A post on blitzing.
So, I just rewatched the first half, and while we actually blitzed a decent amount, it was called at times I didn't love.
@Boomergump we discussed on another thread whether or not GT should blitz more. After watching the first half, I am convinced that maybe GT shouldn't blitz more, but rather should blitz more often on first and second downs.
GT Blitzed a LOT today on third and short, but wasn't that effective, because even if you hold them to 3 yards, on 3rd and 2, that doesn't matter.
GSU "hurt" gt 3 times on blitzes that I saw. 1) They called a sceen into a blitz on an early down, and picked up maybe 15-20. 2) They ran brieda off tackle when gt was blitzing both LBs up the middle, and he picked up like 15. 3) Vic Alexander blitzed, had the qb, let go of him, and they got a PI call.
Frankly, I don't count number 3, because that's a fluke play.
But I will ABSOLUTELY take getting hurt 2x a half on blitzes, because on OTHER occasions, the team blitzed on first down and really good things happend. GSU was put behind the chains, or forced a bad throw. All the better if getting hurt only costs you 15 yards. I'll take that gamble every single time.
It's okay not to blitz on 3rd and 14. Bring your 4 guys then, because you can afford to give up 8 yards underneath. You can't afford that on first and 10.
I understand you can't be SUPER predictable, or you'll just get screened to death, but Roof playing soft on first and second, and then blitzing on 3rd and 1 is not a recipe for success in my mind.