Maybe this defense isn't as far from last year as we thought.

After watching polk shread Utah, we've definitely been the best against the run vs pass so far.

Are we over emphasizing the run? Does that slow down our DL and LBs just a tick because they want to make sure it is not a run play? Are our DBs focused on the run and getting sucked out of position leaving wider openings on the pass?

I think our ability to stop the run last year was what helped us against Oregon. Thomas isn't the type to torch you through the air. He is a death by 1000 cuts QB and or defense made that offense slightly less effective.

It seems exactly like last year to me, sometimes it is pretty good, others it is dreadful. It seems adjustments are lacking... either the d is dominant or lost from the beginning and the game continues that way throughout the game. Exactly like last year to me.

CalBear04;583820 said:

---

I think our ability to stop the run last year was what helped us against Oregon. Thomas isn't the type to torch you through the air. He is a death by 1000 cuts QB and or defense made that offense slightly less effective.

---

last year DT was 222/361 for 2,881 yds. (av 8.0 yds/attmpt) 30 TDs 9 Int, Rush 93/482 av 5.1 yds. w/5 TDs

last year Luck was 263/372 for 3,338 yds. (av 8.7 yds/attmpt) 32 TDs 8 Int, Rush 55/453 av 8.2 yds. w/2TDs

Luck was 1st team All Pac 10, Thomas was 2nd

our DL spent too much time holding up the OL and not enough time getting penetration. There may be a different strategy with a 3 man DL but without dominant, off the edge rushers we have that look again of a defensive front that dances with the OL instead of getting by them. It helps defend the running game but it gives opposing QBs tons of time, and that spells trouble.