 |
|
|
DMN's Kate Hairopoulos talks with Ruffin McNeill and other Big 12 defensive coordinators as to what defenses try and do to hold back Big 12 offenses and I thought this was pretty interesting:
Don't get too complex. McNeill said he was trying to change things up too much in the first half last month against A&M, when the Aggies scored on five of six possessions. He simplified things, and the Raiders shut down A&M in the second half.Snip
"There's going to be yardage," said McNeill, planning to face No. 5 Oklahoma next week after Tech subdued Texas and Oklahoma State. "You try to take away yardage. But you have to check your ego at the door.
"You have to try to win the game, that's the most important thing."
Haven't we all sort of checked our ego at this point with McNeill?
I was somewhat disappointed in the method early in the season. Not necessarily the results.
But I think it's safe to say, at least for myself, that McNeill has more than earned my trust and coaching in the Big 12 for so many years, he's had the opportunity to theorize as to what's best for this team.
The numerous yards given up early in the year baffled me, and they still do to a point, but McNeill had foresight, something I am not always blessed with and perhaps a master plan, which he did not share with me.
I'll be honest, I've been amazed at McNeill's progress this season, and I hope that's not taken as a shot at McNeill, but he has so far surpassed my expectations that I find myself picking my jaw up off the floor after a game.
The defensive adjustments have been the difference in the game the last three games.
Ruffin, you've earned my trust. Take it from here.