Originally posted by Cornicator:
Originally posted by Husker.Wed.:
My biggest takeaway from today was when Banker said (something like) , "We get real comfortable with our base defense. If things don't go well with our sub-packages, we can go back to base." I'm not real good with Xs and Os, but it seemed to me that sometimes the previous staff would have a defensive gameplan and if it went south, they would stick with it and then panic and discouragement would set in. It seems like a good idea to have something to fall back on if the gameplan isn't working, if for no other reason to let the players go back to something real familiar to let them settle down.
Of course if Wisconsin is running up and down the field on Banker's sub-package and he goes back to base and we are still getting curb-stomped, then it doesn't matter.
His scheme has some fundamental principals that rarely change:
1. Defensive linemen have one gap and create penetration.
2. SAM and MIKE Linebacker are responsible for stopping the run and rarely have coverage responsibilities.
3. Corners are on an Island in man coverage.
4. Safeties have a lot of flexibilty to roam, but Banker loves to cheat them into the box, assuming his corners can cover.
5. WILL needs to be athletic as a cover man vs. TE or RB.
In order for it work the following needs to occur:
1. Corners must be legit in coverage. If you can play man up without getting beat in one on one, it changes the way a team can play quarters on defense.. just look at Michigan State.
2. SAM Linebacker needs to be a tremendous tackler. That position will be constantly responsible for open field tackles. He must be a ball hawk.
3. Defensive tackles must be disruptive. This goes for any defense, but if the offensive line is worried about keeping the interior of their offensive line focused on the defensive tackles, it allows the MIKE to really "own the box" vs the running game.
4. Safeties must be able to RUN. I mean you need to 4.4 to 4.5 guys who can cover ground in a hurry.
5. Dynamic Pass rushers at Defensive end. If opponents are worried about their tackles protecting the QB out on the edge, it makes the QB susceptible to the blitz from a safety, from the MIKE, or even the SAM or WILL, depending on the formation.
I think Nebraska is in good shape with 4 of those 5.... I'm not sure they have a true edge rusher.