We need to bring up a LB/DB in a Super D mode ala 2003 ie led the team in TFL, sacks and was second overall in tackles that year. Paging Mr Osborne, Paging Mr Osborne. Not every down per say, but enough to be a constant. Hits like a rain, fast and could also spy Robinson. Saw David mentioned, but as the best LB we can ill afford him to be out of position on other plays. I don't care who we use in that role, but it would surprise Michiken. If we used a spy, what about Staford and Osborne as safety or even SJB if he is healthy.
Our D line also has to force Robinson into the pursuit. D needs to hold their lanes and not get caught inside. DE play will be critical. If they over pursue or get caught inside, Robinson is gone. Robinson also appears more shifty in the open field than Martinez. Critical to make contact and wrap up and then gang tackle. Robinson does not appear to be the most durable guy, hit him every play. No cheap shots or late hits, but he needs to feel pressure and contact whenever possible.
LB's have to play solid in the middle and get off the blocks to tackle in space. As Robinson is similar to Martinez in passing skills, I would like to see the DB's keep their eyes on the QB to come up and assist in broken plays or designed QB runs sooner than later. I also think that we can allow our CB's to play on an island this came without safety support over the top. I think Dennard is definetly good enough and Green should be able to hold his own. Do this until Robinson shows he can beat us with his arm. Similar to what every D has done to us this far. Load the box, stuff the run and force them to pass.
Would love to see a lot more blitzes, started closer in and from multiple spots. Sell out ala MSU.
Injuries on both sides will play a huge part as will fatigue. we are down some key players for sure.
On the O side, establish the run. I lked what Beck did for three quarters in mixing up personnel and formations to not allow PSU to really get into their base D. Will need that again this weekend. Would also like to see misdirection and play action to slow what I am sure will be a sell out D ie 8-9 in the box with blitzes. A draw or two and the misdirection will slow this down. Try the bubble screens to get the ball to the playmakers on the outside. Match up a big a$$ Kinnie and Quincy against smaller DB's. Get the ball to Reed in some more mismatches against their DB's. I don't watch practice, but would like to see JT more. The first 5 games he flashed some brilliance. Would also like to see Michicken be stupid enough to punt or KO to AA in a manner that allows a return or two or three (one KO and the rest punts!). Also need to use the triplets more. Bring a change of pace and not a lot of film on them.
The game comes down to limiting Robinson's big plays and Beck calling a complete 4 quarter game.
