Thoughts on transitioning to a 4-3 defense

[HoosierinFL]

Originally Posted by FatDT

We might do more even front looks but I am guessing there will still be odd front packages. Eberflus followed Rob Ryan to a couple different jobs so I'm sure principles from that defense will factor in. You can compare Pagano's defense to that in some ways, and our current players are familiar with it, so it seems logical they'd run a hybrid with perhaps more emphasis on 4 down linemen and less two-gapping.

Interesting, I didn't know that Eberflus had a connection to Rob Ryan - but given Pagano's connection to Rex Ryan, it's no surprise Pagano's defense had elements of the hybrid defense.

Hoosier, no, I haven't seen a single thing in Sheard's game that makes me think he could play MLB. Honestly the idea seems pretty bizarre to me, to the point that I wonder if maybe you meant someone else.

Yea I meant Sheard, but you're right, it felt like a stretch to even say it, but I was just thinking outside the box and wondering about some unexpected variations. And you're right, we're going to need a whole new group of MLB/ILB prospects this off-season.

I'm not certain what to expect from the 3rd LB in a base in this new defense, and as strong as our DBs are I think we could see a lot of nickel anyway, with Geathers or whoever moving down when we have 5 on the line. I suppose that guy Griffin you guys are talking up could fit that kind of role but to me that is one of the least-simple positions to project.

If you're curious enough about Griffin, he'd absolutely be an OLB in a 3-4, his role in a 4-3 is a bit more uncertain, but WILL seems the best bet:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MN6PfGB6eA&t=6s

Better than a highlight reel is just game tape for every snap, so you can get a feel for what he does play by play, and he really lit it up in the Peach bowl:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RtvdHSsHZXs