tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46134158649892690582024-02-19T07:38:05.306-08:00Hard Knock TigersCarter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.comBlogger169125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-84536795996705018052013-05-29T13:14:00.001-07:002013-05-29T13:14:47.309-07:00AUDIO: Fill-in Radio for Buddy's Sports Talk on WUBR 910AM Fox Sports Radio <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Big thanks to my guests yesterday Chandler Rome of The Daily Reveille, Dan Wolken of USA Today, James Carr of The Shadow League and Chadd Scott of College Football's Most Dangerous Blog. Below is Audio from each of the interviews:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/rome_tdr">Chandler Rome</a> broke down the Baton Rouge Regional and regionals across the country. He also explained why Arkansas was robbed of hosting a regional, which SEC teams are sleepers and if LSU is going to Omaha.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://twitter.com/danwolken">Dan Wolken</a> of USA Today explains why the Grizzlies faltered to the Spurs, what is next for Rutgers, and how Notre Dame will adjust to the latest dismissal of quarterback Everett Golson.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Shadow League's <a href="https://twitter.com/jamescarr89">James Carr</a> explains why the NFL is missing the mark on Tyrann Mathieu and the league's drug policy. Also, the UGA grad discusses the latest in Georgia's off field incidents under Mark Richt.<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F94525653" width="100%"></iframe>
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<span style="font-size: large;">College Football's Most Dangerous Blog's and Jacksonville radio personality <a href="https://twitter.com/chaddscott">Chadd Scott</a> on why college athletes should not be paid and why new Rutgers Athletic Director Julie Hermann should keep her job.
<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F94527721" width="100%"></iframe></span>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-46898890531070517052013-03-05T22:45:00.000-08:002013-05-04T20:09:14.479-07:00My Latest Archive From DIG Baton Rouge<br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/is-louisiana-ready-for-a-gay-athlete-6685/" style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">Is Louisiana Ready For A Gay Athlete? -- Why Alfred Blue Should Meet Jason Collins</span></a></h2>
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-up-and-coming-6655/"><span style="font-size: large;">Meet LSU's Next Star Linebacker -- Kwon Alexander</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-no-respect-6625/"><span style="font-size: large;">NO RESPECT -- LSU Sports Are Thriving Beyond Football and Baseball, But Does Anyone Care?</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-let-s-be-clear-6599/"><span style="font-size: large;">Let's Be Clear, Alex Bregman is LSU's Best Player</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-draft-gems-6573/"><span style="font-size: large;">LSU Draft Gems</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-necessary-evil-6552/"><span style="font-size: large;">Why March Madness is a Necessary Evil</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/fading-away-6504/" style="font-size: x-large;">FADING AWAY -- Where Are the Black Players in College Baseball? </a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/can-tyrann-mathieu-get-his-groove-back-6459/">Is Tyrann Mathieu a "System Player" Like Tim Tebow?</a></span><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-all-star-evaluation-6425/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">All-Star Evaluation -- Hornets are bad...Which Is Good</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-the-answer-6398/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Is Cam Cameron the Savior for the LSU Offense?</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-timeout-6368/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">TIMEOUT -- Why Football Coaches Need to Rethink Late Game Strategy</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/the-right-man-for-the-job-6335/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Right Man for the Job -- Interview With Southern Head Coach Dawson Odums</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-mass-exodus-6283/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Did LSU Underclassmen Make Right Move?</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-danger-sports-narratives-6310/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Glaring Issues With Sports Heroism & Narratives (And How We Continue To Make Same Mistake)</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://http//digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-blame-change-6256//article/opinion-blame-change-6256/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">BLAME CHANGE: Why the LSU Defense, not the Offense, is the Real Issue</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/stay-tuned-6235/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What do LSU Football, Arena Football, Rapping, Quentin Tarantino and Christopher Nolan films have in common? Former LSU Defense End Kirston Pittman</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-tiger-vs-tiger-6216/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">LSU Versus Clemson Breakdown</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-roger-goodell-will-ruin-the-nfl-6189/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Why Extended NFL Postseason Will Ruin the NFL</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-the-mythology-of-saban-6164/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">THE MYTHOLOGY OF SABAN: Why Alabama's Deity Has Flaws Like Every Other Coach</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-offensive-award-6139/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">OFFENSIVE AWARD: Why Heisman Trophy Thought Process is Flawed</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-dear-baton-rouge-be-thankful-for-lsu-6113/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Dear Baton Rouge: Be Thankful For LSU Football</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/power-picks-conference-championship-edition-6110/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Power Picks: Conference Championship Edition</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-lsu-s-offensive-mvp-ages-like-a-6085/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">LSU Offensive MVP, Josh Dworaczyk, Ages Like a Fine Wine</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-danger-mettenberger-5995/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Danger, Mettenberger </span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/mustang-package-key-to-victory-5960/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">John Chavis & 3-2-6 "Mustang" Package Beat Johnny Football</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-best-season-ever-5927/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">SEC's Best Season Ever</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/help-wanted-5892/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Help Wanted -- LSU Needs a Deep Threat WR</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/power-picks-let-the-postseason-begin-6165/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">POWER PICKS: Bowl Postseason #1</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/bleh-bowl-week-6190/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">POWER PICKS: Bowl Postseason #2 </span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-aggies-answered-the-call-6061/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">POWER PICKS: Aggies Answer the Call</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-plenty-left-5958/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Power Picks: LSY BYE Week</span></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c0b6ac; font-family: Arial, serif; line-height: 20px;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-get-a-kick-out-of-this-5703/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Get a Kick Out of This -- When it Comes to Determining a Champion, Football Fans Should Look Elsewhere </span></a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c0b6ac; font-family: Arial, serif; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/gap-blitz-5669/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Gap Blitz -- How Tyrann Mathieu Will Be Missed</a> </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/blogs/sigh-of-the-tiger/posts/how-lsu-misses-mathieu-on-the-mustang-522/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">FILM STUDY -- How LSU Misses Mathieu on "The Mustang" Formation</span></a><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-lending-a-hand-5611/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Lending a Hand -- Why Team USA Basketball is Playing the Wrong Sport at the Olympics</span></a><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-pulling-at-threads-5561/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Pulling at Threads -- Why Team USA Chinese-Made Uniforms Don't Matter </span></a><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-what-s-at-steak-5510/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">What's at Steak -- Paul Mainieri's Career is All About The Beef</span></a><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-is-it-september-yet-5484/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">College Football's Offseason is the Worst</span></a><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-the-week-before-5834/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">SEC Power Picks Week 5</span></a><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-cupcake-city-5802/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">SEC Power Picks Week 4</span></a><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-bounce-back-5770/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">SEC Power Picks Week 3</span></a><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-keep-em-rolling-5736/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">SEC Power Picks Week 2</span></a><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-roundup-back-with-a-bang-5705/" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #cc9900; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">SEC Power Picks Week 1</span></a></span></span><br />
<br />Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-9175789169260178112012-11-08T10:53:00.004-08:002012-11-08T10:59:26.833-08:00LSU Film Study: How the Final Touchdown From Alabama's T.J. Yeldon Was Scored<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.andthevalleyshook.com/2012/11/7/3614804/film-study-how-the-final-touchdown-from-alabamas-t-j-yeldon-was-scored#comments">CLICK HERE TO READ MY LATEST FILM STUDY FOR ATVS ON HOW THE GAME WINNING TOUCHDOWN HAPPENED FOR THE CRIMSON TIDE.</a></span><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/it-still-hurts-6032/"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">CLICK <span style="font-size: x-large;">HERE TO READ MY LATEST COLUMN FOR DIG <span style="font-size: x-large;">BATON ROUGE ON WHY NOBODY I<span style="font-size: x-large;">S TO BLAME FOR THE LSU LOSS. </span></span></span></span></span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/aggie-time-6027/"><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4613415864989269058"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">CLICK HERE FOR M<span style="font-size: x-large;">Y SEC PICKS FOR THIS WEEK. </span> </span></span></span></span> </a> </span>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-27955667607316592512012-11-02T10:24:00.002-07:002012-11-02T10:24:10.585-07:00LSU versus Alabama -- Zach Mettenberger Preview Pieces <span style="font-size: x-large;">I can't wait for Saturday Night in Death Valley! Here are some preview pieces I have done for the game...</span><div>
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-danger-mettenberger-5995/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">DIG Baton Rouge -- Why Zach Mettenberger Has No Chance Versus Alabama</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.andthevalleyshook.com/2012/11/2/3587830/what-zach-mettenberger-must-do-to-have-success-versus-alabama#comments"><span style="font-size: x-large;">SB Nation's And The Valley Shook -- What Zach Mettenberger Needs to do to Have Success Versus Alabama </span></a></div>
Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-37590408058217298772012-10-15T19:42:00.006-07:002012-10-15T19:44:13.882-07:00WUBR Fox Sports Radio -- Former LSU Tackle Ciron Black<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F63571466&show_artwork=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Former LSU Tackle Ciron Black joined Carter Bryant to talk about the LSU offensive line's breakout performance versus South Carolina, what it was like to play under Les Miles, his most memorable moment with Sam Montgomery, and what the Tigers need to do to improve going forward.Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-37152776322760466982012-09-28T10:15:00.002-07:002012-09-28T10:16:43.828-07:00DIG Baton Rouge Archive <span style="font-size: large;">Since joining DIG Baton Rouge, I have written on a multitude of subjects. Here are a list of my past articles...</span><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/football-polygamy-5836/"><span style="font-size: large;">Football Polygamy -- How Fantasy Football Has Ruined Our Viewing Experience</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-get-a-kick-out-of-this-5703/"><span style="font-size: large;">Get a Kick Out of This -- When it Comes to Determining a Champion, Football Fans Should Look Elsewhere </span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/gap-blitz-5669/">Gap Blitz -- How Tyrann Mathieu Will Be Missed</a> </span><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/blogs/sigh-of-the-tiger/posts/how-lsu-misses-mathieu-on-the-mustang-522/"><span style="font-size: large;">FILM STUDY -- How LSU Misses Mathieu on "The Mustang" Formation</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-lending-a-hand-5611/"><span style="font-size: large;">Lending a Hand -- Why Team USA Basketball is Playing the Wrong Sport at the Olympics</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-pulling-at-threads-5561/"><span style="font-size: large;">Pulling at Threads -- Why Team USA Chinese-Made Uniforms Don't Matter </span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-what-s-at-steak-5510/"><span style="font-size: large;">What's at Steak -- Paul Mainieri's Career is All About The Beef</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/opinion-is-it-september-yet-5484/"><span style="font-size: large;">College Football's Offseason is the Worst</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-the-week-before-5834/"><span style="font-size: large;">SEC Power Picks Week 5</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-cupcake-city-5802/"><span style="font-size: large;">SEC Power Picks Week 4</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-bounce-back-5770/"><span style="font-size: large;">SEC Power Picks Week 3</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-keep-em-rolling-5736/"><span style="font-size: large;">SEC Power Picks Week 2</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-roundup-back-with-a-bang-5705/"><span style="font-size: large;">SEC Power Picks Week 1</span></a>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-44624937010728677792012-09-27T06:39:00.000-07:002012-09-27T06:44:26.860-07:00DIG Baton Rouge -- SEC Power Picks Week 5<span style="font-size: x-large;">Click below for my latest edition of "Power Picks" for <a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-the-week-before-5834/">DIG Baton Rouge</a>.</span><br />
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<a href="http://digbatonrouge.com/article/sec-power-picks-the-week-before-5834/">SEC POWER PICKS: THE WEEK BEFORE</a></span>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-58607686635170153862012-09-25T18:58:00.002-07:002012-09-25T18:58:48.346-07:00WUBR Fox Sports Radio -- Mile High Sports Peter Burns <iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F61189008&show_artwork=true" width="100%"></iframe>
Peter Burns of Mile High Sports joined me to talk the NFL Replacement referee debacle in Seattle, the incompetence of the Rockies, SEC Football, and the Jessica Redfield Scholarship Fund.Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-88154348774023861822012-09-17T19:39:00.001-07:002012-09-17T19:39:18.966-07:00WUBR Fox Sports Radio -- Solid Verbal's Ty Hildenbrandt<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F60247830&show_artwork=true" width="100%"></iframe>
Ty Hildenbrandt of The Solid Verbal joined me on WUBR Fox Sports Radio. We spoke about Stanford's historic upset of USC, Notre Dame's impressive victory over Michigan State and the dominance of LSU and Alabama. Also, Ty shares his favorite tailgating spot in the SEC.Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-68418908831448786402012-09-11T08:10:00.000-07:002012-09-11T08:10:34.672-07:00WUBR Fox Sports Radio -- Arkansas Sports 360 Chris BahnChris Bahn of ArkansasSports360.com joins Carter Bryant of 910 WUBR Fox Sports Radio in Baton Rouge to talk about the status of Arkansas Football after being upset by ULM. He also digs into Tyler Wilson's health and other SEC Football news.<br />
<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F59483330&show_artwork=true" width="100%"></iframe>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-75371079755757253172012-09-06T08:32:00.002-07:002012-09-06T08:38:37.803-07:00WUBR Fox Sports Radio -- Bleacher Report's Michael FelderMichael Felder of Bleacher Report joined me last week on Baton Rouge's new sports station 910 WUBR Fox Sports Radio. We break down all of the big SEC matchups in Week 2 of the college football season.<br />
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<iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="http://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F58915909&show_artwork=true"></iframe>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-26806903362652697142012-08-20T11:20:00.000-07:002012-08-20T11:20:01.789-07:00How LSU Misses Mathieu on the "Mustang"Tyrann Mathieu was college football's most dynamic player. His ball skills, awareness and playmaking ability may never be seen again. But he needed a little help from his friends too.<br />
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LSU defensive coordinator John Chavis' 3-2-6 "Mustang" package is the defensive version of a "spread" offense. It uses speed and space to create matchup advantages for the Tigers defense. No player benefitted more from this than "The Honey Badger".<br />
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LSU has many holes to fill in this innovative formation, none bigger than Mathieu. This film study will show why.<br />
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Let's dive into one of many Mathieu's iconic plays from last season: the strip, sack and touchdown versus Kentucky in Tiger Stadium. Let's hit the tape!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSq554t6cM1Uoy_bLSFl8WssXt5odZkdzGkZ-kdpCrcV2Jb1SJR46dQuPeMUjrHDmmuuQWWku1p1izJ1Lc1ZVrEY1WE7OthYcyWRyshVT3jMngtRCXD1dBsA-zJr5plVdcNWpXcwsZRw/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-08-17+at+9.14.37+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJSq554t6cM1Uoy_bLSFl8WssXt5odZkdzGkZ-kdpCrcV2Jb1SJR46dQuPeMUjrHDmmuuQWWku1p1izJ1Lc1ZVrEY1WE7OthYcyWRyshVT3jMngtRCXD1dBsA-zJr5plVdcNWpXcwsZRw/s640/Screen+shot+2012-08-17+at+9.14.37+AM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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In the above photo, LSU is lined up in Chavis' 3-2-6 "Mustang" package. The numbers before the word "package" simply means how many of each position are on the field at one time. As you can see in the photo, LSU has three defensive lineman (players with their hand on the ground), two linebackers and six defensive backs, thus the numbers 3-2-6.<br />
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Before we continue with this defensive masterpiece from "Chief" Chavis, let's go through a couple of important pre-snap situations.<br />
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1) The formation's personel.<br />
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The best aspect of the "Mustang" defense from last season is it allowed LSU as many defensive backs on the field as possible. With six defensive backs who all can tackle and force turnovers, it causes headaches for offenses.<br />
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"Mustang" uses the best aspect of LSU's defensive line from last season and will be again this season, which is their speed. LSU has three defensive ends on the field for this play in Kiki Mingo (nearside defensive end in a "5-technique"), Lavar Edwards (noseguard in a "zero technique") and Sam Montgomery (farside defensive end "5 technique"). All three are athletic enough to drop back into coverage, which is important to remember as we move along.<br />
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The defense more importantly masked the Tigers' lack of depth at linebacker after losing Kelvin Sheppard from the year before. The linebackers on the field could be easily mistaken for defensive backs. The undersized Ryan Baker had great speed and Karnell Hatcher was a converted linebacker after being a safety the year before.<br />
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In personel alone, LSU has 11 players on the field who can all tackle, make plays on the ball and drop back in coverage. I would hate to be Kentucky quarterback Max Smith.<br />
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2) Game Situation<br />
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It is third and 10 Kentucky's own territory. LSU is up by three touchdowns and the Wildcats have been 1/9 on third down conversions. While Chavis is known for being conservative on third and long, even he knows this is an opportune time to take a chance against an awful quarterback.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNKYEjbIUJaZUmSfIZRyZmLqBa9R9txVqIY8l4H4PvoTGk_9gb1xaT0kmaDxOjnxYYHNKjhevewZRSZ_Fxe6IinsAgPWaM8NSrM5CeJwxF1Ox6kdQVQv6J7U4pfjBjKIHpeOsryhO13G4/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-08-17+at+10.18.45+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNKYEjbIUJaZUmSfIZRyZmLqBa9R9txVqIY8l4H4PvoTGk_9gb1xaT0kmaDxOjnxYYHNKjhevewZRSZ_Fxe6IinsAgPWaM8NSrM5CeJwxF1Ox6kdQVQv6J7U4pfjBjKIHpeOsryhO13G4/s640/Screen+shot+2012-08-17+at+10.18.45+AM.png" width="640" /></a>3) This play's "Mustang" variation<br />
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Chavis shows an all-out blitz before the snap. To go along with three defensive lineman, LSU has four other defenders lining up along the line of scrimmage. Mathieu (labeled "TM) is the nearside "nickelback" and Ron Brooks (labeled "Ron") is the farside "dimeback". As previously mentioned, Hatcher (labeled "KH") and Baker (labeled "Ryan") are the linebackers. Both linebackers form a "Double A-Gap" blitz look presnap, which puts even more pressure on the center who usually makes the blocking calls for the rest of the line.<br />
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(Note: "A-Gaps" are the gaps located between the center and guard, "B-Gaps" between guard and tackle, and "C-Gap" is between tackle and tight end)<br />
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These type of plays can't be possible without lockdown corners on the outside. Tharold Simon is the far side cornerback and Mo Claiborne (not pictured) is on the near side. Both are playing press-man coverage, which means Chavis has plenty of faith in them to not get beat deep. Reliable safeties Eric Reid and Brandon Taylor helps too. Their job is simple, locate receivers and don't let them get behind you.<br />
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Kentucky is lined up with three receivers. With a running back to the left of the quarterback Smith and a tight end on the left side of the line of scrimmage, the Wildcats theoretically have seven possible blockers to block the seven possible defenders going directly to the quarterback.<br />
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The running back being on the left side of the quarterback shows respect to Mathieu's playmaking ability. Chavis and the LSU defense wins big on this play because they manipulate the running back's assignment, forcing him to choose which defender to block.<br />
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Chavis says Mathieu is <a href="http://www.tigerrag.com/?p=199952">"the most natural football player"</a> he has ever been around. Chavis designed this blitz for Mathieu to make a supernatural play.<br />
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After the snap, it seems all seven LSU defenders at the line of scrimmage are coming after the quarterback. All seven fired off hard and low, getting good push on the Wildcat offensive line. Because of the "Double A-Gap" look pre-snap, the running back's first read is to block one of the blitzing linebackers. </div>
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In the middle of the screen, you see Hatcher (KH) attack the right side "A-Gap" he was lined up over pre-snap and the nose tackle, Edwards, shoots the left side "A-Gap" Baker (Ryan) previously occupied. What Baker does on this play is what some coaches call a "loop" or a "twist" to the opposite side "B-Gap". </div>
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The goal of this play was for Hatcher and Edwards to occupy blockers so Baker can run free without any offensive lineman touching him. Kiki Mingo (Kiki) does a great job of getting a push on the offensive tackle to make sure he doesn't chip inside to help block Baker. This also essentially gives Mathieu (TM) a free run to the quarterback because Kentucky's tight end was assigned a passing route. </div>
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After looking at this slide, we see some new developments for the LSU defense. The first of which is Mingo (Kiki).<br />
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After giving the tackle the impression he was on a regular pass rush, Mingo drops back into coverage. This is called a "zone blitz". Even though he is no longer rushing, the Kentucky left tackle is still keyed on Mingo. Because Mingo faked the rush so well, the tackle has no chance to help out on Mathieu (TM) or Baker (Ryan).<br />
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Before we get to Mathieu, praise must be given to two players.<br />
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Cornerback Tharold Simon (TS) is at the top of the screen. Smith sees man coverage on the right side, but the receiver is struggling to get off of Simon's "Jam" because of his strength, speed and long arms. Because Smith is a garbage quarterback, he is dead meat holding on the the football so long after an easy "all-out blitz" pre-snap read.<br />
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Also, Ron Brooks (Ron) on the top of the screen is having a technically beautiful rush versus a huge right tackle. After a great fire-off, Brooks is dipping his shoulder around the corner and not allowing the tackle's arm to extend to his body.<br />
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But where the true beauty of Chavis' is seen with Baker (Ryan) and Mathieu (TM). Usually, a running back's first option in blocking in shotgun is a free blitzer to the inside. In this case, Baker has a free lane to the quarterback.<br />
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But Baker was intentionally sent on a loop to that side because it is essentially created delay to give Mathieu more time to have a free run at the quarterback. While the running back is still keyed on Baker, Mathieu's speed and angle of a blitz allows him a free shot at Smith. In the above picture, it is clear the Kentucky running back is "no-man's land".<br />
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As you can see, the running back couldn't reach Mathieu (TM) in time to block him. Because of the "loop" technique from Baker (Ryan), he isn't blocked either. Brooks (Ron) has also turned the corner on his right tackle after a textbook blitz around a slower, bigger player.<br />
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Simon still is not giving his receiver any room to breathe and quarterback Max Smith is about to get pulverized because he has no time. Hatcher (KH), Edwards and Montgomery all are doing a solid job of occupying their blockers and coverage everywhere else is great.<br />
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BOOM!<br />
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Smith is crunched by Mathieu (TM) and Brooks (Ron) at the same time. If for some reason they missed the quarterback, Baker (Ryan) would have leveled him too. Now what Mathieu does after that is just special.<br />
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Mathieu located the football in Smith's hand and stripped it while in mid-air. His timing on the strip was impeccable. The ball is loose and all "The Honey Badger" has to do is pick the ball up and walk into the end zone. </div>
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<b>Conclusion</b></div>
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I believe this play summed up LSU's historic season on defense. It had a mixture of every great aspect of the LSU defense. The genius and innovation of Chavis (the "Mustang"), unselfishness of some to hold blockers (Mingo, Hatcher, Montgomery, Edwards), the athletic ability of beating their man in one on one battles (Brooks, Claiborne, Simon), reliable safety play (Reid, Taylor), spectacular blitzing (Baker, Mathieu) and a special play from "The Honey Badger". </div>
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The defense was stingy. They bludgeoned their opponents. It's not that often a defense runs up a score on an opponent. LSU took pride in that. </div>
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As we know by now, Mathieu was kicked off the team. Everybody seems to have the opinion of "the 2012 LSU defense will survive without Mathieu but will miss the special play". They are right, and this is film proof of that. </div>
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As we saw on this play, LSU still would have gotten a huge sack from Brooks or Baker if Mathieu was replaced by somebody else. But the Tigers probably wouldn't have gotten the strip sack for a touchdown.<br />
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This is why Chavis must find answers soon. LSU struggled getting pass rush without blitzing last year. If the Tigers have to play more traditional defenses and blitz less frequently, there could be trouble for the Bayou Bengals defense.<br />
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They need to have defensive backs who can fill the roll of not only Mathieu, but Brooks as well. Losing Mathieu may have as much to do with depth as it does production. On this play, all six defensive backs are bonafide NFL players. LSU will be without four of them next season.<br />
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The LSU defense can be special this season. How special is...to be continued.<br />
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Especially if their most special player is "The Honey Badger".Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-70509567779499136512012-01-30T20:37:00.000-08:002012-01-30T20:42:30.224-08:00(Video) LSU Commit Jeremy Liggins Highlights and Announcement<span style="font-size: large;">Sit back and enjoy LSU's latest quarterback commit <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jeremy Liggins</span></b>. Liggins said LSU was out of the race, but he probably had a change of heart when he figured out how terrible of a program Mississippi State and Ole Miss is compared to LSU. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If he can't contribute at quarterback as a freshman because of <b><span style="color: yellow;">Zach Mettenberger</span></b>, he can easily fill the hole left by defensive tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Michael Brockers</span></b>. Enjoy these highlights from the big fella (via 247 Sports)...</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/QXbqCVAwnGg" width="420"></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And here is video of Liggins making his announcement to LSU (via TSD)...</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/35930924?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/35930924">Liggins Chooses LSU</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user9532753">Benjamin L Garrett</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower" style="font-size: xx-large; text-align: left;"><b>Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower.</b></a>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-85500026789473533052012-01-30T09:33:00.000-08:002012-01-30T09:33:22.988-08:00(VIDEO) Former LSU Tight End Deangelo Peterson Recaps His Senior Bowl Experience and Offensive Woes Versus Alabama<span style="font-size: large;">After the Senior Bowl, <b><span style="color: yellow;">Deangelo Peterson</span></b> feels he increased his draft stock. He also commented on LSU's inability to move the ball on offense. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Earlier in the week, Peterson </span><a href="http://www.al.com/sports/index.ssf/2012/01/lsus_deangelo_peterson_says_wh.html" style="font-size: x-large;">commented on LSU's lack of offensive production</a><span style="font-size: large;"> due to questionable play-calling and execution versus Alabama in the BCS National Championship Game.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ahnT1BX4iCQ" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower" style="font-size: xx-large; text-align: left;"><b>Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower.</b></a>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-68370657128971856482012-01-29T17:56:00.000-08:002012-01-29T17:56:04.944-08:00Jordan Jefferson Has No Excuses<div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://nfltraderumors.co/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Drew-Brees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://nfltraderumors.co/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Drew-Brees.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why couldn't Brees be a Tiger for one game?<br />
Photo via <a href="http://nfltraderumors.co/drew-brees-would-be-beyond-stunned-if-hes-not-back-in-new-orleans/">NFL Trade Rumors</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;">Sorry for the delay on another post. Life has been difficult with media appearances, school work, life and <a href="http://entertainment.time.com/2012/01/19/who-the-hell-is-haywires-gina-carano/">movies starring Gina Carano. </a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am not a former quarterback or a professional talent evaluator at the position. I have never played the position outside of football camps or in the sandlot. While quarterback is the most glamourous position in sports, it is also the hardest. </span></div><div></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There is so much that needs to go right in order to play quarterback at any level. Do you have the weapons surrounding? Do you have the protection from the big men up front? Are you in the right scheme with a consistent playcalling? Can you handle pressure? How do you react to the good, bad and ugly? Do you have the work ethic? Can you rip apart film and then apply it to your abilities on the field?</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">As I began to type this column (which was weeks ago), Saints superstar quarterback <b><span style="color: yellow;">Drew Brees</span></b> tweeted he had arrived in San Francisco for their playoff game showdown versus the 49ers. <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/drewbrees/status/157725543008190464">Here is the Tweet</a>...</span></div><div><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Notice the words "Study time." Brees is constantly studying film and his opponents. He knows the playbook. He knows all the checkdowns and when he can rip an opponent apart with an explosive play down field. That's why Brees is one of the best quarterbacks you will ever see play the game. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Because of all the studying and preparation that goes into playing quarterback, I usually find it difficult for a college quarterback to fully grasp the position as a passer. A college quarterback has plenty of surrounding pressures, whether it be girls, schoolwork, stealing laptops, popularity, etc. For an NFL quarterback, that is his job. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">That's why I believe college quarterbacks struggle versus Alabama. This year's Crimson Tide are as close to NFL personnel and schematics on defense I have ever seen from a SEC team. That's why pocket quarterbacks don't survive. It took a fluky performance from Jefferson to beat the Tide on Nov. 5. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And the performance was fluky. Jefferson's longest pass was completed on a busted assignment from Alabama and his throw was awful to <b><span style="color: yellow;">Russell Shepard</span></b> before the end of the first half. His successful options and scrambles are both easily adjustable for a defense.</span><br />
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</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Jefferson had no excuses either. There was no school for him to worry about, so hopefully he spent most of his time over the break shredding tape on the defense. He should have studied like Brees. If he did, this play <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2012/01/bcs-national-championship-film-study_13.html">would have been completed for a touchdown to Deangelo Peterson instead of a 19 yard gain</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jefferson had the chance to be the starting quarterback of the greatest LSU team in history. Instead, according to <b><span style="color: yellow;">Paul Finebaum</span></b>, JJ was in Harrahs Casino. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It wasn't <b><span style="color: yellow;">Greg Studwara's</span></b> best game as a play caller. In fact, the fullback dive to <b><span style="color: yellow;">JC Copeland</span></b> may have been the worst play call I've ever seen. But if the quarterback is fumbling snaps, no play can be run. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am so sad<a href="http://www.klsuradio.fm/2011/09/01/jordan-jefferson-the-most-interesting-man-in-baton-rouge/"> I lost my "Jefferswag."</a> </span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower" style="font-size: xx-large; text-align: left;"><b>Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower.</b></a></div>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-3420955254168451662012-01-13T13:51:00.000-08:002012-01-13T14:03:12.052-08:00BCS National Championship Film Study -- Would LSU Quarterback Jarrett Lee Have Made a Difference? (Part III)<div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/full/453736029.jpg?Expires=1326447659&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIYVGSUJFNRFZBBTA&Signature=1SJ8D8jOBdx7PGtg-hvhljKNZ4sZuupCL2JjqkCceQoRdIdEsXKlG1rAprRb4H~tTVxkiue5RphYgFcwPqEWXrav2IHxVu6c8e8V06kWCu7fjXd4oQ5pFf9mra7OcqHft3B76xxpD0duoh-6vipkEySZPAXC1ANSUIDh02Vj4i8_" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/full/453736029.jpg?Expires=1326447659&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIYVGSUJFNRFZBBTA&Signature=1SJ8D8jOBdx7PGtg-hvhljKNZ4sZuupCL2JjqkCceQoRdIdEsXKlG1rAprRb4H~tTVxkiue5RphYgFcwPqEWXrav2IHxVu6c8e8V06kWCu7fjXd4oQ5pFf9mra7OcqHft3B76xxpD0duoh-6vipkEySZPAXC1ANSUIDh02Vj4i8_" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LSU fans shared this same look as Gary Coleman on Jan. 9th<br />
Photo via <a href="http://blacksportsonline.com/home/">Black Sports Online</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Here is <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2012/01/bcs-national-championship-film-study.html">Part I</a> & <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2012/01/bcs-national-championship-film-study_12.html">Part II</a> of the "Would Jarrett Lee Have Made a Difference" film study. I highly advise you read Part II, because it plays a big role in this column. </span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">LSU fans had hope. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Struggling quarterback <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jordan Jefferson</span></b> fired a dart, complete to <b><span style="color: yellow;">Odell Beckaham Jr.</span></b> for 19 yards. This was LSU's longest play of the evening, showing the slightest glimpse of optimism for the offense against the wild, raging bulls wearing Crimson on the other side of the ball. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;">The LSU offense would struggle to create any offense after that. They only had one play go for over ten yards for the rest of the game. But on this completion to Beckham Jr., there was a cheer of relief amongst the LSU fans. There wasn't much cheering on January 9th, 2012. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But if you don't like bad news, quit reading this column. This was actually LSU's MOST FRUSTRATING offensive play of the night, as it summed up quarterbacking play of the last four years...never too bad, never too good, but definitely never elite. </span><br />
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</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">I know what you are thinking..." HOW CAN THIS BE THE 'MOST FRUSTRATING' PLAY OF THE NIGHT? WE ACTUALLY DID SOMETHING POSITIVE! I DIDN'T HAVE TO HEAR 'ROLL TIDE.'" It seems and sounds stupid. You probably have the same face as my friend <b><span style="color: yellow;">Gary Coleman</span></b> in the picture above after reading what I wrote in the previous paragraph.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What I always remind people of is that stats don't lie, but they can deceive. Film never lies or deceive. L</span><span style="font-size: large;">et's roll this beautiful bean footage and I'll show you what I'm talking about....</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #2</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Jefferson complete to Beckham Jr. for 19 yards</span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is the second phenomenal play call in a row LSU offensive coordinator <b><span style="color: yellow;">Greg Studwara</span></b>. On the play before, LSU missed on a great opportunity to make a big play down field when Beckham Jr. and Jefferson failed to connect on a pass involving a play action fake. On this play, they succeeded after a play action fake. But this time around, Jefferson made the wrong decision. Let's hit the tape...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2zO5nN_JdyDdrdjELol1f1kwvkP-wGlpwK8ztoCjI5LY7GBZu_KuM0XzBaIjv_AdjFG_tEud-U__6WOgNc6ETrgUHiHzU_4hCRcCW25p2Cq4s1CPNKD9VBrtWTHtUF7FUyK_3T9TpiA/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.59.17+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2zO5nN_JdyDdrdjELol1f1kwvkP-wGlpwK8ztoCjI5LY7GBZu_KuM0XzBaIjv_AdjFG_tEud-U__6WOgNc6ETrgUHiHzU_4hCRcCW25p2Cq4s1CPNKD9VBrtWTHtUF7FUyK_3T9TpiA/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.59.17+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we can see in the picture above, LSU shows a similar formation as they did <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2012/01/bcs-national-championship-film-study_12.html">the play before</a>. They lineup with two tight ends to the right of the formation, but this time <b><span style="color: yellow;">Chase Clement</span></b> is the tight end on the inside and <b><span style="color: yellow;">Deangelo Peterson</span></b> (DP) is tight end on the outside in a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stance_(American_football)#Two-point_stance">2-point stance</a>. On the play before, <b><span style="color: yellow;">Mitch Joseph</span></b> was the tight end on the inside and Clement was on the outside. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We also see some personnel decisions from <b><span style="color: yellow;">Nick Saban</span></b>, <b><span style="color: yellow;">Kirby Smart</span></b> and the Alabama defense. Alabama has their "Nickel" package on the field (five defensive backs). Like LSU, they like to move one of their starting cornerbacks over the slot receiver in the formation. LSU does it with <b><span style="color: yellow;">Tyrann Mathieu</span></b>, while Alabama does it here with <b><span style="color: yellow;">DeQuan Menzie</span></b>. This decision alone could have affected the overall failure of the play. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The receivers are in the exact same position from the play before. <b><span style="color: yellow;">Rueben Randle</span></b> is at the top of the screen and Beckham Jr. is at the bottom. <b><span style="color: yellow;">Spencer Ware</span></b> remains the single running back. Let's run the next slide...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3kH8imlEHqkaYImBv04aUyQoFLWTNYd53-2AaJAeWvp8gVCmWQaegi3frEcP4yBHGbDcGF54Ap8hFN5N-7Lu2q6hrnUMGk-bsHrGLuAOGxE01S3hIYnzJA6JM5kj16dVXAPaThIPleE/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.59.44+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy3kH8imlEHqkaYImBv04aUyQoFLWTNYd53-2AaJAeWvp8gVCmWQaegi3frEcP4yBHGbDcGF54Ap8hFN5N-7Lu2q6hrnUMGk-bsHrGLuAOGxE01S3hIYnzJA6JM5kj16dVXAPaThIPleE/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.59.44+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we see in the picture above, Peterson (DP), unlike Clement on the last play and this play, is running a passing route. We see Jefferson performing a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Play-action_pass">play action fake</a> to Ware for the second play in a row. Beckham Jr. also for the second play in a row gets a clean release off the line of scrimmage while Randle doesn't. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Alabama linebackers and Nickelback Menzie respect the play action fake but are not at all fooled by it. Roll out another slide baby!...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsjzkjYMUrhigV8bXuBNQnw9p2ruqk4-z-eUcczlSgTY7ZjLkPrmqJcCI2dDq_ug4EeecJDBVxXB-c7PZQq40w1OAdzoObnDUZh5V7GW-_tjs6IyuPJQaDn5zXWs41_sYmvkQPeKv5k8/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.59.59+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsjzkjYMUrhigV8bXuBNQnw9p2ruqk4-z-eUcczlSgTY7ZjLkPrmqJcCI2dDq_ug4EeecJDBVxXB-c7PZQq40w1OAdzoObnDUZh5V7GW-_tjs6IyuPJQaDn5zXWs41_sYmvkQPeKv5k8/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.59.59+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As the play moves along, you see I have highlighted the BCS National Championship defensive MVP <b><span style="color: yellow;">Courtney Upshaw</span></b> (CU). He, along with his other defensive lineman, are performing what Upshaw liked to call a "mush rush" against Jefferson. <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2012/01/bcs-national-championship-film-study.html">Like I mentioned in the first film study</a>, Upshaw told me after the game a "mush rush" is a passive-agressive form of attacking a mobile quarterback. He said the point is to continue to collapse the pocket while maintaing your rush lanes. This plays a critical role on this play because LSU is running "All-Verticals" with their receivers. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">On Nov. 5, LSU had success with two plays in particular. The first was the option, the second was "All-Verticals". What made vertical routes successful is that the receivers would take the defensive backs out of the play, Jefferson would wait for the rush to over-pursue and he would take off scrambling for chunks of yardage. This was crucial in LSU's 9-6 victory. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">The "mush-rush" was put in the gameplan for that not to happen again. Upshaw told me after the game that the defense wanted to make Jefferson beat him with his arm instead of legs in this game. This right here was their gameplan to the fullest. None of the lineman, including Upshaw, (CU) are overly agressive with their rush. </span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But what the "mush rush" allows for Jefferson to do is have all day to throw the football, which he does on this play well. The LSU offensive line are doing a fine job of protection, as they have seven guys (five lineman, Clement and Ware) doing their jobs. Next slide...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjclPtrU1sMsJe0K1FvXm58lgA0KJKQvKWApBvTkbGPEB2tkJFRYV-MRZ8c0pQ8IqDxmLfVUSrgP4AtADEnJZwM55_cucFuCXy7-NiXMSM9cZvEVyxQ4AvGDnjfIOn8aiWrLYt34B2YXGY/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.00.21+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjclPtrU1sMsJe0K1FvXm58lgA0KJKQvKWApBvTkbGPEB2tkJFRYV-MRZ8c0pQ8IqDxmLfVUSrgP4AtADEnJZwM55_cucFuCXy7-NiXMSM9cZvEVyxQ4AvGDnjfIOn8aiWrLYt34B2YXGY/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.00.21+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you can see here, the line play is near perfect for LSU (SHOCKER, I KNOW). There is a clean pocket for Jefferson to work with to step up and make a crisp throw. But I want you to notice his head placement. He what you like to call "locking in on one receiver."</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once again, I don't play quarterback. I know on some snaps quarterbacks only have to make one read and only have to look one way. But on deep routes with time, the great ones usually survey the field. And Jefferson on this play, and on many other plays in his career, doesn't. This is where things get fun, NEXT SLIDE...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2KW89SGxF4Eh_NZNBnlRzm1k4tbLRCXwfhxWbRspsrkj0Mnfa5G3wb8OjPt5iix-FM4Ic89-_nP3zQoZGlfAeVHbou5g9_2F-PbpB6oH1Mz7MSFUwSPIZsfS-CtklOGuSSIxr1pRtY6s/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.01.10+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2KW89SGxF4Eh_NZNBnlRzm1k4tbLRCXwfhxWbRspsrkj0Mnfa5G3wb8OjPt5iix-FM4Ic89-_nP3zQoZGlfAeVHbou5g9_2F-PbpB6oH1Mz7MSFUwSPIZsfS-CtklOGuSSIxr1pRtY6s/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.01.10+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we can see here, Jefferson fits a tight spiral to Beckham, Jr. (ODB) on the right side for a completion, unlike the play before. The ball is perfectly thrown. Alabama safety <b><span style="color: yellow;">Robert Lester</span></b> then knocks him out of bounds for a gain LSU desperately needed. But if you look a little closer, LSU could have had a lot more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you look at the top-middle of the last slide, Peterson (DP), the original highlighted tight end in the first slide, is running wide open in the center of the field. And it's kind of ironic that people miss how open he was on this play, considering (DP) has disappeared all season for the Tigers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We will now look at this play at another angle. But before we continue, I want to talk about one of the most important aspects of quarterback play called "Safety Manipulation." This practice becomes more important the higher the level of football a quarterback plays. I will describe in more detail in these next few slides. LET'S ROLL THE TAPE...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghHgNIGpdGN4PNhO8Bqq-ztzpt95qzv9KjBkphdNWn_Umis-fOzBUBK1aMgO4toAu3cZmuGOY_kizJyqNYQvLn9erEb70RATJtkdN2ZvajRUPuxothQy0ARmN_tpaZPl8LhDHmOKFpIb4/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.02.12+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghHgNIGpdGN4PNhO8Bqq-ztzpt95qzv9KjBkphdNWn_Umis-fOzBUBK1aMgO4toAu3cZmuGOY_kizJyqNYQvLn9erEb70RATJtkdN2ZvajRUPuxothQy0ARmN_tpaZPl8LhDHmOKFpIb4/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.02.12+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As we can see here, this is another pre-snap angle of the play. What makes this shot important is now we can see the safeties. Lester (RL), who should have been beaten on the last play, is on the near side of the screen and Thorpe finalist <b><span style="color: yellow;">Mark Barron</span></b> (MB) is on the far side of the screen. I also have highlighted Menzie (DM), who is in the slot. LSU's respect of his cover ability could have had an affect on the outcome of this play. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now for LSU, I have Randle (RR) highlighted at the top of the screen. If anybody has followed LSU football season, they know Randle has caught many fly pattern touchdown routes along the sideline this year. Last season, he destroyed Alabama in the third quarter. For this game, the Crimson Tide aren't going to let that happen. Notice how Randle is the only receiver in the formation who has a corner pressing him. Menzie told me on BCS Media Day that they weren't going to let Randle get clean runs off the line of scrimmage under any circumstance. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">I also wanted to show you that the analyst for this play, <b><span style="color: yellow;">Kirk Herbstreit</span></b>, who is probably my favorite in-game, color-commentating analyst, broke down the play after it was over as you can see with the yellow squiggly lines in the last slide from his <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telestrator">telestrator</a>. Let's run the next slide...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsMrGIjms9zC9h7iN7AA3P3SuPNxYQOMd3erSqIQBMvlalPMPJc6HfCJnGE9aHTEqXKrlTL3ege8k60-Z2yAojmcFnXoTx04ScxUJRyQhAGUO7sRqeciuTUff4sErD5YadGeukQ7_dSY/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.12.38+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsMrGIjms9zC9h7iN7AA3P3SuPNxYQOMd3erSqIQBMvlalPMPJc6HfCJnGE9aHTEqXKrlTL3ege8k60-Z2yAojmcFnXoTx04ScxUJRyQhAGUO7sRqeciuTUff4sErD5YadGeukQ7_dSY/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.12.38+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">I believe this slide sums up everything we need to know this play. This is just a warning, but things are about to get really technical. I'm a former defensive lineman, so if I can understand this, anybody can understand it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">The coverage Alabama is running is a form of "Cover-2". You see the safeties playing over the top with the corners and linebackers playing everything underneath. Every quarterback knows the weaknesses of "Cover-2" is the deep-middle of the field. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As we can see, the Tide are adjusting their Cover-2 to personnel. Randle at the top of the screen has a corner running with him and safety Barron (MB) still opening his body to help the corner over the top. This is the ultimate sign of respect from an Alabama defense who thinks they can guard any receiver in the country. But because Barron is giving help, the corner running with Randle doesn't take away any of the weaknesses of the Cover-2 defense. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now this is where things get interesting. Notice how Menzie and the linebackers stop running with Peterson. They begin to sit down in their zone underneath coverage. Look at how evenly spaced these defenders are in the center of the field and where their eyes are located. They completely ignore the receiver, Peterson (DP), running right behind them. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsMrGIjms9zC9h7iN7AA3P3SuPNxYQOMd3erSqIQBMvlalPMPJc6HfCJnGE9aHTEqXKrlTL3ege8k60-Z2yAojmcFnXoTx04ScxUJRyQhAGUO7sRqeciuTUff4sErD5YadGeukQ7_dSY/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.12.38+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsMrGIjms9zC9h7iN7AA3P3SuPNxYQOMd3erSqIQBMvlalPMPJc6HfCJnGE9aHTEqXKrlTL3ege8k60-Z2yAojmcFnXoTx04ScxUJRyQhAGUO7sRqeciuTUff4sErD5YadGeukQ7_dSY/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.12.38+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">This coverage is very UnSaban-like. Usually The Crimson Tide run man coverage under their Two-Deep safety, which they did on Nov. 5. This hurt the Tide, because LSU ran "All-Verticals" last game against it. If a corner is in man coverage, their back is turned to the ball, making it easy for Jefferson to scramble for chunks of yardage. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">But for this game, they would rather Jefferson make attempt to read a defense instead of tucking and scrambling. Notice how Menzie and the Alabama linebackers are both spying Jefferson, waiting for him to scramble. They are running zone underneath their two deep safeties, which Jefferson should have crucified them for with his arm but didn't. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now for those who believe LSU didn't call ANY deep passing plays, you are wrong. In fact, Stud and the LSU coaching staff called the absolute perfect play here. I mean it can't get any better than this. The formation is set up perfectly. Stud knew the entire game, especially in the third quarter, that Randle was going to have safety help and will draw two defenders to his side of the field. So what he did was put his fastest receiving tight end, Peterson (DP), in a tight end position opposite of Randle. He also just ran a deep route with Beckham Jr., so Alabama wouldn't be expecting another on the very next play. Stud also knew the best play against Cover-2 is "All Verticals" with at least three receivers. So if the corners are in "Cover-2", they won't run with the receivers (other than Randle), meaning if there is enough time to throw the football, one of the receivers would be open for a HUGE GAIN. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">So in simpler terms, Stud essentially created a situation, in basketball terms, a 3-on-2 fast break where at least one offensive player will be open for an easy basket (or in this case, a touchdown). It's simple math. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now lets get back to a term I used a minute ago called "Safety Manipulation." This might sound stupid, but No. 9 for the LSU Tigers isn't No. 9 for the New Orleans Saints. There is not a better quarterback in the NFL than <b><span style="color: yellow;">Drew Brees</span></b> when it comes to manipulating a safety. For a quarterback, this means making a safety do one thing by your head placement and pump fakes when he should be doing another. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you ever watch Brees play, you notice how well he goes through his reads and progressions on the field. It's a work of art and I thank God for him playing on my beloved WHO DATS! On almost every deep ball thrown, Brees is always pump faking and looking a safety off his route. HE HARDLY EVER STARES DOWN HIS RECEIVER.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsMrGIjms9zC9h7iN7AA3P3SuPNxYQOMd3erSqIQBMvlalPMPJc6HfCJnGE9aHTEqXKrlTL3ege8k60-Z2yAojmcFnXoTx04ScxUJRyQhAGUO7sRqeciuTUff4sErD5YadGeukQ7_dSY/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.12.38+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsMrGIjms9zC9h7iN7AA3P3SuPNxYQOMd3erSqIQBMvlalPMPJc6HfCJnGE9aHTEqXKrlTL3ege8k60-Z2yAojmcFnXoTx04ScxUJRyQhAGUO7sRqeciuTUff4sErD5YadGeukQ7_dSY/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.12.38+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is the same exact slide as the one before. I did so you can see why Jefferson needs to make this play happen. By looking at Jefferson, you would think he was in a staring contest with Beckham Jr. (OBJ). This was actually not as easy I am making it sound, but it's simple numbers game.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">Notice how the ball is still in Jefferson's hands when Peterson (DP) is still fighting through that linebacker traffic. He sees the open Beckham Jr. (ODB) and reacts by throwing the ball his way. Jefferson has to know before the play that if he reads Alabama in a "Cover-2" when his receivers are evenly spaced out across the field, running "All-Verticals," he has to connect with Peterson exploiting the middle. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is where Jefferson could have applied "Safety Manipulation." All he has to do is look in the direction of Beckham Jr. (ODB) and then fire it to Peterson (DP) for a clear path touchdown. If he pump fakes it in the direction of (ODB) then delivers to Peterson, even better. And because the play before involved Lester closing in on Beckham Jr., look at how hard Lester is running in the direction of (ODB). But this shows Jefferson's extremely low football IQ.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR JEFFERSON NOT TO MAKE THIS THROW TO PETERSON. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Let's run the next slide...</span></div><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYtr9Ax_MDI1L21Jvu7WwkKMsNVCDyE_vuGuVr2th6oPUr7Y7o_Aj4MfwiRIJPUOFPrC6t6ZfOkp8X8cCRYBTBUXSvL0_V0FIEnyVL9iRo9HXhLj33BHKN_VU1ebwIItEvhRGUBw8r_o/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.12.52+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYtr9Ax_MDI1L21Jvu7WwkKMsNVCDyE_vuGuVr2th6oPUr7Y7o_Aj4MfwiRIJPUOFPrC6t6ZfOkp8X8cCRYBTBUXSvL0_V0FIEnyVL9iRo9HXhLj33BHKN_VU1ebwIItEvhRGUBw8r_o/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+3.12.52+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Jefferson sees an open Beckham Jr. (ODB) and fits a tight spiral before Lester can get there. But if you look in the middle of the screen, Peterson is wide open. Now I made a joke earlier in the piece about how you can easily miss Peterson because of how quiet he has gotten this year with production. But Peterson is Jefferson's old roommate. They have always connected well together, dating back to Peterson's break out performance versus Alabama in their first championship year under Saban. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Once again, all Jefferson has to do is just look at ODB and then throw it to Peterson. This is where anticipation is key for quarterbacking. Jefferson has to know if he doesn't feel pressure, that three vertical route from fast weapons will rip apart a Two-deep safety zone coverage, especially in the middle.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now I've said multiple times that Menzie could have affected the outcome of the play. If Jefferson thought Menzie, who is arguably Alabama's best cover corner, was going to play Peterson in man-coverage, maybe Jefferson decided pre-snap he wasn't going to throw the ball his way. But I doubt that was the case. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you go back in listen to the broadcast, ESPN color commentator <b><span style="color: yellow;">Kirk Herbstreit</span></b> misses this as well. Herbstreit was a great college quarterback. He praised Jefferson for fitting the ball in the tight window, which Jefferson did do well. Herbstreit didn't see the open Peterson (DP) running in the middle of the field. This shows the play wasn't as easy as I am making it sound. But it can't be stated enough...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR JEFFERSON NOT TO MAKE THIS THROW TO PETERSON FOR A TOUCHDOWN. IF JJ STUDIED ANY FILM OVER THE BREAK, HE KNOWS "ALL-VERTICALS" CAUSED ALABAMA PROBLEMS IN THE FIRST GAME. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Would Jarrett Lee Have Made a Difference?</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">What many of you are thinking right now is, "Lee is better thrower and he is smarter at making reads/anticipating routes and coverages. He would have made that throw." </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you are thinking that, you are right about the first part. Now the second part, that's for debate. I actually have film to prove it. It will just have to wait for the next film session.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">(Side Note: I tweeted the other day that I hope LSU starting quarterback for next year, <span style="color: yellow;">Zach Mettenberger</span>, for next year <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/CarterthePower/status/157240683202215937">learns how to "look off a safety."</a> For those that responded, this film study is what I am talking about.)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower">Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower.</a></b> </span></div></div>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-52198986057726760372012-01-12T15:26:00.000-08:002012-01-12T15:26:48.463-08:00BCS National Championship Film Study -- Would LSU Quarterback Jarrett Lee Have Made a Difference? (Part II)<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/rf/image_606w/2010-2019/WashingtonPost/2012/01/10/Sports/Images/136650127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.washingtonpost.com/rf/image_606w/2010-2019/WashingtonPost/2012/01/10/Sports/Images/136650127.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beckham Jr. and the offense failed to make explosive plays.<br />
Photo via <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/alabama-lsu-battle-for-bcs-national-title/2012/01/09/gIQADjIumP_gallery.html">Washington Post</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>To read Part I of the "Would LSU Quarterback Jarrett Lee Have Made a Difference?" film study, <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2012/01/bcs-national-championship-film-study.html">click here</a>. </i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">WARNING LSU FANS: WHAT YOU ARE ABOUT TO READ WILL BE TOUGH TO SWALLOW.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">LSU missed a golden opportunity to score a touchdown on either of their first two offensive plays of the first half. Or, in a more joking manner, a golden opportunity to get past the 50 yard line. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Now before I begin, I believe the toughest position to evaluate is quarterback. I think quarterbacks can only be evaluated by former quarterbacks and professional talent evaluators. Outside of football camp and sandlot pickup, I have never played the position. But because this Jefferson and Lee controversy is so rampant here in Baton Rouge, I decided to give it my best shot. But I am a better evaluator of the front seven and the running game. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Much was made after the game by the horrendous play calling by coach <b><span style="color: yellow;">Greg Studwara</span></b>, <b><span style="color: yellow;">Les Miles</span></b> and the LSU coaching staff. But these next few film sessions might help open your eyes to show that the execution wasn't the best either.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">LSU was effective on Nov. 5 with two plays against Alabama. The first was the option, which Alabama crushed to perfection in the first half in the championship game. But the other was with straight vertical passing routes, which LSU didn't do enough of in this game <a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaaf-dr-saturday/video-bobby-hebert-wants-know-why-les-miles-121110828.html">(as "The Cajun Cannon" pointed out).</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After watching the tape, it seems as if the LSU coaching staff was saving the vertical passing plays to come with in the third quarter, which makes sense. They figured Alabama would come out compared for it, so they probably wanted to lull them to sleep and then hit them with deep ones coming out in the third quarter. If history means anything, Alabama avoided near collapse in their last National Championship game versus Texas when the Longhorns began their comeback in the third quarter. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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</span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #1</span></b></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Jordan Jefferson pass incomplete to Odell Beckham Jr.</span></b></div></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">This was a well designed play by the LSU coaching staff and a great call by Studwara on LSU's first offensive play of the half. LSU never took any shots down field, but on this play they did with a beautiful play action fake. Let's hit the tape.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BW3s5SG6vbyrK4McBveUh4Qk_PdiVRVK9YMddrJH9aoUVNVC-nd64IE-dUypIvzKR015k55wWVG5FFf1jC3E9h2vMlXLiPTY6QTB0hTIVzQ1MaKvrwKEkGR1nVEqfYbi9PpdV4vYv8E/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.57.22+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BW3s5SG6vbyrK4McBveUh4Qk_PdiVRVK9YMddrJH9aoUVNVC-nd64IE-dUypIvzKR015k55wWVG5FFf1jC3E9h2vMlXLiPTY6QTB0hTIVzQ1MaKvrwKEkGR1nVEqfYbi9PpdV4vYv8E/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.57.22+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">LSU lines up with two tight ends to the right of the formation, with LSU's <b><span style="color: yellow;">Chase Clement</span></b> (CC) lined up in a two-point stance a yard off the line of scrimmage. He motions briefly and comes back to his original starting position. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Alabama is in their base 3-4 personnel but is showing a (somewhat) 5-2 look on defense with outside linebackers creeping up to the line of scrimmage with #5 <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jerrell Harris</span></b> on the near side and <b><span style="color: yellow;">Courtney Upshaw</span></b> on the far side. </span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">The ball is eventually thrown to <b><span style="color: yellow;">Odell Beckham Jr.</span></b> (OBJ), who is lined up at the bottom of the field versus Alabama cornerback <b><span style="color: yellow;">Dre Kirkpatrick</span></b>. We see Alabama in their typical two safety look on the back end of the coverage.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrDlJkB3r5oHWBUCRrOnQj32kEXSnwkUWcnzAsW1GKA9JNjlPuzeBVEqe3HaOsU4aLnwsL3j-hjbh3CUDjpTpdK0gZzY9Pg5cFyYaBtc6_t8FAF_6Fia7u_Hs2dx4PtEyo3_CP13FVHM/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.57.35+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrDlJkB3r5oHWBUCRrOnQj32kEXSnwkUWcnzAsW1GKA9JNjlPuzeBVEqe3HaOsU4aLnwsL3j-hjbh3CUDjpTpdK0gZzY9Pg5cFyYaBtc6_t8FAF_6Fia7u_Hs2dx4PtEyo3_CP13FVHM/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.57.35+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As the ball is snapped, you see that I have highlighted two players for LSU. Clement (CC) was highlighted in the last slide as the tight end. I have now highlighted LSU right guard <b><span style="color: yellow;">Josh Williford </span></b>(JW). The reason why I did that is because both players are "pulling" to the left on the play, which usually signifies a run to the left. You see the linebackers for Alabama key on those guys and begin their flow to the left of the formation as well.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The running play LSU is play-actioning out of his a "counter-trap." A "trap" play is when the quarterback looks as if he is handing the ball off to the player as if the play is going one way but at the last second hands it off and the play goes the other way. As you see here, Jefferson acts as if he is handing the ball for Spencer to go right but instead the play is going left. Usually on traps, a lineman on one side "pulls" to the other, which is what (JH) is doing in the above picture. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqp4G9o5YsY">(Here is a video of Merril Hoge showing a perfect trap ran by the Chiefs.)</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A "trap" is a complex running play that is usually not associated with play-action fakes from the quarterback. What really sells the fake for LSU is that they also are pulling a tight end, which in this case is (CC). But what sucks for LSU is that the Alabama front fundamentally plays this pretty well. Let's hit the next slides. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinDc9VoQxCyaYN7YAdzzMlPlUb55dprgbyzH0O7SYYXZBIRdk2MuMJ40kx_os7qrfC-51vv_dukouJgN0XYNQOFLeoQrTGyNc09T_0un8z30CY90zkEM3CHus6TXoSFPlP80cByx-ZH5Y/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+4.09.50+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinDc9VoQxCyaYN7YAdzzMlPlUb55dprgbyzH0O7SYYXZBIRdk2MuMJ40kx_os7qrfC-51vv_dukouJgN0XYNQOFLeoQrTGyNc09T_0un8z30CY90zkEM3CHus6TXoSFPlP80cByx-ZH5Y/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+4.09.50+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuYeju5Hx7RIB5GzQyA7smQ9rlb4FeGmBV-5sq8H6dI5Jj2D7FuLAd4vYhdNy29p_m-rNJJrPX0JAZT9z00jf0JrtnmOXtM3ieyz2FsgS1VyxLfPApafY8EuYPUra7ZpG1axAC_pVU30/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.57.53+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuYeju5Hx7RIB5GzQyA7smQ9rlb4FeGmBV-5sq8H6dI5Jj2D7FuLAd4vYhdNy29p_m-rNJJrPX0JAZT9z00jf0JrtnmOXtM3ieyz2FsgS1VyxLfPApafY8EuYPUra7ZpG1axAC_pVU30/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.57.53+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you can see in the above slides, I have highlighted two players. Alabama defensive tackle Jesse Williams (JW) and outside linebacker Harris (JH). They both play this play to near perfection. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the first slide, you see Williams "jacking up" LSU offensive lineman <b><span style="color: yellow;">Alex Hurst</span></b>, who played his worst game in a Tigers uniform. His arms are fully extended and Hurst is defenseless technically and athletically to Williams. Williams is able to slip Hurst block with ease and begin pursuit of Jefferson.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"> In the first slide, you see Harris (JH) fooled by the fake at first. Because he was the outside linebacker in the set (in a 3-4), he has contain responsibilities. What he does well here is at first losing contain by beginning to go inside on the man blocking him, which is LSU tight end <b><span style="color: yellow;">Mitch Joseph</span></b>. But as you can see in the next slide, he fights back to the outside shoulder of Joseph and keeps "contain" on the play.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-size: large;">This action by Harris is meaningless on this play because of the great penetration from Williams (JW), but this small point out shows how fundamentally sound the Crimson Tide are on defense. If Williams (JW) doesn't have penetration, Harris keeping contain is crucial on the play. But nevertheless, the penetration from Williams plays a key role in this offensive set. Let's hit the next slide.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-GdHYQ_3p-9iActF1s3nVWk1qhQhoqgGKSkgkQ6o_i9D15qPfxguPa_vCLFDVZCqk1BDjnJJvBct_P49Vl2-KCv9TPiIHEVF9M7YHcrEPD2lbhw51cAbhVF7UB33jl1Nb3GtT2khOM1s/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.58.40+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-GdHYQ_3p-9iActF1s3nVWk1qhQhoqgGKSkgkQ6o_i9D15qPfxguPa_vCLFDVZCqk1BDjnJJvBct_P49Vl2-KCv9TPiIHEVF9M7YHcrEPD2lbhw51cAbhVF7UB33jl1Nb3GtT2khOM1s/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.58.40+AM.png" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We see Beckham Jr. (OBJ) get a clean release off the line of scrimmage by physical cornerback <b><span style="color: yellow;">Dre Kirkpatrick</span></b>. Kirkpatrick doesn't look like he is running with (OBJ), so this shows he is playing underneath zone coverage, which Alabama did a lot of in the first half. (OBJ) is a burner and Crimson Tide cornerback <b><span style="color: yellow;">DeQuan Menzie</span></b> stressed the importance to me on BCS Media Day of being physical with the LSU receivers. On this play, the call was for Crimson Tide corners to not "jam" any receiver and play zone coverage underneath with safety help over the top. With no jam on the play, LSU has more of an opportunity to complete a clean route down field. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-gMajv9GImOpBY93WTfkT6KGqMeVsuDE4nr72H-h2UknO9bxOvxMvOcLHePbKJ3Z4gtt5Httga2MEkIgPC62n9mL8a82ztabOWuV29rF8b9INQ_-BzlrAV429ELDeJmpuJKoNJ-N8Pg/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.58.49+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-gMajv9GImOpBY93WTfkT6KGqMeVsuDE4nr72H-h2UknO9bxOvxMvOcLHePbKJ3Z4gtt5Httga2MEkIgPC62n9mL8a82ztabOWuV29rF8b9INQ_-BzlrAV429ELDeJmpuJKoNJ-N8Pg/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.58.49+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As we see on this slide, (ODB) continued with his "fly" pattern, which is just a basic vertical route. Jefferson makes the right throw under pressure to Beckham. The ball wasn't well thrown, but Alabama safety <b><span style="color: yellow;">Robert Lester</span></b> takes a horrendous angle. Beckham is able to get his hand on it but is not able to bring it down. In my opinion, he has to make this play for his struggling quarterback. Let's look at it from another angle. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUZG0kNogDOB4NCbXq1qvXgWKWsfuiYg7hsTUDf8ryrtKZZA0g5vpR5qCOSgFL3pGMmqdCJJqt2tQFV-9f2WGq3VSNwEIAWmGyD0QUo2wV5xM-MYyXAEOXpIs0jxjNZJqMUoMIYWf2EU/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+5.18.27+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUZG0kNogDOB4NCbXq1qvXgWKWsfuiYg7hsTUDf8ryrtKZZA0g5vpR5qCOSgFL3pGMmqdCJJqt2tQFV-9f2WGq3VSNwEIAWmGyD0QUo2wV5xM-MYyXAEOXpIs0jxjNZJqMUoMIYWf2EU/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+5.18.27+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCqF8I0wQUPUyXJn2oo3MEB23VtSd1FFsn4ob8-4Djm-9-ld-xcFpSZ7WQy4aKot-nmZlxCBRS66cqlbI67riBQ1j7uuo2Kk0cxq8vSaqC0QeNNA-gSkF-TBcccjccdxWwHboaKKGK788/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.59.05+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCqF8I0wQUPUyXJn2oo3MEB23VtSd1FFsn4ob8-4Djm-9-ld-xcFpSZ7WQy4aKot-nmZlxCBRS66cqlbI67riBQ1j7uuo2Kk0cxq8vSaqC0QeNNA-gSkF-TBcccjccdxWwHboaKKGK788/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-12+at+2.59.05+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;">As we can see here, (OBJ) takes an awkward angle on a ball that was poorly thrown. But I believe (OBJ) needs to make this play. In real times video speed, you will see what I'm talking about. He must undercut the safety on the football. If he catches this, he probably runs in for a touchdown. Instead it's 2nd & 10.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Would Jarrett Lee Have Made a Difference?</span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes and no. It was clear Beckham, Jr.'s production went down when Lee lost his starting position. When Lee has well designed plays drawn up for him and it's a simple read, two receiver option play, he is an efficient quarterback. <b><span style="color: yellow;">Rueben Randle</span></b> was also open underneath on a drag route, which either Jefferson or Lee could have completed, but I believe (OBJ) was the right option on this play. His chemistry with Beckham was phenomenal, so I would lean toward Lee being more accurate with this throw.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now the problem is Lee's mobility on the roll out action out of this set. Lee can't run, but I believe he could have rolled out nicely and completed this throw, even if this would have been his first play in the game.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'm just going to warn LSU fans now. The next play I will break down will be a dagger to your heart and the definition of mediocre quarterback play. But it will have to wait for next time, in the next film session.</span><br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower" style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower.</span></b></a></div>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-29190524740150575902012-01-11T18:14:00.000-08:002012-01-12T15:27:44.339-08:00BCS National Championship Film Study -- Would LSU Quarterback Jarrett Lee Have Made a Difference?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thesportsfanjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/jarrett-lee-lsu-tigers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="197" src="http://thesportsfanjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/jarrett-lee-lsu-tigers.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lee was strapped up, ready to go on Jan. 9th.<br />
Photo via <a href="http://www.thesportsfanjournal.com/2012/01/les-miles-did-jarrett-lee-dirty/">TheSportsFanJournal</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;">LSU fans are reeling the Tigers got their "ass whopped" by Alabama. After the BCS National Championship Game, I have never heard the term "ass-whipping" more in my life. But the Crimson Tide openend every canned flavor of "Whoop-Ass" ever made on the Tigers in the Superdome. I could name more kinds of "Whoop-Ass" flavors the Crimson Tide opened up on Jan. 9th than Bubba Blue could name <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhfK98f5S00">kinds of shrimp in "Forrest Gump."</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After the game, I saw the grounds crew of the Superdome having to scrub the chalk outlines of the LSU offensive line off the turf. Thank goodness the red confetti covered it quickly so it wouldn't be more evident at first. Alabama's defensive front manhandled LSU in the trenches.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The main questions circling around fans is Les Miles' decision not to insert <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jarrett Lee</span></b> after <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jordan Jefferson's</span></b> horrific first half against the Crimson Tide. Horrendous play calling aside, Jefferson sucked. Miles said the pass rush was going to be <a href="http://www.nola.com/lsu/index.ssf/2012/01/miles_decision_not_to_play_lee.html">too much of an issue for Lee</a>. Maybe these next few stats will help make things a little clearer for this quarterback dilema. </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1) Lee in his career versus Alabama has one touchdown and seven interceptions. He also set the record for "deer in headlights" looks for a quarterback in one half versus Alabama on Nov. 5. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2) In the past three years, Jefferson is one of three quarterbacks to have beaten Alabama. The other two are <b><span style="color: yellow;">Cam Newton</span></b> and <b><span style="color: yellow;">Stephen Garcia</span></b>. Jefferson is the only one to do it twice. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Notice the similarities in the three quarterbacks in stat #2. They are all mobile. It is essentially the only way to defeat this Alabama defense. I said it before the game on Nov. 5 <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/11/lsu-needs-jordan-jefferson-to-beat.html">on here</a> and on every radio outlet I went on before the game. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sure Lee contributed to the first Jefferson victory with a nice fourth quarter strike to <b><span style="color: yellow;">Rueben Randle</span></b> to help seal the victory in 2010 in Tiger Stadium, but Jefferson did most of the work. Jefferson also accounted for more than 90 percent of LSU's offense in their victory on Nov. 5 of this season. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am not a fan of Jefferson. I think he is an average quarterback who has had more downs than ups. I've always thought Lee should be the starting quarterback, even before this season and after the Alabama game. But against the Crimson Tide, Lee has no chance. The Crimson Tide tees off on pocket quarterbacks. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I spoke with Alabama outside linebacker and BCS National Championship Defensive MVP <b><span style="color: yellow;">Courtney Upshaw</span></b> on Nov. 5, for a few seconds at BCS Media Day and about 15 minutes after the game on Monday. He has high football IQ and told me some interesting tidbits on Jefferson. </span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a.fn.fncdn.com/images/content/C/201201100157/JtraGy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://a.fn.fncdn.com/images/content/C/201201100157/JtraGy.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Upshaw terrorized the LSU offense Monday night.<br />
Photo via <a href="http://news.tidefans.com/2012/01/10/bcs-recap-alabamas-win-leaves-no-doubt-about-what-a-champion-is/">TideFans.com</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;">After the game on Nov. 5, Upshaw told me Jefferson's legs changed the game. Upshaw said they were prepared for JJ, but his speed was able to attack the edges with the option and when the passing plays broke down. Against Lee, Upshaw said in pass rushing situations keeping contain and rush lanes weren't as important. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In my conversation with Upshaw on Monday, he said the defensive line put in a technique the Alabama defense called "mush rush." He explained it to me as a passive-agressive form of attacking the mobile Jefferson. The purpose is to just get push on the pocket while maintaing pass-rush lane discipline without over-penetrating the play. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">"In the first game, we got ourselves too far up field and got blocked too easily," said Upshaw. "Tonight we wanted to keep him in the pocket and make him hold on to the ball longer." </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A dejected Lee told me after the game he felt his offense did a solid job of calling deep pass routes. Lee has been a hard working player for LSU Football in his five years at the program and always been a pleasant conversation. He shared with me three years ago how much he loved going to play golf with his father. The fan inside of me wants to shout and say he deserved a chance versus the Tide last Monday. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But one thing will always hold true in football. The film never lies. So before I throw gasoline on the idea of not allowing Lee an opportunity, I will rewatch the tape of every offensive play run in the second half. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The reason why I will start in the second half is because I believe Jefferson deserved the right to play the entire first half after beating Alabama earlier this year. With this film, we can make a rational decision on if Lee deserved an opportunity to play.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So in the next week, I will try my hardest to watch as much film as possible. Please be patient because watching this film is devastating. A team I grew up loving got blown out by their rival on the biggest stage in my most beloved sporting venue. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But looking back at it the game, that was perfect ending of how the last four years of quarterbacking have been at LSU. I don't know if college football has ever seen anything quite like this anywhere else since <b><span style="color: yellow;">Ryan Perrilloux</span></b> was dismissed from the program in 2008. So what other ending could you have expected? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Stay tuned in the next couple of days. For now Louisiana...WHO DAT!!! </span><br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower" style="font-size: xx-large; text-align: left;"><b>Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower.</b></a>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-18620949155559094352012-01-07T14:46:00.000-08:002012-01-07T14:51:17.167-08:00LSU Versus Alabama Film Study -- Crimson Tide Fight for a First Down<div style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.naplesnews.com/media/img/photos/2011/11/05/LSU_Alabama_Football(11)_t607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://media.naplesnews.com/media/img/photos/2011/11/05/LSU_Alabama_Football(11)_t607.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reid & TR3 went head on all game. This is from the below play.<br />
Photo via <a href="http://www.naplesnews.com/photos/galleries/2011/nov/06/college-football-no-1-lsu-edges-no-2-alabama/207031/">Naples News</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">This piece is a part of the "LSU Versus Alabama Film Study" in route to the BCS National Championship. <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html">To read the opening piece on the ultimate </a></span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html">re</a></span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html">ason w</a></span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html">hy Alabama lost to LSU, click here.</a> Here is <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-crimson.html#more">Part I</a> & <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-rest-of.html#more">Part II</a> of Alabama's first offensive drive. Here is the <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-tigers.html">first installment</a> & the <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2012/01/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-tigers.html">second installment</a> of the LSU offense. </span></i></b></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As many of you know, I am presently in New Orleans covering BCS National Championship Game for numerous outlets. Because of that, I am now going to pick out plays that I found interesting. This study won't be as precise as the other ones, but who cares. I want to go out and party. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(Side Note: Here are a few interviews I've done so far <a href="http://www.klsuradio.fm/2012/01/06/klsu-sports-interview-alabama-offensive-coordinator-jim-mcelwain-cornerback-dequan-menzie/">with Alabama's Jim McElwain and DeQuan Menzie</a> as well as <a href="http://www.klsuradio.fm/2012/01/06/klsu-sports-interview-paul-finebaum-of-siriusxm-previews-lsu-versus-alabama/">syndicated radio host Paul Finebaum of the "Paul Finebaum Radio Network."</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here we go. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #21</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Trent Richardson runs left for 4 yards, gets first down</span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This play was actually well defended by LSU, except for a few parts. Let's hit the tape. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQQcQPvxi1Y6m3fLIqSQWNdKYs5_p214qOv75XpmxmeWU0PhhIuq1pVdE9k0PKzucQLDSlqyOZRWb3b7ZAGzZpa-0bFb8TMgL19kN64wqsSMmWE52ICewWsbkK0OjzX597HXSrGTiPAA/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.22.42+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQQcQPvxi1Y6m3fLIqSQWNdKYs5_p214qOv75XpmxmeWU0PhhIuq1pVdE9k0PKzucQLDSlqyOZRWb3b7ZAGzZpa-0bFb8TMgL19kN64wqsSMmWE52ICewWsbkK0OjzX597HXSrGTiPAA/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.22.42+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Because it was a third and one, defensive coordinator <b><span style="color: yellow;">John Chavis</span></b> lined his defense up in a 5-2-4 (5 DLs, 2 LBs & 4 DBs), this time with personnel to match the scheme. The fifth defensive lineman added to the formation was LSU defensive tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Josh Downs</span></b>. He is the defensive lineman in the middle, lined up over center. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The benefit of running a 5-2 front is to add more beef to the middle of the defense to defend against runs between the tackles. One of it's weaknesses is defending an outside running play since the linebackers in the 5-2 are usually in a centralized location, never outside the defensive ends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Because the Crimson Tide was only in a one WR formation, <b><span style="color: yellow;">Tyrann Mathieu</span></b> (located at the bottom of the screen) was able to roam and help contain with defensive end <b><span style="color: yellow;">Barkevious Mingo</span></b> (defensive lineman located at bottom of the screen). The original formation had tight end <b><span style="color: yellow;">Chris Underwood</span></b> line up to the right. But as you can see he begins motions over to the left. This was a brilliant decision by offensive coordinator <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jim McElwain</span></b> because it created a numbers and matchup advantage on the other side of the ball. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2fyUtA2Qbux37BtY97i7At91to1fWT2DwKVNW1WdIZL2LeNxXKkDGWx9jjuB3OBCSgo3gHIE2dPuzCrIVBmo96-86CHNxYzdHuFtJVwuUKSsv7sRMOBqLAlyEYprt-x2BuGMBSZXZig/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.22.59+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2fyUtA2Qbux37BtY97i7At91to1fWT2DwKVNW1WdIZL2LeNxXKkDGWx9jjuB3OBCSgo3gHIE2dPuzCrIVBmo96-86CHNxYzdHuFtJVwuUKSsv7sRMOBqLAlyEYprt-x2BuGMBSZXZig/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.22.59+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As you can see, Underwood is now stationed to the left of left tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Barrett Jones</span></b>. McElwain likes the matchup Jones has on defensive end Sam Montgomery, despite Montgomery's ability to stop the run. Montgomery had "contain" responsibilities on his side of the field before the play began. But now that the tight end is on side of the field lined up outside of him, safety <b><span style="color: yellow;">Brandon Taylor</span></b> now has contain. You can see that now as Taylor creeps closer to the line of scrimmage. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Basically, now that Alabama has created this numbers advantage, they know they have a clear path to run outside, especially if Jones can flush and seal Montgomery out of the play. The funniest part of this play is that the blocking matchups were almost exactly identical to the first play of the game, which I already broke down in an earlier films study. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmd3o5pWnSF86lOpxtllfyclyEGmzCSp0kUL1BmVk9MN40Z0UnsBUhfxf-naDLi2dbueV7hWO-n0a6-uO0pKgr4tPPmvUxB9w6sE40wJ6df-2HY9zJaB52FV98J5nvw8Iyhfm1SWAYVu4/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.23.34+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmd3o5pWnSF86lOpxtllfyclyEGmzCSp0kUL1BmVk9MN40Z0UnsBUhfxf-naDLi2dbueV7hWO-n0a6-uO0pKgr4tPPmvUxB9w6sE40wJ6df-2HY9zJaB52FV98J5nvw8Iyhfm1SWAYVu4/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.23.34+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As you can see off the snap, LSU fires off the ball spectacularly. All five of the LSU defensive lineman are getting push on their respective man, leaving little room to run up the middle. Unfortunately, this play is going to the outside. Montgomery is having to face a double team between Jones and Underwood. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMN8Z6e0l7bgraXdbI5uy4Sx7wjP_fqLFlxBv9mmsTRS_GQGw3XD5ygRDP1w0tfqVlY7dJ-v99jd-bBQ-4sIxX_YYTjQGQyVO3ouSF6HtB4IdqBTnet6X_kePn9uiPWKQZwZVD4icyVY/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.23.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdMN8Z6e0l7bgraXdbI5uy4Sx7wjP_fqLFlxBv9mmsTRS_GQGw3XD5ygRDP1w0tfqVlY7dJ-v99jd-bBQ-4sIxX_YYTjQGQyVO3ouSF6HtB4IdqBTnet6X_kePn9uiPWKQZwZVD4icyVY/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.23.51+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As you see here, LSU has an insane amount of penetration this play because of their fast and athletic defensive line, especially by Montgomery. But Jones knew since the play was going outside of him, he used Montgomery's explosiveness and aggressiveness to his advantage. Because Montgomery felt a double team to the outside of him from Underwood, he decided to keep penetrating to the inside. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Trent Richardson sees Jones on the other side of Montgomery and trusts his own speed and Jones strength to seal off Montgomery. As we will see in this next slide, this is great patience and vision from TR3. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWBMzeB63X11RA-9iUlzPnBd-oUbUIETsk_rthR2cFvvGr7DMAuFogRBeSH9QgTE0lDrmnn4TM1jdHabajiCjona5KeMvRRVBZVMXullRfR5D7tL3as_AGUBlckwgXcstfaMcJi5fpcBM/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.24.28+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWBMzeB63X11RA-9iUlzPnBd-oUbUIETsk_rthR2cFvvGr7DMAuFogRBeSH9QgTE0lDrmnn4TM1jdHabajiCjona5KeMvRRVBZVMXullRfR5D7tL3as_AGUBlckwgXcstfaMcJi5fpcBM/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.24.28+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As you can see in this slide, TR3 was able to run around the penetration of Montgomery. Jones does a great job of getting his butt to the playside gap (which in this case is the "C-Gap") and "sealing" off Montgomery. Like I mentioned earlier, because Baker has to play so far inside, he couldn't get out to TR3 in time.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You see tight end No. 17 <b><span style="color: yellow;">Brad Smelley</span></b> at the top of the screen do a great job of "kicking out" his man (who is Taylor) and getting his butt to the gap as well. Taylor had to remain to the outside of him because he has contain responsibilities on the play. You can see No. 46, LSU linebacker <span style="color: yellow; font-weight: bold;">Kevin Minter</span>, in the middle of the screen getting sealed inside by a Alabama offensive lineman. Minter was in the same dilema as Baker. Because he was so far inside, he couldn't get out to the play and a lineman was able to "seal him".</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr627aJRz4L7N_igodutBv6QXzJrEoApDRcSkZ31W9F0bKaVX1nyfqA38dmSo8f-_0crXASS6BQlXn1aCocQPAQn2NJYQqeCiw_vOzSA_2pNV-2_qcc4GS90aioBXpJCXUIXvjYgemWEA/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.24.43+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr627aJRz4L7N_igodutBv6QXzJrEoApDRcSkZ31W9F0bKaVX1nyfqA38dmSo8f-_0crXASS6BQlXn1aCocQPAQn2NJYQqeCiw_vOzSA_2pNV-2_qcc4GS90aioBXpJCXUIXvjYgemWEA/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.24.43+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This wasn't the pretties blocking from Alabama, but it was cerebral and effective. They used the speed and aggressiveness of the front line of the LSU defensive against them and it payed off. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I mentioned in earlier film study, if a basic run play with basic blocking is perfectly blocked, it is up to the running back to make a safety miss in open field to bust it open for a big gain. Fortunately enough for LSU, they have one of the best safeties in the country in <b><span style="color: yellow;">Eric Reid</span></b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gQjPZRRDD64">Reid's amazing interception early in the fourth quarter</a> has been touted by many LSU historians as one of best plays in LSU history. But if their was a downside to the play, it was that it masked his overall brilliant performance for LSU versus Alabama, particularly in the first quarter where he had five tackles. He missed a few tackles versus TR3, but who in the Hell doesn't.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzs1PKQOT38YN0Oz5LHbD-_7RK9JCCPiyyK7CytiIQJEquAtIK_CBuwQIIPWO8uv-9fgTdNdJoQ8oaOuylSBeppMXoNVZMxIm53tsXT1kjF5zrmAUaP0J9q_3BWIqwqikl9eJ8gnTSaY/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.25.04+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzs1PKQOT38YN0Oz5LHbD-_7RK9JCCPiyyK7CytiIQJEquAtIK_CBuwQIIPWO8uv-9fgTdNdJoQ8oaOuylSBeppMXoNVZMxIm53tsXT1kjF5zrmAUaP0J9q_3BWIqwqikl9eJ8gnTSaY/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-07+at+3.25.04+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As you can see here, Reid makes a phenomenal tackle on Richardson in the open field. If the tackle is missed, TR3 gains a minimum of 10 more yards. TR3 did a great job of setting up his blocks, being patient throughout the run and getting the first down. But he didn't make the safety miss in the open field. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Reid had a phenomenal game, probably the best of his LSU career. So did Richardson. The battle between those two was one for the ages. I can't wait to see these two clash for the BCS National Championship on Monday. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is another example of how important the play-side defensive end to the running game. Because McElwain loves to motion his tight ends, defensive ends have to do a better job of keeping the edge against tackles. Montgomery got great penetration, but that was because Jones tricked him and flushed him out of the play. If Montgomery attacks his outside shoulder, even with the double team from the tight end, and sits in the C-Gap, he has a chance to make a difficult play. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the ultimate battles of coordinators, Chavis defeated McElwain. But part of McElwain's success was when he put his tight ends in motion and still ran simple plays and blocking schemes out of it. Expect more that on Monday, especially inside the 30 yard line where Alabama so desperately struggled. </span><br />
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</span></div><span style="font-size: large;">LSU's linebackers will have to play better in this game as well. Baker and Minter didn't have good games versus Alabama and Baker has struggled lately versus Arkansas and Georgia, LSU's last two opponents. </span><br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower" style="font-size: xx-large; text-align: left;"><b>Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower.</b></a>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-31500338273504461202012-01-04T19:56:00.000-08:002012-01-04T21:39:18.377-08:00LSU Versus Alabama Film Study -- The Tigers Continue Their First Drive<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.naplesnews.com/media/img/photos/2011/11/05/LSU_Alabama_Football(2)_t607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="LSU wide receiver Rueben Randle (2) runs past Alabama defensive back DeQuan Menzie (24) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 5, 2011, in Tuscaloosa, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)" border="0" height="235" id="media" src="http://media.naplesnews.com/media/img/photos/2011/11/05/LSU_Alabama_Football(2)_t607.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LSU WR Randle battled CB Menzie all game on Nov. 5.<br />
Photo via <a href="http://www.naplesnews.com/photos/galleries/2011/nov/06/college-football-no-1-lsu-edges-no-2-alabama/207027/">Naples News</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">This piece is a part of the "LSU Versus Alabama Film Study."<a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html"> To read the opening piece on the ultimate </a></span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html">reason w</a></span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html">hy Alabama lost to LSU, click here.</a> Here is <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-crimson.html#more">Part I</a> & <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-rest-of.html#more">Part II</a> of Alabama's first offensive drive. <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-tigers.html">Here is the first part of the LSU offense. </a></span></i></b></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Play #9</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Jarrett Lee to Odell Beckham Jr. for 13 yards. </span></b></div><div><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Fantastic play call by LSU offensive coordinator <b><span style="color: yellow;">Greg Studwara</span></b> after a great run on first down. Alabama crowded the line of scrimmage, <b><span style="color: yellow;">Rueben Randle</span></b> goes into motion and stops right next to right tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Alex Hurst</span></b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hurst, like he did on the first play, gets beat at the line of scrimmage by <b><span style="color: yellow;">Courtney Upshaw</span></b> off the snap. While pass protection everywhere else was good on the play for LSU, Upshaw gets to Lee quickly. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Beckham has been fantastic all year on intermediate routes, especially when Lee has been in at quarterback. He is sharp getting in and out of breaks and does a great job not giving away his route to the defensive back. In this case, the defensive back was <a href="http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2011/12/05/1846484/jarvis-jones-dequan-menzie-named.html">Coaches All-American</a> cornerback <b><span style="color: yellow;">DeQuan Menzie</span></b>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lee does a great of getting rid of the football before Upshaw is able to get to him. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #10</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Lee to Randle for 6 yards.</span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Alabama starts play off showing a "Double-A Gap" blitz, which is a personal favorite pre-snap defensive look for me. With the athletic linebackers Alabama has, they are able to give this look. It's when both linebackers lineup on both sides of the center at the the line of scrimmage standing up. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHK5ueziSJs-eT7kVw0CHK_gk_pnhjbOJBrVQNRiJ_IF3FqMqBHzTRaagMWwZppkevTwec599PvXIezRB2-yRWk1KyY9OyXcgS3Wut4pRyOrNpPl9pTZMiHKj9-Sz1nhKRLL3kP0vxOA/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+3.17.22+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHK5ueziSJs-eT7kVw0CHK_gk_pnhjbOJBrVQNRiJ_IF3FqMqBHzTRaagMWwZppkevTwec599PvXIezRB2-yRWk1KyY9OyXcgS3Wut4pRyOrNpPl9pTZMiHKj9-Sz1nhKRLL3kP0vxOA/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+3.17.22+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Because Alabama runs a 3-4, nose tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Josh Chapman</span></b> is a "0-technique", which means he is lined up directly over the center. This makes life difficult for opposing centers for knowing who to block and what blocking calls to make. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As the play develops, Alabama defensive coordinator <b><span style="color: yellow;">Kirby Smart</span></b> check out of the Double-A Gap look into zone coverage. The Alabama players adjust and sink back. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But despite if it was man or zone coverage, Lee completes a smooth pass to Randle on a comeback route for six yards on Menzie. Close follower of LSU football and dear friend of mine Matthew Monte said to me earlier this year that because his athleticism, "Randle is always open." Even though Menzie is one of the few corners in college football who can stay step for step with Randle, it's tough to take the ball away from the one of the SEC's best receivers. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #11</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Spencer Ware for three yards</span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I said it in our first LSU offensive study that the stats (29 yards on 16 carries) completely diminish how great of a game running back <b><span style="color: yellow;">Spencer Ware</span></b> had against Alabama. This run was pretty much all Ware. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">First off, LSU is the only program I've seen this type of running play. It's a running back dive, except the quarterback pitches the ball instead of handing it off directly from to the running back. It's a play guard <b><span style="color: yellow;">Will Blackwell</span></b> told me is called "Power." There is actually a reason why LSU likes to pitch the ball instead of handing it off directly on this play. LSU has been successful with this play all year long, even catching the attention of <b><span style="color: yellow;">Ty Hildenbrandt</span></b> of <a href="http://www.solidverbal.com/">Grantland's Solid Verbal</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"It looks so strange but it works every time," said Hildenbrandt in bewilderment to me after LSU defeated Arkansas. LSU averaged 4 yards per carry on the "Power" play agains the Razorbacks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In this game, the play wasn't that affective. And we will see here why the Tide crushed it almost every time. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWSbRcbqoj-D6jQs3qf5Gz-nw_UMW4XD3dnedWU3VygZ74lWhOvOrItApommyQ3iNE80ci1-Gdk0EUJ5RYrCpi665J4wRj6dqXsRJddtguc3eQIb_WxJ-WzDj5PnDUKc_GRRRqKuma4p8/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.30.16+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWSbRcbqoj-D6jQs3qf5Gz-nw_UMW4XD3dnedWU3VygZ74lWhOvOrItApommyQ3iNE80ci1-Gdk0EUJ5RYrCpi665J4wRj6dqXsRJddtguc3eQIb_WxJ-WzDj5PnDUKc_GRRRqKuma4p8/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.30.16+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you seen on the bottom of the screen, LSU lines up in an (somewhat unusual) "unbalanced" look up front. What this (usually) means is there are more offensive players on the line of scrimmage lined up in a blocking position on one side of the center than the other. In this case, LSU has four players lined up on one side of the center and the other side has two. Teams usually go "unbalanced" to create numbers advantages and mismatches in the running game. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Usually the word "unbalanced" refers to an offensive lineman moving to the other side of the ball to create three offensive lineman on one side compared to one on the other. Versatile Alabama left tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Barrett Jones</span></b> lined up on the right side numerous times in the first half. That's why for LSU on this play I call this a "somewhat unusual unbalanced"set. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">LSU's offensive lineman are actually in their normal positions. Usually when one tight end lines up on either side, it's not considered "unbalanced." <b><span style="color: yellow;">Chase Clement</span></b> is the tight end on this play and he is lined up left of <b><span style="color: yellow;">Chris Faulk</span></b>. But what makes this truly unique is LSU has physical freshman receiver <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jarvis Landry</span></b> (JL) lined up to the left to the tight end. Landry makes the line of scrimmage "unbalanced."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you can see in the picture, Landry is looking down at the man he is assigned to block, which is Upshaw (CU). A blind caveman knows Upshaw is a extreme mismatch for Landry, as we will see in the next slide. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPrbKPFzi7oxMSPlHvU8qf9_kdWY7anP_oediFSay6L1wwtnEgD08FbowXRvq-YlKbFQ1XaPQJaMt_XP94BCO5OoGK_gDtF-yKLmKzo215ITgFFJ09sQ6BLdEaQLT0rpJC8OLHKJd7kns/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.13.55+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPrbKPFzi7oxMSPlHvU8qf9_kdWY7anP_oediFSay6L1wwtnEgD08FbowXRvq-YlKbFQ1XaPQJaMt_XP94BCO5OoGK_gDtF-yKLmKzo215ITgFFJ09sQ6BLdEaQLT0rpJC8OLHKJd7kns/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.13.55+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">Off the snap, we see Landry (JL) attempting a cut block on Upshaw (CU). We will get back to them in a few. Let's begin a blocking breakdown going from left to right at the line of scrimmage. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Faulk and Clement get a solid double team on <b><span style="color: yellow;">Damion Square</span></b> as they work on to get to the linebacker level. In the middle of the screen, Blackwell (#60) is giving up early penetration to nose tackle Josh Chapman. Center <b><span style="color: yellow;">T-Bob Hebert</span></b> is awaiting blitzing linebacker <b><span style="color: yellow;">Nico Johnson</span></b>. Because of the penetration of Chapman, he creates a ton of backfield traffic for right guard <b><span style="color: yellow;">Josh Williford</span></b> to "pull", which means an offensive lineman off the snap runs elsewhere to block somebody else on defense instead of the person in front or close to him pre-snap. So right now, Alabama is winning the battle up front. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZAsDXzU6b_j2uIeqE8UsuQatCtep1UAqpXG4TP0NnphMjMN1MI8iy3gvgy-6aFOmElPph8wVrmR_VvAL6a8jAFRjfM33Xta1RVfifwEPQFB3_4QTTOHnaDZdSSoWwvpKvPCna2CvgoI/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.14.19+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZAsDXzU6b_j2uIeqE8UsuQatCtep1UAqpXG4TP0NnphMjMN1MI8iy3gvgy-6aFOmElPph8wVrmR_VvAL6a8jAFRjfM33Xta1RVfifwEPQFB3_4QTTOHnaDZdSSoWwvpKvPCna2CvgoI/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.14.19+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As we see in this slide, LSU up front begins to win some of the battles at the line of scrimmage. Blackwell is able to seal off Chapman, Hebert parries the blitizing linebacker out of the play and Faulk has his man on the ground. But once again, Upshaw (CU) shows why he is special and how downright idiotic it is to block him with a receiver in Landry. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To be fair to Landry, he was doomed from the start. Not only is this a mismatch, it's a tough block to execute. Landry had to cut Upshaw to ground, even though Upshaw was to his inside pre-snap near enough to the hole to make the play. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Upshaw fights off Landry to the inside and is in a good position to create havoc. Before the play began, <b><span style="color: yellow;">JC Copeland's</span></b> (JC) job is to take on the linebacker who is sitting in the play-side hole. But because (CU) had deep penetration, (JC) did a nice job of adjusting and cut down Upshaw. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But because, the play was well blown up by Alabama, Ware has to make a quick decision. Does he try and pound it forward, or does he bounce the run to the outside. Ware decides to bounce it because of the high volume of players in a small amount of space. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">(Side Note: I said before right before the slides of this play began, I will give the added bonus and reason why a pitch is more effective than a hand off. You see quarterback <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jarrett Lee</span></b> (#12) in the last slide sit and look for anybody coming from the backside. If linebacker <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jerrell Harris</span></b> (#5) was coming hard off the edge from the backside, Lee would have blocked him.) </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzhRdpkvig0FEeJPe-l0OwrNENTHaDOFpV3XTgkTOCFVUJEaeO4OYpd995kMUp2v5PiN6F2W_cdvoa_0sjGJJkwp9wxOaCXvq_LZkhOk0Ho7elwT9khD96G6BUfUYaIcfsJMl6iBL8Rw/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.14.30+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzhRdpkvig0FEeJPe-l0OwrNENTHaDOFpV3XTgkTOCFVUJEaeO4OYpd995kMUp2v5PiN6F2W_cdvoa_0sjGJJkwp9wxOaCXvq_LZkhOk0Ho7elwT9khD96G6BUfUYaIcfsJMl6iBL8Rw/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.14.30+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We see (JC) completing his cut block of (CU). Because Ware is bouncing the run outside, the man responsible for contain has to make the tackle. On this play, it is cornerback <b><span style="color: yellow;">DeQuan Menzie</span></b> (DM). </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGoiLWHfzy_zbMfbpM3Ok9M0m9x0scG8rNWOEIef0xYD7zJltnvZkRv0y2EkDKI5wt-eedNTpMGGEP6Cwc3zOcYP328tnvl0jTiMxpXizyt4iahoGmskxKcRWI4yWwjU1bQBlwewdythI/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.14.41+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGoiLWHfzy_zbMfbpM3Ok9M0m9x0scG8rNWOEIef0xYD7zJltnvZkRv0y2EkDKI5wt-eedNTpMGGEP6Cwc3zOcYP328tnvl0jTiMxpXizyt4iahoGmskxKcRWI4yWwjU1bQBlwewdythI/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.14.41+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Menzie (DM) takes an awful angle on the tackle and displays terrible form. You're taught as a tackler to put your head across a players body on their backfield shoulder if they are running at you at an angle. As we see, Menzie's terrible angle forces his head to be stiff-armed by Ware. With Ware's power, if a tacklers head is in bad position, they are going to miss the tackle. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Menzie also loses contain in the process. If Menzie at least keeps Ware to the inside, you see three Alabama tacklers ready to tackle for no more than a two yard gain. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BqIvg6ViId2kyelLb1OVh-RjuvyxXJHF3NyugY6UkitgwZRtqF3D-749efpsVkZbLIJMfNW0ChgEGQZR3yKq3USh8T-X21eBI_SIL7vvhGV6t3zdu4j_6eb_UOIq8tB_tOAde_tYbIs/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.14.54+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BqIvg6ViId2kyelLb1OVh-RjuvyxXJHF3NyugY6UkitgwZRtqF3D-749efpsVkZbLIJMfNW0ChgEGQZR3yKq3USh8T-X21eBI_SIL7vvhGV6t3zdu4j_6eb_UOIq8tB_tOAde_tYbIs/s640/Screen+shot+2012-01-04+at+7.14.54+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ware breaks Menzie's tackle and is forced out an inch away from the first down marker. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #12</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Jefferson sneaks for first down</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">The first we see of <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jordan Jefferson</span></b>. He comes in and gets the job done. But that wouldn't be the last we would see from No. 9. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the next study, we will finish off the rest of the drives for LSU and I will show what LSU needs to do on January 9th to achieve success offensively. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower"><b>Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower.</b></a></span></div>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-25785618650782119792011-12-28T13:14:00.000-08:002011-12-28T14:02:55.894-08:00LSU Versus Alabama Film Study -- The Tigers Earn Five Tough Yards on the First Play<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/b1/fullj.e1c39c61a1a666e92c75fc9fcfc2fdc0/e1c39c61a1a666e92c75fc9fcfc2fdc0-getty-131558396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></a></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/b1/fullj.e1c39c61a1a666e92c75fc9fcfc2fdc0/e1c39c61a1a666e92c75fc9fcfc2fdc0-getty-131558396.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ware wore down the Tide with jabbing runs.<br />
Photo via <a href="http://www.uni-watch.com/2011/11/06/sunday-morning-uni-watch-2/">Uni Watch</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">This piece is a part of the "LSU Versus Alabama Film Study."<a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html"> To read the opening piece on the ultimate reason why Alabama lost to LSU, click here.</a> Here is <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-crimson.html#more">Part I</a> & <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-rest-of.html#more">Part II</a> of Alabama's first offensive drive. Today we check in on the LSU offense. </span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I would like to first off wish everybody a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I always love celebrating the birth of my risen savior. But I would like to issue an apology for not posting for over a week now. I had a feeling this would happen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have been home with my family in El Dorado, Ark. for the Christmas holidays. During Christmas, I am a volunteer for the <a href="http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf">Salvation Army</a>. There is not a more rewarding experience than spending time working for them. Plus time with my family is valuable and watching people my age playing football on replay isn't as important as being around my bloodline.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But on top of that, I had to emcee and manage a rock concert put on by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theswoops">"The Swoops"</a> two days before Christmas. Two of the three members are childhood friends and the other is a friend I've made since I've been in college (Yes ladies, all three guys and the sexy emcee/manager is single). It was a rush to be on stage with a damn strong band. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But now let's get down to business.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tiger fans were raving about the performance from LSU running back <b><span style="color: yellow;">Michael Ford</span></b>. He rushed for 72 yards on 11 carries while starter <b><span style="color: yellow;">Spencer Ware</span></b> rushed for only 29 yards on 16 carries. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">While the numbers and highlights show Ford had a better game, Ware was just as important. Despite his smaller stature, Ware punishes wimpy tacklers that stand in front of him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The comparison between the two can be compared to a boxer's punches. Ware's runs served jab punches to the Alabama defense while Ford connected on flashy hook punches. Like the final devastating left hook thrown from a championship boxer, Ford's run in overtime was the most highlighted offensive success replayed from this game. Most of Ford's yards came from brilliant execution on option plays. While Ford did a nice job, his yards were more of a byproduct of the play instead of impressive individual runs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ware's case is the exact opposite. The three-man front of Alabama abused the LSU offensive line at crucial moments in this game. But Spencer broke and pushed back numerous tacklers for tough yardage. We will see it here on this play...</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #7</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Spencer Ware runs for five yards. </span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiizCID1J7t_i-cMycsoefpAYscaFk4TVxEJjkgihY37CnUwJwMMzRLwDkmafidJJeI2g6ASAktg4upGqv_LYKUsH4YhaeGVKX-73-oiIO5Cwz3tRkL7Tv6RdyafAYbeZmkh2uA-uWMI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.05.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiizCID1J7t_i-cMycsoefpAYscaFk4TVxEJjkgihY37CnUwJwMMzRLwDkmafidJJeI2g6ASAktg4upGqv_LYKUsH4YhaeGVKX-73-oiIO5Cwz3tRkL7Tv6RdyafAYbeZmkh2uA-uWMI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.05.49+PM.png" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">LSU, like Alabama, uses pre-snap motion on their first play from scrimmage. LSU chooses to motion their best blocking tight end <b><span style="color: yellow;">Mitch Joseph </span></b>(MJ), from the right of the formation to the left. In this first play alone, we see the major distinctions in defensive philosophies. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">The biggest difference between the LSU and Alabama defense is their base set. Alabama plays a base 3-4 (3 DLs, 4 LBs and 4 DBs) while LSU plays a base 4-3. As you see above, Alabama, <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-crimson.html">like the LSU defense on the first play</a>, gives the offensive line five guys to block at the line of scrimmage (a 5-2 look). What makes both coordinators special is that you hardly ever see them line up in that set before the play begins.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">By MJ going into motion, we see the first major difference between the two teams defensively. When Alabama on offense went in motion <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-crimson.html">on their first offensive play</a>, no LSU defensive player(s) flip flopped sides of the formation. As you see in this next picture, Alabama outside linebackers <b><span style="color: yellow;">Courtney Upshaw</span></b> (CU) and <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jerrell Harris</span></b> (JH) switch positions. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoLdYpnw5WLOWPipT_OtYtyYehaT4GOmECWCxNwtxEjCyILBbxRfdp5MQPvEUQfd-zVhV6TAK4USg46ZRywWaQ1ax2_fOGZZGZBh3Y35T9Icm6yDSKy2G_IGNNjRn0Zi4JRl-J2wDK4c/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.06.13+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoLdYpnw5WLOWPipT_OtYtyYehaT4GOmECWCxNwtxEjCyILBbxRfdp5MQPvEUQfd-zVhV6TAK4USg46ZRywWaQ1ax2_fOGZZGZBh3Y35T9Icm6yDSKy2G_IGNNjRn0Zi4JRl-J2wDK4c/s640/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.06.13+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you can see, there is a ton of traffic for CU and JH to run through. They flip because JH is the strong side linebacker and he lines up on the side the "strength call" is declared. In one tight end sets, the "strength call" is to side of the formation where the tight end lines up. And since CU becomes a down-rusher in passing situations, Alabama feels more comfortable with him facing an offensive tackle over JH. We also see inside linebackers <b><span style="color: yellow;">Nico Johnson</span></b> and <b><span style="color: yellow;">Dont'a Hightower</span></b> flip spots pre-snap as well. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">Though it's the first play of the game, this had a negative effect on the Crimson Tide defense. Both Upshaw and Harris played a majority of the snaps. In a game that was extremely physical, these extra pre-snap sprints can wear down players. I think that's part of the reason why the Crimson Tide were slow defending the option throughout the game. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">Usually when a team has their defenders moving before the snap, it changes up the blocking assignments for the offense. But if LSU does a simple motion with one player and they see only two players switching sides on defense, blocking assignment's don't change. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">A couple of quick notes about this play. Notice how far off the football left defensive tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jesse Williams</span></b> lines up off the line of scrimmage down in a 3-point stance. This forced JH to take an even wider path to run to the other side of the formation. This is fairly unusual for defensive lineman to be that far back. LSU defensive tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Michael Brockers</span></b> sometimes does the same thing. I spoke with Brockers a week ago, and he explained to me why he does it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: large;">Both Brockers and Williams have similar body types, especially with their extremely large arms. Brockers says if he lineups close to the ball, it doesn't allow him to fully extend his arms when he fires off the football. They are both phenomenal at shedding blockers and making tackles, so the extra space allows them more time to read and react. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI_90hdpkuCnl8o2l8GUbF0VmUaZ9UdA8QikD0VJcKVBO2el4qoIrUwIqS943ajCL5_D3V-ED5i791gGxQkPXVl7W9Eq-lM89P8emxDwCCnrqTvCcZVKzML260X9B5ZKqAR2K_ndIYRDU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.06.42+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI_90hdpkuCnl8o2l8GUbF0VmUaZ9UdA8QikD0VJcKVBO2el4qoIrUwIqS943ajCL5_D3V-ED5i791gGxQkPXVl7W9Eq-lM89P8emxDwCCnrqTvCcZVKzML260X9B5ZKqAR2K_ndIYRDU/s640/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.06.42+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As we in this picture, both teams are finally lined up. Upshaw and Harris do a great job of getting into a ready position before the ball is snapped. But then LSU decides to motion one of their better blocking receivers in <b><span style="color: yellow;">Russell Shepard </span></b>(Shep).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5IpfXVnbTT-6SBI1Mav5AvQo01ttO-mKjtvqhcGb5C2TfPdXyiP5KXqEx80yLdy0ObAQr2SIgT66eVizH39JMDdPXBU_gUSh5UOEp-jP0slN1mIV2_kBZEZW7jALN9D6y4k-tGH5GkY/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.06.54+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5IpfXVnbTT-6SBI1Mav5AvQo01ttO-mKjtvqhcGb5C2TfPdXyiP5KXqEx80yLdy0ObAQr2SIgT66eVizH39JMDdPXBU_gUSh5UOEp-jP0slN1mIV2_kBZEZW7jALN9D6y4k-tGH5GkY/s640/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.06.54+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cornerback<b><span style="color: yellow;"> DeQuan Menzie</span></b> (DM) has to switch sides of the football because his assignent on the play is man-to-man coverage versus Shep. This shows the Crimson Tide playing their favorite coverage when they don't blitz, "2-Man Under." In this coverage, the safeties play deep while the other defensive backs and linebackers play man coverage underneath. To play this coverage, athletic, versatile linebackers are required to play in ample amounts of space. LSU exposed the weaknesses of this defense with mobile quarterback <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jordan Jefferson</span></b>, as I will show in later film study. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB0X8wRQq5e1H6mFqZuaQsVUQITVP26ILi_rd1Uhk-_95gjI954z8xKI2gSieeqQbQvHHJy4VW2qDZLtHEqef-AAilqkgjh9W-ZTfnkSilFQd7vzrZAeVJ70vDlbiZtapO-hhxumZUAt8/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.07.07+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB0X8wRQq5e1H6mFqZuaQsVUQITVP26ILi_rd1Uhk-_95gjI954z8xKI2gSieeqQbQvHHJy4VW2qDZLtHEqef-AAilqkgjh9W-ZTfnkSilFQd7vzrZAeVJ70vDlbiZtapO-hhxumZUAt8/s640/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.07.07+PM.png" width="640" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As the play begins, we see LSU is running a simple "blast" play through the "B-Gap," which is the gap located between the guard and tackle. As you can see, LSU is running the play to the side where Williams (JW Blue) is located pre-snap (in a "3-technique", which is the outside shoulder of a guard). LSU right guard <b><span style="color: yellow;">Josh Williford</span></b> (JW Orange) has a tall order trying to get Williams out of the B-Gap. You can see Williford trying to turn Williams hips and getting his butt to the gap to "seal" the Australian defender to the inside. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you can see, Williams does one heck of a job on this play driving Williford one yard behind the line of scrimmage (the blue line). What makes this particularly impressive is how far Williams was, unorthodoxically, off the line of scrimmage before the snap (which was pointed out earlier in the piece). By doing this, he shrinks the gap and creates more traffic for headhunting fullback <b><span style="color: yellow;">JC Copeland </span></b>(JC) to run through. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">The gap is also shrunk because of the push Upshaw (CU) gets off the snap. LSU right tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Alex Hurst</span></b> is jacked up and losing ground. But what makes this play impressive is that (JC) does a great job of still getting through the hole and getting a block on his man, linebacker <b><span style="color: yellow;">Nico Johnson</span></b>, as we see in this next slides. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Also off the snap, we see a brilliantly executed double team from center<b><span style="color: yellow;"> T-Bob Hebert</span></b> and <b><span style="color: yellow;">Will Blackwell</span></b> on nose tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Josh Chapman</span></b>. Chapman then gets blown back into the path of Hightower as the play progresses, which is embarrassing for a player of Chapman's caliber. Unfortunately LSU wasn't able to consistently when their double teams throughout the game, but LSU did a Hell of a job on this one. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7I0V-CQzDwsLbkIe4qrOME_vVwvyRl7G4nNciFhSwLJiI60rNP-MJYVb3PbuYEY0SBg4JX9rODR2ZmYO03VxVtuj6C5TZvjtb3nyaASLUL1xKNMOPJkCJqaxZEspaz4DipDGP1We3A6E/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-28+at+12.05.09+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7I0V-CQzDwsLbkIe4qrOME_vVwvyRl7G4nNciFhSwLJiI60rNP-MJYVb3PbuYEY0SBg4JX9rODR2ZmYO03VxVtuj6C5TZvjtb3nyaASLUL1xKNMOPJkCJqaxZEspaz4DipDGP1We3A6E/s640/Screen+shot+2011-12-28+at+12.05.09+AM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRwFyWqmtwHLUE6RPGLmLkYKAOsC-FXB4_lkONaFzyptH4i8m8x9lMdUWGJX9tJ5irE0rpDCwFhnXGi26UC56AVLd_sXB1yPbbfPhbvHShcapciYBHPPZP4C19zQOcgE4iLPJDR6QoBc/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.07.18+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWRwFyWqmtwHLUE6RPGLmLkYKAOsC-FXB4_lkONaFzyptH4i8m8x9lMdUWGJX9tJ5irE0rpDCwFhnXGi26UC56AVLd_sXB1yPbbfPhbvHShcapciYBHPPZP4C19zQOcgE4iLPJDR6QoBc/s640/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.07.18+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Williford's technique saves him on this play. Williams' 6-4, 319 pound frame allowed him to win his battle with Willford early on, but his poor technique and over-penetration caused him to loose it late. Off the snap, Williams is shown driving Williford backwards just with pure strength. But Williford stayed calm, and in the next slide gets lower and extends his arms. As you see in the slide, Williford couldn't have better technique. He's lower and his arms are fully extended. Because Williams over-penetrated, the hole widened and Ware was able to slip under him. He then has to retreat to go chase the ball carrier. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">We then see Upshaw (CU) continue his whopping of Hurst. Hurst needed to keep Upshaw on the outside, but (CU)'s athleticism allowed him to shed a block and go help make a tackle on Ware. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">You see Copeland (JC) disappear in the above slides as he executed a perfect "cut block" on linebacker Johnson. I spoke with Copeland last week before the Christmas break and he told me he enjoyed how Alabama's linebackers did nothing out of the ordinary in the running game. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">"They did a great job sitting in the hole, and I did a great job of locating them," said Copeland. "It's good smash-mouth football."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you see, Copeland did a great job of getting Johnson out of the "B-Gap" and not allowing himself to be in the way of Ware. Ware races by the block and it's now up to him to make the safety, Alabama's <b><span style="color: yellow;">Mark Barron</span></b>, to miss him or run him over. As many LSU fans have noticed this year, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=de37wq4eYTo">Ware loves to run over and drag safeties</a>. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Like I said in an earlier film study highlighting the brilliance of <b><span style="color: yellow;">Trent Richardson</span></b>, when a play is blocked effectively, the running back's job is to make a safety miss to gain extra yardage. For a power back, it's important for a running back to gain extra yardage and not allow himself to be solo tackled by a safety. Barron is one of the best tacklers in the country, so Ware has a tall task in front of him. You will see he succeeds in this next slide.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOKuTqTjRwl-mYxxW_0npMEgDdy5DTU5yvCG5KeFZoV6zTvJmcMVBVRU_Mohtv2zDsIrBYh-rwIfYOYGl6sVyZnxTV5T9lpf9GF9xCMOVJkgD0XZgP4h0AFHx83k2hgd68kSn9o2qqmg/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.07.34+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOKuTqTjRwl-mYxxW_0npMEgDdy5DTU5yvCG5KeFZoV6zTvJmcMVBVRU_Mohtv2zDsIrBYh-rwIfYOYGl6sVyZnxTV5T9lpf9GF9xCMOVJkgD0XZgP4h0AFHx83k2hgd68kSn9o2qqmg/s640/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.07.34+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ware was able to run through a solo attempt by Barron and keeps his legs moving. And then you see Hightower (DH) and Williams (JW) get blown back into the air from the power of Ware. This one picture displays Ware's strength more than any of his other "posterizations" of weak defenders. You see on the right side of the slide, Johnson finally gets back on his feet after the great block by Copeland.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSpPDwnCrssY542fBRBjHUOj0ziemqRwYAHDijr8Rbt_FPmPNMfKJ8jsmNaiilxi-P1dBY1947_tGsVYFiyyZzwrRmFq0Dp9t1Y3DFcSlM8BR9h7-ouuuyuFuZ_tSZoTiOlnvo5YkGYM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-28+at+4.00.15+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUSpPDwnCrssY542fBRBjHUOj0ziemqRwYAHDijr8Rbt_FPmPNMfKJ8jsmNaiilxi-P1dBY1947_tGsVYFiyyZzwrRmFq0Dp9t1Y3DFcSlM8BR9h7-ouuuyuFuZ_tSZoTiOlnvo5YkGYM/s640/Screen+shot+2011-12-28+at+4.00.15+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbML58cYD3SP9rcHNgN2Hm3hKeCZKHYPR_fsIvQyILd2CRcsvuouRNNYAcyMpSQgBqFadpKxUP3eTflWCnMVg2XgJxHgTpglFFnFE42od4_qNVfftlBFokgmVftK27eKJ-PU3LSxcIrd0/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.07.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbML58cYD3SP9rcHNgN2Hm3hKeCZKHYPR_fsIvQyILd2CRcsvuouRNNYAcyMpSQgBqFadpKxUP3eTflWCnMVg2XgJxHgTpglFFnFE42od4_qNVfftlBFokgmVftK27eKJ-PU3LSxcIrd0/s640/Screen+shot+2011-12-27+at+10.07.51+PM.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ware then forces an all-out gang tackle by the Alabama defenders. Harris, who in the slide before was three yards away from Ware, becomes the leading tackler on the play. This run is vintage violent running from Ware. It's not often a guy his size is able to blow back the powerful Hightower and Williams, both NFL talents at their respective positions. Ware exploded the initial contact and kept going forward. Ford doesn't have this capability or mentality to do something like this. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Conclusion </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Like I said in the opening, Ware made some of the more phenomenal short yardage runs I've ever seen versus a defense filled with NFL talent. There have been many throwing Ware to the curb because of his lack of big runs and low rushing average (including me). But this shows why before you judge somebody with stats, it's important we take a closer look. With that said, Ware's role in the offense has been diminished to a certain extent because of the emergence of true freshman <b><span style="color: yellow;">Kenny Hilliard</span></b>.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">In recent weeks, Hilliard has shown why he is the most talented running back in LSU's deep core. Hilliard has the power of Ware and the outside running capabilities of Ford. He got a couple of carries in at full-back in this game, but expect him to get at least 10 at running back versus the Crimson Tide. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">We also see that Alabama has an advantage with their 3-man front versus the Tigers offensive line. LSU utility offensive lineman <b><span style="color: yellow;">T-Bob Hebert</span></b> has had an amazing senior season for the Tigers. But in watching this film, both Williams and nose tackle Chapman ate him alive in the third quarter when he replaced Williford at guard. This play shows why Williford needs to be playing right guard because he stands a better chance at the point of attack. The more mobile Hebert a few years ago in Tuscaloosa had a spectacular game at center versus <b><span style="color: yellow;">Terrence "Mount" Cody</span></b>, but could never get in a groove in this one. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">LSU didn't start with their usual center <b><span style="color: yellow;">P.J. Lonergan</span></b> as he was coming off injury and a missed game versus Auburn. He will be back in the starting lineup versus Alabama. Tackles Hurst and <b><span style="color: yellow;">Chris Faulk</span></b> have had great, but not elite seasons. They both held their own versus Alabama, but they both can play better as Upshaw was able to turn the corner on them in pass rushing situations. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">We also see why Upshaw is one of the nation's most versatile players in college football. There is nothing he can't do on the football field. Even though NFL draft scouts say he doesn't have ideal size, speed or strength, I beg to differ because the guy has a ton of talent and instincts. That's how I survived playing as an undersized lineman and Upshaw will do the same at the next level. Plus I had a phenomenal conversation with Upshaw regarding on and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=9_8jc1kdNJQ">off the field issues</a> and he blew me away with his knowledge of the game and humility.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Despite winning this play and gaining a tough five yards, LSU needs to play better up front in the running game. Left guard <b><span style="color: yellow;">Blackwell</span></b> said after the game they got off to a slow start running the ball. But Blackwell knows they need to play better if they want to establish more consistency in the running game between the tackles. The Tide will defend the option better this time around and LSU will need to adjust accordingly. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower">Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower. </a></span></i></b></div>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-9863628990226272422011-12-18T11:54:00.000-08:002011-12-18T11:54:42.495-08:00LSU versus Alabama Film Study -- The Rest of the First Drive for the Crimson Tide<span style="font-size: large;">This is another installment of my film study in preparation for the Alabama versus LSU rematch. Check out <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-crimson.html">Part I </a>& <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html">Part II</a> for more coverage.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #2 </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">AJ McCarron pass completed to Trent Richardson (TR3) for 22 yards</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;">This was one of many plays where LSU left TR3 unaccounted for in the passing game. LSU brought <b><span style="color: yellow;">Stefoin Francois</span></b> on a blitz from the outside and AJ intelligently threw to his best player into space Francois vacated. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcy6jCMB92UXwjBYwtn5kDeaM1g-0uXvQAquC_f46aTXsoJDXJlxv7iR8KvKGRCWo8DMkmggnmZxL4KMyoAwgSUZzpzKJvhA9r7pXzNGm3NRzjG5YhLx-sd4E7iALH796toO3oB8OiRM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+2.13.28+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcy6jCMB92UXwjBYwtn5kDeaM1g-0uXvQAquC_f46aTXsoJDXJlxv7iR8KvKGRCWo8DMkmggnmZxL4KMyoAwgSUZzpzKJvhA9r7pXzNGm3NRzjG5YhLx-sd4E7iALH796toO3oB8OiRM/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+2.13.28+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was a blown assignment for the Tigers. If I were to guess, it would seem TR3's responsibilities should be on linebacker </span><b style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: yellow;">Kevin Minter</span></b><span style="font-size: large;">. TR3 was able to turn it up field and then got in a moster collision with LSU safety <b><span style="color: yellow;">Eric Reid</span></b>. Reid ending up having one of the most important defensive performances in LSU history in this game. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Safety <b><span style="color: yellow;">Brandon Taylor</span></b> stressed the night of the BCS bowl revealings that they must account for TR3 on every play in the title game. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #3</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">TR3 tackled for loss by numerous Tigers for -5 yards. </span></b></div><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;">Remember in my first session when I exposed the importance of the play-side defensive end against the Alabama rushing attack? Well on this play, you see why <b><span style="color: yellow;">Sam Montgomery</span></b> (SM) is an exceptional run defender, especially when he is being blocked straight up by a tight end.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEamDbd-SpmrnyEZG18gr5ji9vqPNQeSL7VeJSEqFDe3M-QLDT4K9t6ngOZ7idyIuTFU7-CDvGAZmKnOrcXXz3yjxNhzvFx0f8-dEg7hEOTzly33MUCL8yXEW6tto28n4P5tD6frcqaEA/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+2.18.42+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEamDbd-SpmrnyEZG18gr5ji9vqPNQeSL7VeJSEqFDe3M-QLDT4K9t6ngOZ7idyIuTFU7-CDvGAZmKnOrcXXz3yjxNhzvFx0f8-dEg7hEOTzly33MUCL8yXEW6tto28n4P5tD6frcqaEA/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+2.18.42+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Before the play began, Alabama was lined up in the pistol. They then switched to a shotgun formation with TR3 in the backfield with AJ. You see Montgomery (SM) lined up against<b><span style="color: yellow;"> Michael Williams</span></b> (MW) near the top of the screen. SM has feasted against tight ends all season long. He had a field day versus Florida tight end <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jordan Reed</span></b>. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is the first play Alabama ran inside the LSU 30-yard line. <a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html">Read my first film study piece to see their monumental struggles inside the 30</a>. This is the first of many questionable play calls by offensive coordinator <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jim McElwain</span></b> in these situations. The reason why is because Alabama runs a play that goes east and west instead of north and south. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-crimson.html">On the first play</a>, I showed how LSU was gashed on a simliar play for 18 yards. But there are two things that makes this play different. The first is the play is run to the short side of the field against a fast defense. The second is the personnel and blocking scheme was different. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The first play had mobile tight ends not having to worry about blocking a defensive lineman. But more importantly, the offensive line didn't have to perform a scheme called "downblocking." I will show what "downblocking" right here...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFkqPuoQcMMyaA4O1geCaNxMMCK18733uIdK8FaJrPeXQeOoWPx-w7hyV-3AgG4qYneDOyPHLWV3EJLAZeNMod3UPfSisB1pqOW7LMjq8RBzyjHf95MX9NcEzsfJACrCwRptc_KxT0Tg/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+2.40.20+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFkqPuoQcMMyaA4O1geCaNxMMCK18733uIdK8FaJrPeXQeOoWPx-w7hyV-3AgG4qYneDOyPHLWV3EJLAZeNMod3UPfSisB1pqOW7LMjq8RBzyjHf95MX9NcEzsfJACrCwRptc_KxT0Tg/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+2.40.20+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">What "downblocking" means is that offensive lineman blocks a man down to the left or right of them, depending on which direction the play is heading. So this means Fluker, instead of blocking <b><span style="color: yellow;">Barkevious Mingo</span></b> (Kiki), who was his apparent assignment before the play began, attacks the next man down on the line of scrimmage, which on this play is defensive tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Michael Brockers</span></b>. Then the right guard <b><span style="color: yellow;">Alfred McCollough</span></b> goes and helps the center <b><span style="color: yellow;">William Vlachos</span></b> block down on defensive tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Bennie Logan</span></b>. The left guard, <b><span style="color: yellow;">Chance Wormack</span></b>, essentially becomes the lead blocker and takes on the outside linebacker on the play side.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">The key for downblocking to work is the offensive lineman's first step. It must be quick or else the defensive lineman will shed the block and have a clear path to the runner. The problem for Alabama is the strength of this offensive line isn't their first step, especially against a quick defensive line. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Because it's a run on the outside, the backside end in "downblocking", Kiki, is left unblocked. When opposing coaches intentionally left Kiki unblocked this year, his elite speed made them pay. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZcfTFhOUU4">Just watch what he did to the Oregon Ducks</a>. Kiki can chase down any running back from behind. But McElwain does something smart to take him out of the play. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you see in the above picture, I highlighted wide receiver <b><span style="color: yellow;">Marquis Maze</span></b> (Maze). He started in motion before the snap began and Alabama ran a semi-fake to him before handing the ball to Richardson. While it seemed needless, the reason why the play is designed that play is to keep Kiki stationary and to prevent him from chasing down Richardson from the backside.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the last study, I shared that defensive ends in 4-3 defenses have "contain responsibilities." Kiki does his job by staying stationary and making sure Maze didn't have the ball, because Kiki has to keep run contain on that side of the field. While it did take Kiki out of the play, it also took away an extra blocker to the play side. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">But where this play gets blown up is with the defensive tackles. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHfVJpSsDR6z5EVAt5omE6UPTbuiTg02f3Uvd_QjY0Qkju-OBULmtqq49F4NQmKsCzTVuDVmkKiUKfg1ctG1s2MKBfW4PzKNMBG9TwiHoLFGHZ5Az8Z34nAnE1AVP6c3Tixm2wz9FarmM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.09.33+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHfVJpSsDR6z5EVAt5omE6UPTbuiTg02f3Uvd_QjY0Qkju-OBULmtqq49F4NQmKsCzTVuDVmkKiUKfg1ctG1s2MKBfW4PzKNMBG9TwiHoLFGHZ5Az8Z34nAnE1AVP6c3Tixm2wz9FarmM/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.09.33+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;">As you see, Fluker and Vlachos have a tough time getting around Brockers (MB) and Logan (BL). Notice on this play, the defensive line is pushing their men behind the line of scrimmage represented by the blue line. The play looks to be designed to go through the "C-Gap" (between the tight end and tackle), but Brockers and Logan create too much traffic for TR3 to run through. He then tries to bounce it outside, but as you can see SM kept his outside shoulder free and kept contain on his side of the field. He then is able to break away from his block and force TR3 even further back...</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwn3EFzRGj2tNAv_s7VfkF2d7eVATpwIp8V6b_tq_gVp52hhwRlkzffHmX1D4sAkShXSBsgZINDvO8HSEIKt4_lkmYjKDX0utO23imeAyfJrtGA1j4NLTZ_9ox-WYkLJ5lN4o17eyvdI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.16.02+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwn3EFzRGj2tNAv_s7VfkF2d7eVATpwIp8V6b_tq_gVp52hhwRlkzffHmX1D4sAkShXSBsgZINDvO8HSEIKt4_lkmYjKDX0utO23imeAyfJrtGA1j4NLTZ_9ox-WYkLJ5lN4o17eyvdI/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.16.02+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When all four defensive lineman dominate their assignments, this is your result...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiktKccWe2XDCFPDjP4XrS0Iv1FDov9fHk29Bk8QVFVJV15Gxo99lIqlc6iiggERoqjw7Ux0tE3_fFJU_AL6cimEP7yWBscuNvwsMkmrvqsa6KRi42rKKHZvSmkQ5HERAVTUYdQGCJQQ2k/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.17.36+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiktKccWe2XDCFPDjP4XrS0Iv1FDov9fHk29Bk8QVFVJV15Gxo99lIqlc6iiggERoqjw7Ux0tE3_fFJU_AL6cimEP7yWBscuNvwsMkmrvqsa6KRi42rKKHZvSmkQ5HERAVTUYdQGCJQQ2k/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.17.36+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is the first of many failures of the Alabama coaching staff. While this play is well designed, this is not their identity. The main problem with this play isn't TR3 going east and west, it's that his lineman had to go east and west as well by "downblocking" instead of running a play where the blocking is straight ahead. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The fleet-footed LSU defensive line blew this play up from the start and much credit needs to be given to them. Both defensive ends kept their contain responsibilities and the defensive tackles read the blocks and created chaos. Can't be executed any better than that. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #4</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">AJ to H-Back Brad Smelley for 8 yards</span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Solid "Out-Route" by Smelley, knocked out of bounds by <b><span style="color: yellow;">Tyrann Mathieu</span></b>. He gets up and talks smack to Smelley. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #5</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">TR3 completion for no gain</span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Great coverage on the back end by LSU. Alabama decided to run mainly deep routes on third and eight and LSU played Cover-4 against it, which essentially doesn't allow any receivers to get behind them. The problem, even though LSU got a stop, was with the pass rush. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've noted this on Twitter all season long and I will say it again here. LSU has horrendous one-on-one rushing capabilities. Vlachos told me after the game that he, and his unit, felt comfortable blocking them in pass rushing situations. There is no reason for this to be this case with the speed LSU has up front. Let's hit the tape and see where the problems lie...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSffjfhpnzoM-L0Lby75ikwlaHTkp0KM7XwH_OH4_QNtnz1SQIjU3XnFKfLaOaJtzLVIXe3o_sjmpgijIHhRxb-Mkg78D4Whdrurd-ep7TOpRD4mqRbj_utLww7u7G-zE4k4HI3_7pys/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.30.16+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSffjfhpnzoM-L0Lby75ikwlaHTkp0KM7XwH_OH4_QNtnz1SQIjU3XnFKfLaOaJtzLVIXe3o_sjmpgijIHhRxb-Mkg78D4Whdrurd-ep7TOpRD4mqRbj_utLww7u7G-zE4k4HI3_7pys/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.30.16+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">On a a clear pass rushing situation, the Tiger should pin their ears back and get after the quarterback. While I don't know exactly how the Tigers have been taught to rush the quarterback, it seems rather strange how they go about doing it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGf9cSW6fUHjFOyAdBoIkDB0pq3yWE7DRnbKwy0BXKpyoW5UC2ElHPlCZHlUKDuB_UYFTQw08nqMT2bZCSD5B4ds-HusoOd3_sROA9koboI_sZtRQpjBWH7fqgP3RjZDtRhYjNuSaOVCM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.32.44+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGf9cSW6fUHjFOyAdBoIkDB0pq3yWE7DRnbKwy0BXKpyoW5UC2ElHPlCZHlUKDuB_UYFTQw08nqMT2bZCSD5B4ds-HusoOd3_sROA9koboI_sZtRQpjBWH7fqgP3RjZDtRhYjNuSaOVCM/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.32.44+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;">SM and Kiki, the defensive ends, seem to get a decent rush off the football, but they are a little high and neither one of them brings their hands. Brockers (MB) and Logan (BL), seem to not even attack the line of scrimmage whatsoever. Like I said, I don't know if they were told to spy TR3, but it doesn't look like that at all. It seems as if BL took a step back off the snap. Either way, both of them stood straight up while they are supposed to be low. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvKu-5LEswJDL8o1riKiFBbttH35DnPHUatmQBnqsjx-iOqSC2n32RjbybbcMAH2339at-8WJxg-X9YMN86dJ2WjlUngzKBr64P1hYwGmPVkisqJifxuLSX2HdqedW5-zm_MULzGkHbU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.37.36+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvKu-5LEswJDL8o1riKiFBbttH35DnPHUatmQBnqsjx-iOqSC2n32RjbybbcMAH2339at-8WJxg-X9YMN86dJ2WjlUngzKBr64P1hYwGmPVkisqJifxuLSX2HdqedW5-zm_MULzGkHbU/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.37.36+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As you see, the pass protection by Alabama here is excellent. The left and right tackles, Jones and Fluker, both have their respected rusher stood straight up and in a defenseless position. MB and BL seem to still be playing patticake no where near the quarterback.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCwcwQyok4g2dPKRou0gvnqj8wiWSgrHPF8HB6PnmibkIDKiQXW-g5gkkDegKIXp19pIKTJoB4JRC-XtH3qPhDep8Ad9SdQlQnTyhVhMOTVbQmrgzlNwilQPxcMuw_-ihA7VMj-Z4D3ZI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.40.03+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCwcwQyok4g2dPKRou0gvnqj8wiWSgrHPF8HB6PnmibkIDKiQXW-g5gkkDegKIXp19pIKTJoB4JRC-XtH3qPhDep8Ad9SdQlQnTyhVhMOTVbQmrgzlNwilQPxcMuw_-ihA7VMj-Z4D3ZI/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.40.03+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">SM actually does a decent job of continuing his fight with Jones and actually puts himself in a good position if AJ steps up. He also gets lucky as BL takes a desperate outside path to AJ. Brockers decides his rush chances are over and stays with TR3 and Mingo is on his own island. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGJRBNqnVRLmfbSkkdVLlSHGlGuDxUAaO5tuyolE8pTHcSeLf2jvh-3f6rEVrGCOiI3BrNPkVbKPoCY8gHwKnmx5NSR5qFMG879kLJdbTKrCpLTTGodCDphUL1uWo6gYyTm76BfWL12g/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.42.52+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuGJRBNqnVRLmfbSkkdVLlSHGlGuDxUAaO5tuyolE8pTHcSeLf2jvh-3f6rEVrGCOiI3BrNPkVbKPoCY8gHwKnmx5NSR5qFMG879kLJdbTKrCpLTTGodCDphUL1uWo6gYyTm76BfWL12g/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.42.52+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">But as the play goes on, Jones is able to put SM on the ground for the second time on this drive. What AJ needs to do on this play is step up in the pocket instead of stepping sideways. AJ hasn't been below average at stepping up in the pocket all year for the Crimson Tide versus SEC opponents. Because Logan provides some late pressure and the coverage in the secondary was spectacular, AJ is forced to check down to TR3.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhOjvbXwzDdHt47_CYk0SOHfEkDgv4UPqRf1fU9tHpYXx9SMPI6w5Wl9AhXbHjmAuubiy2jcYFp6jUePAvTwjk1o1Ifzns7-pVyU-Y4rUfDhB_6bsagbvOG4GvPdF9OT4MWql6Qw6Am0/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.47.02+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhOjvbXwzDdHt47_CYk0SOHfEkDgv4UPqRf1fU9tHpYXx9SMPI6w5Wl9AhXbHjmAuubiy2jcYFp6jUePAvTwjk1o1Ifzns7-pVyU-Y4rUfDhB_6bsagbvOG4GvPdF9OT4MWql6Qw6Am0/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-18+at+3.47.02+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">And then Brockers almost commits a stupid penalty right in front of the Alabama bench. But this picture is awesome nonetheless. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;"><b>Play #6</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;"><b>Kade Foster Sucks</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">The kick is just awful. Not even worth typing this sentence. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;"><b>CONCLUSION</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">AJ is going to be a more prepared quarterback for this next versus LSU. He will see in film he has more time to throw than what is perceived. The LSU secondary smothered the Crimson Tide receivers earlier this year. But all it takes is an extra split second and more comfort in the pocket for these plays to open up. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">We also see the good and bad of the LSU defensive line. They are athletic and fast, but they are not the most sound fundamentally. If AJ has developed any form of pocket presence, a more conventional pass rush, with push up the middle, will be needed to be successful. If not, Chavis will have to bring plenty of pressure throughout the game, which provides more one-on-one opportunities for the Crimson Tide.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Later in the film study, I will show how <b><span style="color: yellow;">Morris Claiborne</span></b> had as dominant of a corner performance you will find. But next time, we will see where things went wrong for <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jarrett Lee</span></b>. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower">Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower. </a></span></i></b></div>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-91920823200085451432011-12-17T19:27:00.000-08:002011-12-17T21:19:55.676-08:00LSU versus Alabama Film Study -- Crimson Tide Wins the Opening Play<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://image.cdnllnwnl.xosnetwork.com/pics32/640/QP/QPAFHHOAJBQTXBB.20111106162939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://image.cdnllnwnl.xosnetwork.com/pics32/640/QP/QPAFHHOAJBQTXBB.20111106162939.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Montgomery is a key asset to LSU's defense.<br />
Photo via <a href="http://www.lsusports.net/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=5200&ATCLID=205343051">LSU Sports</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-size: large;">The LSU defense had one of the gutsiest performances in the history of Tiger football on November 5th. They held a potent Alabama offense to only six points on the road, </span><span style="font-size: large;">but the performance wasn't the prettiest.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If SEC games are won in the trenches, as everyone would say, then LSU lost this game. After re-watching this game, Alabama won the battle at the line of scrimmage roughly 75 percent of the time. As you look at some of the plays I will break down in the next few weeks, you will see what I'm talking about. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://hardknocktigers.blogspot.com/2011/12/lsu-versus-alabama-film-study-ultimate.html">But as I pointed out in my last column</a>, the Tigers played some of the best "bend but don't break" defense I have ever seen. Defenses are judged on making plays and stops when you need to the most. The Bayou Bengals were nearly perfect in that aspect. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the first drive versus Alabama, the Crimson Tide racked up early yardage but was torn apart at the seams by their kicker <b><span style="color: yellow;">Kade Foster</span></b>. Let's run through the first play of the drive...</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Play #1</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Trent Richardson runs for 18 yards</span></b></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This play is textbook Alabama offense over the past couple of years. Offensive coordinator <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jim McElwain</span></b> creates a blocking numbers and matchup advantage, the blocking is in turn perfect and Richardson makes a safety miss for extra yardage. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's first state the obvious. TR3 is so damn good. Every player on LSU knows it. They even Tweet about it. But when the Tigers played fundamental football, they defended him better. On this first snap of the game, this is evident. Let's break down the tape...</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAymDO-nHfUOwC88DrB1DAtadcXTfuxFGs5Dxw3Oj9Xq3MDq9k3qYNcgaAgymcunXIgBQOoHwSy2LuFjhreTq-lJ7odmLywMdevZ3FSIJKhz5SBDcO6t7k16uQWwWtCkScULcgvT9zog/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.06.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAymDO-nHfUOwC88DrB1DAtadcXTfuxFGs5Dxw3Oj9Xq3MDq9k3qYNcgaAgymcunXIgBQOoHwSy2LuFjhreTq-lJ7odmLywMdevZ3FSIJKhz5SBDcO6t7k16uQWwWtCkScULcgvT9zog/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.06.51+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you can see in the picture above, LSU lines up in a 5-2-4 formation with 4-3-4 personnel (4 DLs, 3 LBs, 4DBs). All season long, LSU has been at their peak when they can play a majority of their snaps in five or six defensive back sets (Nickel 4-2-5, Dime 4-1-6, Mustang 3-2-6). But against a traditional Pro-Style offense such as Alabama, the Tigers have to play 4-3 to muscle up against the powerful Crimson Tide rushing attack.</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What this essentially does is take away LSU's most explosive <b><span style="color: yellow;">Tyrann Mathieu</span></b> (TM7), out of a roaming position in the middle of the field. For him to stay on the field, he is forced to play a traditional cornerback position on the outside. Mathieu can play the position efficiently, but not at an elite level.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">LSU linebacker<b><span style="color: yellow;"> Ryan Baker</span></b> in the beginning of the set is playing the strong side backer position. He sees four blocking players (somewhat of an "unbalanced line" look) on one side of the football, so he runs to the line of scrimmage to give LSU five players on the line of scrimmage.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In most defenses, the front seven (linebackers and defensive lineman) are assigned gaps. Each gap as a universal name and the name is the same on both sides of the center. The "A-Gap" is located between the center and guard. The "B-Gap" is located between the guard and tackle. The "C-Gap"is between the tackle and tight end. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Tigers believe pre-snap te run is going to the outside because both their defensive tackles are in a 3-techniques, which means the outside shoulder of the guard. This leaves both A-gaps (the gap between the center and guard) open and responsible to middle linebacker <b><span style="color: yellow;">Kevin Minter</span></b>. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV05e6LwirLNRPEeau9_A-0w0D6fidW6ok5ApHBYYMpzf0WlB2pyg6_-ZwLJvXNmrn0HYlJIrs-Jae_Guditw9e2hzJqmyesRSdkefhOsNZzC3DRNMXy3JTZk43_T_APuwAsiQr0txNys/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.20.29+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV05e6LwirLNRPEeau9_A-0w0D6fidW6ok5ApHBYYMpzf0WlB2pyg6_-ZwLJvXNmrn0HYlJIrs-Jae_Guditw9e2hzJqmyesRSdkefhOsNZzC3DRNMXy3JTZk43_T_APuwAsiQr0txNys/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.20.29+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Before the snap, we see Alabama tight-end <b><span style="color: yellow;">Chris Underwood</span></b> motion to the other side of the formation. The LSU defense keeps it's course, as defensive coordinator <b><span style="color: yellow;">John Chavis</span></b> doesn't like to change assignments/rotate much versus pre-snap motion. But what this does is give Alabama a significant advantage on this run to the left. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A key component to stopping the Alabama running game is how well the play-side (the side the ball is going) defensive end holds at the point of attack. <b><span style="color: yellow;">Sam Montgomery</span></b> is one of the best in the conference in this category. But on this play, the motioned tight end gives Montgomery fits and he ultimately loses his battle with All-American <b><span style="color: yellow;">Barrett Jones</span></b>.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYIFeIIYPUu-kcbpgoUg5rN2HtWo46PMswwbIjZ9r0Zz1l5MLeTx_UgjEQZkJfzGVxgQTIDVoWf7MhFCA5jJhIOHPMOQ6znSmUaopk434kAraOVSjIdnDq2R_MZo2nlcbtmKvYHn5S5Ks/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.27.39+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYIFeIIYPUu-kcbpgoUg5rN2HtWo46PMswwbIjZ9r0Zz1l5MLeTx_UgjEQZkJfzGVxgQTIDVoWf7MhFCA5jJhIOHPMOQ6znSmUaopk434kAraOVSjIdnDq2R_MZo2nlcbtmKvYHn5S5Ks/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.27.39+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Right off the snap of the ball, we see and learn a couple of things. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">The first is that Alabama reads up on their scouting reports. If you look near the bottom of the screen, Alabama backside tight end <b><span style="color: yellow;">Michael Williams</span></b> "cut blocks" defensive end <b><span style="color: yellow;">Kendrick Adams</span></b> at the knee. While it is a legal play, this was Adams first snap <a href="http://www2.eprisenow.com/news/2011/nov/03/adams-focused-big-contest-alabama-ar-2650288/">coming off a knee injury</a> that caused him to miss the previous game versus Auburn. First play in and the Crimson Tide attacked a key Tiger run stopper in an injured area.</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But going back to the original point, Montgomery (labeled SM) doesn't fire off the ball well versus Jones. Jones is able to take away Montgomery's outside shoulder and turn him inside enough to give Richardson a clear running lane to the outside. It's tough to see from here, but this next picture gives you a better look.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfOsUa3HkzwECcOje5a-G6kCW_DmJZaJZiQ0tk_sjVYGu4Gkoje0F9PPQ02b-PrQi90_bi-XkotBJas8tjlTrcN4ggL2nojILXiiCecEKL_FHnw85vKDRSYE8jas2MG3uhwcffbANGm0/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.41.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfOsUa3HkzwECcOje5a-G6kCW_DmJZaJZiQ0tk_sjVYGu4Gkoje0F9PPQ02b-PrQi90_bi-XkotBJas8tjlTrcN4ggL2nojILXiiCecEKL_FHnw85vKDRSYE8jas2MG3uhwcffbANGm0/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.41.02+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you see in this picture above, Jones has pushed SM back a yard off the line of scrimmage. SM essentially takes himself out of the play because his outside shoulder was turned inside by Jones. This is textbook form and technique from Jones. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">You often hear the phrase "the low man wins." In this case, Jones is lower than SM. His arms are fully extended as well, giving him maximum power against an elite run defender. As an offensive lineman, you want your butt to be in the direction of where the ball is going, because that usually means you have turned your assigned defender away from the play. Whiles Jones doesn't completely get there, he does a fine job of turning inside SM. Coaches would say Jones "sealed" SM to the inside. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu395LCZz7ln-Zv5u_v6aFeL7ja6HLmbFEBWBYlz72SrfH5w58eTd6DnJBWA4wrYXpF8a5LI9DyqUPZxR5yst-1VMVWMLSifrsARuj3jdXLOb6bIJyhwKJPoWLAUkI19wBQWcCHWrqwKU/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.50.11+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu395LCZz7ln-Zv5u_v6aFeL7ja6HLmbFEBWBYlz72SrfH5w58eTd6DnJBWA4wrYXpF8a5LI9DyqUPZxR5yst-1VMVWMLSifrsARuj3jdXLOb6bIJyhwKJPoWLAUkI19wBQWcCHWrqwKU/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+5.50.11+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">But in defense of SM, he wasn't the only one to have "contain" responsibility. They duty belonged to outside linebacker Stefoin Francois. Usually in a 4-3, the defensive end has "contain." But because LSU lined a defensive tackle in a "B-Gap," this allowed Francois to help SM on the outside pre-snap. But because SM was turned inside by Jones easily, this allowed Underwood and H-back <b><span style="color: yellow;">Brad Smelley</span></b> a clear blocking lane to Francois.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">As you see at the very top of the screen, LSU cornerback <b><span style="color: yellow;">Morris Claiborne</span></b> was able to fight off a block by wide receiver <b><span style="color: yellow;">Darius Hanks</span></b>. Claiborne gets in a great tackling position and is looking to find the football. But then, as you see in this next picture, finds himself in trouble with Smelley coming around the corner.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMBkt5kLM0Ks9fFGpOeioi1EN_C4omt8tVDzKaFi6goCxxTfayo8zgh831yssFxkxOBWaug3XW0Cy833IcI9Pz8w9Hwvbe9hkrGtrGdJiHUcpozx09dNVyqN0BOsYAO0Qo_q4b7PZ3rY/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+6.21.14+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMBkt5kLM0Ks9fFGpOeioi1EN_C4omt8tVDzKaFi6goCxxTfayo8zgh831yssFxkxOBWaug3XW0Cy833IcI9Pz8w9Hwvbe9hkrGtrGdJiHUcpozx09dNVyqN0BOsYAO0Qo_q4b7PZ3rY/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+6.21.14+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As Richardson turns the corner, you see Smelley left his double team with Underwood on Francois. He then finds the next possible player up field to block, which is Mo. I referenced earlier how a blocker wants to get his butt to side where the ball is going. Smelley does this to perfection. His arms are fully extended and Mo has no where to go. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">The blocking is perfect on this play. You can see Jones in the middle of the screen finishing off his block on SM by putting him to the ground. Underwood does a great job holding his ground on Francois as Richardson turns the corner. This pretty much leaves safety <b><span style="color: yellow;">Brandon Taylor</span></b> as the only player to make the tackle. It's TR3's job to make him miss and turn this in to a huge gain. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3DaXXmt5RJ_mgKCmewlxTwe68UtPoP4bvPdd2XwijF9xQQy7bozF6Lvya-bMas7P5-2tFkkcXL16TuCS3acPxGYNRaYm04MdKvrDE-lZqJu7Iax605UPnL1oGd0FOMPToorWO4P1VixE/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+6.32.14+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3DaXXmt5RJ_mgKCmewlxTwe68UtPoP4bvPdd2XwijF9xQQy7bozF6Lvya-bMas7P5-2tFkkcXL16TuCS3acPxGYNRaYm04MdKvrDE-lZqJu7Iax605UPnL1oGd0FOMPToorWO4P1VixE/s400/Screen+shot+2011-12-17+at+6.32.14+PM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As you can see here, TR3 is successful in making an exceptional open field tackler miss. He is able to get up field after juking Taylor and Alabama gets a nice 18 yard gain on their first play from scrimmage. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Like I stated before, this is vintage Crimson Tide football. Much credit has to be given to McElwain for creating a blocking advantage to the outside. He trusted his three guys (Jones, Underwood and Smelley) could beat LSU's three guys (Montgomery, Francois and Claiborne) in a blocking war and succeeded. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">But there was one positive for the Tigers. Baker and defensive tackle <b><span style="color: yellow;">Bennie Logan</span></b> hustled in backside pursuit to make the tackle on Richardson. There is not a better team in the country than LSU in this category. But as they game wore on, LSU strengthened their fundamentals and held TR3 in check in comparison to his lofty standards in the running game. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">I will show more plays later in the week of LSU's defensive line playing some good and bad snaps. This play, and many others, should concern Chavis. LSU must do a better job of holding the point of attack versus Alabama, or else the final result may be different. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower. </span></i></b></a></div>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-6079506596863182142011-12-17T17:46:00.000-08:002012-11-01T14:32:52.535-07:00LSU Versus Alabama Film Study -- The Ultimate Stat and Reason Why the Tigers Defeated the Crimson Tide in November<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/28/Bcs_logo_2010.png/250px-Bcs_logo_2010.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/2/28/Bcs_logo_2010.png/250px-Bcs_logo_2010.png" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo via <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowl_Championship_Series">Wikipedia</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">LSU versus Alabama played one of the most physical games one could possibly ever witness. The game was a definition of a heavyweight bought at the college level. The Tigers were victorious 9-6 on the fifth of November. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">No matter where you stand on the rematch argument, it is an honor for college football and defensive enthusiasts, such as me, to see these two battle again for all the marbles. Over the past three days, I've re-watched the game. Some of the plays I watched up to 15 times. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Over the next couple of weeks, I will be posting videos, notes and game photos from plays that really stood out to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But it is without reasonable doubt Alabama failing to execute on offense when they needed to the most was the main reason they lost to LSU. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Usually when referring to two elite football teams, college football fans and pundits always say the team that wins "the battle in the trenches" will win the game. For this game, this was not the case. Alabama's offensive and defensive lines played better than LSU's. The tape didn't lie. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When I evaluate offense, I usually look for "my guys are better than yours" type of plays. These are plays easily identifiable by defenses but are successful because the offense out-executes their opponents. The Crimson Tide outplayed the Tigers on these kind of plays for a majority of the game. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The problem occurred with the Alabama coaching staff. They tried to get to cute when they got into LSU territory. This next stat is the ultimate reason why Alabama lost.</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: yellow; font-size: large;">Alabama ran 15 offensive plays beginning inside the LSU 30-yard line. Two of those plays were field goal attempts, one of which was missed. But on the other 13 plays, Alabama averaged -1.5 yards. Alabama had only three plays of positive yardage, all going for only one yard. Alabama never reached LSU's 15-yard line. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In watching the film, some of the credit has to be given to the LSU defense. That stat above is the ultimate "bend but don't break" mentality. The Tigers made the plays when they needed to the most. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But offensive coordinator <b><span style="color: yellow;">Jim McElwain</span></b> and head coach<b><span style="color: yellow;"> Nick Saban</span></b> made some atrocious decisions. Despite the pass being open, they should have never called a trick play where a receiver throwing to a tight end ultimately decides the outcome of the game. <b><span style="color: yellow;">Trent Richardson</span></b> just finished shredding the LSU defense on a 24-yard run, breaking tackles from LSU defensive end <b><span style="color: yellow;">Sam Montgomery</span></b> and safety<b><span style="color: yellow;"> Eric Reid</span></b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This decision, as I shared with<a href="http://wvuafm.ua.edu/"> WVUA radio in Tuscaloosa</a> earlier this week, cost Richardson the Heisman trophy. He just had a Heisman moment type of run taken away by the hubris of <b><span style="color: yellow;">Nick Saban</span></b> trying to outthink "The Mad Hatter."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But it wasn't just that play. Alabama had questionable calls twice inside the 30-yard line versus LSU in the first half. They tried an outside run with <b><span style="color: yellow;">Eddie Lacy</span></b> that cost them major yardage. On another drive, they tried a <b><span style="color: yellow;">AJ McCarron</span></b> to Richardson to <b><span style="color: yellow;">Marquis Maze</span></b> reverse. Maze tripped on his feet and cost the Crimson Tide six yards on first down. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What's funny is McElwain called a masterful game before getting inside the 30-yard line. He created matchups in the passing game and trusted his offensive line to create running lanes against a LSU front seven who hadn't faced an above average power rushing attack all year. He succeeded in both areas, but went bananas during certain moments in the game.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For Alabama to have any chance, this time "on the road," to beat LSU, they must become more efficient deep in Tiger territory. They need to stick with their identity and continue to run the football. None of their receivers can get separation from this legendary LSU secondary. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I still have LSU beating Alabama 27-21 on Jan. 9th because I think LSU won't ever lose in the Superdome. But if the Crimson Tide can get back to what they do best, that result can easily be flipped.</span><br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower" style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower. </span></i></b></a></div>
Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613415864989269058.post-61794712701325026802011-12-10T11:36:00.000-08:002011-12-17T21:21:29.556-08:00Tyrann Mathieu's Final Heisman Run to New York<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Tyrann Mathieu</span></b> had one of the most thrilling Heisman campaign pushes in the history of college football. If you don't believe me, just take a quick look below.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"The Honey Badger" started the season as the most explosive defensive player in college football. He was then "witheld from play" against Auburn and had a quiet five game stretch. But he then ended the season with a bang.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Mathieu scored two touchdowns on punt returns in as many games. Arkansas and Georgia couldn't stop "The Honey Badger." He nearly scored on a spectacular third, but was shoestringed tackled in the Georgia red zone.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I remember a few weeks ago when I spoke to Mathieu before the Arkansas game. He looked frustrated. Playmakers can get that way when they haven't been making big plays.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I asked him about his struggles versus the Razorbacks the year before. He was burned by <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Joe Adams</span></b> on a fourth and three play that sealed the victory for the Hogs. I thought "The Honey Badger" was going to treat me like a cobra.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Instead he gave me a stare I will never forget. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">He told me he wanted to redeem himself from his mistakes last season. He said the play stuck with him and he wanted to make up for it on Friday.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I could just tell Tyrann was going to do something special. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"TM7" looked like a vampire thirsting for blood. He was calm during my interview, but he knew he had been kept quiet for too long. Making big plays is in his DNA. It looked as if he needed to strip the football and/or score a touchdown in order for him to survive. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I said on my KLSU radio program Mathieu was going to have a massive impact to end the season.</span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.lsureveille.com/polopoly_fs/1.2679847!/image/15288142.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_640/15288142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.lsureveille.com/polopoly_fs/1.2679847!/image/15288142.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_640/15288142.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mathieu was dominant in LSU's SEC triumph over Georgia.<br />
Photo via <a href="http://www.lsureveille.com/mobile/football-2011">LSU Reveille</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90L2hfuLeSM">In my feature on LSU football Chaplain Ken Ellis</a>, Tyrann also told me the week before he had become a more humble, team-oriented player since Miles sat him out against Auburn. He also said that on national television when he accepted the Bednarik Aw</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ard for</span><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/2011/12/8/2621714/bednarik-award-2011-winner" style="font-size: x-large;"> the nation's best defensive player</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There is much debate whether Mathieu deserves to be a Heisman finalist. I've stated on Twitter that I don't think he should be because of his five game lull. But there is no debating his fantastic productivity in the final two weeks when his team needed him to make plays. And college football rewards strong finishes in every aspect of the sport.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There is no debate he is the most unique and intriguing figure out of the five Heisman finalists. And that's what helps him. The national media loves athletes with a phenomenal story. The other candidates have great storylines, but not even Mark Twain could have written a better narrative than Mathieu's season.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If I had a vote, I would give it to Alabama's <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">Trent Richardson</span></b>. But if I had a choice for the most exciting player in college football, I would give it to Mathieu.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But why does it matter? Because if "The Honey Badger" really wanted the Heisman, he would taken it already.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">He just takes what he wants.</span><br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/#!/carterthepower" style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Follow me on Twitter @CarterthePower. </span></i></b></a>Carter "The Power" Bryanthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05283087326271603703noreply@blogger.com0