People will make a big deal about "having a month to prepare" for flexbone can make any defense look good, but with Norm Parker, What You See Is What You Get.
Parker's no-nonsense approach to defense, stressing (schematic) minimalism and disciplined fundamentals is what has been showing up every week for years in Iowa City.
Below are some clips from the defensive annihilation at the Orange Bowl with Iowa's defense matching the formation (doubles or trips) then gap controlling the front 7 (spilling to force corners).
There is nothing here that will blow your brains out with scheme - but the flawless execution of footwork and hand placement along the front is what gets this done. The most entertaining element (IMO) is watching the backside outside linebacker methodically shuffle into the hole for cutback. This also puts him in great position to match the final 3.
With the 'even' (coverage) defense matching the even (formation), it allows MLB Angerer (rep Bettendorf!) to completely sell out to the fullback on every play.
Even though #94 Clayborn is a consummate ass-kicker, if you need an example of "bock-down-step-down" DE execution; this is it.
For the compendium of defending the triple option, see Coach Hoover's series here
Exactly..great players who are well coached to do simple things...it's not magic
ReplyDeleteGreat game for coaches to watch and learn how to play successful sound fundamental football. I wonder why Coach Parker chose Cover 2 vs. Cover 4 to defend the flexbone? Anyone have an idea?
ReplyDeletetech44, I wondered the same thing. I will say that the playside CB is getting a clean read and is coming hard by seeing the PST's down block on triple option. With any other play, the read was not as clean.
ReplyDeletetech44,
ReplyDeleteNorm Parker is as committed to cover 2 as Paul Johnson is to the triple option. (...and when the front seven can shut down the run, why not put an umbrella over Bebe?)
tech44, I wondered the same thing. I will say that the playside CB is getting a clean read and is coming hard by seeing the PST's down block on triple option. With any other play, the read was not as clean.
ReplyDeleteGreat game by Iowa. I enjoyed every second of it. I hate the nerds (that team from Atlanta you played in the Orange Bowl).
ReplyDeleteGETTING blocked is not the same as STAYING blocked. Iowa had great ability to get off blocks and run to the ball.
ReplyDelete