Agree. Maybe RKG's aren't cut out to play nasty defense??? I don't know.
It is not just about "nasty defense".
Playing defense is a lot different from playing offense. Confidence means even more because the deck is stacked against you.
We just lack players with edge. DeMarcus Ware is an incredible player, but he does not exactly instill fear in anyone other than the fear of his abilities. He is not going to kill your QB. Sean Lee is a heck of a player, but he is not going to take your head off.
I also see a lot of thinking and doubt on the defense. Jones thought making it "simple" with the Tampa 2 would help, but it clearly did not.
I do not even think Ryan's system was that hard. He just had players who bought in. I do not think our defenders are capable of buying in to much of anything as they really just do not get the idea they are valued.
Just look at how the offense behaves. Throw, throw, throw. We have to score because we do not trust them.
And it is not just something that started this season.
The one time in the past 17 years we trusted the defense, we made the playoffs and won a wildcard game.
Even back in the glory days of the 1990s, there was a physical nature to the team. We ran the ball, and we played very tough defense with quite a few players who were rough around the edges.
Ever notice the players who go to bat for Garrett are usually on offense?