SYRACUSE -- It's been a cruel month of August for Syracuse University Head Football Coach Doug Marrone when it comes to player availability.

Marrone has seen his player numbers go down in practice due to everything from injury to NCAA player eligibility issues to wisdom teeth being pulled out. One thing Marrone can be comfortable with is the fact that he currently has a strong and experienced defensive secondary.

"I'm definitely less worried about the depth on our secondary than I am at (other positions)," says Marrone, "when you have the numbers that we have and the injuries that occur, it's gonna be important."

18 players were missing from practice to begin the week, and while many of them should return, the players are ready to fill holes where needed. There were already several players learning new positions to start the season, and others are always "on call" to change it up. Even those in the secondary are well aware that despite being one of the most solidified units, the need to know how to switch it up at a moments notice.      

"If a player goes down another player can (step in)," says senior Mike Holmes, "it doesn't have to be somebody right behind him. (Marrone) might plug in somebody from another position that might be the best fit. They've done a great job of recruiting players that are versatile and can play multiple positions. So far I've been playing corner, but the coaches have told me to be able to do both, so I pay attention to the safety position to make sure that I don't lose the ability to do that as well."