Detroit Lions: Fixing the defense, Matt Patricia charges and roster moves

4 of 6

DETROIT, MI – NOVEMBER 12: Jarrad Davis #40 of the Detroit Lions breaks up a pass intended for David Njoku #85 of the Cleveland Browns during the first half at Ford Field on November 12, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Linebackers

It was crazy to not see a 3-4 outside linebacker type brought in via the draft. Devon Kennard fits that mold, but there isn’t much behind him.

Ziggy Ansah can do some of the same job, due to his athleticism. Others who could fit at 3-4 outside linebacker (OLB): Anthony Zettel, Kerry Hyder, and Alex Barrett, potentially.

You need a hybrid linebacker-defensive end type body, and to be able to cover a smaller guy, a running back for example, to excel. It is also necessary to be able to rush the passer. So, a 3-4 OLB can usually do both and is a good athlete.

Making the defense more flexible is the key to the new philosophy. No changes are necessary for remaining players who are holdovers from our old 4-3 personnel.

What is generally concerning to me is how often tight ends and receivers that came over the middle gashed our defense for big yards.

This is a function of several factors: speed in the back-end, cover ability of the linebackers, and lack of pass rush.

I can assume that second year backer, Jarrad Davis, will improve his cover technique, which will help. Also, matching up personnel better, can help.

Home/Lions News