compared to last year.
I think the main problem has been that the "Oline & Dline-based, physical football team" hasn't materialized. The Oline may be getting there ... gradually, but the failure of the Dline to get pressure along with a depleted (missing Moore and the Alabama transfer, DeVonta Smith) and largely inexperienced secondary doesn't sound like a recipe for success. What do you do? Before the season Freeman said one group he had no concerns about was the DL. It was a misappraisal. Trying to create more pressure by rushing 4+ leaves that inexperience in the secondary exposed if it doesn't get to the QB. And, boy, have they been exposed.
Another possible consideration for hiring Ash is his background as a DB coach given the inexperience behind Gray & Moore and the loss of leadership with Watts. I have wondered, though, how Ash's and Mickens's approaches are meshing, or if there is some conflict there.
Replies to: "I think it's been pointed out that the stats don't backup that Ash's defense has been zone-heavy ..."
- Based on freeman’s in game interview and post game comments i - ndphysics - 12:02pm 9/22/25
(11) [View All]
- Agreed. [NT] - DiscoRick - 9:49pm 9/22/25
- I think it's been pointed out that the stats don't backup that Ash's defense has been zone-heavy ... - lacan - 3:59pm 9/22/25
- Can't argue with results or lack thereof. Let's hope he's right. If not, it's on him. [NT] - LanceManion - 12:55pm 9/22/25
- I read into his comments that the cohesion between the front and the back are the issue. - iairishcheeks - 12:25pm 9/22/25
- Blows a hole in the execution comments. This points out the scheme is too complex if they can't - oldirish - 5:07pm 9/22/25
- Yes and saying the coverages were wrong for the rush we were bringing. [NT]
- PaND - 12:32pm 9/22/25
- That’s either communication or execution. Maybe too complicated? Either way - ndphysics - 12:59pm 9/22/25
- No I think it is Ash's defensive play calling. [NT] - PaND - 1:33pm 9/22/25
- That’s either communication or execution. Maybe too complicated? Either way - ndphysics - 12:59pm 9/22/25
- I have had that crazy feeling too. Especially listening to Hyde's commentary. - ELP - 12:22pm 9/22/25
- I think I saw a stat we are playing the same amount of zone vs m2m. - iairishcheeks - 12:27pm 9/22/25
- Freeman is the head coach-fix it. [NT] - garryowen - 12:04pm 9/22/25