xmarkd400x
2nd Team Getting Their First Start
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The defensive philosophy:
The defensive line is supposed to be the meatshield for the rest of the defense. Each lineman is supposed to require 2 blockers to be blocked effectively. If this happens as planned, the linebackers are free to do their thing. All of this centers around the nose tackle. If you will notice, the years with Ted Washington/mature Vince Wilfork have yielded better defenses.
The linebackers are supposed to be the playmakers of the defense. It takes a special brand of player to succeed as an LB in a BB defense. Linebackers have to be able to play one LB position really well in addition to playing at least one other position (ILB/OLB/DE) pretty darn well. This versatility is what makes BB defenses special.
The defensive backs are, for the most part, just supposed to not get burned. Corners do not need to be particularly great (although we all <3 Ty Law) to not get beat deep. They just need to be fast and athletic. The safties are required to play a bit of linebacker from time to time.
How does this translate into the defensive draft picks for this year?
Jerod Mayo - Just does everything, which is exactly what LBs need to do in a BB system.
Terrence Wheatley - Seems to have the physical tools to cover well. Remember all last year when the CBs played 10yds off the line? Well, now we have a corner who (hopefully) will be able to play 7 yards off the line and not get beat deep.
Shawn Crable - Plays OLB/DE, and plays both well. Can rush the passer. Again, fits the description of a BB linebacker.
So, what about the 2008 defense?
Expect to see Richard Seymour return to form this year. He had his surgery and had a tough time getting back from it. If he has not recovered by this year, he is done. Expect him to be recovered.
Expect the FA signings at DB to be a stopgap while the younger players learn. Brandon Meriweather will get on the field more, either at safety or CB.
Expect the LBs to perform well. Each of the linebackers appears to be able to do at least one thing pretty well, which should be enough to give the incumbent starters a rest once in a while. As they get more comfortable in the system, they will play more often and be asked to do more things.
I'm excited for the 2008 defense.
Here's hoping to a 2008 SB. :rocker:
The defensive line is supposed to be the meatshield for the rest of the defense. Each lineman is supposed to require 2 blockers to be blocked effectively. If this happens as planned, the linebackers are free to do their thing. All of this centers around the nose tackle. If you will notice, the years with Ted Washington/mature Vince Wilfork have yielded better defenses.
The linebackers are supposed to be the playmakers of the defense. It takes a special brand of player to succeed as an LB in a BB defense. Linebackers have to be able to play one LB position really well in addition to playing at least one other position (ILB/OLB/DE) pretty darn well. This versatility is what makes BB defenses special.
The defensive backs are, for the most part, just supposed to not get burned. Corners do not need to be particularly great (although we all <3 Ty Law) to not get beat deep. They just need to be fast and athletic. The safties are required to play a bit of linebacker from time to time.
How does this translate into the defensive draft picks for this year?
Jerod Mayo - Just does everything, which is exactly what LBs need to do in a BB system.
Terrence Wheatley - Seems to have the physical tools to cover well. Remember all last year when the CBs played 10yds off the line? Well, now we have a corner who (hopefully) will be able to play 7 yards off the line and not get beat deep.
Shawn Crable - Plays OLB/DE, and plays both well. Can rush the passer. Again, fits the description of a BB linebacker.
So, what about the 2008 defense?
Expect to see Richard Seymour return to form this year. He had his surgery and had a tough time getting back from it. If he has not recovered by this year, he is done. Expect him to be recovered.
Expect the FA signings at DB to be a stopgap while the younger players learn. Brandon Meriweather will get on the field more, either at safety or CB.
Expect the LBs to perform well. Each of the linebackers appears to be able to do at least one thing pretty well, which should be enough to give the incumbent starters a rest once in a while. As they get more comfortable in the system, they will play more often and be asked to do more things.
I'm excited for the 2008 defense.
Here's hoping to a 2008 SB. :rocker:
