Re-watched the BG game recently with an eye on our linebacker play. I'm far from an expert at any kind of film analysis (watched a lot of football in my years but never played and can't comment on schemes/specific responsibilities in our defense etc) but it looks to me like our linebackers struggle so far with blitzes. Specifically, I counted 17 times against BG where NU sent linebackers on a run or pass blitz (only other blitz was a CB blitz by Williams, who was blocked successfully by the RB). Out of those 17 blitzes, on only two did it appear that we had any sort of success creating pressure: (1) an unblocked weak side blitz from Walsh forcing the QB to step up into pressure by Lancaster; and (2) a successful run blitz by Hall for a TFL. On a few occasions, BG just had a good play call and avoided pressure. But on a majority of the blitzes our LBs were completely stoned and came nowhere near putting pressure on the QB or altering the RB's path (something I noticed during the Duke game but couldn't bring myself to re-watch). Right now, we are missing Walker's shiftiness and ability to shoot through the gaps. An 11% pressure rate on blitzes probably won't cut it against WI absent a monster game from the D Line.
Other takeaways: Thorson had as clean a pocket against BG as I can remember over the last few years. WI will be a much bigger challenge, but If the OL can give him time to throw we will move the ball. Loved what I saw out of Larkin (other than the fumble). Knew he had a reputation as a shifty Jackson-like runner, but his top end speed looked better than advertised. Will enjoy watching him develop and think he will make some big plays for us this year.
Other takeaways: Thorson had as clean a pocket against BG as I can remember over the last few years. WI will be a much bigger challenge, but If the OL can give him time to throw we will move the ball. Loved what I saw out of Larkin (other than the fumble). Knew he had a reputation as a shifty Jackson-like runner, but his top end speed looked better than advertised. Will enjoy watching him develop and think he will make some big plays for us this year.
