Defensive line question

[BumbleB]

With all the difficulties Tech has had in recruiting and keeping "big uglies" at DT, why have we not shifted to a 3-4 defensive scheme? We seem to be able to get DE's and LB's that grow into DE's, but DT's are a breed apart.

Especially before injuries took their toll on our LB's, I'd say the strength of our team is at LB. Why not get 4 of them on the field at the same time, when they often are the best we've got?

Any insight?

 

[GT Adamni]

In order for the 3-4 defense to work, you have to have 3 VERY good defensive linemen. One HAS to be a dominating defensive tackle, and the 2 defensive ends have to be larger than your typical defensive end. As far as our defensive line players go, we don't really have what is needed there.

In addition to having good defensive line players, your linebackers really need to be bigger than the guys we have. If they aren't, then they will easily be overpowered by a good running game (since you only would have 3 down linemen).