| FTBL Wow! 7 Tulane D starters at different positions since spring

[TerryP]

Which isn't the same as say starting 7 true frosh on defense, but it is a BOLD move by first-year defensive coordinator O'Neill Gilbert.

If that doesn't seem like a move best left for say, spring camp, take this into consideration for a learning curve. I'd imagine, Tulane fans are pleased with Toledo's reaction.

Sometimes, Gilbert seems to have a mad scientist mindset to his tinkering, which includes seven personnel groupings and 70 coverages. Tulane Coach Bob Toledo has found it necessary to dial back a bit.

"It's my job to control some of that," Toledo said. "When you come from an NFL background like O'Neill did where you have hours and hours with the players, you tend to keep installing new things.

"We can't afford to do that in college. But I don't want to stifle him either."

 

[TerryP]

Who gets man coverage; Jones or McCoy?

Alabama also ran the ball well -- 239 yards worth -- and had three possessions of 12 plays or more.

And that was using highly touted freshman Julio Jones as a decoy. Jones finished with four catches for 28 yards and a touchdown.

Jones will be a subject of Tulane's defensive interest Saturday.

"We're calling it All-Star," Gilbert said. "We're putting two of our best backs on their best receiver."

That would include cornerback Josh Lumar -- another one of the hybrids. Gilbert said Lumar's play at nickel back is the primary key to the success of the defense.

This leads to another big day for Walker and for our slot guys as well.

 

[Guest]

If two will cover Jones. Then someone will be uncover right?

 

[Guest]

If they double Julio, single the other wide out and single the slot guy, that leaves them with seven to stop the running game. Good luck, guys. Clemson couldn't do it.