Trent Williams vs. Greg Hardy: Who has the edge?

[RS12]

The signing made Dallas' defense better, and it also means the Washington Commanders will now have to face one of the NFL’s best pass-rushers twice this season. And, if Greg Hardy re-signs in 2016, then it could mean two games for the next several years.

That means a matchup of Hardy and Washington's Trent Williams. Hardy also will get to face Philadelphia's Jason Peters, so he will get four matchups against two of the best left tackles. Obviously, my focus is on the Williams matchup. And it should be a good one: Williams' athleticism and long arms obviously will help. To get a little feel for what might happen this season, I took a look back at their last matchup in 2012 (when the teams met in 2011, Williams did not play).

Here’s what happened -- and it could be similar to what we see this season:


http://espn.go.com/blog/washington-...nt-williams-vs-greg-hardy-weve-seen-it-before

 

[RS12]

Hardy recorded 1.5 sacks, but neither time occurred when facing Williams, at least not directly. His full sack came when he started against Williams, but then ran a stunt inside and center Will Montgomery did not pick him up.

The inside move is what makes him so effective.

 

[Wood]

Peters is declining and 33 years old now. Trent Williams will be good test but the best competition might come from Dallas own Tyron Smith in practice.

 

[burmafrd]

yeah, Tyron said that having to face Deware in practice made the games a LOT easier.

 

[Bluestang]

Peters is declining and 33 years old now. Trent Williams will be good test but the best competition might come from Dallas own Tyron Smith in practice.

I'm banking on Smith dominating Hardy in OTAs and the start of camp. But as Hardy works himself back into football shape I'd expect Hardy to get the edge.

This battle in camp is going to be one to watch.

 

[bayeslife]

I'm banking on Smith dominating Hardy in OTAs and the start of camp. But as Hardy works himself back into football shape I'd expect Hardy to get the edge.

This battle in camp is going to be one to watch.

I'm banking on Smith beating him all of camp. Guy is an absolute freak.

 

[JoeyBoy718]

I'm banking on Smith beating him all of camp. Guy is an absolute freak.

JJ Watt is leagues above any pass rusher, so if he could shut down Watt I think he could shut down Hardy.

 

[SuspectCorner]

I'm banking on Smith beating him all of camp. Guy is an absolute freak.

I like Tyron and think he is one of the best LTs playing - but Hardy is also one of the best. The camp match-up will be good for both players - and I believe Hardy will win a fair share of those match-ups.

 

[poost]

I have Hardy winning until the pads come on. Then Tyron should be able to hold his own.

 

[Hardline]

Tyron Smith is the best tackle Hardy will face all year.

 

[mahoneybill]

yeah, Tyron said that having to face Deware in practice made the games a LOT easier.

Hopefully Hardy also lines up over our other lineman also to give them the experience of facing a premier rusher. Should make them all better

 

[MRV52]

I don't understand this thread. Why are we worried about the Commanders?