Seems to be some issues with communication on D.
But such a scheme also requires a lot of communication — players making checks before the snap to try to get everyone in the best positions.
Defensive lineman Leonard Williams this week explained it this way: “I do say that’s where this defense varies versus other defenses. We’re a type of defense that likes to hold the pen last. With that being said, it’s like we’re making a lot of checks based on offensive motions and the way the offense is set. Whether they’re into the boundary or formation to the field and things like that. I think this defense does require a lot more communication than others who would just say this is the call, get in it. We have like two or three calls in one that can change depending on what the offense is giving us. I think that requires a lot more discipline and communication amongst the players, especially in Lumen Field when it’s loud out there. We have to figure out nonverbal ways of communication.”
With the defense obviously not having operated the past few weeks the way everyone hoped, Macdonald this week hinted at simplifying things some.
Williams said he thinks the defense is still just finding itself.
“I think there’s definitely some growing pains whenever you run a new scheme, new staff, a lot of new guys,” Williams said. “Player-wise, we’re all getting to know each other, getting to know the system. I think that takes a lot of leadership on the players to try to have everyone just keep coming together.”
