Defensive philosophy - why not the 3-4?
Dear MGoBloggers:
I was wondering if you think it might be a good idea for Michigan to adopt a 3-4 defense at some point in the next couple of years. As a former college quarterback I can tell you that this was the toughest defense to scheme and play against, and I think that it would make sense given our trouble recruiting top-flight DEs. This would be advantageous especially considering our recent haul of well respected LBs, and I think that this would allow us to get better athletes on the field. We are going to be smaller and faster with Mike Barwis running the S&C show, and this defense would allow us to echo that. This also would allow us to put more DT types on the outside, which is what this defense calls for. We have a stud 3-4 NT coming in in 2009 (Will Campbell), and this would also allow us to get much more creative with our CB and S blitzes. I grew up watching the Steelers run this defense, and I would love to see it at Michigan.
What do you think?
WolvinLA:
I sat down last night and thought about all of the truly dominating DEs and LBs in both the pros and in college, and I found that it was much easier to name outstanding LBs at both levels. In a perfect world we could find Julius Peppers types every year to play DE, but it just seems like there is a better chance at success in going with more LBs.