Need Advice on Personnel and recruits for 3-4

[Tex_agmlb]

I am switching from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defense, i just signed 3 4*LBs that came in at 78, 80, 77. i have 5 DTs on my roster and am weak at DE, was wondering how it work out if i subed out a DE for a DT or maybe both DEs, to get a solid front 3, any advice on if this works. and what type of Dline should i recruit

[georgiafan]

Re: Need Advice on Personnel and recruits for 3-4

I would defnetly switch some of your DT's to DE. I run a 3-4 and I still end up playing more nickle then 3-4 because all the 3 and 4 WR sets so I wouldn't go to crazy with changing positions. I look for strength as a DT, speed for my OLB, speed and run stopping for my ILB.

[dley]

Re: Need Advice on Personnel and recruits for 3-4

I havent ran the 3-4 in the last 2 NCAA games, but when I did make the conversion I usually only focused on run-stopping DL. I wasnt really worried about SP for either DT or DE, manly STR and moves so they can clog the line as much as possible for my LB.

I havent ever really been that successful in any NCAA football game with the 3-4, manly because the blocking in previous games never had to double team which is needed in the 3-4.

[Antwuan]

Re: Need Advice on Personnel and recruits for 3-4

Whenever I run a dynasty/franchise, I always end up running and recruiting for a 3-4 scheme.

As you know, the 3-4 is all about the linebackers. I look for fast linebackers who are great at zone coverage (with one or two specialty man covers for games with TE threats). They also need to be solid tacklers and good pursuit guys. If you can find some that have all of them, great. If not, then find specialists and dedicate certain formations to accentuating certain talents.

As for the Line... you need a FAT, STRONG DT in the middle. Not agile. A Strong Clogger. On the Ends, I like a an agile RE as most runs come that way, and a stronger guy at LE.

If linebackers are the #1 asset to the offense, then Corners are the number two. For your blitzing packages, you need strong CB that can press the receiver. For the other formations, good zone coverage (although NCAA this year has weak zones) is a must.

Lastly, I think you need PHENOMENAL cover safeties who are good zoners, tacklers and man coverage. If you have to sacrifice one, I'd sacrifice the Man coverage, but if you get good safeties, you can run the bend-dont-break pretty well in a 3-4.


I know that's more than you asked, but I got excited.

BTW, sounds like you'll have to make due with moving the DT to DE, but definitely focus on DE recruits.