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What to expect from the Penn State defense: BWI Daily

Headshot 5x7 reduced qualityby:Thomas Frank Carr•04/11/22•

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Penn State defensive coordinator Manny Diaz blitzed nearly 50% of the time last season. (Thomas Frank Carr/BWI)

While things are still taking shape, we have a better sense of what Penn State’s defense will look like under defensive coordinator Manny Diaz. The first-year Penn State coordinator spoke with the media last week, and the host of the BWI Daily Edition, Thomas Frank Carr, pieces together the clues to get a rough outline of some of the changes. He uses evidence from head coach James Franklin, Diaz, and linebacker Curtis Jacobs to build a sketch of the differences between the former Miami head coach and former Penn State defensive coordinator Brent Pry.

Penn State defense under Diaz vs Pry

To find the differences, T-Frank starts with the similarities. First, he recaps what Franklin said about Diaz during the winter and explains how both coaches come from similar backgrounds. Then, he allows Franklin to explain the differences that Diaz is bringing to Happy Valley. Next, T-Frank fills in the context of what Franklin said with some details and examples. Lastly, he leaves you with one element that might be noticeable when watching things this spring’s Blue White Game.

Next, he dips into the coverage aspect of defense by asking Diaz what sort of system he believes in. The Penn State D-coordinator explains what he believes in and leaves a big clue about what the Nittany Lions need to be successful next fall.

This nugget leads to a discussion about the transfer portal and a common thread between the Miami defense in 2021 and Penn State’s current squad. T-Frank thinks that one aspect of the defensive structure will dictate what sort of coordinator Diaz is on Saturdays. This thought brings him to starting linebacker Curtis Jacobs. How is the adjustment to the new defense going? Jacobs explains what it takes to get everyone on the same page.

Why Curtis Jacobs is important

Next, T-Frank explains why Jacobs is a crucial player in the defense next fall. It’s not just that he’s the most experienced linebacker returning, but his skill set is essential for Diaz’s defense to thrive. T-Frank details those skills and what will likely be asked of Jacobs next fall.

Lastly, T-Frank takes all of that information and outlines what he expects the new defensive coordinator to be like next season. Will he be aggressive? How will he use his coverage players? While some information is yet to gather, T-Frank expects an aggressive and attacking defense.

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