Analysis: Cowboys Defense

[xwalker]

Analysis: The Dline held the point of attack instead of trying to penetrate. They threw playing the run on the way to the QB out the window. They actually would slant one DT then have the LB's fill in that hole. So they played more of a two gap with one slanting DT.

BOOM...and I didnt even have to rewatch the tape.

No, that is NOT what happened.

The "playing the run on the way to the QB" concept has not been the primary issue with run defense despite fans/media often making that claim.

Fans/media have an overwhelming need for things to be simple (they blitzed too much, they run a 4-3, no it's a 3-4, they play man coverage, not it's zone). All of those simpleton concepts that fans/media can put a label on.

 

[MapleLeaf]

No, that is NOT what happened.

The "playing the run on the way to the QB" concept has not been the primary issue with run defense despite fans/media often making that claim.

Fans/media have an overwhelming need for things to be simple (they blitzed too much, they run a 4-3, no it's a 3-4, they play man coverage, not it's zone). All of those simpleton concepts that fans/media can put a label on.

I am concerned that play the run on the way to the QB can be out-schemed with a mobile QB or designed plays to move the pocket.

Add into that a tendency to lose outside the outside edge and we have these strong runs by opponents. Mix this with the odd stunt and we will do find ourselves in positions where the play calling by the opponents is the right one against our defence.

So I feel we need to develop a defence that can do this - be very fundamentally sound in base defence.

4-3. Strong edge setting. Maintain gap integrity. Bring acceptable NFL pressure with just the front four. Keep LBs clean to control the run game. Free up the strong to drop down as a 4th LB to support on a run, but play cover two first.

Good simple sound defence that makes teams work hard for their yards. Good technique and good execution.

If they can get this down, and execute this on a fundamental basis, then I have no problem with all the stunts and wrinkles sprinkled in to get an edge.

But right now the defensive talent and scheme put together doesn't look sound nor capable from a week to week basis.