Over the last two seasons, Indianapolis Colts defensive end Ben Banogu has been scratched 15 times. Ben Banogu has been scratched because of his effort during practices. Banogu was placed in the doghouse by former defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. Players who didn’t show effort and work hard every day were placed in the doghouse.
Banogu has one final shot to stay with Indy as he enters a contract year. The Colts drafted Banogu in 2019 to help strengthen their defense. Banogu was drafted to play Sam linebacker, but Indy moved him to defensive end after seeing his success on the edge at Texas Christian University. At TCU, Banogu recorded 17 sacks and was a “game-wrecker.”
The highs and expectations for Banogu
There was a lot of buzz around Banogu during his rookie season. He showed the potential to be a good edge rusher in Indianapolis’s 4-3 defense. Banogu made some splash players while working with fellow edge rusher Justin Houston. Most notably Banogu sealed the game against the Denver Broncos in 2019. Banogu caused a sack-fumble on Joe Flacco and Indianapolis won the game 15-13.
During the 2019 season, Banogu played 271 defensive snaps and was a reliable player for the Colts. He made strides each week and was one of the best rookies on the Colts roster. Banogu finished his rookie season with 11 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and a forced fumble.
The lows for Banogu
Indianapolis hoped Banogu would build on his rookie campaign and have breakout seasons. However, in the past two seasons, Banogu has struggled to get on the field. Since 2019, Banogu has only produced 8 tackles and zero sacks. Additionally, his snaps have decreased. Banogu had 100 snaps in 2020 and 68 in 2021.
Matt Eberflus was a strict defensive coordinator during his time in Indianapolis. He required effort from his players and didn’t want his players to loaf during practice. He also wanted his players to hustle to the ball. Banogu didn’t live up to Eberflus’s standard and was replaced by other defensive ends like Kemoko Turay and Al Quadin Muhammad.
How can Banogu turn it around this season?
Matt Eberflus is gone and a lot of Indy’s defensive players went with him. Nate Ollie took over as the defensive line coach after Brian Baker departed. Coach Ollie wants his defensive linemen to rush up the field and attack the quarterback. Banogu will have to prove he can get after the quarterback and solidify himself on the defensive line.
Banogu’s role will look different in Gus Bradley’s defense. He will play the LEO position behind Yanick Ngakoue. The LEO plays outside the offensive tackle and is more versatile than a traditional 4-3 defensive end. If Banogu can learn the position and make splash plays during the preseason and regular season, he may be able to stay in Indy past 2022.
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