The first and leading thing that just HAD to happen for us to get anywhere near better was ..making the changes to get Marinelli's aazzz outta here:
we totally had to change how we play defense upfront - size, preference, scheme, sub-packages, much better gap and rush discipline.
- we got "out physical " from Marinelli regime, he preferred movement and stopping the run on the way to the QB, he wanted quick twitch
over physical size and muscle.
- we were not equipped to clog up lanes to better help the flow to our LBs under what Marinelli wanted/preferred.
- it was Rod's preference for "length" and " prototype" that led to bypassing TJ Watt and instead making the influential preferred pick for bust Taco Charleton
Watt is now one of the leagues best defensive players, while Taco was eventually cut from the team.
Now imagine his newfound wish for more size-length when we drafted 237 pound randy gregory to be a 4-3 DE.
- Rod had low regard for 1 tech role. He thought they were interchangeable and he could get a bargain 1 tech low in draft or street vet FA.
- Rod had some odd sub-package rotations that saw his best DL players on the side line in red zone situations
Dlaw and Quinn could be seen on the sidelines with opposing teams in striking scoring situations.
- The 2nd thing was replacing Marinelli with a more well reputed DL coach in Jim Tomsula, as well as a regarded DC in Mike Nolan.
- Now its' a matter of Stephen/McClay supplying the player personnel unit that gives these coaches the best chance to succeed.
McCoy, Poe, Alden Smith are the early additions, who knows how the draft will further impact the current add ons, and its' clear that the
team will be counting heavily on talented but troubled age 27 old Randy gregory making another comeback while not having to
worry about suspensions under the new CBA policy.
- The previous trio are household names but they are also past performers, not current pro bowl main stays. its a gamble to see these 30 year agers
still have something left in the tank.
