Stallion wrote:I looked this up last week I think it was 6-2, 230 and 6-1, 228. That's pretty typical for TCU. But they've all been tough, physical run stoppers. Yenga is not that mold
Here's the TCU Depth Chart to get a general idea of the size of the players on a 4-2-5 Defense
https://tcu.rivals.com/cdepthtext.asp
Most of the Big 12 plays a 3-3-5 or 4-2-5 when they go nickel even if they base out of something else.
4-2-5 typically breaks down like this as far as personnel molds:
NT- Big physical DT who must be stout against the run as he's in the A gap all game. Pass rush and lateral quickness is nice of the run support is there.
DT- Can be another 300 pound guy but much like a 4-3 you can get away with someone in the 260-285 range if they are quick enough. Typically a B gap player so a little less bulk is required compared to the NT. In both late 2010 and in 2002 TCU moved a converted DE who was a little light for the position into this 3 Technique spot. BU did it as well in late 2012. UT did it in 2010 with Okafor. I can easily see the DE in Mason's scheme fit here. Margus would be a terror at this spot and Wood+10 pounds probably fits decent.
DE- Typically edge guys. Can be as light as 225 but usually run 230-250 range. Primary pass rush guys must be able to move well. I could see any of the 225+ Mason OLB's working here. Stephon Sanders is almost perfect here as is Ja'Gared.
LB- Both must be solid against the run and ability to run fast is the next most important criteria. Typically 230+ but can be smaller if quick. Basically the same position as the Mike and Buck in Mason's D.
LB/Safety Hybrid- This is the SS position in TCU's scheme. This is basically a glorified Nickelback. He's part SAM linebacker, part corner. I've seen them as big as 220 and as small as 180. Gotta be good against the run but quick enough to give flexibility in coverage. Usually the 7th guy against the run.
Weak Safety- Deep safety on opposite side of the formation from Hybrid guy. When a 4-2-5 defense drops an extra guy for an 8 man front it's this guy. Needs to be able to cover solo but run responsibility is also a key.
FS- This is the safety least likely to roll down against the run. Coverage is the bigger concern here.
Corner- Same as any defense but m2m skills are definitely a plus in a scheme that asks a lot from their guys in coverage to allow extra bodies in run d.
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