GumboBC

lummOx --

Any success we might have on defense is dependent on a strong pass rush from our front four. Defenses blitz, not because they want to, but because they have to. At least in most cases.

If teams could rush the passer effectively with their front four, then why gamble rushing linebackers or any of the other 7-players? All you do when you blitz is create mis-matches in favor of the offense.

I\'m trying to find a way to make my point without making it sound too complicated.

First, all defensive schemes have their pros and cons. Defensive coordinators always want to play a defesive scheme that is the least risky.

What defense is that?

The one where you only rush 4 guys and let the other guys diagnose the play and play either the run or pass. But, the only way you can do that is have a dominant front 4.

So, who are the most important guys on a defense? The front 4, of course.

How important are cornerbacks? Important to be sure. But, they are way down the list in order of importance.

As I said, all defensive shemes have their pros and cons. It\'s not likely you will have a dominant front four and shut-down cornerbacks. You will probably have one or the other if you\'re lucky.

If you have shut-down corners and a weak D-line then your defensive scheme is very limited. You have to bring your safties up in the box and hope you cornerbacks can get the job done. The Redskins are a perfect example. We see how they did.

On the flip side, you had the Panthers. They had a weak secondary and a dominant front four. They were able to be much more creative in their defensive schemes. Worked well for them.

Ya\'ll will have to decide what\'s the best route to go. It\'s a no brainer for me.

If we have a dominant front 4.....Our secondary will be fine. If not, it won\'t be pretty to watch.

JKool - I wouldn\'t be too concerned about stopping the short passes if our front 4 and linebackers play well. You don\'t need world class speed at the CB position to stop short passess. That\'s more to do with the deep passes. The key to stopping the short pass is having enough guys in position to stop the play.