When I read that Preston Smith requested a trade citing the switch from 3 - 4 (OLB) to 4 - 3 (DE) it got me thinking about this. Apparently there is a difference in OLB and DE. So much in fact that Preston wanted to be back in 3 - 4 base scheme.
Originally Posted by: Zero2Cool
I believe the bigger difference is between Hafley's scheme compared to others (including other 4-3 schemes), more than the difference between all 4-3 schemes and modern 3-4.
But generally speaking, a 3-4 OLB can start wider and a guy with length like Preston Smith, can use that to create rotational tork.
Now some 4-3 schemes can do that as well, but in Hafley's scheme, the DEs are seemingly lining up closer to the OT, which helps in the run game, but hurts in the pass game, and a power game would be more advantage, which is not Preston's style. Preston style is about length, not power.
Of course, the one major mystery is why does Van Ness suddenly suck in this scheme? His college game was largely as a power pass rushing DT... and he's athletic enough for DE, and suddenly he's struggling when his power game should be a major advantage in this scheme?
I hope Van Ness isn't getting money, getting comfortable and getting soft on us...
Though some guys don't break out until they are forced to play more, like TJ Lang. So hopefully we'll see a jump from Van Ness.