Tank’s Defense versus Lee’s Defense

[robjay04]

Lee has been the undisputed leader for so long but I’m sure the players think like many of us do...the guy is always injured. While he’s still part of this team and a leader in the LB room..the defense needed a leader to stand up. That was part of the fixation with Earl Thomas..being the leader.

Crawford sets a great example but I don’t think he is a natural leader. There is no doubt that Tank has taken more of a leadership role on this team as of late and I think you can tell a difference in the attitude we play with now.

This defense has been “solid” for a couple seasons but seemed to lack the killer extinct. They were fundamentally sound and played above their talent level but lacked consistency...especially when their leader was on the sidelines.

With Lawrence being the guy the team looks up to...I can see his attitude and work ethic spill over to the rest of the guys. Part of it has to do with our linebackers and the coaches deserve some credit but it is quite evident Lawrence is the leader of these men. I have a feeling turnovers are going to start to come in bunches for these guys.

This is not a slight on Lee...but our defense needed more attitude and I believe it’s a good thing that we have a new leader on defense.

 

[Batman1980]

Leighton Vander Esch, Tank Lawrence, Jaylon Smith and Jeff Heath are the new leaders.

 

[robjay04]

Leighton Vander Esch, Tank Lawrence, Jaylon Smith and Jeff Heath are the new leaders.

I think most elite defenses have that one guy you look up to.

Chancellor was the leader of the “Legion of Boom”. Ravens great defenses had a lot of studs but we already know who their leader was.

Heath, LVE and Smith can all be leaders in their own respect but IMO...Tank is “the man” on that defense.