Defensive changes/personnel

[*bfine32*]

A good read about Golden's Defensive philosophy. I've quoted the Viper that's currently being discussed, but all of it explains his vision.

https://charlieschalkboard.substack.com/p/a-crash-course-in-al-goldens-system?utm_medium=web

Quote:The “viper” position is most closely connected to former Michigan defensive coordinator Don Brown, who deployed linebacker/nickel/safety types in Jabrill Peppers and Josh Metellus at this hybrid position.

Golden borrowed from that at Notre Dame but put his own spin on it.

Similar to Michigan’s viper position, Golden’s viper was a do-it-all chess piece. He rushed the passer around the edge, dropped back in coverage and lined up in a lot of different players. But while Brown’s vipers were closer to defensive backs, Golden’s vipers were closer to defensive ends. They typically were about 6-foot-4 and around 250 pounds, and they were typically Golden’s most productive sack guys.

The viper was a part of Golden’s base defense, and the role highlighted the best athlete at the line of scrimmage.

“How dynamic would that be if we had that guy in our defense that can rush the passer on the first third down but on the next third down we’re in a different look and he’s moving around and we can blitz?” Golden said.

That was the idea.

The viper still did a fair share of dropping back in coverage, and viper Boubacar Traore had a pick six last season on a play where he simulated a pressure, dropped back and kept his eyes on the quarterback.

The size and speed of Golden’s vipers, “rovers” (another speciality position) and all of his defensive end/outside linebackers pops off the tape. In position battles, he seemed to prioritize those traits over experience.

Traore was Notre Dame’s best pass rusher before he got hurt, and he was a freshman. Bryce Young, who’s 6-foot-7, burst onto the scene during the second half of the season. Sophomore Jaylen Sneed also brought some impressive athleticism to the line of scrimmage.