:agree:
It is amazing how the Jets have number 1 defense with below average DLine, average pass rushers, average LB, good secondary (one great CB). Do we the fans over-rate BB's defensive scheme and the need for great pass rush ?
This is how I've been feeling for quite a while. I remember against Denver when Brian Baldinger said BB's defense was outdated and people just mocked him. I think he's spot on. All of the best defenses in the league are attacking defenses. We do not attack. Instead of bringing 5 or 6 guys on a blitz, we drop 7 or 8 guys in coverage on a consistent basis.
I've said in many other threads our two-gapping system isn't as effective as it used to be. It's great against the run, but against a good QB and a good passing team it's nothing great. It's a bend but don't break defense, and I HATE that type of defense. I hate read and react defense.
I hate Rex Ryan and the Jets as much as anyone, but I love his defensive system. He's all about coming after you, forcing the issue, and causing chaos. That's why his players love to play for him. Why would any big-time pass rushing OLB want to come here after what they say happen to Adalius Thomas? The guy was a pass rushing demon for Rex Ryan, and he comes here and he's not nearly the force he was for them.
Look at the attacking 3-4 defense Capers has employed in Green Bay. Boy, do I wish we had him still. All you have to do is look at the post on Extra Points today about where the Patriots ranked in stats amongst other teams.
Yards allowed per game we were 11th. The top 5 teams? Jets, Packers, Ravens, Bengals, Steelers. All of those teams are "attacking" defenses who come after. Even with how bad Pitt's D looked compared to last year, they were still top 5 in the league!
Look at points allowed per game. We were 5th with our bend-but-don't-break-hold them to FG-defense. Ahead of us? Jets, Cowboys, 49ers, Ravens. All of those teams attack a lot more than us.
That's why I love the 056 package. It gets a lot of heat and confuses the QB. IMO we need to do a lot more of stuff like that. I'd much rather see us be a 1 gapping defensive team. If you sit back all day you are going to get picked apart. Some guys will beat themselves like Sanchez did in Foxboro. But good QB's in the playoffs like Rivers and Manning will pick you apart. Over the years, Manning has struggled the most against the Raven's defense because of the system they play.
Yes personnel can be upgraded, but our defensive scheme/system also needs to be evaluated as well.