New defensive ideas

Our base is still going to be the 4-3 but we're going to run many formations. That's why the Ayers pick was so important because he brings much needed versatility. One play he can be an OLB and the next in a different formation as a DE. He's a very good pass rusher but also good in coverage.

 

Ayers brings nothing. No matter what position he plays, he's not going to tackle anyone.

BUT... I doubt he ever plays a down for us anyway. I'll be scared if he does.

And yes, I'm hating. Let me get it out of my system... guy's awful.

 

If you're hating, that's great, but at least add something to the conversation about it.


I like him with the hybrid look, Gray clearly wants that confusing front 7-8 that's getting so popular these days with 3-4 teams and I'm all for it. Jones IS undersized even with his bulk. It's pretty bad when a guy coming in just over 300 is about our biggest guy on DL.

 

I'm not big on switching to a 3-4 at all... but I do like the idea of a hybrid. A base 4-3 with some LBs that can put their hand down and rush the passer and a big DT who could be serviceable as a NT in certain packages. Based on the comments that's exactly what Gray is wanting:

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR JERRY GRAY

(on any opportunity to beef up the interior defensive line)

(....) You've got to get a nose that can take on a double team

DEFENSIVE LINE COACH TRACY ROCKER

(on what he has seen on film and where Jurrell fits in with the defensive line)

Well I think in a 4-3 package, you're trying to have as many inside, core of the 4-3, you're trying to have as many big guys inside and at the same time, athletic guys, not just a bump on a log. That's why I think Casey comes in, he has the ability to be athletic. He can possibly be a three and also play the nose tackle spot.

 

I like the idea of a a defense than can keep the offense guessing, which is the real strength of a 3-4. Casey isn't a big NT, but he can play there in 3-4 downs.

Another possibility comes to mind... Perhaps they are planing a transition to the 3-4 over time and are simply setting the stage with the first parts to that this year. They could add more parts next year for a full transition (if that's what they wanted to do).

I have no idea, of course, just speculation.

 

Didn't you say the same thing about Earl Thomas?

 

I've been thinking the same thing, Starkiller. 2 of the picks in this draft help set up a switch to 3-4 while still being capable of playing in a 4-3. It's an interesting possibility.

 

The thought of not playing the mush rush and zone coverage against Peyton Manning is well .................refreshing!

 

I don't want a cute defense. I want a GOOD defense. I'll take top-ten and vanilla over bottom-three but REALLY fun use on Madden.