Quote:Basically a base nickel package only with an extra safety instead of a nickel back to facilitate better tackling than a nickel back and more speed than a base 4-3 LB?


Like anything else, it could work if you have the personnel to run it effectively, but it could pose problems.


If you conclude the Jaguars are kinda running it now if you view Telvin Smith as that extra safety, then to me a primary concern is physicality to stop the run. On an inside run, can that guy stand up to a G/C coming to the next level? I know the alignment should preclude that to a large degree or, in a worst case scenario, have the LBs take on those guards/centers. On an outside run, can he keep contain and be strong at the point of attack against a pulling lineman or a big TE? I think that effect is exacerbated if, instead of the 3 WR set shown above, the offense is running 2 TE.


That is one of the many concerns I have had about the defense this year: vulnerability against the run. Granted we've played the whole year with Alualu at DT, so vulnerability against the inside run is a given no matter the scheme. But there have been times offenses have run outside at Smith, and that corner has been soft.


While an undersized LB can be effective in contain if schemed to protect him (The JJ era Cowboys exemplify this to me), I think it is fraught with risk without the DL to do it.


Right now, without any stud DEs or DTs for opposing offenses to concern themselves with I think a scheme can have its vulnerabilities against a team with a versatile, balanced offense.


I think the extra safety could also be exploited in pass coverage if his cover responsibility has him against a particularly fast/shifty WR, or possibly against a big/fast TE.