Horns247 Board

I've read that part of Muschamp's strategy will be to scheme away from the 2nd DT by running some variations of the 3-4. If we were to line up in a traditional 3-4 who would be the 4 LBs and in what position.

Another question on this: Are S.Acho/Jones/Okafor big enough to play those combo DE/DT in a 3-4 on an every down basis against a team like OU or Nebraska?

Your thoughts.

Jones is not big enough from a traditional mindset, but that doesn't mean Muschamp subscribes to "traditional" thoughts in that regard. Still, Okafor and Jeffcoat definitely are, and Acho is already sliding down some. So 2 of the 3 you mentioned have that size and a fourth you didn't mention - Jeffocat - does. That gives Texas a lot of versatility which only makes the defense more multiple. The kids they have, they just have a chance to do some special things with the pass rush.

Clearly the best pipeline of LBs than at any time under Mack.

FSU had 14 straight years of finishing in the AP top 5. I'd say they were the model of consistency and defense is what carried the day, even though they had plenty of offensive weapons, too. I remember the FSU-A&M Cotton Bowl. Perfect example of a great D winning the day.

Something to add to those FSU teams, and what separates really good defenses from the great ones, are the playmakers. The great defenses have an Derrick Brooks, a Marvin Jones, a Peter Boulware, an Earl Thomas. Guys who are on stout defenses, and then can make plays that alter the entire complexion of a game. I go back to the instinctive read and INT Earl Thomas made against Oklahoma State. Humans don't make that play. Great defenses can all run, have depth, give great effort, be hard-nosed and then have a guy or two who are truly, truly difference makers.

What is absolutely scary is that if Muschamp stays, the Defense looks like it will only improve. The defensive talent in the 2010 & 2011 classes is just unbelievable.