I'm not sure why Miles went with Steele, it certainly wasn't a sexy pick. However one season isn't enough to totally install a defense or to judge a DC. If he were failing miserably it would be different, but he is not. The defense has been a real mixed bag, some good and some not so good. I like the philosophy much better than Chavis, but whether the scheme and playcalling are better is still unknown IMO. I'd like to see what they do with a year under their belt and a few more yaw yaws recruits. If they get the DL and LB class they expect next year's D could be special. Steele gets a pass this season, but next year he needs to show he's up to the challenge. Doesn't mean we can't criticize shortcomings we see now.
None of that stuff happened in the red zone. There were countless times that LSU prevented teams from getting 6 while they were in the red zone.
And countless times they couldn't stop grandma on her scooter at the end of games. I was one of the most critical posters here when Chavis wasn't signed, but he had his shortcomings too. It's yet to be seen if Steele will be better, but he isn't much worse in his first season. With another year and the recruits he wants for his system it's conceivable that this good be exactly the defense Tiger fans have been screaming for. I definitely like the philosophy MUCH better. Screw all that bend but don't break garbage, I like an aggressive attacking D. Turn yaw yaw and his boys loose!
At this point I think the only thing keeping the defense from being abysmal is Orgeron and the line play and KB's ability to defend the run. I like the aggressiveness more too, but I'd rather give up 1000 yards a bunch of field goals than 400 a game and a bunch of TD's. The only reason people didnt march on the capital when he was hired was because Orgeron was hired shortly after. I'm willing to give it time, but I just don't think he is a very good coach. I liked Chavis when he had passion, I think he gave up after 2011.
Take away the plethora of busted coverages and the D hasn't been bad despite playing freshmen at corner and the lack of depth in the front seven. Are they great, hell no, but they haven't been horrible either. I expect some tough stretches in the rest of the season, competition gets better. I still think you have to give this new staff until the middle of next season before making judgment unless the wheels totally fall off.
No doubt, other than rushing the passer nothing makes you want to stand up and scream yeah!!! If the coverage is weak again next year I'll be worried.
Next year all the stars should align we lose some on the offensive and defensive line, a great corner and safety and a good linebacker.
