Previewing South Carolina at Tennessee: Topics for Discussion on the Vols' Offense
by Gamecock Man on Oct 27, 2009 12:16 PM EDT
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- Can we stop the run? The biggest question for our defense is probably whether or not we can slow down Montario Hardesty and Bryce Brown. We've had trouble against the run in recent weeks, and it won't get any easier against these two backs and the Vols' experienced offensive line.
- Perhaps even more importantly, can we stop the run without completely giving up on our pass defense? In a couple of words, probably not. I'm just not convinced that we're good against the run without safeties in the box, certainly not against Tennessee. Our interior just isn't playing well enough right now.
- Does it matter whether we defend the pass or not? This time last year, you could basically stack the box and dare Tennessee to pass, as Jonathan Crompton and Nick Stephens simply weren't capable of making you pay. Right now, Crompton is playing a little better than last year. Is he playing so much better that he can really brutalize an aggressive defense for more than a play here and there? Perhaps we'll find out.
- Relatedly, should we move Eric Norwood into the middle? Last night on Rocky Top Talk, cocknfire mentioned that it might be a good idea to move Eric Norwood to the middle so he could help out against the run. I'm a little torn on this. On the one hand, Norwood is big enough and is a good enough tackler to help plug the middle of the field. I love Shaq Wilson, but certainly, it would seem that Norwood would be a better ILB than Wilson. (And Wilson might be better suited to the outside.) However, what you lose by making this move is Norwood's ability to run around in the backfield and make big plays. Is that something we want to give up?
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key #1
is stopping the run like you said. This is a must if SC is to win. I don’t think moving Norwood over is the right call. Shaq Wilson has been doing a great job the last 2 weeks with double digit tackles. You always want to see the LB corp leading in the tackles category. The big issue is more, in my mind, the D line. They have been fairly quiet the last few weeks. Just not getting a lot of push, heck more they are getting pushed around too much and on top of that we are not deep in that position. So it is hard to have fresh bodies in that line due to injuries. We need 2-3 more Ladi’s up front to stuff the run…. We must begin to win battles in the trenches if not we will continue to not be able to stop the run.
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by Flounder on Oct 27, 2009 2:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
We're not getting any pressure anymore unless we send the house. That's been a problem for our rush.
Garnet and Black Attack: A Blog by and for Gamecocks Fans.
by Gamecock Man on Oct 27, 2009 4:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I say we just stack the box. Make Crompton beat us.
Alternatively, it’ll be great to see the chess match between Spurrier and Kiffin the Elder on the other side of the ball.
--Robert
A Towers Alumnus
by a gamecock fan on Oct 27, 2009 6:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm beginning to come around to that theory, as well...
Crompton is shaky and our defensive backfield is playing great ball right now. Maybe he’ll beat us deep once or twice, but he’ll probably also throw a couple of interceptions if his attempts are high, and we’ll slow down the run.
Garnet and Black Attack: A Blog by and for Gamecocks Fans.
by Gamecock Man on Oct 27, 2009 8:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Interesting about moving Norwood
The Vols have been forced to move Eric Berry around this year, limiting the number of “highlight reel” plays he might have if he was allowed to roam around like he did last year. The net result has been better run defense and intermediate pass defense (it seems like he has more tackles and PBU’s).
Norwood is a beast and he will make an impact no matter his location on the field. UT will need a good plan to try and neutralize Norwood’s impact on the game.
UT owes SC one for last year’s whoopin’. Should be another good defensive battle.
Ball, oskie, cover, block, cut and slice, pursue and gang tackle... for this is the WINNING EDGE.
by pound the rock on Oct 27, 2009 7:25 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
It's an interesting thought...
But I doubt you’ll see it happen. It hasn’t yet, and Wilson seems to be growing into his role somewhat despite his deficiencies. This game will be an interesting test for him, though.
Garnet and Black Attack: A Blog by and for Gamecocks Fans.
by Gamecock Man on Oct 27, 2009 8:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
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