Mailbag question: Overhaul the defense like offense

Mailbag question: Overhaul the defense like offense

Been reading your blog a while, love your input on something.

Not only has the defense been hit badly with attrition, but also player development (not physical, mostly mental) seems to be lacking. That being said, do you see the staff trying to overhaul the defense like they've done the offense? This year’s offense is fast and athletic all over the place; the defense still seems to be stuck in mid-Carr era. Every player seems to be playing a different position than they were recruited for. Will that continue? The staff seems to be chasing after all athletes, which excites me.

Jeff C.

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Thanks for the question and being a long time reader.

Yes, in our opinion Coach Rod (and the defensive staff) is trying to redo the defense.

A quick, general look at the type of player UM is now recruiting on defense clearly indicates the recruits are very athletic players who can run and also show a defensive aptitude.

A key feature we see on film of recruits is the new recruits are generally very explosive, with super quick feet, have a nasty edge to their game, and play with a chip on their shoulder. All of the above are things we love in defensive players.

If we have a concern about the defensive recruiting it may be the amount of tweeners and the lack of size regarding defensive recruits. Coach Rod and the defensive staff seem to have a Virginia Tech or Auburn attitude to recruiting defense. Recruit as many quality athletes who can run and hit as possible, and let strength and conditioning help develop the needed size and strength. As many know, we believe that Michigan has one of the best, if not the best, strength and conditioning coaches in the country, so developing those kids and getting them to their maximum potential will not be a problem under Coach Barwis. But this contributes to another concern, not having the elite players that can come in immediately and play a set position.

Like any other fan base, we say we need more elite players, especially on the defensive side of the ball where offense's are using more spread offensive schemes and getting the ball to skilled quick players and a defense needs talented kids that can make plays, play fast, and be able to compete against fast offensive skilled players.

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Written by CoachBt and ErocWolverine