quarterback, but the Demon Deacons have only three sacks all season.<br> <br> ``By having four down defensive linemen, it gives us a different look and a different scheme, and it helps us against the run as well as the pass,&#39;&#39; said senior cornerback Eric King, who has made 35 consecutive starts.<br> <br> ``We just have to do a better job of pressuring their quarterback, especially this week.&#39;&#39;

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