Monday, January 25, 2010

Could Haynesworth Fight Switch to 3-4?

It is well known that the new regime in town wants to switch from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense. The main idea of the 3-4 is to provide more complexity by being able to create more elaborate blitz packages. You know the 3 lineman are rushing, but usually at least one of the four linebackers will rush the passer as well.

The Redskins are pretty well equipped for the change but the sticking point may be Fat Albert Haynesworth. He would have to play the nose guard position which involves tons of work and usually very few big plays. The job of the nose guard in the 3-4 is to work hard and clog the middle, not necessarily make big plays rushing the passer. Since there is only one "defensive tackle" obviously off the snap the nose guard is ill equipped to burst through the line with the center and two guard right in his path. If Haynesworth can sacrifice some sacks for the good of the team, he could be very helpful in the 3-4 scheme.

An idea would be to allow Haynesworth to play DE, but I am not sure how that is going to work. Not sure if he has the foot speed and motor to make an impact from that position.

While Albert may have some trouble with the switch, I think the switch benefits Brian Orakpo the most. He is an ideal 3-4 linebacker as he is very versatile and a great pass rusher.

While many questions will be answered over the 6 months, I just do not see Albert taking the transition smoothly, which could ultimately cause some problems. We shall see.

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