Bills' 3-4 coming together, still lacking key personnel
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 9:00 AM EDT
in Buffalo Bills Opinion
154 comments
When the Buffalo Bills hired George Edwards as the team's new defensive coordinator on February 4, it was announced that the team would be transitioning from the 4-3 zone-style defense implemented by previous head coach Dick Jauron to the 3-4 defense Edwards worked in with Cleveland and Miami. Switching from a defensive system that calls for light, quick personnel to a system that requires big, physical personnel is one of the more challenging transitions an NFL team can make.
After the Bills' free agent signings of former Ravens DE Dwan Edwards and former Broncos ILB Andra Davis on Tuesday, the team's 3-4 personnel is starting to take shape nicely.
With those two signings and a few tweaks to the depth chart, the Bills dramatically improved not only their starting lineup - where both Edwards and Davis will likely reside in Week 1 of the 2010 season - but their overall depth as well. While the Bills look much better equipped to move to the 3-4 today than they did yesterday, the team is still lacking personnel in the two most critical positional areas to this defensive system.
Defensive End
Buffalo's new system will call for physical, long-armed, two-gap players to control blockers and defend the run at defensive end. Marcus Stroud (6'6", 310 pounds) was always going to be a starter there; he's got the size, length and strength to control two gaps on the edge of the defense, and should be able to keep an inside linebacker and an outside linebacker clean on the vast majority of plays. Edwards (6'3", 315 pounds) is a similar player, and he'll team with Stroud to give the Bills two excellent run defenders as their starting ends.
Spencer Johnson (6'3", 286 pounds) is a more athletic player than Stroud or Edwards, but isn't necessarily capable of controlling two gaps. Johnson specializes in penetrating one gap, which should come in handy on passing downs as a rotational player. Kyle Williams (6'1", 306 pounds) is the wild card of the group; he's not a good fit physically at any traditional 3-4 defensive line position, but is active enough that he'll likely see a heap of rotational work at both end and nose tackle.
For the time being, John McCargo (6'2", 307), Corey Mace (6'3", 287) and Rashaad Duncan (6'2", 315) are in the mix as well.
Inside Linebacker
Davis isn't making sure-fire starter's money, but the 6'1", 250-pound veteran of eight years has an inside track at a starting job in the middle thanks to his experience in the 3-4. If Davis is penciled in as a starter - and again, we think he will be - then there will be two competitors for the other starting job. Of those two, we think Paul Posluszny (6'1", 238) has the better chance at locking down a starting job.
That puts veteran Kawika Mitchell (6'1", 253) into wild card territory as well. He'll get an opportunity to start on the inside, but he's not as physical at the point of attack as Posluszny is, and could provide more value to the team as a reserve. Mitchell is not athletic enough to handle pass rushing duties on the outside, but would be a nice blitzing option on third downs from the inside, as Posluszny has traditionally struggled as a blitzer. Then again, Mitchell might just be the odd man out, though the Bills are hurting for depth at linebacker so badly at this time that it's hard to envision the veteran not making the roster in some capacity.
Keith Ellison (6'0", 229) could be a situational pass defender from the inside, but if the Bills make further investments at this position, he's not a lock to make the final roster. For now, Nic Harris (6'2", 232) and Jon Corto (6'1", 220) figure into the mix on the inside as well.
Buffalo has depth at end and linebacker, though particularly with linebacker, more could be safely had. For the moment, the Bills look well-equipped with personnel capable of excelling in the 3-4 at these two positions. Where the Bills lack, however, are at the two most important positions for a successful 3-4: nose tackle and outside linebacker.
Nose Tackle
Were the season to begin tomorrow, Kyle Williams would be the de facto starter here, and while Williams will certainly be a useful player next year, he's hardly ideal as a 3-4 nose tackle. He lacks the length, anchor and sheer size to control two blockers on a consistent basis, and while he could probably get you by in a pinch in that role, it wouldn't allow him to exploit his best talents - shooting gaps and making plays in the backfield.
Lonnie Harvey (6'3", 342) and Marlon Favorite (6'1", 295) factor in here as well, but both look more like project-type camp bodies than legitimate long-term answers. An end like Stroud or Edwards would be capable of taking snaps inside, but they aren't great fits at the nose, either.
The free agent market at nose tackle has dried up, but there are solid nose tackle prospects available via the NFL Draft this year, with Tennessee's Dan Williams (6'2", 327), Alabama's Terrence Cody (6'4", 354) and North Carolina's Cam Thomas (6'4", 330) widely considered the top three prospects available. All should be gone by the end of the second round given the demand for wide-bodied nose tackles around the league. Keep an eye on LSU's Al Woods (6'4", 309), as well.
Outside Linebacker
Aaron Schobel's playing future is still in doubt, but if he decides to play again in 2010, he'll be doing it as a pass-rushing specialist from the OLB position. Schobel lacks the athletic chops that some of the league's elite 3-4 outside linebackers possess, but he's a consistent pass rusher that could excel simply because he'll be drawing different blocking assignments from his new position. He might not be an every-down player, but he'd be effective as a pass rusher in this alignment.
The jury is still out on second-year man Aaron Maybin, who had a horrendous rookie season in Perry Fewell's 4-3. Hope reigns supreme for Maybin (6'4", 250) in this alignment, as he has the quick first step and straight line speed to make a lot of noise at his new position. Maybin, who will turn 22 on April 6, is still maturing from a physical standpoint, and may need more time still to really become comfortable as a stand-up athlete in the NFL. His potential remains very good, but potential won't help Buffalo in 2010.
Beyond Schobel and Maybin, depth is scarce. Chris Kelsay and Chris Ellis will get looks at outside linebacker, but neither is athletic enough to be more than situational players at the position, and neither is an elite pass-rushing prospect in any capacity. In short, the Bills have a situational pass-rusher that might retire, a prospect that might be good but might also flame out, and two guys who don't fit the position.
That's precisely why I consider outside linebacker to be the team's more pressing need defensively, which isn't to diminish the urgency of the need at nose tackle at all. You need a nose tackle, yes, but you also need athletes that can get after the quarterback. Buffalo needs to look hard at this year's top pass rushing prospects athletic enough to man a 3-4 OLB position. My top six in no particular order at that position include Michigan's Brandon Graham (6'1", 268), South Florida's Jason Pierre-Paul (6'5", 270), TCU's Jerry Hughes (6'2", 255), Texas' Sergio Kindle (6'3", 250), USC's Everson Griffen (6'3", 273) and Clemson's Ricky Sapp (6'4", 252). All would be excellent picks for the Bills, and all could push for a starting spot on the outside immediately, even if Schobel decides to play.
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2 big signings
yesterday. Really helped a ton with depth and leadership and from a mental toughness standpoint. These guys were part of very successful defenses last season and know how to play in this scheme. I love both of these under the radar moves. Building a 3-4 championship defense won’t happen over night. It will require great coaching, discipline and effort by the players. I’m sure a lot of 4-3 guys will not fit and be released as the season approaches. I like the money we got these guys at and their experience I think is well worth it.
MARVelous - "I went from America's team to North America's Team" Terrell Owens
No tape to evaluate and please help me.
man Aaron Maybin, who had a horrendous rookie season in Perry Fewell’s 4-3
Brian, I don’t think that statement is fair… How can you evaluate the guy when he didn’t even play.
Also I am still confused about how the 3-4 breaks down… would you project:
RE – Stroud
NT – Williams
LE – Edwards
ROLB – Ellison?
MLB (Sam) – Poz
MLB (Mike) – Mitchell
LOLB – Shoebel
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 9:10 AM EDT reply actions
maybin certainly did play
and his was
horrendousas he was routinely man handled and swept away from the play becoming a non-factor whose best plays were pile ons in which he jump up in celebratory chest pounding, even though he did very little
It is Brohm’s Bills jersey that is the least stained with doo-doo... GO BILLS
He really only played in the last handfull of games and didn’t start any, previous to that he barely played (didn’t even see in action in a handfull of games). I will give him an opportunity to prove himself THIS year, but he must make an impact. To me you have “promise” your rookie year, after that you have to start producing (at least in some fashion) in the NFL, especially as a 1st round pick. Playing careers are too short to take multiple years to develop as an asset in the NFL.
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 9:42 AM EDT up reply actions
Not sure how you arrived at that starting lineup.
LE – Stroud
NT – Williams
RE – Edwards
OLB – Schobel
ILB – Posluszny
ILB – Davis
OLB – Maybin
Maybin played, just not a lot. He even stood up on a few downs, and looked ridiculously uncomfortable doing so.
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 9:20 AM EDT up reply actions
I don't understand my logic either
I am lost… I don’t understand how Schoebel/Maybin both start? I thought they filled the same DE role?
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions
You have two outside linebackers in the 3-4. Both are usually pass rushers. Both would start.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions
Ok… Thanks for clarifying…
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 10:23 AM EDT up reply actions
I think if the season started today (Thank god it doesnt)
… our D would look like this:
DE: Stroud
NT: K. Williams
DE: Edwards
ROLB: Maybin
MLB: Poz
MLB: Davis
LOLB: Mitchell
with Schobel possibly being where Mitchell, but without 100% certain that he’ll be here, Ill go with Mitchell there.
"Its always Miller Time
Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
- by Jsz on Mar 3, 2010 6:25 PM PST
Wait/Hope
When the season starts it may look like the following:
DE/C.Wootton
NT/T.Cody
DE/DD.Edwards
OLB/A.Maybin
ILB/P.Posluszny
ILB/R.McClain
OLB/C.Kelsay
M.Stroud/K.Mitchell will be in the rotation.
K.Williams cannot play NT in this system. He will be gone by the beginning of the season.
A.Schobel and K.Williams should be traded to get maybe another second round pick for this 3/4 defense.
It starts up the middle. NT, ILBS, SS
Trade D.Whitner also with another player or future pick to get into the first round to grab B.Bulaga/LOT of Iowa. Then draft in the 3rd or 4th round K.Calloway/ROT of Iowa.
In th e5th round draft A.Ulatoski ROT to convert to ROG to replace E.Wood.
E.Wood has a serious injury and when he becomes healthy put him back to OC ahead of Handgarten.
We just address our needs for this year the best that we can.
With are late picks just grab two potential FB’s
R.Jackson of Virgina & C.Jackson of Maryland.
I am 100% certain that that’s not going to be Buffalo’s starting lineup.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions
you agree with Brian again?????? Are the dead rising from the grave? I better start praying :-)
A married man should forget his mistakes. There's no use in two people remembering the same thing!
Are the dead rising from the grave?
good thing i have great practice at killing zombies
We got the tools, We got the talent
by J2 on Mar 17, 2010 1:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Who knows....maybe CHIX will completely ignore the offense ;-)
A married man should forget his mistakes. There's no use in two people remembering the same thing!
What are you talking about?
With are late picks just grab two potential FB’s
They’re gonna solve our FB problem.
Bill Polian and AJ Smith are gone, so there's not the usual balance between "sane" and "others." Ralph has mentally checked out since 1994. It's a very dangerous time. The coalition for reason is extremely weak.
Hmmmm…stockpile FBs. Gailey is to FBs where Jauron was to DBs. Maybe they’ll unveil a new, stout innovation of the wildcat…goal-line-package-cat?
a.k.a. Undee
I want a FB too...
but use your last pick on one if you want to, and bring in some UDFAs, but dont take two in the draft.
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions
The Fat Cat ??
"Fan ?" You want to talk about being a fan of the Bills ? Try getting up at 3 AM every Monday to watch their games knowing they'll likely lose. Do this for 18 years and then call yourself a "fan"
Well OK
But rememebr the lineup you have is of depth with little talent.
The last time I looked you need talent to win Super Bowls.
Not a bunch of player swhom you think look goood because we are starting with nothing.
M.Stroud,D.Whitner, K.Williams, A.Schobel, S.Johnson and even K.Mitchell could all go if we can get value in the draft with multiple players deals and future draft picks.
The talent is not their for the 3/4 defense man.
What do you think the team is going to score thirty-five a game and get us the victories?
Stars on Defense with talent weins Super Bowls.
R.McClain, C.Wootton, C.Dunlap, T.Cody are players of talent whom will win us games towards the future Super Bowl.
Not the day dreaming J.Kelly’s of the world.
I agree with your philosophy, just not your execution. There’s just no way the team takes a DE or an ILB early unless there’s a tremendous value available with little to not value at other, more critical need positions. That’s just not how it works, friend.
Whitner doesn’t even figure into this discussion, so I don’t know why you brought him up.
Long-term, I’m not sure how Williams, Johnson and Mitchell fit in. They absolutely have value to the team in 2010. And I think you’re wholly underselling the talents of Marcus Stroud.
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree with "Brain"...
Except that I think S. Johnson is a better fit now than he was before in the 4-3.
K. Williams should stay unless we are blown away by a trade offer.
K. Mitchell is very important to us this year, we need all the competant LBs we can muster.
Why are so many down on Stroud playing a 3-4 End? It is essentially the same position with less double teams likely to come his way.
I hope Schobel gets traded, only because he deserves a chance to play in the playoffs before he hangs it up and I would love to get a 3rd or 4th for him, maybe a trade out west to Oak (DE), Az (OLB), or maybe even Hou (DE) since Antonio Smith hasn’t panned out and Barwin is still learning.
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions
What ?????
Norcal – did you just say that Schobel deserves to play in the playoffs and then use the words “Trade to Oakland” in the same post ???
Please tell me that was a typo :-)
"Fan ?" You want to talk about being a fan of the Bills ? Try getting up at 3 AM every Monday to watch their games knowing they'll likely lose. Do this for 18 years and then call yourself a "fan"
How can you evaluate the guy when he didn’t even play
There was a reason he didn’t play. And when he did he made no impact as a 4-3 end.
Horrendous was a pretty strong term. Horrendous would describe our QB play last year for instance. I think confused or overwhelmed would have been a fair adjective to describe Maybin’s play last year. I don’t think you can fairly judge his ability based on the fact he didn’t play that much.
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions
The word “horrendous” wasn’t used to describe his ability, though. Just his rookie season.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions
http://thesaurus.com/browse/horrendous
Main Entry: horrendous
Part of Speech: adjective
Definition: terrible
Synonyms: abhorrent, appalling, atrocious, awe-inspiring, awesome, awful, beastly, dangerous, desperate, dire, disastrous, disturbing, dread, dreaded, dreadful, extreme, fearful, frightful, ghastly, gruesome, harrowing, hateful, hideous, horrible, horrid, horrifying, Arron Maybin’s rookie season
a.k.a. Undee
the special teams penalty against Maybin had to be rock bottom. No arguing it, he was downright pathetic last season. For the life of me I can’t understand people penciling him in as starting OLB. I really do hope he gets to that point, but there’s certainly no guarantee that he does.
most of my posts get deleted :(
do you think jon corto really figures as a player inside? or do you just say that because hell be on the roster for special teams and he could theoretically be used in that spot?
by quantumuprising on Mar 17, 2010 9:20 AM EDT reply actions
I say Corto because he’s on the roster right now, and that’s really the only reason.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 9:21 AM EDT up reply actions
potential won’t help Buffalo in 2010.
I wish this was more of a doctrine around buffalo, especially in the draft. Lets draft defensive players (and everyone else) based on what they are, not based on what they could maybe probably might someday be.
by quantumuprising on Mar 17, 2010 9:22 AM EDT reply actions
Just a quick question from a Dolphins fan Brian,
given that you said that in your opinion OLB is the more pressing need for Buffalo than NT, what direction do you think they are going to go in the 1st round? OLB or NT? Like you said, both are extremely important to the 3-4. Do you think that any of the NTs you mentioned are worth the #9 pick? We’re having the same debate over at the Phinsider about whether or not it’s too much of a reach to get a NT at #12. Just curious as to your guys’ thoughts as I’m sure you’ve been talking about it a lot since you’re switching to the 3-4.
By the way, very good read. Nicely done. Rec’d.
"Why don't you put that in a memo and entitle it 'Shit I Already Know'!" - Sarge from Red vs. Blue
I can't brain today, I have the dumb.
28 "Phinsider Feud" Points
Chillin easy on the Draft CJ Spiller SpillWagon skybus. Got the window seat, the minibar, just waiting for the stewardess to bring me a pillow.
Thanks for the kind words.
As to your question about the first round, I can only guess at a potential strategy. Buffalo has pressing needs offensively, too, at QB and LT. I think what Buddy Nix will do is choose between his favorite available prospect at each of those four positions, because he’ll need to get the best player he can at one of those four critical needs. So, obviously, who they end up picking will depend on who is ultimately available at #9.
In terms of positional preference, I think it’ll go QB, LT/OLB (very close together), NT. If neither Bradford or Clausen is available at 9, I think they’ll take their highest-rated prospect between LT and OLB.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 9:41 AM EDT up reply actions
That's true, I didn't think about your offensive needs.
In my opinion, if you don’t go QB in the 1st, you should probably go with a LT. If I remember right, you guys didn’t really find anyone that was really good at LT right? A stud LT is very helpful to the development of a young QB, which is why I think we made a good choice in passing over Matt Ryan to take Jake Long a couple of years ago.
As for QBs, I think the only ones you have to worry about taking Bradford or Clausen are St. Louis, Cleveland, and Washington, maybe Seattle. And I don’t think that the Rams are as high on Bradford as the “experts” think they should be. The rumors floating around here in the Lou are that they really wanted Jake Locker, and may get a stopgap this year and pick him up in next years draft.
"Why don't you put that in a memo and entitle it 'Shit I Already Know'!" - Sarge from Red vs. Blue
I can't brain today, I have the dumb.
28 "Phinsider Feud" Points
Chillin easy on the Draft CJ Spiller SpillWagon skybus. Got the window seat, the minibar, just waiting for the stewardess to bring me a pillow.
by Chupathingy on Mar 17, 2010 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions
Problem is, aside from maybe Okung, there really aren’t any “stud” LT prospects available this year.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions
if we draft a 1st round QB...
I really hope that the front office comes right out and says that they WILL NOT start until NEXT season. The offensive line needs another year before we put someone new back there. One of our 3 current QBs needs to be the starter next year no matter how the draft goes.
Hey, a well thought-out, reasoned, respectful comment from a Dolphins fan. I’m sure it’s hard being in the minority. (I kid, I kid) =)
Personally, I think it’s far too early to take any of the 3-4 OLB’s at 9, so unless the Bills trade down (a task that is easier said than done) I think the Bills go NT or LT at #9. There’s more high level talent at those positions that high in the draft, IMO. While taking Dan Williams at 9 might be perceived by the McShay’s and Kiper’s of the world as a “reach”, he isn’t gonna last very far into the teens.
Bill Polian and AJ Smith are gone, so there's not the usual balance between "sane" and "others." Ralph has mentally checked out since 1994. It's a very dangerous time. The coalition for reason is extremely weak.
Personally, I don't think that
going with a LT would be a bad idea. Give better protection to a young QB to help him develop. The OLB isn’t that great of a need at 9 for a team with a bunch of needs, expecially given the defensive depth of this draft.
As for NT, I agree with you that 9 may be a bit of a reach for Williams (I think it’s still a bit of a reach at 12), but I don’t think he will make it out of the teens either. Personally, I really like Cam Thomas for going in the 2nd round. The more I see of this kid the more I think he will be a good NT, and you can get great value for him in the 2nd round.
"Why don't you put that in a memo and entitle it 'Shit I Already Know'!" - Sarge from Red vs. Blue
I can't brain today, I have the dumb.
28 "Phinsider Feud" Points
Chillin easy on the Draft CJ Spiller SpillWagon skybus. Got the window seat, the minibar, just waiting for the stewardess to bring me a pillow.
by Chupathingy on Mar 17, 2010 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
#12 is about right for a NT
Dan Williams is no reach at #12, at #9 slightly, but not at #12, even most of us wouldn’t be upset if we took him at #9. The problem with the NTs this year is that there are only maybe 5 players in the draft that can play NT in the 3-4 we run. And the top 3 will most likely be gone by the end of Rnd 2.
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I guess it is partly a matter of perspective.
We have a couple of guys that can play NT, and while not great, are at least decent, and we have Ferguson coming back the 2nd half of the season. I guess since we have them for this year, that’s why Williams at 12 still seems like a bit of a reach to me. We will need to get a replacement sure, but it’s not as high of a priority this year as it would have been if we hadn’t re-signed Ferguson.
So, I would think that because of the situations a 1st round NT might be a bit of a reach for the Dolphins at 12, but not really that much of one for the Bills at 9 because you guys have a greater need at NT than we do, for this year anyways.
"Why don't you put that in a memo and entitle it 'Shit I Already Know'!" - Sarge from Red vs. Blue
I can't brain today, I have the dumb.
28 "Phinsider Feud" Points
Chillin easy on the Draft CJ Spiller SpillWagon skybus. Got the window seat, the minibar, just waiting for the stewardess to bring me a pillow.
Can't argue with anything you said...
I would still think about taking D. Williams if he were there at #12, since Ferguson is like what, 48 (JK, I know he’s 36)? That way NT isn’t a need next year.
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions
I am a firm believer that you have to put your best 11 football players on the field to start. I do not know much about specific positional duties of the LBs (other than the obvious Rush LB) in the 3-4, but I think we’ve got 3 of the 4 positions locked up. Mitchell has to be on the field with Poz and Davis.
If anyone can shed light on the positional duties of the 3-4 LBs that would be much appreciated.
The outside linebackers are pass rushers. Typically, they’re college defensive ends with the athletic chops to cover short flat areas of the field on occasion. But they are traditionally pass rushers, which is precisely why a guy like Mitchell isn’t a great fit there.
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 9:43 AM EDT up reply actions
ah thank you. I was under the impression that there was only one rush LB. I guess that makes sense then. interesting…
There can be, but that will only happen situationally. Which is why Mitchell could get you by on specific downs on the outside, just not on an every-down basis.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions
From the looks of our team and from what Edwards and Gailey have said about the D. Looks as though there will be a lot of substitutions this year. Our D is essentially going to have 14 starters or so depending on the type of team we play.
by BillsfanDan on Mar 17, 2010 10:43 AM EDT up reply actions
I really don’t like the idea of having a defense full of players that specialize in certain things, because a team can just no-huddle you at random and get you into a bad situation. But it’s likely that we’ll see some of exactly what you just said this season because of how dramatic the switch is. You can’t get rid of all of that personnel in one off-season.
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah they cant be expected to field a true 3-4 D in one off-season. This thing will take at least two years to really be what it can be.
"Its always Miller Time
Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
- by Jsz on Mar 3, 2010 6:25 PM PST
Figures that when the Bills FINALLY are heading in a good direction as far as rebuilding, we could be looking at a lockout after next year.
by BillsfanDan on Mar 17, 2010 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions
haha, well good thing is we’re used to no playoff football in Buffalo, so that part wont hurt us as bad… But when “we’re still in it” Sept-Oct.. those are the times Ill miss :-p
But yeah that would suck, here comes Buffalo… building up a good team, missing the playoffs for over a decade straight… and then a freakin lockout! ugh…
"Its always Miller Time
Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
- by Jsz on Mar 3, 2010 6:25 PM PST
agreed
The no huddle would be a problem if that is the case. Then again, if our O doesn’t improve our D is gonna be on the field a lot again next year. Which is my main gripe with Cody. Will he have the ability to stay on the field throughout the game if the D is predominantly out there?
Nor should it be an expectation to get rid of everyone that doesn’t fit. I really am happy with these two signings and even more happy that the FO is making these decisions. I have been reserving excitement thus far this off-season, but a little leaked out when I saw the signings.
On another note. How about Corto moving to OLB. He is a great tackler and is VERY athletic, why not put 12 pounds on and move him outside?
by BillsfanDan on Mar 17, 2010 11:08 AM EDT up reply actions
Corto was a safety in college. It’d be a little unfair to ask him to rush the passer as his primary responsibility. He does not fit into this defensive system at all unless he moves back to safety, becoming the new John Wendling. Which could very well happen.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions
Corto was a LB in college. Fo sho. Went to SHU, watched him. Made the transition to S when he walked on the Bills due to size.
http://www.northeastconference.org/News/fball/2008/9/3/fb-cortobills.asp?path=fball
by BillsfanDan on Mar 17, 2010 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions
Yep, misspoke. He started his NFL career at safety. My bad.
The point is still valid – he’s nothing close to resembling a 3-4 OLB.
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 11:26 AM EDT up reply actions
I will have to respectfully disagree here
If he adds between 12 and 15 pounds he will measure in at 6’1 235ish. With his speed and some direction from Coach Edwards it could be possible to develop him into a competant backup. I mean, stranger things have happened right?
At 6’1" and 235, he’d be a better fit at inside linebacker. He’s not a pass rusher.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Question
Do 3-4 Defenses tend to look for bigger, more aggressive safeties (especially strong safety)?
by michiganbillsfan on Mar 17, 2010 11:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Depends on which variation you run. In most cases, the SS is asked to do more in run support, so in most cases, yes.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 11:47 AM EDT up reply actions
this is the reason i haven’t completely given up on maybin yet.
by quantumuprising on Mar 17, 2010 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions
Random Thoughts
I guess it’s a good thing that DJ drafted for the secondary. We can use a little depth at corner – but right now our secondary is o.k. which really helps the front office concentrate on the front 7. Right now I see both DE’s as set with 2 LBs set. That leaves 3 positions on defense that really need addressing (2 OLB, NT).
If we get a NT then things should fall into place for us – how many teams in the league go into the offseason needed 1-3 players on defense? I’d bet most
Is it more prudent for us to draft defense because we now have offensive minds running the show? They are suppose to be good at working with what they have – since they are offensive minded, should we expect a defensive laden draft?
How many positions on offense do we really need? (LT, RG, RT, WR, QB) I assume we are going to get at least a RT, RG in the draft.
Is it possible that this team isn’t 3 years off but 2 good offseasons? If QB wasn’t such a huge issue for us i’d say we are going to be o.k. However, we don’t have a QB and we need Hardy/Johnson to step up. So I still anticipate a poor year record wise – but this ship might just be turned around by next season if they draft well.
We got the tools, We got the talent
I agree
Although I think this draft is going to be a filler draft. By that I mean they are going to fill the biggest needs with maybe the exception of QB. I would bet that we will draft a NT, OLB, LT and RT in no particular order this year. The tricky part is deciding where the best value per position lies per round. I wont be surprised if we go LT, NT, OLB, then RT. followed by depth in the DL and OL, sprinkle in a WR and a CB and that a great draft.
Then in next years offseason addressing the obvious deficiencies of 2010. namely QB.
We can use a little depth at corner
McGee, Florence, McKelvin, Corner and Youboty aren’t enough for you? Not to mention Cary Harris and Ellis Lankster…
You can't have CHANGE without CHAN.
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by MattRichWarren on Mar 17, 2010 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions
But maybe Modrak can convince Nix to draft some more!
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions
Never miss a chance. :-)
You can't have CHANGE without CHAN.
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by MattRichWarren on Mar 17, 2010 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions
well we certainly have numbers there – so in that regard we’re o.k.
Youboty is usually injured, Corner is pretty small and Harris/Lankster are kind of unknowns. I guess I was thinking that in the later rounds if you have a corner there that is BPA and can push these guys by bringing in new bodies it will help the overall work ethic of the group.
numbers wise – yes this could position can be completely left out of the draft – same with Safety
We got the tools, We got the talent
i see what your saying, but I think those later round picks should be there for drafting OL and DL. If anything needs “pushing out” or good depth, it should be in that area.
by BillsfanDan on Mar 17, 2010 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions
How many positions on offense do we really need? (LT, RG, RT, WR, QB) I assume we are going to get at least a RT, RG in the draft.
We have our RT – Green (whether you like that or not), we will probably draft a LT with our first pick (hopefully), and if Wood is healthy we have our RG.
I am not so worried about WR, I wish we re-signed Reed though. And I would love us to address this position in FA with a veteran guy.
We still don’t have an answer at QB, just more questions after the revelation yesterday that Chan will let them fight it out to see who the starter is. I also think we need a TE, probably an OLB, depth at LB, depth at OL, and depth at DL.
Is it possible that this team isn’t 3 years off but 2 good offseasons?
This is the NFL “CHIX” is just trying to temper expectations, with a quality offseason and good draft you can be competitive any year. Major parody… Remember the Dolphins a couple years back. Don’t buy into the “rebuilding” talk… You are just constantly retooling.
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions
I wish we re-signed Reed though.
Still can.
You can't have CHANGE without CHAN.
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by MattRichWarren on Mar 17, 2010 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
Tis’ true… Although we won’t… Remember OBD came out and said the WILL NOT make an effort to re-sign him.
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions
i agree with OBD
Time to push out the mediocre and look for an upgrade. Put Steve Johnson in the slot and I’m sure that he puts up at least the same numbers or better. Upgrading all around is what needs to be done.
If you want it done in the FO then why not on the field. Reed has been an OK player for the Bills. An upgrade is not that hard to find with Reed.
by BillsfanDan on Mar 17, 2010 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions
Exactly...
Its not that Reed is bad… its just that he is very upgradable. And if you can upgrade at any position… you do it!
"Its always Miller Time
Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
- by Jsz on Mar 3, 2010 6:25 PM PST
Plus, the Pats passed on him, and they’re known for taking guys with marginal success and turning them into household names. Julian Edelman?!
Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow
"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde
by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 17, 2010 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Man you guys are rough… I think Reed played pretty well, at the very least he was a reliable target and a gamer. He might not have been spectacular, but he was consistent. He would have provided quality depth and maturity for an ever to young WR group.
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree, but that
Debating Reed, particularly Reed v. Johnson here on Rumblings is tantamount to arguing abortion on a college campus. :) Everyone wants to do it, everyone has an opinion, it’s been debated to the death multiple times, and no one’s ever really going to change their minds. At least we don’t have the argument anymore.
Mmmph rrgh prrmf! - someone with his mouth gagged
Go Jazz! Go Hogs! GO BILLS!
haha true.
"Its always Miller Time
Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
- by Jsz on Mar 3, 2010 6:25 PM PST
I just feel like a change of scenery is needed...
"Its always Miller Time
Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
- by Jsz on Mar 3, 2010 6:25 PM PST
I agree with everything you said but in the end I still don’t think the Bills need to re-sign him.
You can't have CHANGE without CHAN.
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by MattRichWarren on Mar 17, 2010 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions
I dont want to start anything here but...
I dont understand how you can be so vehemently against all thinks Tom Modrak, a guy that we don’t know how much his input was valued, and so in favor of Josh Reed. At least Josh Reed’s production is a tangible stat that you can look at. In the case of Modrak, his player evaluations aren’t known and whether or not the last regime heeded his word isn’t known.
If anything Reed and Modrak are the same people in different situations.
…on a side note, Dexter rocks all things televisionally.
Dead horse
Apples and oranges….
Too bad “Dexter” has cancer… what a shame.
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 10:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Good read, Brian.
Not much to disagree on, really nothing. It’s strking to me just how small Ellison is. I like the guy more than most people here, but I wonder how he fits in the scheme now. He’s built more like a RB or safety. If it was the old regime, they might have him on a protein powder to transition to FB.
Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow
"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde
by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 17, 2010 9:51 AM EDT reply actions
Joey Porter
makes alot of sense when the price comes down there seems to be alimited market and if he wanst to play agianst the dolphins in2010 he may decide to come here… i know he is meeting with the redskins who will overpay for him if they want him but i think he makes sense… adalius thomas could become a FA if he is released i think he may want to play in Buffalo as well for a couple of years if he doens t sign with the JETS
"The only yardstick for success our society has is being a champion. No one remembers anything else." John Madden
Kelsey at LB?????
NT-Still need one
DE-Schoebel, newly signed Edwards
DE-Stroud, Kelsey, newly signed Edwards
LB- Poz, Andra Davis, Kawika Mitchell – Still need to address 4th LB
“DE” does not exist in the 3-4 as you pose it here. The ends are unequivocally Stroud and Edwards.
The guys who played DE last year will now be OLB in the 3-4.
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Look at the 3-4 this way...
at least the way it’s played today… It’s a basic college, and even high school version of a 5-2… From the center of the line, NT, 2 DTs, 2 DEs… The 2 DEs can play standing, or even drop down into a 3 pts stance… We refer to the DEs as LBs because more often than not, they are standing, and at times, are required to drop into coverage which is why they have to be big enough to play as a DE, but quick, and agile enough to defend the pass..
Prolly an over simplification, but that is the basics of it all…
Jon Corto
will be playing football in Canada – And Harris is too light to play inside – You need Linebackers on the Inside that weigh at least 245-250lbs.
Otherwise, it is like children tackling grown men!
Harris weighs 232, before training camp has even started. There’s no reason to think he couldn’t have added 12 lbs between the end of last season and the start of this one. Marshawn Lynch added a good bit of weight last offseason.
Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow
"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde
by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 17, 2010 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions
or, if you’re aaron maybin, you’re on pace to gain 136 pounds this offseason.
by quantumuprising on Mar 17, 2010 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions
Heh.
Buffalo Rumblings Premiere League 2009 Champion
Song recommendation of the week: Ween - Bananas & Blow
"...BUT anyting is possible come draft DAY HOW many times we all say this is the guy we ae getting and BANGGGGG EVERYbody is in a state of SHOCK CAUSE frutty Pebles snack BANG bang CEREAL Coach just went the other way COCCOA PUFF nutty NUT craker Umpa Lumpa on all of the FANS Band wagon Kraken Dibede POP" - abayarde
by TheAfghanTwilight on Mar 17, 2010 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions
I still hold hope for Harris...
for the very reasons you mention.. He looks to have the frame to carry those extra pounds, and could give us more depth at LB…
And it was nice to see
a LB with some athletic ability…
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 4:06 PM EDT up reply actions
If Mitchell
makes the team, Fins’ games will be even more interesting…Incognito a Dolpfin.
"huge, big, fast, nasty...all those terms"
I asked Thurman Thomas on his Twitter acount...
If he was as happy as me with Buffalo’s new signings? & this is what he had to say;
Playoffs, if they can get a QB who understands the Game!!!
Schefter tweeting that Edwards has officially signed his deal.
by quantumuprising on Mar 17, 2010 11:25 AM EDT reply actions
Draft Prospects...
I didn’t get to watch the Senior Bowl, but I saw most of the Shrine Game and I was impressed by two guys I believe would be great fits for this defense.
1. O’Brian Shofield – OLB/DE – Wisconsin – The guy dominated the Shrine game (Defensive MVP), after switching from DE to LB (oh, had five days at the position by the way). Its disappointing that he tore his ACL at the Senior Bowl, but also might allow us to take a flyer at him in the late rounds. Hope Nix gives him a shot.
http://theminaretonline.com/sports/winners-and-losers-of-the-2010-east-west-shrine-game/
2. Mike Neal – DT/DE – Purdue – Looks to me like a perfect 5 gap guy. 6’3", 294 good first step…
Schofield’s knee injury is a huge concern, but as you point out, could be worth a flier at the right pick.
Neal is, indeed, a good five-tech guy, but given our needs at NT and OLB, along with the Edwards signing, I’m not sure how highly DE ranks on our list of priorities at this point.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions
BPA
Have to go with the strength of the draft.
I thought last year was O-line, and I had hoped we would grab up a few more to be honest. This year looks to me more like D-line to me.
Lets stock that cupboard, Buddy!
I’m thinking NT, LT in the first and second, depending who’s there… if Chix believes they can work with someone like Tebow or McCoy, then thats where that happens… not sure what we’re looking at after that… Maybe our first few rounds do look like last year’s where we move back up into the first/second to grab some value and need guys.
Like it re; Patrick Moran
I’m perceived by most as having a rather negative perception of the Buffalo Bills and I’m fine with it. In fact, I think it’s mostly well deserved- but that’s another discussion for another time.
One thing I’ll give myself some credit for is not being afraid to admit when I’m wrong. And after the events that took place at One Bills Drive on Tuesday, I now confess to being wrong about Buddy Nix—and this new front office.
The names of the two latest Bills acquisitions may never appear on a billboard on the thruway but make no mistake about it; the team became a much better defensively in a mere 24 hours.
3/4 Defense
Good signings but this does not make this defense a threat yet.
Calm down everybody.
They are both rotation players.
You need six down linemen and seven linebackers to run this 3/4/ defense.
We need to get R.McClain to be a star stud next to Posluszny while K.Mitchell is in the rotation.
Remember injuries too come along during the season.
In th esecond round we will have to grab C.Wootton/DE Northwestern to play the end with M.Stroud coming in the rotation.
T.Cody is the NT needed to be in th emiddle.
We need to trade some guys to get more picks to make this work.
F/A was nice but it is two guys for the rotation we still need more talent and younger.
Calm down everybody.
Not seeing much in the realm of “not calm,” actually.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions
maybe we are getting a little excited… so f’in sue us!
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Should have worded that better. I don’t see any irrational excitement here.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions
My response wasn’t intended at you, my mistake on reply.
I got nothing.
by Jason from OH-IO on Mar 17, 2010 10:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh, and also, why the hell would we draft McClain and Wootton to do the same things Davis and Edwards will be doing?
Terrence Cody isn’t falling to the third.
These are not rotation players. They are likely starters.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions
David Edwards
Yes, starters on a Bills team just starting the 3/4 defense.
Ask yourself are R.McClain, T.Cody and C.Wootton far more talented then Davis and Edwards?
I am sure the answer is yes if you follw these players in college.
Yes Davis and Edwards are good rotation players in the 3/4 defense.
McClain is far more talented than Davis. Wootton is not far more talented than Edwards. They’re not even similar players.
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 2:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Why?
Because McClain and Wootton are more talented.
Besides you do need a front six on the line.
As for linebackers in the 3/4 you also need a good seven.
Injuries and keeping guys fresh is important with the depth.
Ask yourself how NT in the NFL playing the 3/4 can play every down all year?
Its tough, you need depth & talent.
McClain & Wootton
Davis & Edwards
I take both for depth but for talent I take McClain & Wootton.
Sorry, but early in the draft, we’re not in a position to draft for depth.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 20, 2010 8:41 AM EDT up reply actions
Calm down?
It’s the first time in quite a while us Bills fans have something to be excited about! Why is there always someone that tries to ruin it???
yeah, that makes sense....
draft entirely for defense, because when the offense goes 3 and out, we’ll need fresh bodies to through out there 40 plus minutes a game….
3/4 DEFENSE
Well changing the whole defensive system and starting with no talent tends to lend to dradfting defense for the Bills in 2010.
Very confused...
You have Poz, McClain, Mitchell and Davis rotating in at ILB? And Stroud and Edwards are going to be rotational guys with two rookies starting? I wouldnt want that at all…
This defense isnt going to be built thru one FA and draft class… its going to take some time here.
I like the idea about getting younger at DE… but we have many other needs before address that with this years 2nd rounder… That can be a target next year though. And if anything DE is one of the more “set” positions on our front 7.
"Its always Miller Time
Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
- by Jsz on Mar 3, 2010 6:25 PM PST
M.Stroud
M.Stroud is not a very good fit for the 3/4 defense.
He gets tired and needs rest that is why he should only be a rotation player.
You need a monster in the NT position.
K.Williams is not even close for this positon like T.Cody, A.Woods.
We have many palyers that do not fit in this system that is why they are rotation players.
Stroud very likely will be a run down defender, but he’s absolutely a great fit for the 3-4 at end. He was a two-gap player inside at Jacksonville, and should have zero issue moving to end in the 3-4, as he’ll be asked to do virtually the same things.
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions
What my D-line would like like in a normal front: Edwards – New NT – Stroud
Now in passing downs: Edwards – Kyle Williams – Spencer Johnson
I think Stroud is going to have a pretty solid year. And I know we dont have a capable NT right now, but thats what the draft is going to be for. And as far as rotational players… how many do you think we’re going to have for the D-line. You have Stroud, Edwards, K Williams, Sp Johnson all rotational with rookies starting… that doesnt make sense, if anything it should be the other way around. And like I said previously, I think DE should be address in the draft, just not this years. We’re pretty good at 3-4 DE considering the rest of the work the team needs.
"Its always Miller Time
Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
- by Jsz on Mar 3, 2010 6:25 PM PST
That is close to how I see it playing out with who is currently on our roster
Our basic front:
DL= Edwards – K. Williams – Stroud
LB= Schobel or Mitchell – A. Davis – Poz – Maybin
On obvious passing downs:
DL= Kelsay – K. Williams – S. Johnson
LB= Schobel – Mitchell – Poz – Maybin
On obvious running downs:
DL= Edwards – K. Williams (possibly L. Harvey) – Stroud
LB= Schobel – A. Davis – Poz – Maybin or Kelsay
Kelsay may get snaps at DE on obvious passing downs and I think Kelsay will be in on obvious running downs until Maybin can prove he can tackle well enough.
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Edwards, 315 lbs.???
Why does each article/post on here refer to Dwan Edwards as being 315 lbs??? NFL.com has him listed on his player profile at 290 lbs. That is a 25 lb difference? Did he really put on that much weight last season in Baltimore?
DC Chocolate City!
I always use the Yahoo listings, and Yahoo lists him at 315. I assume he’s in the 300 range, and it doesn’t really matter.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions
who is the best OLB
prospect in the 3rd?
i say 3rd because we have to get a LT and we still dont have a complete D without a NT
"Hold ya chin up...nuh nuh nuh...gone" -Marshawn Lynch-
I have X OLB prospects with a third-round grade: Jason Worilds (VA Tech), Thaddeus Gibson (Ohio State). Those prospects kind of bunch up between late first and second.
But I also have 71 players with first- or second-round grades, and as there are only 64 picks in the first two rounds, a few guys will slide.
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"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions
And by “X,” I mean “2.”
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions
i understand that we must attempt to go BPA
but will we not have the same struggles on Offense if we dont get a starting LT
"Hold ya chin up...nuh nuh nuh...gone" -Marshawn Lynch-
Not to diminish the importance of the LT, but the one thing that’s prevented us from having a good offense more than any other single thing is not having a good QB.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 1:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah def
but do you really see us addressing that before the 3rd or the 4th?
"Hold ya chin up...nuh nuh nuh...gone" -Marshawn Lynch-
Addressing what? QB? Ideally, we address that at #9.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 2:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, maybe "your" ideally...
Ideally, we address that at #9
Ideally, for me they draft BPA out of LT/NT, or OLB if the drop off is too significant for either LT or NT.
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions
I think he goes in the mid 2nd or early 3rd at the latest…
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Mitchell plan?
I wonder if Nix/Gailey said anything to Mitchell about this signing? For him to be excited about someone who could potentially take his starting job tells me that perhaps, although maybe not, he’s been given some assurance that he has a role to play. I can’t see him being excited to be a backup player, which he’s not, and he’s certainly not being paid like one either.
So does anyone else
Get a tad bit worried, at the thought of Maybin, Schoebel, and Kelsay being asked to potentially match up with people on coverage?
It won’t happen very often.
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Im extremely worried about Schobel and Kelsey in pass coverage. I cant see either of them hanging with any RB, TE, or WR in this league…
Maybin I think will be able to better, hes younger, pretty fast and I think still coachable, to whereas its hard to turn a 30 somethings whose been a down 4-3DE whole career to switch to that…
"Its always Miller Time
Whens it gonna be Sabres-Offense Time?"
- by Jsz on Mar 3, 2010 6:25 PM PST
No, not really worried
cus the defense will do everything it can to prevent that from happening…
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions
See new article on home page. :)
Buffalo Rumblings. On Twitter.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. --Wayne Grezky" --Michael Scott
by Brian Galliford on Mar 17, 2010 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions
That's my favorite scenario
considering the value is there for each pick…
by NorCal BillsFan on Mar 17, 2010 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Can I just say that
I think the Davis and Edwards FA acquisitions were very solid in my opinion. The biggest concern that everyone has had about the new Bills is the transition to the 3-4. We still need a NT, but we don’t have to have tunnel vision and draft one with our first two picks. We can get by with Kyle Williams and a couple of space eaters this year. We can now focus on the offense a little bit more in the early part of the draft. OT and QB are two positions that I expect to see addressed in the first 3 rounds, and I really like how it’s shaping up. The value is there to get our LT in the first round and if they feel that McCoy or Snead is good enough to use a 2nd or 3rd round pick on, I’m fine with that.
Schmucks don't make it to the Pro Bowl... except Jason Peters!
by Run Thurmal Run! on Mar 17, 2010 6:12 PM EDT reply actions
The same can be said for QB as well.
Our QB’s didn’t lose games for us last year, they just didn’t win games for us either. I would say we are probably shorter on depth at the NT position if you want to compare weaknesses. So that would leave LT. Depending on whose available at #9 if we don’t have a choice at the best OLT at #9 then what should we do? “The multi million dollar question”?
This is like dumping a new puzzle from it's box. Now let's start putting the peices together. I guess this is what we all asked for.
Agreed
For a FO that said we weren’t going to be real active in FA, we’ve made some significant acquisitions. LT or QB with first pick would be my quess. Geez, kinda like Spiller too!!
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- The Shutdown Eleven: The most interesting footballers of 2010. #10: LaDainian Tomlinson
- Reports: Cardinals now want to trade Leinart; Giants interested
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