Parcells is making some subtle references to the 3-4 defense lately. Is a switch in future? I don't think so. If you look at our starters, we probably do have a stronger 3-4 team than a 4-3 team. However, the LB depth isn't there to keep up with a 3-4 defense full-time. Most of our DTs are probably better suited to the 3-4 as well. And we do have some promising young players behind Coakley, Nyugen, and Singleton at LB. Sophomore Brady James from LSU looked promising in limited action last year. I will be watching to see if we pick up some more LBs between now and preseason. One long-shot option is rookie free agent Kalen Thornton, who is switching to linebacker after playing defensive end at Texas. At 6-foot-2, 260 pounds, Thornton has the size and speed to play outside linebacker in the 3-4. If he makes the team, Thornton would be the first son of a former Cowboys player to play for the team; Bruce Thornton played for the team from 1979-81. Dont be surprised to see this 3-4 package implemented in some games this year.
I bet he did in New England if ever. As for the switching back & forth, I doubt they do that. I remember before last season Cowher talked about using the 4-3 on occasion and it was just that... talk. It's apparently difficult to learn one and be good at it, but to throw that it, makes it tough to know your assignment.
Parcells was asked about running a 3-4 and he said we have the down linemen to do that but we dont have enough linebackers right now. By that I suppose he means BIG linebackers who can run instead of our small ones who can run. The 3-4 he ran at NY when they were winning championships with LT and Carl Banks and others was as dominant a group of backers as there has ever been. Right now I feel like the 4-3 gives us the best chance to be sucessful especially since we got Wiley to help out. Greg Ellis moves to the right side this season and Wiley takes his place on the left side. Cant wait to see 'em play! Later guys
Ah New York! I knew he had some experience running the 3-4, but I wasn't sure if he had brought it to the Pats or Jets, I wasn't even thinking back to the Giants. I would agree about their personnel, and I'm holding fast that he won't switch back and forth.
