All this talk about Parsons got me looking into what scheme the Lions are likely to run next season. The tea leaves are pointing to a 3-3-5 single gap defense
Forgive me if this has already been covered but I found this article informative
This article came up when looking into that scheme
“…Since the 3-3 stack usually only has six players in the box instead of the conventional seven, clogging up gaps with linebackers and safeties is more important for stopping the run.
If executed correctly, rush defense can be a strength of the 3-3-5 — San Diego State allowed the second fewest rushing yards per game
Linebackers may be asked to be edge rushers, run stoppers and pass defenders at once…”
So seems like we can expect LB and S to be prioritized in the draft. And regardless of whom they draft at LB they are going to need to be diverse enough to attack the run as well as drop in coverage.
Seems the advantage here is being able to disguise the defense and assign players to attack multiple single gaps. This can help stuff that run and confuse QBs. The weakness is potentially leaving the CB with less help. CBs will have to keep contain and not get beat over the top
On one hand we played so much man, that our personnel should be able to adapt. On the other hand, our secondary was the worst ranked secondary in all of football last year. A lot will depend on Okudah and his new number giving him better mojo. And hoping Corn can be a new Colonel on the field