xwalker
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If you are creating a mock draft for the Cowboys, here are some things to keep in mind.
Kiffin style defenses:
Put a premium on speed over size, especially in the front 7.
From a measureables perspective, DTs usually run sub 5.2 forties and LBs usually run sub 4.75 forties and often significantly faster.
The Weak-Side DE is an elite pass-rusher. Average size is about 6-3, 260 lbs. On the smaller side is Bruce Irvin at 6’2-1/2”, 245 and on the larger side is Julius Peppers at 6-7, 287.
The Strong-Side DE must be strong against the run and provide some pass-rush. Size can vary widely from Red Bryant 6-4, 323 to Robert Mathis 6-3, 245. Many have been about 6-6, 275.
All 4 DL must have the ability to pressure the QB, even the 1-tech.
Cornerbacks must be good tacklers.
Oline:
The OL coach (Callahan) and the new assistant OL coach are known for implementing the Zone Blocking Scheme; although, they will use more man if it is a better fit for the existing players.
Zone Blocking is being used more and more in the NFL. If done properly, it gives the OLinemen an advantage. In the early nineties, the Cowboys OLine averaged 320+ yet the Cowboys and many other teams had a starting DT (Tony Casillas) that was 6-3, 278. The average size of NFL DLines has gotten much bigger while the average OL is still often under 320. The point is that it is much harder for OLinemen to physically move DLinemen out of the way in 1-on-1 blocking than it was 20 years ago.
The ZBS puts a premium on foot speed over size; although, just like Kiffin’s defense, players that are both big and quick are preferred.
From a measurables perspective, Interior Olinemen usually run sub 5.3 forties with Tackles being faster.
Kiffin style defenses:
Put a premium on speed over size, especially in the front 7.
From a measureables perspective, DTs usually run sub 5.2 forties and LBs usually run sub 4.75 forties and often significantly faster.
The Weak-Side DE is an elite pass-rusher. Average size is about 6-3, 260 lbs. On the smaller side is Bruce Irvin at 6’2-1/2”, 245 and on the larger side is Julius Peppers at 6-7, 287.
The Strong-Side DE must be strong against the run and provide some pass-rush. Size can vary widely from Red Bryant 6-4, 323 to Robert Mathis 6-3, 245. Many have been about 6-6, 275.
All 4 DL must have the ability to pressure the QB, even the 1-tech.
Cornerbacks must be good tacklers.
Oline:
The OL coach (Callahan) and the new assistant OL coach are known for implementing the Zone Blocking Scheme; although, they will use more man if it is a better fit for the existing players.
Zone Blocking is being used more and more in the NFL. If done properly, it gives the OLinemen an advantage. In the early nineties, the Cowboys OLine averaged 320+ yet the Cowboys and many other teams had a starting DT (Tony Casillas) that was 6-3, 278. The average size of NFL DLines has gotten much bigger while the average OL is still often under 320. The point is that it is much harder for OLinemen to physically move DLinemen out of the way in 1-on-1 blocking than it was 20 years ago.
The ZBS puts a premium on foot speed over size; although, just like Kiffin’s defense, players that are both big and quick are preferred.
From a measurables perspective, Interior Olinemen usually run sub 5.3 forties with Tackles being faster.
