04-29-2022, 11:35 AM
(04-29-2022, 10:57 AM)KillerGoose Wrote: I'm not sure Hill is a direct replacement for Bates. Bates is strictly a center fielder for Cincinnati and that isn't what Hill is good at. Hill excels in the slot and playing as a box safety. He's closer to Bell than he is Bates, imo.
(04-29-2022, 11:01 AM)fredtoast Wrote: This.
Because of his small size and speed most people think he is a free safety like Bates. But he actually plays the role of Bell.
The way NFL defenses are adjusting to the new emphasis on passing traditional positions and roles are getting blurred. Guys that look like safeties are lining up like linebackers. Cornerbacks are playing safety. Safeties are playing slot corner.
Hill fills a need this season even if Bates and Bell had long term contracts. He immediately becomes the backup for both safeties and Hilton. Like Killer Goose said the 3 safety look will be used a lot and with Hubbard as a spy. It was solid against Mahomes. Zac and the staff never loses focus on their division. The Ravens had a great free agency and first round.
