Run defense improved?

[nero THE zero]

Originally Posted by barrett

I remain unconvinced we have the pieces to make this work. A blitzing Brian Dawkins at safety is one of the keys to that blitz heavy defense. This is the case with most great blitzing teams. They can bring it from their DBs. We have nobody like that. This means all of our blitzing will come from the LBs which means it is far easier to recognize.

Not to dispute your point in its entirety, but Dunta's greatest asset is his blitzing ability. Also, though it's a tiny sample size, the chances Barber has gotten to blitz he has been extremely effective. And, Eugene Wilson is an average blitzer. I really couldn't comment on the rest of the guys, though we seem to place a premium on size and speed, so you'd think there'd be another guy there who would be at least average at getting to the QB.

I think it's moot though. I don't think we'll see anymore blitzing than we saw toward the end of the season last year, and I certainly don't think we'll see a Jim Johnson-esque defense. I think we'll generally try and get pressure with the front four and send a fifth man on passing down. Ho-hum.