Auburn Football: Will Muschamp, New Auburn Defense 101

Jan 6, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (5) is tackled by Auburn Tigers linebacker Cassanova McKinzy (8) during the first half of the 2014 BCS National Championship game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Philosophical Pillar No. 2: Create Favorable Matchups

As we’ve discussed before, Will Muschamp makes the best use of his defensive players, especially when it comes to matching them up to win one-on-one battles at the line of scrimmage.

In a recent SBNation article, Ian Boyd put it pretty well:

"“Muschamp attacks the weakest part of your line with his best athletes. He covers for it with a defensive backfield chosen for speed and coverage. He wants to be as versatile as possible, and he has a particular eye for using aggression to deny the chance to target his backfield.”"

Muschamp plays to the strengths of his players and puts them in a position to be successful. If all four defensive linemen can win their individual matchup – or at least neutralize their opponent by properly carrying out their responsibilities, the defense as a whole is in a great position to be successful.

In the early part of this SEC Network Film Room clip, Muschamp explains the role of Buck Dante Fowler, Jr., one of the nation’s most talented players from last season, and how he creates mismatches. Later, Muschamp discusses cornerback Vernon Hargreaves III, and how his elite ability as a cover corner allows Muschamp to be aggressive elsewhere:

Next: Pillar No. 3: Play Man-To-Man, If Possible