AFC Championship Game Who: New England Patriots (11-5) at Kansas City Chiefs (12-4) When: Sunday,...

<p><strong>AFC Championship Game<br>Who: </strong>New England Patriots (11-5) at Kansas City Chiefs (12-4)<br><strong>When</strong>: Sunday, Jan. 20 at 6:40 p.m. ET<br><strong>Where</strong>: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Mo.<br><strong>TV</strong>: CBS<br><strong>Odds</strong>: Chiefs -3<br><strong>Over/Under</strong>: 54.5<br><strong>Last Meeting</strong>: Week 6<strong> - </strong>New England 43, Kansas City 40</p><h3>Tale of the tape</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>2018 Stats</th>
<th>Patriots</th>
<th>Chiefs</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Points Per Game</strong></td>
<td>27.3 (4)</td>
<td>35.3 (1)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Points Allowed/Game</strong></td>
<td>20.3 (7)</td>
<td>26.3 (24)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Rush Yards/Game</strong></td>
<td>127.3 (5)</td>
<td>115.9 (16)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Pass Yards/Game</strong></td>
<td>266 (8)</td>
<td>310 (3)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Total Yards/Game</strong></td>
<td>393.4 (5)</td>
<td>425.6 (1)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Rush Yards Allowed/Game</strong></td>
<td>112.7 (11)</td>
<td>132.1 (27)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Pass Yards Allowed/Game</strong></td>
<td>246 (22)</td>
<td>273 (31)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Total Yards Allowed/Game</strong></td>
<td>359.1 (21)</td>
<td>405.5 (31)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Third-Down Offense</strong></td>
<td>40.8% (13)</td>
<td>47.2% (2)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Third-Down Defense</strong></td>
<td>38.6% (16)</td>
<td>41.5% (25)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Team Sacks</strong></td>
<td>30 (T-30)</td>
<td>52 (T-1)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Turnover Differential</strong></td>
<td>+10 (5)</td>
<td>+9 (T-6)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>(Regular-season rank in parentheses)</em></p><h3>Game-breaker</h3><p><strong>Can K.C. defend New England's '21' personnel?</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/3">Patriots</a> have always zigged when other teams zag, so it should be no surprise they're one of only two offenses (along with the San Francisco 49ers) that use "21" personnel (two running backs, one tight end, two wide receivers) on at least 25 percent of downs, according to <a href="https://www.sharpfootballstats.com/personnel-grouping-frequency.html">Sharp Football Stats (SFS)</a>. In fact, the Patriots have used it 29 percent of the time this season - 22 percent higher than the NFL average.</p><p>The heavy usage creates unfamiliarity for most opposing defenses. Against New England's running game, those defenders don't have the same comfort level when it comes to their gap responsibilities, leading to miscommunications across the front seven. Here's an example against the Los Angeles Chargers:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334511/preview.png?ts=1547654091" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334511/animation.mp4?ts=1547654091" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334511/animation.webm?ts=1547654091" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Courtesy: NFL Game Pass</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this play, the Patriots are running an outside-zone concept to the wide side of the field. Right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/52522" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/52522">Shaq Mason</a> performs an effective reach block on Chargers defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/65456" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/65456">Darius Philon</a> (No. 93). That opens a huge cutback lane for running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83450" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/83450">Sony Michel</a>, who does an excellent job of reading his blocks and bursting through the second level of the defense.</p><p>At the same time, linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/46503" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/46503">Kyle Emanuel</a> (No. 51) is forced to sprint to the outside to cover the extra gap created by New England's fullback, which eliminates Los Angeles' ability to defend Michel once the center cuts off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/44014" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/44014">Adrian Phillips</a> (No. 31).</p><p>New England also uses 21 personnel to create opportunities for running backs in the passing game:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334512/preview.png?ts=1547654595" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334512/animation.mp4?ts=1547654595" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334512/animation.webm?ts=1547654595" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Courtesy: NFL Game Pass</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, the Patriots have both <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14046" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14046">Rex Burkhead</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/44342" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/44342">James White</a> in the backfield. Once the ball is snapped, New England sends Burkhead on a wheel route, which opens up a ton of space for White to run a flat route underneath after a play-action fake. The result is an easy 8-yard gain that keeps New England ahead of the sticks.</p><p>On paper, Sunday's matchup sets up perfectly for the Patriots' preferred package. Don't be surprised if they utilize 21 personnel even more than usual against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/6" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/6">Chiefs</a>, whose defense allowed the highest success rate (65 percent) against the grouping in the entire league this season, according to <a href="https://www.sharpfootballstats.com/personnel-grouping-frequency--def-.html">SFS</a>.</p><p>Things aren't as bad when the Chiefs' opponent passes from 21 personnel - their defense is merely below average in that situation, allowing 7.8 yards per attempt, a 98.3 passer rating, and a 59 percent success rate.</p><p>But Kansas City is simply atrocious defending the run against 21 personnel, allowing 6.2 yards per carry and a 67 percent success rate.</p><p>The defense's ability - or lack thereof - to stop New England out of this personnel grouping will go a long way toward deciding the winner of Sunday’s contest.</p><h3>Biggest mismatch</h3><p><strong>Patriots RB James White vs. Chiefs LB Anthony Hitchens</strong></p><p>White is one of the most dangerous receiving backs in the NFL - especially on third downs - and one of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1333" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1333">Tom Brady</a>'s favorite targets in the short-to-intermediate areas of the field. Last week against the Chargers, White had 15 catches for 97 yards, with five of them going for first downs.</p><p>Much of White's receiving work comes as an extension of the running game, as New England loves to utilize him on shovel and screen passes. The Patriots also use White to take advantage of any linebacker who struggles in coverage. Here's a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334514/preview.png?ts=1547654624" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334514/animation.mp4?ts=1547654624" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334514/animation.webm?ts=1547654624" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Courtesy: NFL Game Pass</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, the Patriots key in on Jets linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/77925" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/77925">Neville Hewitt</a> (right side of screen). When the ball is snapped, White releases into his route and runs straight toward Hewitt. Once he approaches Hewitt at the top of his route, White uses a foot-fire technique before darting inside across the linebacker's face to create a ton of separation, eventually reaching the end zone after the catch.</p><p>White should have a chance to replicate last week's performance on Sunday, as New England will likely look to use him against Chiefs linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/42920" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/42920">Anthony Hitchens</a> in coverage.</p><p>After signing a five-year, $45-million contract last offseason, Hitchens was one of the worst coverage linebackers in the NFL throughout 2018, giving up a passer rating of more than 115 when targeted in both man and zone schemes, according to<a href="https://twitter.com/All22Hype/status/1085342928220782592"> The Quant Edge</a>.</p><p>Hitchens lacks the quickness and route anticipation to stay with speedy offensive players, leading to 43 catches and four touchdowns against him in the regular season. And he's allowing far too many yards after the catch in man coverage, with the average depth of target being 3.3 yards but the average yards allowed per target clocking in at 9.1.</p><p>That’s a terrible recipe for success against White, who makes his living against subpar coverage linebackers out of the backfield.</p><h3>3 keys to the game</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334515/cropped_GettyImages-1052156816.jpg?ts=1547654638" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334515/w220xh124_GettyImages-1052156816.jpg?ts=1547654638 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334515/w320xh180_GettyImages-1052156816.jpg?ts=1547654638 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334515/w640xh360_GettyImages-1052156816.jpg?ts=1547654638 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334515/w768xh432_GettyImages-1052156816.jpg?ts=1547654638 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334515/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1052156816.jpg?ts=1547654638 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jim Rogash / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Can the Patriots stop Tyreek Hill?</strong> In their Week 6 meeting, the Patriots appeared preoccupied with slowing down tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/23150" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/23150">Travis Kelce</a>, which allowed the speedy <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83498" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/83498">Hill</a> to rack up seven catches for 142 yards and three touchdowns. This time, expect Bill Belichick to break out a few wrinkles against Hill. Don't be surprised if the Patriots use "<a href="https://twitter.com/ezlazar/status/1037509949105025025">cone coverage</a>" to bracket the receiver from both sides.</p><p><strong>Can the Chiefs pressure Brady?</strong> In <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53977" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/53977">Chris Jones</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20223">Dee Ford</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/19359" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/19359">Justin Houston</a>, the Chiefs possess one of the best pass-rush groups in the NFL. However, they only recorded two sacks in the last meeting, which is below their regular-season average of 3.25 per contest. Kansas City will need to pressure Brady on Sunday, as the veteran QB is lethal when given time in the pocket to pick apart defenses.</p><p><strong>Will Eric Berry play?</strong> The Chiefs safety is one of the few defensive backs who can hold his own against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/17975" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/17975">Rob Gronkowski</a>, but he's currently questionable for Sunday's contest. Last time <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/19681" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/19681">Berry</a> faced the Patriots (Week 1 of the 2017 season), Gronkowski was held to two catches for 33 yards on six targets. In Week 6 without Berry, the Chiefs allowed Gronkowski to rack up 97 yards. Berry's status for this game will have a large effect on Kansas City's ability to slow down New England.</p><h3>Betting action report</h3><p>Brady's 67-game streak of being listed as a favorite will end on Sunday, with New England sitting as a three-point underdog against Kansas City.</p><p>Early signs show 55 percent of the spread tickets being wagered on the Chiefs with the overall money slightly tilted toward Kansas City. However, bettors are all over the underdog Pats on the moneyline (+135), with 67 percent of dollars being wagered on that side.</p><p>Meanwhile, these two teams have gone over the total in their previous four meetings, including the Week 6 shootout that featured 83 points. However, more tickets (52 percent) and money (56 percent) are on the under 56 with freezing-cold temperatures expected by game time.</p><h3>Predictions</h3><p><strong>John Owning</strong>: In a back-and-forth affair, the Chiefs get the ball last and <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a> marches them down the field for a game-winning field goal. <strong>Chiefs 31, Patriots 30.</strong></p><p><strong>Alex Kolodziej: </strong>As two mastermind head coaches trade punches in a heavyweight clash, Belichick serves up the knockout blow and sends the Pats to yet another Super Bowl. <strong>Patriots 31, Chiefs 27.</strong></p>

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AFC championship guide: Can Brady lead Pats to another Super Bowl?

NFC Championship Game Who: Los Angeles Rams (13-3) at New Orleans Saints (13-3) When: Sunday, Jan...

<p><strong>NFC Championship Game<br>Who: </strong>Los Angeles Rams (13-3) at New Orleans Saints (13-3)<br><strong>When</strong>: Sunday, Jan. 20 at 3:05 p.m. ET<br><strong>Where:</strong> Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans<br><strong>TV</strong>: FOX<br><strong>Odds</strong>: Saints -3.5<br><strong>Over/Under</strong>: 56.5<br><strong>Last Meeting: </strong>Week 9 - New Orleans 45, Los Angeles 35</p><h3>Tale of the tape</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>2018 Stats</th>
<th>Rams</th>
<th>Saints</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Points Per Game</strong></td>
<td>32.9 (2)</td>
<td>31.5 (3)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Points Allowed/Game</strong></td>
<td>24.0 (20)</td>
<td>22.1 (14)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Rush Yards/Game</strong></td>
<td>139.4 (3)</td>
<td>126.6 (6)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Pass Yards/Game</strong></td>
<td>282 (5)</td>
<td>253 (12)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Total Yards/Game</strong></td>
<td>421.1 (2)</td>
<td>379.2 (8)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Rush Yards Allowed/Game</strong></td>
<td>122.3 (23)</td>
<td>80.2 (2)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Pass Yards Allowed/Game</strong></td>
<td>236 (14)</td>
<td>269 (T-29)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Total Yards Allowed/Game</strong></td>
<td>358.6 (19)</td>
<td>349.1 (14)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Third-Down Offense</strong></td>
<td>45.0% (5)</td>
<td>44.6% (7)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Third-Down Defense</strong></td>
<td>37.2% (12)</td>
<td>41.3% (24)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Team Sacks</strong></td>
<td>41 (15)</td>
<td>49 (T-5)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Turnover Differential</strong></td>
<td>+11 (4)</td>
<td>+8 (7)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>(Regular-season rank in parentheses)</em></p><h3>Game-breaker</h3><p><strong>Can a healthy Rams secondary slow down Saints' passing?</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>When the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/21" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/21">Rams</a> traveled to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in Week 9, they were undermanned and outgunned against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/30" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/30">Saints</a>' vaunted aerial attack. The absence of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2389" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/2389">Aqib Talib</a> - arguably Los Angeles' best defensive back - allowed New Orleans to take advantage, as quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1417" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1417">Drew Brees</a> went 25 of 36 for 346 yards and four touchdowns in a 45-35 victory.</p><p>In that game, the Rams had no answer for Saints wide receiver <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61767" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61767">Michael Thomas</a>, who finished with 12 catches for 211 yards and a touchdown. At times, Los Angeles tried shadowing Thomas with cornerback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/55391" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/55391">Marcus Peters</a>, but that matchup largely worked out in New Orleans' favor.</p><p>In man coverage, Peters is most comfortable playing physically at the line of scrimmage, but Thomas is too refined with his releases to let himself be disrupted on most plays. Here’s a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334523/preview.png?ts=1547655707" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334523/animation.mp4?ts=1547655707" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334523/animation.webm?ts=1547655707" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Courtesy: NFL Game Pass</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, Thomas is lined up in a "plus" split - outside the numbers - at the near side of the field with Peters in press coverage. Once the ball is snapped, Thomas takes a hard jab step inside, which forces Peters to follow suit, giving the receiver space to release outside. From there, Thomas separates just enough at the top of his route to make the catch despite pass interference from Peters.</p><p>Later in the game, Thomas capitalized on Peters again, showing off his ability to avoid contact throughout a route:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334522/preview.png?ts=1547655815" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334522/animation.mp4?ts=1547655815" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334522/animation.webm?ts=1547655815" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Courtesy: NFL Game Pass</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this play, Thomas is aligned in a reduced split - between the hash marks and the numbers - on the wide side of the field with Peters in press coverage. The receiver then releases outside while using his inside hand to swipe away Peters' attempts to make contact. Due to the clean release, Thomas is able to get behind and stack Peters, before using his speed to pull away and give Brees a target.</p><p>However, things should be a little easier for the Rams this time, as Talib will be active and should see plenty of snaps against Thomas. They've never faced off before, but Talib possesses the length, speed, and awareness to give Thomas some trouble. And while Peters certainly struggled against Thomas, he won't have the same problems against the rest of New Orleans' receiving corps.</p><p>Overall, the domino effect of Talib being in the lineup will aid the Rams' entire secondary and give the group a much better shot at slowing down Brees, Thomas, and Co. through the air.</p><h3>Biggest mismatch</h3><p><strong>Rams DT Aaron Donald vs. Saints LG Andrus Peat</strong></p><p>Brees is the NFL's best at stepping up in the pocket to avoid pressure - giving himself extra time to throw - which is why opposing defenses must create havoc in the interior of the line.</p><p>Luckily for the Rams, they possess one of the best interior pass-rushers of all time in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43119" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43119">Aaron Donald</a>, who led the league in sacks (20.5) and quarterback hits (41) this season.</p><p>One of the men who will be charged with blocking Donald this week is Saints left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/63932" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/63932">Andrus Peat</a>, who's been playing <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1084890891209400320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1084890891209400320&amp;ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Fespn1420.com%2Fsaints-lg-andrus-peat-playing-through-painful-hand-injury%2F">with an injured hand</a>. And even when healthy, Peat struggles against quick interior defenders who can attack laterally and force him to move his feet at the point of attack. Here's an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334524/preview.png?ts=1547655970" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334524/animation.mp4?ts=1547655970" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334524/animation.webm?ts=1547655970" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Courtesy: NFL Game Pass</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this play, Peat's lined up as the uncovered left guard. At the snap, Redskins nose tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99603" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/99603">Da'Ron Payne</a> (No. 95) slants right because of a slot blitz, putting him in a one-on-one matchup with Peat.</p><p>Peat tries to quick-set Payne, but does a poor job of moving his feet to mirror the defender's lateral swim move. To make matters worse, Peat lunges with his strike, making it impossible to recover once Payne gets to his outside edge. From there, the defender penetrates into the backfield and sacks Brees.</p><p>Like most teams, the Saints will probably double-team Donald as much as possible. However, Rams defensive coordinator Wade Phillips is excellent at manipulating alignments to create one-on-one matchups for the superstar. When that happens against Peat, look for Donald to take full advantage and spend plenty of time in the backfield.</p><h3>3 keys to the game</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334525/cropped_GettyImages-1070741354.jpg?ts=1547656066" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334525/w220xh124_GettyImages-1070741354.jpg?ts=1547656066 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334525/w320xh180_GettyImages-1070741354.jpg?ts=1547656066 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334525/w640xh360_GettyImages-1070741354.jpg?ts=1547656066 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334525/w768xh432_GettyImages-1070741354.jpg?ts=1547656066 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334525/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1070741354.jpg?ts=1547656066 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Wesley Hitt / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Can the Saints limit the Rams' running game without stacking the box?</strong> <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/65975">Todd Gurley</a> finished third in rushing yards this season, which was aided by seeing eight-plus defenders in the box on just 8.2 percent of his runs (the third-lowest rate in the league), according to <a href="https://nextgenstats.nfl.com/stats/rushing#percent-eight-defenders">Next Gen Stats</a>. That's because Rams head coach Sean McVay often uses alignments and formations that make it difficult for opposing defenses to stack the box. New Orleans will likely have to find a way to stop the run without loading up.</p><p><strong>Will the Rams be better on third and fourth downs?</strong> In the Week 6 matchup, Los Angeles' third- and fourth-down struggles were a major factor. While the Saints went 7-for-12 on third downs and converted both of their fourth-down opportunities, the Rams went just 3-for-8 on third downs and failed to convert either of their fourth-down tries. L.A. must sustain more drives to win Sunday's game.</p><p><strong>Kicking game could be X-factor: </strong>Given how close this matchup is on paper, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the contest decided by field goals - and both teams possess very good kickers. Los Angeles' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61850" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61850">Greg Zuerlein</a> went 27-for-31 on field goals this season, including 8-for-12 from 40-plus yards, while New Orleans' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/69454" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/69454">Wil Lutz</a> finished 28-for-30 and went 13-for-15 from 40-plus. If Sunday comes down to a last-second kick, both teams should feel confident in their guy - although pressure has a way of making things more difficult.</p><h3>Betting action report</h3><p>New Orleans opened as a three-point favorite, hit -3.5 shortly after, were bet back down to -3, and once again pushed up to -3.5 during the week. However, the early money and the ticket count are both backing the Rams on the spread. So is the moneyline at approximately +155.</p><p>After these teams combined for 80 points in the regular season, it's no surprise that 55 percent of tickets and 71 percent of the overall money are on the over. This matchup opened up at 56 before immediately jumping to 56.5.</p><h3>Predictions</h3><p><strong>John Owning</strong>: McVay proves to be the preeminent offensive mind in the NFC while Donald gets well-acquainted with Brees in the backfield and Talib slows down Thomas. <strong>Rams 27, Saints 24.</strong></p><p><strong>Alex Kolodziej: </strong>After a slow start in last week's win over the Eagles, the Saints come out firing and don't look back in a lower-scoring game than the experts are predicting. <strong>Saints 26, Rams 17.</strong></p>

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NFC championship guide: Rams seek redemption in rematch with Saints

After another slate filled with sacks, stops and stuffs, let's review the standout performers fro...

<p><em>After another slate filled with sacks, stops and stuffs, let's review the standout performers from the trenches in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs.</em></p><h3>Defensive Lineman of the Week: LB Dee Ford, Chiefs</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/19359" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/19359">Justin Houston</a> had more sacks (two), but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20223">Dee Ford</a> was the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/6" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/6">Kansas City Chiefs</a>' best line-of-scrimmage defender in their 31-13 victory over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/15" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/15">Indianapolis Colts</a>. Ford finished with two quarterback hits, one sack, a forced fumble, and four tackles, including one for a loss.</p><p>Ford's best weapon off the edge is his speed rush, as he's one of the best in the NFL at transitioning from the vertical-burst phase to the flattening phase, which allowed him to accumulate a career-high 13 sacks in the regular season. Along with blazing speed, he typically relies on flexibility and well-timed hands - the same ingredients that led to his sack against the Colts.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>On this play, Ford begins in a two-point stance with an outside shade over Colts right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87157" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/87157">Braden Smith</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Ford pushes vertical for three steps, beating Smith to the edge and stressing the blocker's pass set in the process. </p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334320/preview.png?ts=1547561448" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334320/animation.mp4?ts=1547561448" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334320/animation.webm?ts=1547561448" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Check out Smith’s third step below - he's perpendicular to the line of scrimmage while trying to stay in front of Ford:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/sUzWgvilMS">pic.twitter.com/sUzWgvilMS</a></p>— All22Hype (@All22Hype) <a href="https://twitter.com/All22Hype/status/1084843261640900608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2019</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>That's bad news for any blocker, as their rear end should be facing the quarterback at all times. However, in this case, Smith's back is facing the opposite sideline.</p><p>Next, Ford enters the bend phase of his speed rush, which connects the vertical and flatten phases. Once he gets within distance, Ford paws with his outside hand, which leads Smith to raise his own hands, opening up space for Ford to execute a rip move.</p><p>The powerful rip move allows Ford to power through the contact while turning a tight corner at the apex of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18750" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18750">Andrew Luck</a>’s drop. From there, Ford flattens to the pocket, where he's able to strip Luck for a fumble that's recovered by Kansas City.</p><p>Against a Colts offensive line that was the best in the NFL at limiting pressure and sacks this season, Ford consistently got to Luck while also maintaining his responsibilities against the run. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/3">New England Patriots</a> will certainly be in tough against Ford - one of the league's most improved edge defenders - in the AFC Championship Game.</p><h3>Pass Rush of the Week: DE Brandon Graham, Eagles</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/47279" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/47279">Terron Armstead</a> is one of the best offensive tackles in football, as he rarely allows pressure off the edge and makes a <a href="https://twitter.com/EliotCrist/status/1083827900963532800">huge difference</a> for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/30" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/30">New Orleans Saints</a>' passing offense.</p><p>That’s why <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14840" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14840">Brandon Graham</a>'s first-quarter strip-sack was so impressive, as the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Philadelphia Eagles</a> pass-rusher beat Armstead on his way to the quarterback:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334321/preview.png?ts=1547561709" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334321/animation.mp4?ts=1547561709" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334321/animation.webm?ts=1547561709" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL/FOX</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, Graham begins outside of Armstead and then pushes vertical for two steps before squaring up the blocker and bobbing slightly inside, which causes Armstead’s feet to freeze for just a moment.</p><p>Even though Graham misses with his initial hand swipe, Armstead's slight hesitation is all he needs to win the edge. From there, Graham just barely turns a tight enough corner to get within range of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1417" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1417">Drew Brees</a> before reaching forward to knock the ball loose.</p><p>It wasn’t the cleanest sack of the divisional round - and the ball was recovered by the Saints - but given Armstead's blocking prowess, it may have been the most difficult. Graham will be a free agent this offseason, and while he only recorded four sacks in the regular season, he's shown the ability to beat anyone around the edge on any given snap.</p><h3>Run Defender of the Week: DT Ndamukong Suh, Rams</h3><p>With the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Dallas Cowboys</a> doing everything in their power to slow down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43119" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43119">Aaron Donald</a>, who finished with just two tackles, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/21" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/21">Los Angeles Rams</a> desperately needed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14165" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14165">Ndamukong Suh</a> to step up.</p><p>And though he didn’t make a huge impact as a pass-rusher, Suh was dominant against Dallas' potent ground game, finishing with four tackles and a ton of other disruptions. Because Donald received so much attention, Suh was often single-blocked by Cowboys center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12436" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/12436">Joe Looney</a> - and it didn’t go well for Dallas. Here's a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334322/preview.png?ts=1547561551" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334322/animation.mp4?ts=1547561551" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334322/animation.webm?ts=1547561551" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL/FOX</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this snap, Suh's the nose tackle and is aligned in the play-side A-gap between Looney and Cowboys right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/23931" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/23931">Zack Martin</a>. Dallas is running an outside-zone concept in which Looney's tasked with reach-blocking Suh to the inside.</p><p>However, once the ball is snapped, Suh does well to stay ahead of Looney and prevent the reach block. With Looney unable to cross his face, Suh intelligently uses his right hand to create separation and then continues pursuing down the line of scrimmage unencumbered, eventually making the tackle for a loss.</p><p>It’s rare to see a defensive tackle begin in an A-gap and make a tackle near the numbers, but Suh's a rare talent. Overall, the Cowboys' outstanding rushing attack managed just 50 yards against the Rams, and Suh was a major factor throughout the game.</p><h3>In the Spotlight: DE Adrian Clayborn, Patriots</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14690" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14690">Adrian Clayborn</a>'s never going to lead the NFL in sacks - recording just 2.5 in the 2018 regular season - but he's a nice complementary piece on New England's defensive line. While pass rushing off the right side, Clayborn uses unique movement patterns and an outstanding cross-chop move to find success.</p><p>Meanwhile, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/8" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/8">Los Angeles Chargers</a> employ the worst starting offensive tackle duo in the NFL, and Clayborn took advantage on Sunday, especially during this sack:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334323/preview.png?ts=1547561667" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334323/animation.mp4?ts=1547561667" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/334323/animation.webm?ts=1547561667" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, Clayborn's begins with a wide outside shade over Chargers left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14408" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14408">Russell Okung</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Clayborn first veers inside, which prevents Okung from getting the necessary width in his pass set to defend the cross chop.</p><p>Making matters worse, Okung attempts a two-hand strike while trying to hop back outside, meaning both of his feet are off the ground. Clayborn predictably uses the cross-chop move to defend the strike before transitioning into a rip move while powering through the contact.</p><p>From there, Clayborn fights through Okung's egregious hold to trip up <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1955" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1955">Philip Rivers</a> for the sack.</p><p>Unlike many of the top pass-rushers, Clayborn isn’t blessed with great athleticism or strength, and he doesn’t possess a vast array of moves to compensate. Instead, he's largely a one-trick pony, relying on varied footwork to set up his cross-chop move.</p><p>But not every pass-rusher can be <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21358" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21358">Von Miller</a>, and Clayborn still plays a valuable role for the Patriots while proving capable of beating the league's non-elite offensive tackles.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - JANUARY 12: Outside linebacker Dee Ford #55 of the Kansas City Chiefs tries to elude the block of offensive tackle Braden Smith #72 of the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Divisional Playoff at Arrowhead Stadium on January 12, 2019 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Defensive Line All-Stars: Ford, Suh dominate divisional round

After another slate filled with sacks, stops, and stuffs, let's review the standout performers fr...

<p>After another slate filled with sacks, stops, and stuffs, let's review the standout performers from the trenches during Wild Card Weekend:</p><h3>Defensive Lineman of the Week: Chargers DE Melvin Ingram</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/8" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/8">Los Angeles Chargers</a> pass-rusher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/19617" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/19617">Melvin Ingram</a> is blessed with a rare combination of speed, explosiveness, and flexibility, but he took a step back in the 2018 regular season with 43 tackles (eight for a loss), 16 quarterback hits, and seven sacks. Those are still strong numbers by most standards, but they were all down from Ingram's production in 2017.</p><p>It turns out Ingram was just saving his best for the playoffs, as he submitted his finest performance of the campaign on Sunday against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/12" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/12">Baltimore Ravens</a>. And as usual, he made his biggest contributions as a pass-rusher - recording two sacks and three QB hits - but with a twist.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Ravens possess one of the best offensive lines in football, but with a glaring weakness at left guard, where <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43820" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43820">Alex Lewis</a> starts and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/39959" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/39959">James Hurst</a> backs him up. To attack that weakness, Los Angeles made a conscious effort to scheme up one-on-one matchups for Ingram inside - rather than on the edge - and it paid off big time, as he beat a left guard on both sacks.</p><p>Here's the first, which came against Lewis:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333319/preview.png?ts=1546971385" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333319/animation.mp4?ts=1546971385" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333319/animation.webm?ts=1546971385" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this play, Ingram begins by accelerating toward the outside edge of Lewis, which forces the guard to expand farther away from the center, creating a wider gap. With Lewis' momentum taking him outside, Ingram then uses a powerful cross-chop move to keep himself clean before spinning inside through the wide gap and then sacking quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a>.</p><p>Ingram’s footwork on the spin was a little clunky - as he needed a gather step before continuing forward - but it didn't matter because it was set up and executed with such great timing that Lewis had no chance to recover.</p><p>Hurst was the victim on Ingram's second sack, as seen below:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333320/preview.png?ts=1546971368" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333320/animation.mp4?ts=1546971368" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333320/animation.webm?ts=1546971368" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, Ingram doesn't walk down to the line of scrimmage until immediately before the snap, and then uses his forward momentum to burst toward Hurst's midline.</p><p>Just before he gets within striking distance, Ingram jab steps inside and then expands outside, which crosses up Hurst and draws out his hands. As he expands outside, Ingram executes a cross chop to fend off Hurst's strike and then easily penetrates through to sack Jackson in the pocket.</p><p>These sacks displayed Ingram's technique, timing, and finishing ability, as the seventh-year pass-rusher finally played at the level that's been expected of him this season. Against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/3">New England Patriots</a> this coming weekend, look for the Chargers to continue moving Ingram around as a mismatch piece to take advantage of any weak link on the opposing line.</p><h3>Pass Rush of the Week: Chargers LB Uchenna Nwosu</h3><p>With the Ravens near midfield and driving to win the game with less than 30 seconds remaining, the Chargers needed someone to step up and make a play.</p><p>Most would have expected that play to come from Ingram, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71822" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/71822">Joey Bosa</a>, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94110" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/94110">Derwin James</a>, but it was rookie edge defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87567" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/87567">Uchenna Nwosu</a> who secured the victory with a sack-fumble of Jackson that was recovered by Los Angeles:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333322/preview.png?ts=1546972457" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333322/animation.mp4?ts=1546972457" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333322/animation.webm?ts=1546972457" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this play, Nwosu's lined up on the edge with an outside shade over rookie right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82710" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/82710">Orlando Brown</a>. After the ball is snapped, Nwosu explodes out of his stance and pushes vertical for two steps.</p><p>Right before he gets within striking distance, Nwosu executes a quick jab step toward Brown's inside edge, which leads the offensive tackle to briefly shift his weight inside. This prevents Brown from getting much width on his pass set, which gives Nwosu a short corner. From there, Nwosu expands his rush outside and uses a long-arm move with his inside hand - which causes Brown to rotate on his spot - shortening the corner even more.</p><p>At that point, Nwosu's footwork and stride length allow him to turn the corner and flatten to Jackson before knocking the ball loose as the quarterback winds up to throw.</p><p>It was a masterful display of shortening the corner using footwork and hand technique - something rarely exhibited by a rookie - and it came when the Chargers needed it most.</p><h3>Run Defender of the Week: Bears DT Eddie Goldman</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Chicago Bears</a> may have suffered a gut-wrenching loss against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Philadelphia Eagles</a>, but that shouldn't take away from defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/64244" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/64244">Eddie Goldman</a>'s outstanding performance against the run. Chicago needed Goldman to <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1691823/wild-card-weekend-mismatches-nfc-edition">take advantage of his matchup</a>, and that's exactly what he did throughout the contest.</p><p>Goldman's final stat line (four tackles) doesn't do his performance justice, as the fourth-year player did an excellent job of occupying blocks and clogging running lanes, which allowed his teammates to make plays. The Eagles averaged just 1.83 yards per carry, in large part due to Goldman’s presence in the interior.</p><p>Meanwhile, each of Goldman's tackles resulted in an unsuccessful play for the offense, as all four came within 1 yard of the line of scrimmage. The stop below is a great example of his dominance against the run:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333323/preview.png?ts=1546972477" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333323/animation.mp4?ts=1546972477" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333323/animation.webm?ts=1546972477" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, Goldman's aligned with a slight inside shade over Eagles left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/66221" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/66221">Isaac Seumalo</a>, who's looking to double-team him alongside All-Pro center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/23149" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/23149">Jason Kelce</a>. </p><p>However, when the ball is snapped, Goldman does a great job of mirroring and engaging Seumalo, which makes it difficult for Kelce to square up Goldman and push him off the spot. From there, Goldman leverages his superior hand placement to execute an arm-over move that beats Seumalo's block and allows him to penetrate through for a tackle on the running back. </p><p>Even though the Bears will be watching the next round of the playoffs from home, Goldman should hold his head high after a winning performance against the run. The 25-year-old was one of Chicago's most improved players this season and his future looks bright. </p><h3>In the Spotlight: Cowboys DT Antwaun Woods</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Dallas Cowboys</a> employed one of the worst defensive tackle rotations in the league last season. When <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/52311" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/52311">David Irving</a> wasn't in the game, the group usually struggled to make a positive impact against the run or pass.</p><p>That changed this season, thanks in large part to the addition of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/52355" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/52355">Antwaun Woods</a>, who'd played in just one NFL game before signing with Dallas. The Cowboys challenged Woods to lose weight in an effort to maximize his short-area quickness and explosiveness, and he obliged, coming into camp considerably lighter than he was in college with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/14">Tennessee</a>.</p><p>Initially signed as a backup, Woods (<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcDRuXePbAA">literally</a>) fought his way into the starting nose tackle gig once the season began, and hasn't looked back. He didn't post the most impressive stat line on paper - 34 tackles (two for a loss), five quarterback hits, and 1.5 sacks in 15 games - but the 26-year-old still provided a ton of value.</p><p>In fact, one reason that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89303" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/89303">Leighton Vander Esch</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/77770" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/77770">Jaylon Smith</a> excelled this season is that Woods - an extremely powerful player who uses his natural leverage advantage effectively - often occupies blockers and plugs gaps. </p><p>At times, Woods has also displayed impressive awareness and quickness, which give him the ability to make plays outside of his responsibilities. Against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/24">Seattle Seahawks</a> in the wild-card round, he did just that by blowing up a screen pass:</p><figure class="article-segment--video"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333324/preview.png?ts=1546972030" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333324/animation.mp4?ts=1546972030" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/333324/animation.webm?ts=1546972030" type="video/webm"> <div>Your browser does not support the video tag.</div> </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL/FOX</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, Woods is lined up with a slight inside shade over the Seahawks' left guard. Once the ball is snapped, he does well to square up and engage the guard at the point of attack, which makes it hard for Seattle's center to take over the block once the left guard attempts to leak out for the screen. This frees up Woods to get his eyes into the backfield, identify the play, and then rush forward to immediately tackle the running back.</p><p>Nose tackles aren't supposed to blow up screen passes 8 yards behind the line of scrimmage, but Woods has shown he's more than capable of doing so. In this instance, his effort and quickness were on full display.</p><p>Overall, the Cowboys' defense has been one of the best in the NFL this season, and the addition of Woods is one of the bigger - and underrated - reasons why.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JANUARY 06: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens gets sacked by Melvin Ingram #54 of the Los Angeles Chargers during the third quarter in the AFC Wild Card Playoff game at M&T Bank Stadium on January 06, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Defensive Line All-Stars: Chargers step up on Wild Card Weekend

Here's a breakdown of two significant mismatches in this weekend's NFC wild-card games.  Seahawks...

<p>Here's a breakdown of two significant mismatches in this weekend's NFC wild-card games.</p><h3>Seahawks DT Jarran Reed vs. Cowboys LG Xavier Su'a-Filo/Connor Williams</h3><p>Any team that plays Dallas in the playoffs should know how to attack the weaknesses on the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Cowboys</a>' offensive line.</p><p>Left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18919" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18919">Xavier Su'a-Filo</a> struggled this season, and as a result, defensive tackles had a field day against the left side of the team's interior offensive line. If he misses Saturday’s game against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/24">Seattle Seahawks</a> because of an ankle injury, rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94565" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/94565">Connor Williams</a> could have his own issues.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Throughout the regular season, defensive tackles <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89066" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/89066">Vita Vea</a> (one sack), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20600" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20600">Fletcher Cox</a> (two sacks), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61402" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61402">Denico Autry</a> (one sack), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105753" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/105753">David Onyemata</a> (three sacks), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99603" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/99603">Da’Ron Payne</a> (one sack), and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/78271" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/78271">Jonathan Allen</a> (two sacks) were all productive against Dallas. Seahawks<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/24"> </a>defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84050" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/84050">Jarran Reed</a> also posted a dominant performance against the Cowboys, doing a lot of damage against Williams while recording two sacks in Week 3.</p><p>Reed is one of the NFL's most improved defensive tackles. Primarily a run defender over his first two seasons, the 26-year-old added some pass-rush ability to his game in 2018 to unlock his true disruptive potential.</p><p>After notching only three sacks over his first two seasons, Reed exploded for 10.5 sacks this year to go along with 50 tackles (12 for a loss), and 24 quarterback hits - all single-season career highs for the Alabama product.</p><p>This play illustrates Reed’s improved pass-rush skill:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332495/preview.png?ts=1546556571" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332495/animation.mp4?ts=1546556571" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332495/animation.webm?ts=1546556571" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Reed aligns as the 4i defensive tackle with a wide outside shade on Cardinals left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/24917" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/24917">Mike Iupati</a>. At the snap, he explodes right at Iupati.</p><p>Just before he gets into striking distance, Reed cleverly jab steps outside of Iupati’s reach, causing the veteran guard to shift his weight slightly and open up to an inside move.</p><p>With Iupati leaning, Reed executes a beautifully timed swim move to cross his face and beat him. As soon as Reed clears the blocker, he forcefully plants his left foot to slow his lateral momentum, allowing him to push vertically into the pocket and bring down the quarterback.</p><p>Unfortunately for Dallas, Su'a-Filo and Williams don't fare well against that kind of pass rush. The former struggles with lateral movement because of footwork and balance problems, and the latter often lunges to compensate for his lack of power.</p><p>Here's an example of Su'a-Filo's weakness:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332496/preview.png?ts=1546556665" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332496/animation.mp4?ts=1546556665" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332496/animation.webm?ts=1546556665" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>He's tasked with blocking Saints defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105753" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/105753">David Onyemata</a>. When the ball is snapped, Su'a-Filo expands outside with two kick slides. However, on his third kick slide, Su'a-Filo's right foot moves backward instead of his left foot, causing him to give a soft corner.</p><p>Onyemata can then use a forceful club move, pulling Su'a-Filo down and leaving him unable to recover once the pass-rusher beats his hands. From there, Onyemata gets into the backfield and brings down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a>.</p><p>Seattle likes to move Reed around, which means Su'a-Filo or Williams won't have to handle him alone all game. Nevertheless, when he's matched up with either of those two expect Reed to take full advantage and have another productive day against the Cowboys.</p><h3>Bears DT Eddie Goldman vs. Eagles LG Isaac Seumalo/Stefan Wisniewski</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Philadelphia Eagles</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Chicago Bears</a> are strong up front on both sides of the ball, meaning there won't be many mismatches in the trenches when the two teams meet on Sunday.</p><p>That's why the Bears need <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/64244" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/64244">Eddie Goldman</a> to exploit the primary weakness along the Eagles’ offensive line and capitalize on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/66221" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/66221">Isaac Seumalo</a>'s struggles (or do the same against Stefan Wisniewski if Seumalo misses his fourth straight game due to a chest injury).</p><p>Goldman is arguably coming off his best regular season, though his stats don't do it justice, as the fourth-year defensive tackle accumulated 39 tackles (five for a loss), three quarterback hits, and three sacks.</p><p>Much of what Goldman does up front for Chicago goes unnoticed. But his teammates often bear the fruit of his labor when he frequently occupies multiple blocks, giving others free runs at the ball carrier. </p><p>However, Goldman can still be a disruptive pass-rushing force when teams consistently leave him single blocked. Here’s an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332499/preview.png?ts=1546557230" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332499/animation.mp4?ts=1546557230" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332499/animation.webm?ts=1546557230" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Goldman aligns over Vikings left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/36827" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/36827">Tom Compton</a>. With Minnesota sliding its protection right, Goldman has a one-on-one matchup.</p><p>After coming out of his stance, he shuffles inside to manipulate Compton's movement. He gets the guard to slide inside as well, creating a giant gap between Compton and the left tackle. Goldman then executes an effective club-arm over move to take advantage of that large hole, and he blows past the lineman to bring down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14947" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14947">Kirk Cousins</a>.</p><p>Goldman will be similarly successful against the Eagles if they don't double-team him or provide help of some kind. He's stronger than Seumalo and Wisniewski, with more deliberate hand technique than both, too.</p><p>Goldman should be able to have his way at the point of attack and be excellent against the run. Against the pass, look for him to pick his spots and apply pressure, using his violent club move to bully his way into the pocket.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 23: Defensive tackle Jarran Reed #90 of the Seattle Seahawks reacts after recovering a fumble against the Kansas City Chiefs at CenturyLink Field on December 23, 2018 in Seattle, Washington.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/8656790/related

Wild Card Weekend Mismatches: NFC edition

Here's a breakdown of one significant mismatch in each AFC wild-card game this weekend.   Colts D...

<p>Here's a breakdown of one significant mismatch in each AFC wild-card game this weekend. </p><h3>Colts DE Jabaal Sheard vs. Texans RT Kendall Lamm</h3><p>In a postseason divisional matchup, failing to take advantage of mismatches could be the difference between a win and a loss.</p><p>When the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/15" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/15">Colts</a> face the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/13">Texans</a> for the third time this season Saturday, Indianapolis needs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12763" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/12763">Jabaal Sheard</a> to expose Houston right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/42987" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/42987">Kendall Lamm</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sheard doesn’t receive much acclaim, but he’s been one of the most well-rounded defensive ends in football over the last four seasons.</p><p>While he’s never recorded double-digit sacks, Sheard has registered multiple pressures in every game but one this season. Against the run, he leverages his effective hand technique to make plays at or near the line of scrimmage:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332497/preview.png?ts=1546556824" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332497/animation.mp4?ts=1546556824" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332497/animation.webm?ts=1546556824" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this play, Sheard is aligned with a wide outside shade over Titans right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/15579" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/15579">Dennis Kelly</a>. As soon as the ball is snapped, Sheard comes out of his stance and appears ready to meet Kelly at the point of attack.</p><p>However, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4F4qzPbcFiA">it’s a trap</a>!</p><p>Sheard acts like he’s going to attack the block before swiftly darting inside with a two-hand swipe move.</p><p>From there, he is able to take on the tight end’s block and impede the running back’s progress, allowing his teammates to clean up the tackle near the line of scrimmage.</p><p>This is the area where Lamm will hurt the Texans the most, as he still struggles mightily as a run-blocker. Lamm simply doesn’t possess the strength to move defensive ends off their spot, and he lacks the hand placement to steer defenders out of the hole.</p><p>Sheard is likely going to be a huge thorn in the side of Houston’s offense all game long.</p><h3>Ravens OLB Terrell Suggs vs. Chargers RT Sam Tevi</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/3053" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/3053">Terrell Suggs</a> isn’t the same player he used to be, but he’s still good enough to take advantage of Chargers right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72534" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/72534">Sam Tevi</a>.</p><p>In all honesty, it’s a miracle Tevi has a starting job in the NFL, as he's proven over and over again this season to be below replacement level by NFL standards. Tevi is a mess technically and has trouble with nearly every pass-rusher he faces as a result. It’s incredible that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1955" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1955">Philip Rivers</a> has played so well this season despite Tevi’s turnstile-like qualities on the right side.</p><p>When the Ravens faced the Chargers in Week 16, Suggs had one the best sackless performances of his career, as he was able to consistently beat Tevi and generate pressure off the edge. Below is an example of Suggs using his effective hand technique and deceptive footwork:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332498/preview.png?ts=1546557055" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332498/animation.mp4?ts=1546557055" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332498/animation.webm?ts=1546557055" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, Suggs is aligned with an outside shade over Tevi. Once the ball is snapped, he mimics as if he’s going to engage at the point of attack by reaching his left hand toward the offensive lineman's chest.</p><p>As Tevi shoots his hands to latch onto the veteran pass-rusher, Suggs abruptly darts inside with a two-hand swipe. Although it doesn’t land cleanly, Tevi is unable to adjust or recover.</p><p>From there, Suggs avoids <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/54651" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/54651">Melvin Gordon</a>’s block and pressures Rivers just as he throws downfield (the pass was intercepted).</p><p>While Suggs wasn’t able to turn any of his pressures into sacks in Week 16, don’t expect that to happen again in the second matchup between these two teams. </p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 16: Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Terrell Suggs (55)takes the field for the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on December 16, 2018, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, MD.

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Wild Card Weekend Mismatches: AFC edition

Now that the NFL regular season is over, it’s time to hand out the Defensive Line All-Stars' end-...

<p>Now that the NFL regular season is over, it’s time to hand out the Defensive Line All-Stars' end-of-year awards, as we highlight the best defensive linemen in football this season.</p><h3>Defensive Lineman of the Year<br><br>Aaron Donald, DT<br>Los Angeles Rams</h3><p>To the surprise of no one, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43119" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43119">Aaron Donald</a> is the runaway winner of this year’s Defensive Lineman of the Year award.</p><p>Despite offenses consistently game-planning to slow him down (because stopping him is nearly impossible), Donald was the most dominant player in football, regardless of position. He finished the season with 59 tackles (25 for loss), 41 quarterback hits, 20.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, and a pass deflection.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>At 6-foot-1 and 280 pounds, Donald is considered an undersized defensive tackle by NFL standards, but there's nothing undersized to his game. He possesses immense power that he uses to batter and bludgeon blockers.</p><p>Donald’s power is a perfect complement to his quickness and lateral agility, which he uses consistently to penetrate against the run and apply pressure against the pass. He is the rare defensive tackle who can corner and bend around the edge like a defensive end, demonstrating rare flexibility and fluidness as he turns the corner to flatten to the quarterback. This sack against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/27">Green Bay</a> was a perfect example:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332053/preview.png?ts=1546296190" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332053/animation.mp4?ts=1546296190" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332053/animation.webm?ts=1546296190" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Donald is aligned as the three-technique defensive tackle with an outside shade over Green Bay’s left guard. Once the ball is snapped, Donald veers outside in an attempt to run a <a href="https://steelersdepot.com/2016/03/football-101-te-stunt/">T-E stunt</a> with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14165" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14165">Ndamukong Suh</a>.</p><p>However, because Packers left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/13399" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/13399">David Bakhtiari</a> uses a quick set, it eliminates Donald’s ability to pick him off so that Suh can loop around and apply pressure on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a>. With the stunt ruined, Donald seamlessly converts his rush upfield, does his best <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21358" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21358">Von Miller</a> impression to drop his pad level and turn a tight corner as Rodgers reaches the apex of his drop.</p><p>Notice how Donald’s stride length and frequency allow him to maintain his balance and momentum through contact, allowing him to flatten to the pocket and bring down Rodgers for the sack.</p><p>Defensive tackles simply aren’t supposed to move like that. In a league of physical and athletic freaks, Donald may be the freakiest one of them all for his size and position.</p><p>Outside of his physical talents, Donald's also one of the smartest and most technically refined players in the NFL; he's an expert at identifying and attacking weaknesses in an opposing team’s blocking scheme. He also has the deepest repertoire of pass rush moves and footwork in the league, using a deep array of cross chops, two-hand swipes, fork lifts, and spin moves to beat opposing blockers.</p><p>While he didn't break the single-season sack record, Donald was able to show why he’s the best defensive lineman of this generation, and the best defensive tackle in NFL history.</p><p><em>Other considerations: Bears EDGE <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/33866" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/33866">Khalil Mack</a>, Texans EDGE <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/15757" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/15757">J.J. Watt</a>, and Eagles DT <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20600" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20600">Fletcher Cox</a>.</em></p><h3>Pass Rush Move of the Year<br><br>Jadeveon Clowney’s rip-pull down move</h3><p>In a season that was chock full of examples of quality pass rush moves, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53703" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/53703">Jadeveon Clowney</a>’s rip-pull down move stood out above the rest. Here's a perfect demonstration of the move from a sack in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/16" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/16">Jacksonville</a>:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332125/preview.png?ts=1546366965" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332125/animation.mp4?ts=1546366965" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332125/animation.webm?ts=1546366965" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Clowney's aligned with an outside shade over Jacksonville left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/28438" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/28438">Josh Walker</a>. Once the ball's snapped, Clowney fires out of his stance and pushes vertical. When he gets within striking distance, known as the "combat zone," Clowney places his outside hand on Walker’s outside elbow before sliding it to his wrist as his inside hand comes underneath to grab Walker’s outside triceps.</p><p>Instead of lifting his inside arm to the sky as you would see on a typical rip move, Clowney pulls down on Walker’s outside arm with his inside hand, putting a ton of pressure on Walker’s outside wrist, which forces the Jacksonville left tackle to lose his balance and grip. From there, Clowney is able to flatten to the pocket to bring down the QB.</p><p>The move resembles a <a href="https://www.google.com/search?biw=1422&amp;bih=662&amp;tbm=isch&amp;sa=1&amp;ei=MGQpXMm0EIXB0PEPoM-UsA4&amp;q=arm+drag+takedown&amp;oq=arm+drag+t&amp;gs_l=img.3.0.0j0i8i30l3j0i24l6.199041.199426..203193...0.0..0.70.136.2......1....1..gws-wiz-img.......0i30j0i5i30.9LwWyTPfDRI#imgrc=unlH8-q-N6IhlM:">wrestling arm drag</a> more than anything typically used on a football field, a big reason why offensive tackles were unprepared to stop it this season, as it’s a move unique to Clowney.</p><p>Clowney's is a unique twist on a common move that nearly every defensive lineman has in his repertoire, making it the best pass rush move of the season.</p><p><em>Other considerations: Cardinals EDGE <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12942" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/12942">Chandler Jones</a>’ inside swim and Cowboys DE <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/60919" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/60919">DeMarcus Lawrence</a>’s cross chop.</em></p><h3>Run Defender of the Year<br><br>Damon 'Snacks' Harrison, DT<br>Detroit Lions</h3><p>While the NFL is now geared primarily toward the pass, it's still important to be able to stop the run, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61863" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61863">Damon "Snacks" Harrison</a> is the most dominant run defender in the league.</p><p>Despite being traded by the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/18">New York Giants</a> for chump change during the season, Harrison’s level of play never dropped off, as he became the brick wall in the middle of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Lions</a>' defense.</p><p>At 6-foot-3 and 355 pounds, Harrison's already difficult enough to move off his spot, but combine his size with outstanding hand technique and body positioning and he's virtually impossible to displace up front.</p><p>While a majority of defensive tackles make most of their plays - if not all - between the A-gaps, Harrison possesses the lateral mobility and awareness to make plays in the B-gaps and beyond.</p><p>Harrison often makes defending the run as an interior defender look way too easy, as he's able to stack and shed blocks from 300-plus pounders without much stress. This play is a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332051/preview.png?ts=1546296146" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332051/animation.mp4?ts=1546296146" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332051/animation.webm?ts=1546296146" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Harrison's the nose tackle aligned head up on Bears center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/54118" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/54118">Cody Whitehair</a>. After the ball's snapped, Harrison mirrors the initial movement of Whitehair while attaining superior hand placement at the point of attack.</p><p>Even though Whitehair has the leverage advantage with better pad level, he’s unable to displace or even budge Harrison off his spot, which shows how strong and difficult "Snacks" is to move.</p><p>Harrison can get eyes on the running back and identify his path. Once the running back decides to hit the A-gap, Harrison's able to easily come off his block and make the tackle at the line of scrimmage.</p><p>It's best to measure Harrison's impact against the run by looking at how Detroit fared with and without him.</p><p>Without Harrison, Detroit allowed 5.5 yards per carry and a 49.1 percent run success rate. With Harrison, Detroit allowed 3.03 yards per carry and a 37.9 percent run success rate, <a href="https://twitter.com/All22Hype/status/1079541750513844224">according to The Quant Edge</a>. Allowing 5.5 yards per carry would rank last in the NFL this season, while allowing 3.03 yards per carry would rank first, meaning Detroit boasts the NFL's worst run defense by YPC without Harrison and the best with him.</p><p>Harrison's truly one of the best interior defenders in the NFL, despite being snubbed from the Pro Bowl, largely because of his ability to play the run. Regardless of competition, location, or the talent surrounding him, Harrison will always defend the run at a high level, and that's why he's the winner of the Run Defender of the Year award.</p><p><em>Other considerations: Jaguars DL <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1754" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1754">Calais Campbell</a>, Ravens DL <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53303" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/53303">Michael Pierce</a>, and Bears DL <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20376" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20376">Akiem Hicks</a>.</em></p><h3>Most Underrated Defensive Lineman of the Year<br><br>Trey Flowers, DE<br>New England Patriots</h3><p>Many will say <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74524" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/74524">Chris Jones</a> of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/6" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/6">Kansas City Chiefs</a> deserves this honor after being snubbed from the Pro Bowl, but he's likely to make an All-Pro team, making it difficult to argue he’s the NFL's most underrated defensive lineman this season.</p><p>Enter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53657" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/53657">Trey Flowers</a> of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/3">New England Patriots</a> who won't be attending the Pro Bowl and is unlikely to receive All-Pro love.</p><p>Despite a lack of accolades, Flowers was outstanding this season, accumulating 57 tackles, nine for loss, 20 quarterback hits, 7.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and two pass deflections. He plays all over New England’s defensive line, and the Patriots love to use him as a mismatch weapon up front.</p><p>Even though Flowers wasn’t blessed with great athletic traits, he's one of the most refined defensive linemen in the league and possesses impressive power at the point of attack. On top of that, his timing allows him to be an effective hand fighter when rushing the passer. Here’s a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332050/preview.png?ts=1546296274" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332050/animation.mp4?ts=1546296274" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/332050/animation.webm?ts=1546296274" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Flowers is aligned as the three-technique defensive tackle with an outside shade over Packers left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14437" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14437">Lane Taylor</a>. After the ball is snapped, Flowers steps toward the midline of the guard before expanding outside and executing a perfectly timed two-hand swipe to beat Taylor’s hands.</p><p>Notice how Flowers uses his left hand to cover Taylor’s outside hand as he moves by the Packers' left guard. That makes it nearly impossible for Taylor to re-leverage his hands, leaving Taylor unable to recover, which allows Flowers to get into the backfield to help bring down Rodgers for the sack.</p><p>Flowers’ timing and technique are the foundation of his skill set, and are the main reasons why he’s so effective. Fans didn't send him to the Pro Bowl and writers may not make him an All-Pro, but that doesn’t change the fact Flowers is still one of the most effective defensive linemen in the NFL, making him the best choice to win the (highly coveted) Most Underrated Defensive Lineman of the Year award.</p><p><em>Other considerations: Bills EDGE <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21467" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21467">Jerry Hughes</a>, Saints defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/64734" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/64734">Sheldon Rankins</a> and Eagles DE <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14840" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14840">Brandon Graham</a>.</em></p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 30: Los Angeles Rams defensive end Aaron Donald (99) relaxes on the sidelines with his teammates in Los Angeles on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018. The Rams beat the 49ers 48-32.

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Defensive Line All-Stars: Handing out end-of-year awards

Here's a breakdown of four significant positional mismatches in Week 17:  Steelers DL Cameron Hey...

<p>Here's a breakdown of four significant positional mismatches in Week 17:</p><h3>Steelers DL Cameron Heyward vs. Bengals LG Clint Boling</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/11" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/11">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> need help from the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/10">Cleveland Browns</a> to have a shot at making the playoffs, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/15323" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/15323">Cameron Heyward</a> won’t need any help in his matchup against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/9">Cincinnati Bengals</a> left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/19309" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/19309">Clint Boling</a>.</p><p>The box-score scouts may look at Heyward’s sack totals over the last two years and conclude the two-time Pro Bowler has taken a step back this season, as he's recorded six sacks thus far in 2018 after posting 12 in 2017. That couldn’t be further from the truth because Heyward has produced a similar pressure rate.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Heyward is the rare defensive end in an odd front (3-4 base defense) who can still perform at a high level, accumulating 50 tackles (eight for a loss), 16 quarterback hits, six sacks, three pass deflections, and one forced fumble this season. Typically, defensive ends in a 3-4 defense don’t produce a ton because their primary job is to keep linebackers clean and occupy blocks instead. They don't penetrate upfield as often as defensive ends in 4-3 base defenses.</p><p>However, on a Steelers front seven that’s littered with talent, Heyward is the king of the castle. He possesses immense raw strength, deliberate hands, and sound footwork, and knows how to leverage his 6-foot-5, 295-pound frame to batter and bludgeon opposing blockers:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/9S58Ungd9sSnS37x5x" width="480" height="268" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Heyward is aligned across from the Panthers' left guard. After the snap, he immediately expands his rush to the outside, stressing the guard’s pass set. Once he gets close, Heyward initiates contact with a powerful two-hand strike, knocking back the guard to create enough separation as he continues to build momentum.</p><p>From there, Heyward attempts to initiate contact again. This time he drops his pad level, allowing him to get underneath the guard’s chin and win the leverage battle, maximizing his power output at the point of attack. Once Heyward rolls his hips, the guard gives ground and is driven to his back (with the help of a slight trip from the left tackle), giving Heyward an easy path to bring down a scrambling <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/41055" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/41055">Cam Newton</a> for the sack.</p><p>Heyward's skill set doesn't bode well for Boling, as the Bengals' left guard struggles mightily against power. Here’s a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/nbOgyNLKgzAZlHUAep" width="480" height="268" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Boling is tasked with blocking <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/30" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/30">Saints</a> defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/64734" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/64734">Sheldon Rankins</a>. After the snap, he lets his hands get too wide and pad level too high while attempting to mirror Rankins’ initial movement, making it nearly impossible for the veteran to anchor against the bull rush.</p><p>Rankins then easily walks him back into the pocket before bringing down the quarterback.</p><p>Making matters worse, Heyward is a more skilled power rusher than Rankins, and the Bengals' defensive lineman was still able to find success with his power. That means Heyward should have a field day during a crucial game on Sunday.</p><h3>Colts DL Denico Autry vs. Titans RG Josh Kline</h3><p>To the surprise of many, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61402" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61402">Denico Autry</a> has been one of the NFL's most productive interior defenders this season. After recording just 10.5 sacks over his first four seasons, Autry has blossomed as a pass-rusher, accumulating nine sacks and 11 quarterback hits in 2018.</p><p>This week, he has an opportunity to take advantage of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/14">Titans</a> right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/17418" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/17418">Josh Kline</a> during a game Indianapolis has to win to make the playoffs. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/15" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/15">Colts</a> move Autry around the defensive line quite a bit, but he spends much of his time against opposing right guards.</p><p>The last time these teams met, Autry leveraged his sublime hand technique to muscle past Kline for a sack:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/cYWZTR9ozv7v3tC7Yi" width="480" height="248" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, he's aligned as a wide three-technique defensive tackle with an outside shade over Kline. After the snap, Autry pushes forward for two steps, which slightly widens Kline’s pass set to provide an opening for the inside move.</p><p>He then puts his left foot in the turf and explodes laterally to cross Kline’s face and beat him inside, using a forceful club technique to parry the guard's initial strike.</p><p>Kline does a good job recovering, as he slides inside to obstruct Autry’s path to the quarterback. Unfortunately for Kline, Autry then uses a fork-lift move to eliminate the blocker's anchor before bullying his way into the pocket and bringing down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/55285" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/55285">Marcus Mariota</a> for the sack.</p><p>Expect more of the same this week, as Autry’s silky smooth hand technique and quickness should be too much for Kline’s plodding movement.</p><h3>Vikings DE Everson Griffen vs. Bears LT Charles Leno Jr.</h3><p>After missing five games earlier this season, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/28">Vikings</a> defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18624" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18624">Everson Griffen</a> has returned to his old form, recording a sack with multiple pressures in each of his last two games.</p><p>The Vikings need a win in Week 17 to get into the playoffs, and you can bet Griffen will beat <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Bears</a> left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/24708" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/24708">Charles Leno Jr.</a> often. Leno is playing well this season, but he still allows multiple pressures per game.</p><p>At his best, Griffen is one of the most difficult defensive ends to block, as he combines incredible burst and timing with a deep pass-rush tool kit. Griffen's speed is the foundation of his pass-rush plan. That quickness allows him to be successful with his best move: the inside spin. </p><p>Here’s an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/d9az5QFbEFrGcGZ1oh" width="480" height="248" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Griffen is aligned with a wide outside shade over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Lions</a> left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61745" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61745">Taylor Decker</a>. After the snap, he explodes out of his stance and pushes forward, mimicking his speed-rush move up the edge to set up his inside spin.</p><p>Once Decker turns his shoulders perpendicular to the line of scrimmage and commits to stopping the speed rush, Griffen executes a long-arm stab with his inside arm to maintain the separation necessary to execute the inside spin.</p><p>Decker’s only option is to commit an egregious hold on Griffen, which still isn’t enough to keep the defensive end from taking down the quarterback for the sack.</p><p>Against Leno this week, don’t be surprised if you see Griffen use his inside spin to record a sack, as the tackle often turns his shoulders too early and makes himself vulnerable.</p><h3>Ravens LB Za’Darius Smith vs. Browns RT Chris Hubbard</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72406" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/72406">Za’Darius Smith</a> is one of the most unappreciated defenders in the NFL. He's been one of the better playmakers on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/12" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/12">Baltimore</a>’s dominant defense while racking up 43 tackles (nine for a loss), 25 quarterback hits, 8.5 sacks, two pass deflections, and a forced fumble.</p><p>Unable to rely on his athleticism to speed past offensive tackles, Smith leans on his timing and refined hand usage instead, which is why he’s able to generate pressure from a variety of different alignments.</p><p>In a must-win game for Baltimore, Smith is the defender best positioned to take advantage of his matchups up front. Baltimore moves him all around the front seven to take advantage of the opposing offensive line's weakness. This week, the weak link is right tackle Chris Hubbard.</p><p>These two aren’t strangers, as Smith has been successful against Hubbard in the past. That includes the last time Baltimore played Cleveland when Smith beat Hubbard for a sack:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/5eFtYYHSSR10d6hj4h" width="480" height="248" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>Smith is aligned with a wide outside shade over Hubbard. After the snap, he fires out of his stance, looking to execute a stab-club to get around the edge.</p><p>While Smith’s initial move doesn’t work, it does make the inside counter move available. With Hubbard’s momentum taking him up the edge, Smith re-directs inside using a slingshot entry into an arm over move, allowing him to penetrate the pocket and take down Baker Mayfield for the sack.</p><p>Because of his success against him early this season, Baltimore will probably look to pit Smith against Hubbard as much as possible in an effort to make Mayfield’s life in the pocket miserable.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

PITTSBURGH, PA -DECEMBER 02: Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cameron Heyward (97) is announced during the NFL football game between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Pittsburgh Steelers on December 02, 2018 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, PA.

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Week 17 Mismatches: Cameron Heyward looks to dominate Bengals

<p>After another slate filled with sacks, stops, and stuffs, let's review the standout performers from the trenches during Week 16:</p><h3>Defensive Lineman of the Week: DT Aaron Donald, Rams</h3><p>After two straight quiet weeks, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43119" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43119">Donald</a> made some real noise against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/22" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/22">Arizona Cardinals</a>, finishing with five tackles, four quarterback hits, and three sacks in one of his best performances of the season.</p><p>Donald dominated the Cardinals' offensive line throughout the game, as his quickness and hand technique were too much for the opposition to handle. His first sack was a great example:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330936/preview.png?ts=1545663233" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330936/animation.mp4?ts=1545663233" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330936/animation.webm?ts=1545663233" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL/FOX</span></figcaption></figure><p>Donald is aligned as the 3-technique defensive tackle with an outside shade over Arizona left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/77142" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/77142">Colby Gossett</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Donald explodes out of his stance and pushes vertical.</p><p>The tackle's wide alignment and get-off forces Gossett to reach outside his frame to attempt to slow down the rush. This is exactly what Donald wants, as he uses a perfectly-timed cross-chop to defeat the opposition's hands.</p><p>Donald finishes with an effective club-arm move, which eliminates Gossett's ability to recover and allows No. 99 to get his hips on track toward the quarterback. From there, he accelerates to the middle of the pocket to bring down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94823" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/94823">Josh Rosen</a> for the sack.</p><p>With his three sacks against Arizona, Donald improved his total to 19.5, three behind Michael Strahan's single-season record of 22.5.</p><p>However, Donald is so effective at rushing the passer that it's easy to forget how outstanding he is against the run:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330937/preview.png?ts=1545663416" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330937/animation.mp4?ts=1545663416" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330937/animation.webm?ts=1545663416" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL/FOX</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, the Cardinals make the unwise choice of leaving Donald single-blocked in the run game and are punished accordingly.</p><p>Once the ball is snapped, Donald expands outside and forces Gossett to lunge to make contact, and the Rams tackle eats lunging linemen for breakfast.</p><p>As Gossett attempts to make contact, Donald is able to parry the strike with his outside hand and perform a rip move with his inside hand to clear contact and get hip to hip with the guard. From there, Donald is able to zoom into the backfield and finish with the tackle for loss.</p><p>Donald's ability to dominate games against both the run and pass makes him one of the best defensive tackles to ever step foot on an NFL field. Sunday was just another example of that.</p><h3>Pass Rush of the Week: DT Malik Jackson, Jaguars</h3><p>After being one of the most disruptive interior defenders in football through his first two seasons with the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/16" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/16">Jaguars</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18641" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18641">Jackson</a> has struggled this year. He entered Sunday's contest with just 32 total tackles (five for loss) and one sack after recording 40 tackles (10 for loss) and eight sacks in 2017.</p><p>Jackson didn't exactly right the ship versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/2" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/2">Miami</a>, but his fourth-quarter sack provided a glimpse of the player he can be when he's at his best:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330939/preview.png?ts=1545663654" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330939/animation.mp4?ts=1545663654" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330939/animation.webm?ts=1545663654" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Jackson is lined up as the 3-technique defensive tackle with an outside shade of Miami's left guard. After the ball is snapped, he slants his rush from the weak-side B-gap into the strong-side A-gap, leaving him one-on-one with Dolphins center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20148" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20148">Travis Swanson</a>.</p><p>Once he gets within striking distance, Jackson executes a long-arm stab with his inside hand to establish the distance while using a chop move with his outside hand, causing the Dolphins' center to tumble forward as he missed with his strike.</p><p>From there, Jackson pursues and brings down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21390" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21390">Ryan Tannehill</a> for the sack.</p><p>In a year when little has gone right for Jackson, it was promising to see him display the technique that led the Jaguars to give him a six-year, $90-million contract in 2016. This fourth-quarter sack proves Jackson still has the skills to play at a high level.</p><h3>Run Defender of the Week: DT Brandon Mebane, Chargers</h3><p>After missing the previous four games <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/chargers/2018/12/21/chargers-brandon-mebane-daughter-heart-condition/2375168002/">to spend time with his wife and family </a>following the premature birth of their daughter, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2148" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/2148">Mebane</a> made his return to the field against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/12" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/12">Baltimore Ravens</a> on Saturday night.</p><p>It was in a losing effort, but Mebane was fantastic against the run, accumulating six tackles in 20 snaps.</p><p>Listed at 6-foot-1 and 311 lbs, Mebane utilizes his natural leverage advantage to consistently hold his ground, and when he attains superior hand placement at the point of attack, he's nearly impossible to stop against the run:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330941/preview.png?ts=1545663568" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330941/animation.mp4?ts=1545663568" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330941/animation.webm?ts=1545663568" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Mebane is aligned as the nose tackle with a slight shade over the Ravens' center. Once the ball is snapped, he fires out of his stance and initiates contact with the center, allowing him to dictate the action at the point of attack.</p><p>Superior hand placement allows him to drive the center back a yard, resetting the line of scrimmage while creating the separation necessary with his length to shed the block and make the tackle after a minimal gain.</p><p>Mebane demonstrates his mastery of the basics, as he uses a simple stack-and-shed, or "bull-pull."</p><p>Even in a loss, L.A. has to be happy to have Mebane back patrolling the A-gaps on defense.</p><h3>In the Spotlight: DE Chris Long, Eagles</h3><p>Playing on one of the most talented defensive lines in football, it's easy to forget about <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1152" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1152">Long</a>. However, the Virginia product is consistently one of the better complementary pass-rushers in football.</p><p>At 6-foot-3 and 270 lbs, Long uses his speed, effort, and active hands to generate pressure as a pass-rusher. He does an excellent job of contorting his body at the top of his rush to make it difficult for offensive tackles to land a strike. Even if he's initially stymied, Long stays active with his hands while continuing to pursue the ball.</p><p>In a crucial game to keep <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Philadelphia</a>'s playoff hopes alive, Long was at his best off the edge, recording two tackles, three quarterback hits, two sacks, and a forced fumble against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/13">Texans</a>.</p><p>He really turned it on when the Eagles needed him most, as both of his sacks came in the fourth quarter. When Houston was driving to tie the game early in the final frame, it was Long who came up with the big play:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330942/preview.png?ts=1545663742" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330942/animation.mp4?ts=1545663742" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330942/animation.webm?ts=1545663742" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>He's aligned in a two-point stance with a wide outside shade over the Texans' tight end. After the ball is snapped, Long explodes upfield and avoids the tight end's chip block before leveraging his speed up the edge to stress the right tackle's pass set.</p><p>As <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84667" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/84667">Deshaun Watson</a> reaches the apex of his drop, Long dips his inside shoulder - reducing his blockable surface area - as he flattens to the quarterback. Watson initially steps up in the pocket to avoid the rush, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14840" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14840">Brandon Graham</a>'s inside pressure forces the quarterback to retreat right into the defensive end's arms.<br><br>Instead of merely sacking Watson, Long is also able to knock the ball free, forcing a fumble that was recovered by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20600" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20600">Fletcher Cox</a>. The Eagles turned that fumble into a crucial touchdown.</p><p>If Philadelphia finds its way into the playoffs, don't forget about the reserve defensive end who helped make it happen.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 23: Defensive end Aaron Donald #99 of the Los Angeles Rams celebrates after a sack against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half of the NFL game at State Farm Stadium on December 23, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The Rams defeated the Cardinals 31-9.

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Defensive Line All-Stars: A look back at Week 16's standout defenders

Here's a breakdown of four significant positional mismatches in Week 16:  Titans DL Jurrell Casey...

<p>Here's a breakdown of four significant positional mismatches in Week 16:</p><h3>Titans DL Jurrell Casey vs. Redskins' interior offensive line</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/20" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/20">Washington Redskins</a>' offensive line has been decimated by injuries this season, and the interior's been hit particularly hard, with guards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/44873" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/44873">Arie Kouandjio</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18120" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18120">Shawn Lauvao</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/42930" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/42930">Brandon Scherff</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12022" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/12022">Jonathan Cooper</a> all out with season-ending injuries.</p><p>As a result, Washington's assembled a rag-tag unit with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12270" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/12270">Luke Bowanko</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/22544" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/22544">Tony Bergstrom</a> starting at the guard positions. Center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61646" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61646">Chase Roullier</a> is the lone member of the interior offensive line to start every game this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>This week, they'll get the unenviable task of blocking <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/14" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/14">Tennessee Titans</a> lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18601" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18601">Jurrell Casey</a>, who's been underrated for quite some time and has dominated this season with 58 tackles (11 for loss), 11 quarterback hits, seven sacks, and two pass deflections.</p><p>One of the best ways to attack an offensive line that's not used to playing together is with stunts, as the absence of continuity makes it difficult to quickly determine blocking assignments.</p><p>So, it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Titans dial up a number of stunts and complex blitzes to take advantage. Here's an example of Casey’s effectiveness on stunts:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330516/preview.png?ts=1545399369" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330516/animation.mp4?ts=1545399369" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330516/animation.webm?ts=1545399369" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this play, Casey (No. 99) is aligned in the B-gap as the defensive tackle between the offensive guard and offensive tackle. Once the ball is snapped, he veers outside as the "penetrator" in a tackle-end stunt with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83821" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/83821">Harold Landry</a> (No. 58) as the "looper."</p><p>That means Casey's tasked with drawing the attention of the right guard and tackle just long enough for Landry to loop inside unblocked. However, the right guard and tackle fail to communicate - the guard takes on Landry but the tackle doesn't pick up Casey in time - which allows Casey to get free and sack the quarterback.</p><p>When he's not rushing the passer, Casey should have a disruptive day against the run. Bowanko and Bergstrom lack the raw strength to hang with Casey at the point of attack, and they're nowhere near technical enough to counter the array of moves he'll throw their way. This play is a great example of Casey’s ability against the run:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330517/preview.png?ts=1545399910" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330517/animation.mp4?ts=1545399910" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330517/animation.webm?ts=1545399910" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Casey's once again aligned in the B-gap as the defensive tackle. Once the ball is snapped, he angles his body slightly so he can expand his rush outside when the right tackle engages him.</p><p>As he starts to expand outside, Casey executes a perfectly timed chop with his outside hand, causing the guard to lose his balance and stumble forward. This makes it easy for Casey to clear the block and make the tackle at the line of scrimmage.</p><p>Saturday's matchup with Washington screams "big-time performance" for Casey, and Tennessee could coast to a victory if he comes through as expected.</p><h3>Bears DL Akiem Hicks vs. 49ers RG Mike Person</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Chicago Bears</a>' defense is the best in the league and stacked with talent at every level. And while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/33866" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/33866">Khalil Mack</a> (rightfully) receives a lot of attention, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20376" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20376">Akiem Hicks</a> might be just as important.</p><p>Hicks has been an outstanding defensive tackle this season, racking up 51 tackles (11 for a loss), 11 quarterback hits, six sacks, three forced fumbles, and a pass deflection. He was voted to the Pro Bowl and it will be a travesty if he doesn’t get All-Pro consideration.</p><p>This week, Hicks should dominate his matchup with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/23" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/23">San Francisco 49ers</a> right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/25262" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/25262">Mike Person</a>, who hasn’t been bad this season but doesn’t match up well here. Person mostly struggles with defensive tackles who play with a great deal of power at the point of attack - and that certainly describes Hicks.</p><p>At 6-foot-5 and 332 pounds, Hicks exerts a unique amount of force with his strikes. He also complements that power with deceptive quickness and a wide array of hand techniques. Here's a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330536/preview.png?ts=1545404514" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330536/animation.mp4?ts=1545404514" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330536/animation.webm?ts=1545404514" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this play, Hicks is aligned with an outside shade over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/21" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/21">Los Angeles Rams</a> right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/57440" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/57440">Austin Blythe</a>, one of the best in the league at his position.</p><p>After the ball is snapped, Hicks hops outside, influencing Blythe to get more width in his pass set, which also widens the gap between the center and Blythe, opening up the inside move. So, Hicks tries to win inside, executing a powerful club move with his inside hand. However, Blythe manages to counter the move and stay in front of Hicks, forcing him into Plan B.</p><p>Hicks quickly re-counters by stabbing with his outside hand, which pins Blythe inside and creates a soft edge to work around on the way to sacking <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71572" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/71572">Jared Goff</a>.</p><p>There may only be a handful of human beings with the technique, balance, power, and quickness to make that sequence work, but Hicks is one of them. And that's a bad sign for Person, who should have a long day at the office.</p><h3>Broncos LB Bradley Chubb vs. Raiders LT Kolton Miller</h3><p>A week after getting a <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1677317/week-15-mismatches-broncos-chubb-should-wreak-havoc-on-browns">great matchup</a> against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/10">Cleveland Browns</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/85942" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/85942">Bradley Chubb</a> has an even tastier showdown in Week 16.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/7">Oakland Raiders</a> rookie left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/90349" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/90349">Kolton Miller</a> might be the worst starting offensive tackle in football, as he's declined after a decent start to the campaign. He especially struggles with powerful pass-rushers, as he lacks the core strength and hand techniques to anchor against them.</p><p>This week, Miller will have his hands full with Chubb, whose 12 sacks are just 2.5 behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/803" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/803">Jevon Kearse</a>'s rookie record. And Chubb plays with the powerful style that Miller has trouble with, which is seen on plays like this:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330558/preview.png?ts=1545411250" loop muted autoplay playsinline controls onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330558/animation.mp4?ts=1545411250" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330558/animation.webm?ts=1545411250" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>Here, Chubb's aligned with an outside shade over Rams left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/326" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/326">Andrew Whitworth</a>, one of the best in the NFL. Chubb attacks Whitworth down the middle with a bull rush and does a good job of winning the hand-placement and leverage battles, allowing him to walk Whitworth back to the quarterback.</p><p>Once Whitworth tries to anchor against the bull rush, Chubb uses the tackle's slight forward momentum against him, as he moves Whitworth aside and brings down Goff.</p><p>Expect Chubb to take advantage of Miller - who's nowhere near Whitworth's level - throughout Monday's game.</p><h3>Seahawks DT Jarran Reed vs. Chiefs' offensive guards</h3><p>Fresh off being snubbed from the Pro Bowl, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/24">Seattle Seahawks</a> defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84050" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/84050">Jarran Reed</a> will be out to prove it was the wrong decision.</p><p>And while the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/6" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/6">Kansas City Chiefs</a> possess one of the best offenses in football, their interior offensive line doesn’t meet that standard. Center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/42776" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/42776">Mitch Morse</a> is adept in pass protection, but the same can't be said for guards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/42722" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/42722">Cameron Erving</a>, who missed last week with a knee injury, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72288" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/72288">Andrew Wylie</a>. If Erving's held out once again, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14450" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14450">Jeff Allen</a> will take his place.</p><p>Meanwhile, Reed is solid against the run, but his ability to rush the passer (8.5 sacks this season) has blossomed this season. Here's an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><video poster="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330523/preview.png?ts=1545401396" loop="" muted="" autoplay="" playsinline="" controls="" onclick="if(/android 2.[0-3]/.test(navigator.userAgent.toLowerCase())) { var sources = this.getElementsByTagName('source'); for(var i = 0, total = sources.length; i &lt; total; i++) { this.removeChild(sources[0]);}; this.outerHTML = this.innerHTML; }"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330523/animation.mp4?ts=1545401396" type="video/mp4"> <source src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/330523/animation.webm?ts=1545401396" type="video/webm"> Your browser does not support the video tag. </source></source></video><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NFL</span></figcaption></figure><p>On this play, Reed's aligned with an outside shade over the left guard. After the ball is snapped, he fakes an attack to the outside before darting inside with a two-hand swipe and arm-over finish that clears contact.</p><p>From there, Reed bullies his way through light contact to bring down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/76576" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/76576">Nick Mullens</a> for the sack.</p><p>Prior to this year, Reed wouldn't have made that sack (he had just three in the last two seasons), but don't be surprised if he keeps producing against Kansas City's biggest weakness - guard play. </p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

NASHVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 16: Jurrell Casey #99 of the Tennessee Titans runs onto the field prior to a game against the Houston Texans at Nissan Stadium on September 16, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Week 16 Mismatches: Jurrell Casey should feast on Redskins' ravaged O-line

<p>After another slate filled with sacks, stops and stuffs, let's review the standout performers from the trenches during Week 15:</p><h3>Defensive Lineman of the Week: DL Chris Jones, Chiefs</h3><p>Even in a losing effort, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74524" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/74524">Chris Jones</a> was probably the best player on the field on Thursday, finishing with three tackles, 2.5 sacks, one pass deflection, and eight (!!!) quarterback hits against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/8" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/8">Los Angeles Chargers</a>. In the process, he tied the all-time record for the most consecutive games with at least one sack (10).</p><p>At 6-foot-6 and 310 pounds, Jones might appear to be another gargantuan defensive tackle who eats up space and dominates against the run - but that couldn't be further from the truth. In reality, Jones possesses an electric get-off, incredible quickness, and a wide array of footwork and hand techniques, making him a nightmare for slower-footed offensive guards to block on passing plays. Jones' second sack against the Chargers is a great example of his ability to generate pressure using quickness:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/2hghaDN9svn3ZmzQzs" width="480" height="224" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Jones is aligned over the outside shoulder of the right guard, and is looking to run an exchange stunt with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/19359" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/19359">Justin Houston</a> (No. 50) to his left. The idea is that Jones will immediately penetrate the line and pick off the right tackle so Houston can get free to loop behind him inside. However, because the right tackle quickly engages Houston, Jones can't pick him off and instead becomes a traditional pass-rusher in a matchup with the guard.</p><p>From there, Jones uses a perfectly timed one-hand swipe to stymie the right guard’s punch and clear contact, giving him space to dip and rip at the apex of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1955" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1955">Philip Rivers</a>' drop before flattening toward him for the sack.</p><p>It's pretty impressive that although Jones is meant to set up his teammate, he's able to adjust in the blink of an eye, beat his own blocker, and bring down Rivers. There are less than a handful of defensive tackles with the awareness, quickness, flexibility, and hand timing to make that play.</p><p>And Jones wasn't done, saving his best for last:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/69lUyOU1LQHksVolqy" width="480" height="224" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Jones is again aligned over the outside shoulder of the right guard. Once the ball is snapped, he immediately takes a jab step toward the guard's inside edge. That leads the guard to lean inside while widening his base, which makes it more difficult to recover.</p><p>Next, Jones redirects back to the guard's outside edge and uses a forklift move with his arm to clear contact. The guard actually does a good job of re-establishing his hands (although his base is all over the place), but Jones keeps his own hands combat-ready. He effortlessly sequences into a stab with his inside arm while executing another forklift move with his outside hand to clear contact a second time.</p><p>From there, Jones drops his pad level and turns a tight corner to Rivers, whom he eventually helps bring down after crawling around in the pocket.</p><p>Overall, Jones' performance was simply one of the best by any interior lineman in the league this season, as Los Angeles couldn't slow him down. It's time to recognize him as one of the premier players at his position.</p><h3>Pass Rush of the Week: DE Khalil Mack, Bears</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/33866" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/33866">Khalil Mack</a> continued his dominant first season with the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Chicago Bears</a> by racking up 2.5 sacks, three quarterback hits, and six tackles - two for a loss - against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/27">Green Bay Packers</a> on Sunday. </p><p>Though he had numerous outstanding plays against Green Bay, this sack from the second quarter is the most impressive:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/d5NQA73qcX3ZepSAsu" width="480" height="224" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Mack aligns in a two-point stance outside of Green Bay's left tackle before firing out of his stance and beginning with a slight inside jab step. Mack then expands his rush back outside, executing a quick stab with his outside hand as he places his inside hand on the right tackle's inside forearm.</p><p>Once his hands are in place, Mack forklifts the tackle's arm, which clears the point of contact and knocks him off-balance. And despite an egregious hold from the tackle, Mack's able to hit <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/747" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/747">Aaron Rodgers</a> <em>with his back</em>, which contributes to bringing him down for the sack. </p><p>The entire sequence encapsulates Mack as a player - he continually accomplishes rare feats on the back of outstanding timing, technique, and power.</p><h3>Run Defender of the Week: DT Grady Jarrett, Falcons</h3><p>Lost in the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/29" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/29">Atlanta Falcons</a>' disappointing season has been the outstanding play of defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53058" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/53058">Grady Jarrett</a>, who deserves to be ranked in the non-<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43119" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43119">Aaron Donald</a> tier of elite defensive tackles. And Jarrett was at his best against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/22" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/22">Arizona Cardinals</a> on Sunday, finishing with seven tackles - two for a loss - two quarterback hits, two sacks, and a forced fumble. He certainly would have been our "Defensive Lineman of the Week" if not for Jones' incredible performance broken down above.</p><p>Instead, we'll highlight Jarrett's performance in the running game, as the Falcons held the Cardinals to just 60 rushing yards on 22 carries (2.73 yards per attempt). This play - in which Jarrett completely blows up an attempted draw on a delayed handoff - is a great example of his efforts:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/3nivTqUTYHcFcnURWH" width="480" height="233" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, he's aligned with an outside shade over Arizona’s right guard, who pretends to start pass blocking after the snap in an attempt to get Jarrett to rush upfield past the ball-carrier. However, Jarrett doesn't take the bait, as he knocks the guard off his spot with a powerful two-hand punch before getting in the running back's path for the stop.</p><p>Jarrett's often recognized for his quickness and hand techniques, but he rarely receives enough credit for the sheer amount of power he generates at the point of attack. That's exactly what we see here, as Jarrett knocks his man backward and takes down the running back behind the line of scrimmage.</p><h3>In the Spotlight: DL Henry Anderson, Jets</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/42546" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/42546">Henry Anderson</a>'s been one of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/4" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/4">New York Jets</a>' better run defenders all season, so it was no surprise that he made several plays near the line of scrimmage against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/13">Houston Texans</a>.</p><p>The more surprising production came against the pass, as Anderson entered Saturday's game with just three sacks this season and proceeded to double that total against the Texans. At times, Anderson benefited from Houston quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84667" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/84667">Deshaun Watson</a> holding the ball too long - but certainly not on this play:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/tsWYiMPoT4cs410V0D" width="480" height="224" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Anderson's aligned directly over the center. Once the ball is snapped, he slants to his right and engages the left guard while attaining superior hand placement. That hand placement allows Anderson to move the guard off his spot and walk him into the backfield.</p><p>The guard then attempts to re-anchor, but Anderson does well to work inside with an exaggerated arm-over move that clears contact before bringing down Watson.</p><p>Anderson's length and strength - which allow him to be effective against the run every week - were on full display during that sack. And while he's never going to be a star and often doesn't show up much on the stat sheet, the 27-year-old's capable of being a valuable role player with the odd big-time performance. In this case, it was almost enough to help the Jets upset the heavily favored Texans.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 13: Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Chris Jones (95) takes a bow after a sack in the second quarter of an NFL game between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs on December 13, 2018 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

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Defensive Line All-Stars: Breaking down Week 15's standouts

Here's a breakdown of four significant positional mismatches in Week 15:  Broncos LB Bradley Chub...

<p>Here's a breakdown of four significant positional mismatches in Week 15:</p><h3>Broncos LB Bradley Chubb vs. Browns LT Greg Robinson</h3><p>To the surprise of no one, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/85942" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/85942">Bradley Chubb</a>'s been far and away the best rookie pass-rusher in the NFL this season. Due to the presence of teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21358" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21358">Von Miller</a>, the 22-year-old's profited from a high frequency of one-on-one matchups, accumulating 47 tackles (13 for loss), 12 sacks, 18 quarterback hits, and two forced fumbles.</p><p>And Chubb's continued to improve, totaling 10.5 of those sacks in his last eight games - second best in that span behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43119" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43119">Aaron Donald</a> - which has him just 2.5 away from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/803" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/803">Jevon Kearse</a>'s rookie record for a season. Chubb will have a great chance to close in on that record against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/10">Cleveland Browns</a> and left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/51032" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/51032">Greg Robinson</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Robinson's done some positive things this season, but he has a bad tendency to false-step in his pass set and lunge with his strikes, meaning the more technically advanced pass-rushers can take advantage. Chubb may be a rookie, but he's already more refined than a lot of veterans. Here's a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/495WhxM0TJkzOqLuga" width="480" height="242" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Chubb's aligned in a two-point stance outside of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/8" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/8">Los Angeles Chargers</a> left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14408" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14408">Russell Okung</a>. Once he gets within striking distance, Chubb expands his rush outside and feints with a long-arm move, which gets Okung to extend both arms as he attempts to mirror Chubb up the edge.</p><p>But, it's a trap!</p><p>As Okung launches his two-hand punch, Chubb redirects inside with a perfectly timed inside-arm-over move, which allows him to sack <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1955" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1955">Philip Rivers</a>. Pay attention to the way Chubb manipulates Okung's pass set, which opens up the inside counter move.</p><p>On top of his refined pass-rush skill set, Chubb has an immense amount of power in his hands, which allows him to batter and bludgeon offensive tackles with long arms and bull rushes. Here's an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/7YDd9usk0B1u0cOpIz" width="480" height="242" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Chubb's aligned outside of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/22" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/22">Arizona Cardinals</a> left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61898" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61898">D.J. Humphries</a>. After the ball is snapped, Chubb fires out of his stance with short choppy steps as he reads Humphries' pass set.</p><p>Once he gets within striking distance, Chubb executes a perfectly placed long-arm stab with his inside arm and gets his hand above his eyes, which gives him optimal leverage. This allows Chubb to create a short corner and flatten to the pocket before bringing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94823" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/94823">Josh Rosen</a> down for the sack.</p><p>Chubb's having one of the best rookie seasons ever by a pass-rusher, and his combination of technique and power should lead to more big-time production against Robinson and the Browns.</p><h3>Colts DL Margus Hunt vs Cowboys LG Xavier Su'a-Filo</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Dallas Cowboys</a> are riding a five-game winning streak, but left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18919" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18919">Xavier Su'a-Filo</a> has played poorly - especially in the last two games.</p><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/664" href="https://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/664">UCLA</a> product is technically unrefined, as he relies on his raw strength and hulking frame to get the job done in the trenches. This causes Su'a-Filo to struggle against defensive linemen who are deliberate with their movements. Moreover, he has trouble with opponents who possess the length and hand placement to keep him off their body; if he can’t latch onto a defender, he lacks the footwork and balance to compensate.</p><p>It so happens that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21095" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21095">Margus Hunt</a> - who's listed as a defensive end for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/15" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/15">Indianapolis Colts</a> but plays more frequently at defensive tackle - has the length and hand usage to give Su'a-Filo a ton of problems. On an improved defense, Hunt's arguably been the best defensive lineman, recording 24 tackles (13 for loss), five sacks, four quarterback hits, two pass deflections, and a forced fumble this season.</p><p>He'll certainly bother Su'a-Filo as a pass-rusher, but Hunt should do more of his damage against the run. This play is a great illustration:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/QK42V1qnRpypXYS60o" width="480" height="242" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Hunt's matched up with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/2" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/2">Miami Dolphins</a> left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12196" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/12196">Ted Larsen</a> and does an excellent job of engaging Larsen at the point of attack with inside hands and better pad level.</p><p>After knocking Larsen back with his initial strike, Hunt rolls his shoulders and transitions into a one-arm stab with his right hand. That allows him to control Larsen while reading the path of the ball-carrier. Once the running back cuts back into his gap, Hunt's able to disengage and make the tackle.</p><p>This type of play will give Su'a-Filo problems, and Indianapolis will need to take advantage of this mismatch to stop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71827" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/71827">Ezekiel Elliott</a> and the Cowboys' rushing attack. </p><h3>49ers RT Mike McGlinchey vs. Seahawks DE Quinton Jefferson</h3><p>It's been a disappointing season for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/23" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/23">San Francisco 49ers</a>, but right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/77761" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/77761">Mike McGlinchey</a>'s been easily the best rookie offensive tackle in the NFL.</p><p> </p><p>Meanwhile, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/24">Seattle Seahawks</a> love to rotate their D-line, but when defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/54234" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/54234">Quinton Jefferson</a> - the team's weak link on the edge - lines up across from McGlinchey, the 49ers must take advantage.</p><p>In pass protection, McGlinchey should have no trouble mirroring Jefferson up the arc. He performed well against a far tougher opponent in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21358" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21358">Von Miller</a> last week, as seen in this example: </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/xWpUBuKLy3XncYIH6c" width="480" height="242" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, McGlinchey demonstrates his ability to block one of the NFL's best pass-rushers in space. He explodes out of his stance and stays in front of Miller while remaining balanced in his pass set.</p><p>Next, McGlinchey's well-timed punch knocks Miller off his pass-rush track and eliminates any chance of generating quick pressure. And McGlinchey stays patient, landing another two-hand punch once Miller attempts to continue his rush. It results in a beautiful pocket for quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/76576" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/76576">Nick Mullens</a> to set up and complete his throw.</p><p>If McGlinchey can survive against Miller in pass protection, then Jefferson should be a cakewalk. And in the running game, McGlinchey can leverage his large frame and raw strength to displace Jefferson from his gap, opening alleys for running backs.</p><p>If the 49ers - whose playoff chances are long gone - want to play spoiler against the Seahawks, they'll need to move the ball by attacking mismatches like this one.</p><h3>Dolphins DE Cameron Wake vs. Vikings RT Rashod Hill</h3><p>Another week means another opportunity for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1249" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1249">Cameron Wake</a> to show that age is just a number for some NFL players. At 36, Wake's still rushing the passer at a high level, and his 4.5 sacks don't reflect that he actually generates pressure at one of the highest rates in the league.</p><p>Against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/28">Minnesota Vikings</a>, Wake will have a tasty matchup with right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53279" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/53279">Rashod Hill</a>, who's filling in for the injured <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/85970" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/85970">Brian O'Neill</a>.</p><p>Hill's started at right and left tackle this season, but he's struggled on both sides. Most of the issue crop up in pass protection, where poor weight distribution and punch timing get him in trouble. Hill also has problems hitting his landmarks while dropping back to form the pocket, which essentially makes him a turnstile versus more athletic pass-rushers.</p><p>That's not a recipe for success against Wake, who's still very athletic and has mastered the nuances of pass-rushing - the biggest reason he's stayed so efficient at age 36. Here's an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/1ykmIjxZb66ieQTHFx" width="480" height="270" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Wake's aligned well outside of Colts right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87157" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/87157">Braden Smith</a>. He then fires out of his stance and takes an initial step forward before expanding outside and pushing vertical, which manipulates the width of Smith's pass set. Because the first step forces Smith to respect a potential bull rush or inside move, he can't get wide enough to keep up around the arc.</p><p>That gives Wake a short corner, and once the two players are close enough to make contact, Wake stabs Smith with a long-arm technique, making the corner even shorter on his way to the apex of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18750" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18750">Andrew Luck</a>'s drop. The long arm also creates enough separation for Wake to lean forward and jump to knock the ball out of Luck's hands.</p><p>Don't be surprised if Wake parties like its 2012 (his 15.5-sack season) in the Vikings' backfield after burning Hill around the edge throughout Sunday's game.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 9: Bradley Chubb #55 of the Denver Broncos celebrates the Bronco trying to come back as the Denver Broncos take on the San Francisco 49er's at Levi's Stadium December 9, 2018 in Santa Clara, CA.

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Week 15 Mismatches: Broncos' Chubb should wreak havoc on Browns

<p>After another slate filled with sacks, stops and stuffs, let's review the standout performers from the trenches during Week 14:</p><h3>Defensive Lineman of the Week: DE Myles Garrett, Browns</h3><p>Prior to Sunday’s action, we detailed why <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Myles Garrett</a> was <a href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1671822/week-14-mismatches-patriots-guy-will-be-a-problem-for-dolphins">primed</a> for a big day against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/32" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/32">Carolina Panthers</a> left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1263" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1263">Chris Clark</a> - and it proved to be true, as Garrett was outstanding throughout the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/10">Cleveland Browns</a>' 26-20 upset victory.</p><p>Garrett took advantage of Clark throughout the game, finishing with five tackles - including two for a loss - three quarterback hits, and a sack. On that sack, the sophomore leveraged his rare speed around the edge to bring down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/41055" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/41055">Cam Newton</a>:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/1AiqagYrLgNTVktiLi" width="480" height="270" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>As seen above, Garrett aligns with an outside shade over Clark and does an excellent job of timing the snap to immediately stress the blocker's pass set. After pushing vertical for three steps, Garrett executes a powerful rip move to beat Clark's hands and shorten the corner. From there, he showcases effective footwork to make the sharp turn and chase Newtown down.</p><p>Garrett is also excellent at converting his speed to power, and the following play - which was originally ruled a sack but overturned to an incompletion - is a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/8JQ6eM8r7ZZYiaf0su" width="480" height="256" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>Here, Garrett explodes out of his stance and pushes vertical for four steps, once again stressing Clark's pass set. The tackle scrambles to stay in front, which means that even though he beats Garrett to the intersection point, he can't set his feet to anchor against the bull rush. </p><p>That allows Garrett to walk Clark back into Newton's lap, forcing the quarterback to toss the ball at his running back's feet to prevent the sack.</p><p>Overall, Garrett's become more consistent and well-rounded in his second season while sitting third in the NFL with 12.5 sacks. But the former No. 1 pick isn't even close to reaching his ceiling - a terrifying prospect for offensive linemen around the league.</p><h3>Pass Rush of the Week: DE Cameron Jordan, Saints</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18252" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18252">Cameron Jordan</a>'s been one of the best all-around defensive ends in football for the last three years. He plays the run and the pass equally well, allowing him to affect games in a multitude of ways.</p><p>Here, we'll break down his impressive second-quarter sack of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/31" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/31">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/64259" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/64259">Jameis Winston</a>:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/ycCxgcVQU7UXHMLjiF" width="480" height="271" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>Jordan begins in a two-point stance just outside of the tight end. After the ball is snapped, he pushes upfield, utilizing a quick arm-over move to avoid the tight end's chip block. </p><p>Next, Jordan turns his hips toward the pocket and attacks the right tackle. Just before he gets within striking distance, a quick stutter-step gets the tackle to slide slightly outside, giving Jordan space to execute a perfect club-to-arm-over move that beats the block on his way to sacking Winston.</p><p>Here's the play slowed down. Pay attention to Jordan's upper-body mobility as he executes the arm-over move. Keeping his hips on track while rotating his shoulder so drastically allows him to maintain momentum while staying on a path toward the quarterback:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/1AipN9hrPd993GvzKg" width="480" height="256" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>In a game that saw the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/30" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/30">Saints</a>' offense start slow, Jordan and the defense made sure nothing came easy for the Bucs' explosive passing attack in a 28-14 win.</p><h3>Run Defender(s) of the Week: DTs A'Shawn Robinson and Damon Harrison, Lions</h3><p>This week, we're going to cheat a little bit and name two players from the same team - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Detroit Lions</a> defensive tackles <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/78288" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/78288">A'Shawn Robinson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61863" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61863">Damon "Snacks" Harrison</a>. The duo put on a show against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/22" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/22">Arizona Cardinals</a> on Sunday, limiting the rushing attack to 65 yards on 21 carries (3.1 yards per attempt).</p><p>In the example we'll highlight below, Harrison and Robinson are aligned straight over the right guard and left guard, respectively, and shut down the running play:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/3j0K1Z1nS2ewIRdUP7" width="480" height="266" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Both defensive tackles play an important role here. When the ball is snapped, Harrison immediately uses an arm-over move to shed the guard before engaging the right tackle. That resets the line of scrimmage and eliminates the running back's ability to bounce outside.</p><p>Meanwhile, Robinson absorbs a double-team from the center and right guard. Even though he slips toward the end, Robinson impressively holds his ground at the point of attack by executing an "anchor turn" that uses his left leg as a kickstand. Here's another look:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/k7hYpCttF5XkZ8ke1f" width="480" height="256" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>With one tackle eliminating an escape route and the other plugging the middle, the Lions limit this second-and-7 run to a 1-yard gain.</p><p>And this is par for the course, as Robinson and Harrison have become the best run-stuffing defensive tackle duo in the NFL since the latter's midseason trade to Detroit.</p><h3>In the Spotlight: DL Denico Autry, Colts</h3><p>With five sacks in the last two weeks, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61402" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61402">Denico Autry</a> is a worthy player to feature here. He's a former undrafted free agent who spent the first four years of his career with the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/7">Oakland Raiders</a> before moving to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/15" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/15">Indianapolis Colts</a> this season.</p><p>At 6-foot-5 and 270 pounds, Autry moves around the defensive line and varies his strategy accordingly. On the interior, he uses quickness to cause problems for slower-footed guards. On the outside, he looks to overpower weaker tackles with violent hand techniques and bull rushes.</p><p>And while Autry has sometimes benefited from Indianapolis' secondary forcing quarterbacks to hold the ball too long, his second-quarter takedown of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/13">Houston Texans</a> pivot <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84667" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/84667">Deshaun Watson</a> didn’t require any assistance whatsoever:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/mXycDiPnZF1ArPDDMX" width="480" height="256" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Autry's aligned in the A-gap between the center and left guard. After the ball is snapped, he quickly swims over and avoids the guard's block attempt before bursting into the backfield. </p><p>Here it is in full speed, as Watson has absolutely no chance to survey the field before being brought down:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/3ICK6iaHTsCxtvB3jr" width="480" height="215" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>This is the issue that Autry poses for guards and centers who aren't used to his type of speed in the A-gaps. And while he's been a solid run defender all year, the added pass-rush dimension is taking his game to new heights.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em><br> </p>

CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 09: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers carries the ball in front of Myles Garrett #95 of the Cleveland Browns during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium on December 9, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Defensive Line All-Stars: Breaking down Week 14's standouts

Here's a breakdown of four significant positional mismatches in Week 14:  Patriots DE Lawrence Gu...

<p>Here's a breakdown of four significant positional mismatches in Week 14:</p><h3>Patriots DE Lawrence Guy vs. Dolphins OG Jesse Davis</h3><p>After one of his best performances of the season, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/3">New England Patriots</a> interior defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18097" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18097">Lawrence Guy</a> has an opportunity to replicate that showing this weekend against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/2" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/2">Miami Dolphins</a> guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/47571" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/47571">Jesse Davis</a>.</p><p>Guy's pass-rush style resembles a bull rampaging through a china shop. He isn't blessed with otherworldly speed or explosiveness, so he compensates with strength, leverage, and active hands. Here's an example:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/9xpL31qNNyjEx0Xhb0" width="480" height="240" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play from Week 13, Guy's aligned with a slight outside shade over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/28">Minnesota Vikings</a> right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18549" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18549">Mike Remmers</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Guy pushes vertically, attacking Remmers' outside edge with a rip move.</p><p>Once he reaches the apex of the quarterback's drop, Guy transitions to a powerful "hump move" <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx1g9Ctq-X8">made popular by Reggie White</a>. Even though Guy doesn't generate much speed on this rush, his upper-body strength allows him to toss Remmers aside. From there, Guy gets his hips on track and pursues the quarterback, resulting in a hit just after the ball is released.</p><p>But while Guy should generate pressure as a pass-rusher against Davis, his biggest impact will come defending the run, as his raw strength makes him almost impossible to displace at the point of attack. This fourth-down stand against the Vikings is a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/4H58X9YYb57jEXsGIW" width="480" height="197" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Guy's lined up in the backside A-gap between Minnesota's center and right guard. He's immediately double-teamed when the ball is snapped, but uses leverage and lower-body strength to absorb the contact and hold his ground against two 300-plus-pound offensive linemen.</p><p>Meanwhile, the Vikings actually do a great job of opening a crease in the other A-gap and look primed to convert the fourth down - but Guy has other ideas. His eye discipline allows him to identify the ball-carrier's path before escaping the double-team and making the tackle short of the stick.</p><p>This is where Davis will truly struggle against Guy. There might not be a guard with sloppier technique, which includes clumsy footwork and a lack of timing with his strikes.</p><p>Davis also carries his hands too wide, which allows defenders to initiate contact with superior placement. That would be fine if he had the footwork and core strength to anchor against power, but he doesn't.</p><p>It's a recipe for disaster against Guy, whose Hulk-like strength allows him to get the better of some upper-echelon guards - let alone someone like Davis. It’s difficult for interior defenders to accumulate big stats in Bill Belichick's system, but don't be surprised if Guy thoroughly dominates the line of scrimmage against Miami.</p><h3>Saints DT Sheldon Rankins vs. Buccaneers RG Caleb Benenoch</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/64734" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/64734">Sheldon Rankins</a> is quietly becoming one of the most disruptive defensive tackles in football. In 12 games with the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/30" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/30">New Orleans Saints</a> this season, the 2016 first-rounder has racked up 30 tackles - 10 for loss - 12 quarterback hits, and seven sacks.</p><p>Rankins is poised to keep producing in a tasty matchup against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/31" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/31">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/75144" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/75144">Caleb Benenoch</a>. The 24-year old Benenoch struggles to get enough depth in pass protection, leaving little room for error if he's beat off the snap. Additionally, he lacks nuance and timing with his strikes, making it easier for defenders to get in a rhythm as the game goes on.</p><p>That's bad news against Rankins, who possesses outstanding quickness, sneaky power, and a mix of hand and foot techniques that rival any interior defender not named <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43119" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43119">Aaron Donald</a>. Here's an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/fLmiMVuDg9MJZLbMNd" width="480" height="197" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Rankins is aligned in an A-gap with a slight inside shade over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/29" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/29">Atlanta Falcons</a> right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21711" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21711">Ben Garland</a>. After the ball is snapped, Rankins quickly engages Garland and controls him with superior hand position.</p><p>Next, Rankins peaks inside, which leads Garland to shift his weight in that direction. Seeing that, Rankins quickly jukes back outside, gets around Garland, and exits with an arm-over move. From there, Rankins' skilled footwork (toes pointed at the quarterback) allows him to get his hips on track with enough burst to chase down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/63" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/63">Matt Ryan</a> for the sack.</p><p>Unless he gets considerable help throughout the game, Benenoch is in for a long day against Rankins.</p><h3>Browns DE Myles Garrett vs. Panthers LT Chris Clark</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/10">Cleveland Browns</a> have undergone plenty of changes this season, but defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Myles Garrett</a> is a consistent force.</p><p>After an impressive seven-sack rookie campaign, the former No.1 overall pick has taken the next step this season by recording 32 tackles - including nine for a loss - 22 quarterback hits and 11.5 sacks. Most defensive ends would be ecstatic with those numbers across 16 games.</p><p>The player with the unenviable task of blocking Garrett this week is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/32" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/32">Carolina Panthers</a> left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1263" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1263">Chris Clark</a>, who's allowed three sacks in the last three games.</p><p>Things won't get easier against Garrett, whose speed is incredibly difficult to deal with. The 6-foot-4, 272-pounder possesses an uncanny ability to burst around the edge at sharp angles while reducing his blockable surface area. This play is a great illustration:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/1fgMBJRPlF0EqInslS" width="480" height="197" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Garrett's aligned with a wide outside shade over the left tackle. Once the ball is snapped, Garrett explodes out of his stance and pushes vertically. Then, like a runner rounding the final corner during a 400-meter dash, he sprints around the edge and finishes for the sack. </p><p>The tackle can barely lay a hand on Garrett as he speeds around the edge. It's rare for such a large human to possess that explosiveness and lower-body pliability, which is why Garrett's such an anomaly in the NFL.</p><p>Meanwhile, the above sack is similar to one that Clark <a href="https://twitter.com/Cianaf/status/1070092002648317952">allowed</a> to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/31" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/31">Tampa Bay</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/37950" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/37950">Jason Pierre-Paul</a> last week, so it’s easy to see why this matchup leans heavily in Garrett's favor. Expect the pass-rusher to generate a ton of pressure on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/41055" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/41055">Cam Newton</a>.</p><h3>Vikings DE Danielle Hunter vs. Seahawks RT Germain Ifedi</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/24">Seattle Seahawks</a> right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/63744" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/63744">Germain Ifedi</a> looks like a different player under new offensive line coach Mike Solari. After being one of the league's worst at the position under Tom Cable, Ifedi's been average - or perhaps slightly above average - this year. He's gotten better by cleaning up his footwork issues and improving his hand techniques.</p><p>But even with the drastic improvements, Ifedi faces an uphill battle Sunday against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/60658" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/60658">Danielle Hunter</a>, who's become a star this season after years of playing second fiddle to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18624" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18624">Everson Griffen</a>. Hunter's fourth in the NFL with 11.5 sacks, while also recording 58 tackles - 16 for loss - 15 quarterback hits, and a fumble recovery that went for a touchdown.</p><p>At 6-foot-5 and 252 pounds, Hunter has a rare mix of power and speed, but his technique is the key that allows him to maximize those physical gifts:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/33F8aCkFfT7Nl1oP35" width="480" height="222" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Hunter's aligned well outside of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/26" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/26">Detroit Lions</a> right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/15756" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/15756">Rick Wagner</a>. After the ball is snapped, Hunter pushes at a 45-degree angle toward the pocket, allowing him to manipulate the width of Wagner's pass set.</p><p>Next, Hunter suddenly throws on the brakes and executes an inside-arm-over move to beat Wagner's hands. The right tackle's momentum is pulling him forward, making it difficult to stay balanced as he whiffs with his strike.</p><p>From there, it's almost impossible for Wagner to recover. His only hope is to hold Hunter, but that fails as the pass-rusher's power allows him to continue pursuing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/680" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/680">Matthew Stafford</a>, resulting in a sack.</p><p>After being held sack-less since Week 9, Hunter's primed to end the drought this week. Ifedi's improved, but he's still not ready to handle Hunter in one-on-one situations. </p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - AUGUST 30: New England Patriots defensive tackle Lawrence Guy (93) on the sideline during the National Football League game between the New York Giants and the New England Patriots on August 30, 2018 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.

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Week 14 Mismatches: Patriots' Guy will be a problem for Dolphins

After another week full of sacks, stops, and stuffs, let's look at the standout defensive linemen...

<p>After another week full of sacks, stops, and stuffs, let's look at the standout defensive linemen from Week 13:</p><h3>Defensive Lineman of the Week: DT David Onyemata, New Orleans Saints</h3><p>Three different players recorded three sacks in Week 13, but while the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/15" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/15">Colts</a>' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61402" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61402">Denico Autry</a> and the Giants' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/82749" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/82749">B.J. Hill</a> profited off the coverage behind them, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105753" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/105753">Onyemata</a>'s trifecta of takedowns was of a much higher quality.</p><p>Though the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/30" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/30">Saints</a>' offense laid an egg, the defense - led by Onyemata, who added four tackles, three quarterback hits, and a forced fumble - actually put together an admirable performance.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He took advantage of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Cowboys</a> left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18919" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18919">Xavier Su'a-Filo</a> on all three of his sacks, with his second serving as the most impressive:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/35B7oEgFNlPgtAPLAZ" width="480" height="243" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Onyemata is lined up with an outside shade over Su'a-Filo. Once the ball is snapped, the defensive tackle places his first step on the inside edge of the left guard to influence Su'a-Filo to stay skinny with his set and draw out his hands. It works.</p><p>After his first step, Onyemata expands back to the outside edge of Su'a-Filo while perfectly executing a cross-chop-to-club move, keeping his feet and hands in coordination while knocking Su'a-Filo off-balance and leaving him unable to recover. From there, Onyemata gets his hips on track to the quarterback and finishes with the sack.</p><p>Onyemata blew past Su'a-Filo in two steps, which is an impressive feat for a 300-pound man.</p><p>His dominance did not stop when the Cowboys decided to run the ball, though, as there was no hiding from the Manitoba product:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/8AaHFmbBwdahFtNV7f" width="480" height="243" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Onyemata is once again aligned with an outside shade over Su'a-Filo. Once the ball is snapped, Onyemata comes out of his stance and engages the guard at the point of attack, as his quick hands allow him to latch onto Su'a-Filo's chest and attain proper hand positioning.</p><p>From there, Onyemata executes a bull-jerk, or push-pull move to beat the block and make the tackle at the line of scrimmage.</p><p>Onyemata is going to haunt his opposition's nightmares for a considerable time after this performance.</p><h3>Pass Rush of the Week: DE Joey Bosa, Los Angeles Chargers</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71822" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/71822">Bosa</a> has been healthy for only three weeks but this is already his second appearance as a "Defensive Line All-Star."</p><p>Bosa's fourth-quarter sack against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/11" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/11">Pittsburgh</a> on Sunday night was especially impressive, as he beat Steelers right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84319" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/84319">Matt Feiler</a> with a deft spin move before bringing down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/1879" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/1879">Ben Roethlisberger</a>:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/FEBBtWN2Yu3Ee8fKni" width="480" height="244" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Bosa has a wide outside alignment over Feiler. Once the ball is snapped, Bosa explodes out of his stance and pushes vertical, looking to stress Feiler's pass set. But Feiler was quicker out of his stance and beat Bosa to the intersection point, the spot between the defensive end's alignment and the apex of the quarterback's drop.</p><p>Still, Bosa feints as if he is going to use a rip move to shorten to the corner and bend toward the quarterback, attempting to get Feiler to react or lean outside, which is exactly what happens. This opens the space necessary for Bosa's counter-spin.</p><p>Bosa's counter-spin is hit fluidly with little wasted motion, allowing him to maintain his momentum and balance through the move so he can continue pursuing the quarterback and finish with a sack.</p><h3>Run Defender of the Week: DL Kenny Clark, Green Bay Packers</h3><p>It came in a loss that effectively ended <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/27">Green Bay</a>'s playoff hopes, but Packers lineman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/75148" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/75148">Kenny Clark</a> put on a winning performance versus <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/22" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/22">Arizona</a>, especially against the run.</p><p>Finishing with seven tackles, six stops, and a pass breakup, Clark used his active hands and raw power to consistently reset the line of scrimmage and make plays in the run game. Here's an excellent example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/fs9BhmYSamJqswFL6c" width="480" height="244" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Clark is aligned as a 0-technique, head-up over center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/83290" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/83290">Mason Cole</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Clark explodes out of his stance and initiates contact with inside hand placement, allowing him to control the action at the point of attack.</p><p>From there, Clark resets the line of scrimmage by creating knockback with his initial strike. He then finds the running back, sheds the block, and makes the tackle at the line of scrimmage.</p><p>The Packers' season is bleak, but Clark's future is bright, as he's developed into arguably the best defensive lineman on the roster - which is saying something, because <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14696" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14696">Mike Daniels</a> is outstanding.</p><p>Not only has Clark taken the next step in his pass-rush development (career-high six sacks this season), but he's become a dominant run defender, which he showcased repeatedly against the Cardinals.</p><h3>In the Spotlight: DL B.J. Hill, New York Giants</h3><p>Hill surprised just about everyone with three sacks against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Bears</a>.</p><p>That's not to say he's a bad player - he's not - but rather, he had just two NFL sacks coming into the game. In fact, he had more than three sacks in an entire season only once in his college career - his sophomore year at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/476" href="https://www.thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/476">North Carolina State</a> in which he had 3.5 sacks.</p><p>Hill was certainly aided by New York's coverage on the back end of his third sack and was essentially unblocked on his first. His second sack, however, was all about skill:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/3IUZfknH0ux5JW8R5Z" width="480" height="234" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Hill is aligned across from Chicago right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/37008" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/37008">Bryan Witzmann</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Hill comes out of his stance and takes a short initial step toward Witzmann's outside edge, forcing his momentum outside and leaving him susceptible to an inside move.</p><p>Hill executes a club move to beat Witzmann's hands. Hill's sloppy footwork - he doesn't gain enough ground with his third step - almost gives the right guard time to recover, but the lineman is able to bully his way through the contact for the sack.</p><p>While Hill's performance Sunday was impressive, it's likely an aberration in terms of his career. Nevertheless, it does highlight the fact he's had a successful rookie season and will be needed to help mitigate the loss of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61863" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61863">Damon Harrison</a>.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 29: Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys is sacked by David Onyemata #93 of the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at AT&T Stadium on November 29, 2018 in Arlington, Texas.

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Defensive Line All-Stars: A look back at Week 13's standout defenders

Here's a breakdown of four significant mismatches we expect to see in Week 13:  Broncos LB Von Mi...

<p>Here's a breakdown of four significant mismatches we expect to see in Week 13:</p><h3>Broncos LB Von Miller vs Bengals RT Bobby Hart</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21358" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21358">Von Miller</a> against any right tackle is typically a mismatch - but this week, Miller truly does get a tasty matchup against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/9">Bengals</a> right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/54212" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/54212">Bobby Hart</a>.</p><p>The 2018 season has seen more of the same from Miller, with the perennial All-Pro racking up 37 tackles, 10 for loss, 17 quarterback hits, 10.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, two pass deflections, and an interception. Miller has filled up the box score in his eighth season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hart, on the other hand, has struggled this year. Although he’s been slightly better in pass protection than run blocking, Miller will likely feast in both areas.</p><p>Hart tends to struggle with the better speed-rushers in the NFL, and Miller is one of the more elite players in the game. Hart had a lot of trouble with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20223">Dee Ford</a> of the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/6" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/6">Chiefs</a> earlier this season, and he’s not as well-rounded or as nuanced of a pass-rusher as Miller. Here’s an example of Hart’s inability against speed this year:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/cID9VjDNXfcH5JYjMK" width="480" height="269" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Hart is responsible for blocking Ford (No. 55) in pass protection. Once the ball is snapped, Hart fails to get enough depth in the ‘kick slide’ portion of his pass set. This forces Hart to stop his kick slide and turn his shoulders perpendicular to the line of scrimmage to attempt to push Ford past the pocket.</p><p>Ford is able to race by Hart (and the running back’s chip, which partially gets in Hart’s way) and finish with a sack-fumble, which was recovered by the Bengals.</p><p>If Hart thought blocking Ford was tough, wait until he tries to stymie Miller on the edge. Miller has unique upper- and lower-body flexibility, which allows him to contort his body to reduce his blockable surface area as he speeds around the edge. Here’s a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/OqBHz3mwZVDrkOoNUs" width="480" height="269" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Miller is in a two-point stance with an outside shade over Chiefs right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18285" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18285">Mitchell Schwartz</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Miller explodes out of his stance with long strides, gobbling up ground to challenge Schwartz’s edge.</p><p>When he gets within distance, Miller feints as if he’s going to use a long arm technique. However, as soon as Schwartz tries to shoot his hands over Miller’s long arm, Miller drops his pad level, allowing him to stay tight around the edge. This forces Schwartz to miss with his strike and allows Miller to finish with the sack.</p><p>Opposite of Hart, No. 58 is poised for a huge day, especially considering that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/85942" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/85942">Bradley Chubb</a>'s presence on the opposite side makes it difficult to double-team him. Expect Miller to finish with a sack or two and be a pain in the rear for the Bengals' offense all day long.</p><h3>Eagles DT Fletcher Cox vs Redskins' interior offensive line</h3><p>The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/20" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/20">Redskins</a>' offensive line is reeling right now. The unit that was one of the best in football to begin the year has been ravaged by injuries, as Washington has four interior offensive linemen on injured reserve.</p><p>This has forced the Redskins to start the trio of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12022" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/12022">Jonathan Cooper</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61646" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61646">Chase Roullier</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/22544" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/22544">Tony Bergstrom</a>. These three battle in the trenches but lack the continuity and talent to consistently play at an above-average level. They struggled mightily against the Cowboys’ rag-tag group of defensive tackles on Thanksgiving, and things only get more difficult this week, as they face one of the best interior defenders in the NFL - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20600" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20600">Fletcher Cox</a>.</p><p>Even though the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Eagles</a> have struggled this year, Cox has been fantastic, accumulating 32 tackles, five for loss, 21 quarterback hits (third among all defenders), and four sacks. He is a menace against the run and pass, and he’s one of the toughest interior defenders to block one-on-one. Cox has a refined tool kit and outstanding hand technique, which allows him to batter, bludgeon, and blow by offensive linemen with ease. Here’s a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/2bXCfo1IyDJKvDK9w9" width="480" height="234" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Cox is aligned at the three-technique position, an outside shade over the right guard. Once the ball is snapped, Cox attacks the right guard’s outside edge, feinting with a two-hand swipe to raise the hands of his opponent before opening up the space necessary for him to sequence into a powerful rip with his inside arm.</p><p>From there, Cox is able to turn his hips and sack the quarterback all while absorbing the right guard’s last-ditch effort to push him beyond the pocket.</p><p>Cox should be able to have his way with whoever lines up across from him against Washington. Keep an eye on No. 91 Monday night, he’s set up to dominate.</p><h3>Bears LB Leonard Floyd vs. Giants RT Chad Wheeler</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/33866" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/33866">Khalil Mack</a> (rightfully) gets most of the credit for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Bears</a>’ outstanding defense, but he’s not the only impactful edge defender on the roster, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/72905" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/72905">Leonard Floyd</a> has developed into a quality player in his own right.</p><p>Floyd is one of the defenders whose stat line doesn’t adequately convey his level of play this season, recording 29 tackles, four for loss, five quarterback hits, and a sack. Although those numbers aren’t impressive, Floyd has evidently taken the next step in his development and has become a more well-rounded player.</p><p>This week, Floyd has a great opportunity to enhance his stat line, as he gets a juicy matchup against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/18" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/18">Giants</a> right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/60579" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/60579">Chad Wheeler</a>. The right tackle has struggled on the edge this season, giving up more than two pressures in every game but two. Wheeler is a second-year undrafted free agent who was thrust into a starting role too early.</p><p>A below-average offensive tackle when left one-on-one on the edge, Wheeler will be in deep against Floyd all game.</p><p>As a pass-rusher, Floyd is effective on stunts and uses his long frame when rushing off the edge. Though he will likely be able to generate pressure on the quarterback, Floyd is really going to make his presence felt against the run. Here’s an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/8lMY0vDjwm2TqOn7Y4" width="480" height="270" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Floyd is aligned in a two-point stance with a slight outside shade over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/28">Minnesota</a>'s tight end. As soon as the ball is snapped, Floyd gets double-teamed by the wide receiver and left tackle. Even while engaged with the wideout, Floyd is able to attain inside hand position on the left tackle.</p><p>Once the wide receiver combos over to the filling Bears defender, Floyd does a great job of standing his ground while maintaining the separation necessary to disengage from the block and make the tackle.</p><p>Expect Floyd to be a huge reason why the Bears' defense bottlenecks the Giants' run game while generating pressure off the edge.</p><h3>Colts DE Kemoko Turay vs. Jaguars LT Ereck Flowers</h3><p>To the surprise of many (<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning/status/971075438612070400">but not yours truly</a>), <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/75650" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/75650">Kemoko Turay</a> has been one of the best rookie edge defenders in the league this season. Accumulating 13 tackles, one for loss, 11 quarterback hits, and four sacks, Turay has shown improvement each and every week.</p><p>This week, Turay will get a great opportunity to add to his box score, as he will be matched up with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/61693" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/61693">Ereck Flowers</a>, who is one of the worst starting offensive tackles in football. Flowers, who was released from the Giants earlier this season, is a mess technically, as he relies on his size and brute strength to get the job done. Flowers’ footwork is clunky and uncoordinated while his hands lack accuracy and timing.</p><p>Turay should be able to take full advantage, as his versatility has impressed for a rookie this season. At 6-foot-5 and 253 pounds, Turay’s pass-rush is built off his speed, as he has the lower-body flexibility, balance, and explosiveness to blow by offensive tackles off the edge. Here’s an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/4ZvuqPbZgKXprMrtxK" width="480" height="270" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Turay is aligned in a wide-nine technique with a wide outside shade over the left tackle. Once the ball is snapped, Turay explodes out of his stance with a wide angle of entry, forcing the left tackle to cover a lot of distance with his pass set. Once he gets within distance, Turay employs a cross-chop to win the edge as he flattens to the quarterback for the sack.</p><p>On top of his prowess as a speed-rusher, Turay has shown an ability to win outside, inside, and through offensive linemen, using well-timed hands and an impressive ability to convert his speed to power.</p><p>Flowers is going to have his hands full with the rookie pass-rusher all game. Don’t be surprised if Turay is able to notch his first two-sack game of his career against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/16" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/16">Jaguars</a>.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

DENVER, CO - NOVEMBER 25: Outside linebacker Von Miller #58 of the Denver Broncos stands not he field as players warm up before a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on November 25, 2018 in Denver, Colorado.

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Week 13 Mismatches: Von Miller poised to dominate in Cincinnati 

After another slate filled with sacks, stops and stuffs, let's break down the standout defensive ...

<p>After another slate filled with sacks, stops and stuffs, let's break down the standout defensive linemen from Week 12:</p><h3>Defensive Lineman of the Week: DE Joey Bosa, Chargers</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71822" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/71822">Joey Bosa</a> made his season debut in Week 11, but he wasn't truly back until Week 12, as the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/8" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/8">Los Angeles Chargers</a>' star pass-rusher recorded five tackles, two quarterback hits, and two sacks against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/22" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/22">Arizona Cardinals</a>.</p><p>When healthy, Bosa might be the best young edge defender in the NFL, with the ability to dominate against the run and pass. He possesses silky-smooth footwork that he pairs with active, accurate hands. All of that was on full display against the Cardinals:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/1xnbsI8uMk5GWVxPMc" width="480" height="199" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Bosa's lined up with an outside shade over Cardinals right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/321" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/321">Andre Smith</a>. As soon as the ball is snapped, he explodes out of his stance and pushes vertical as he attempts to race Smith up the edge.</p><p>Once he gets within striking distance, Bosa quickly bobs inside, drawing out Smith's strike, which he counters beautifully with a two-hand swipe that effectively shortens the corner and allows him to start flattening to the quarterback. From there, Bosa brings down <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/94823" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/94823">Josh Rosen</a> for the sack.</p><p>Bosa wasn't done there, recording another sack while showcasing his impressive hand technique to shorten the corner:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/cmxsFMuRki0EIR88uZ" width="480" height="269" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Bosa's once again aligned with an outside shade over Smith. After the ball is snapped, Bosa veers slightly outside before turning his hips toward the pocket. This gives him a more favorable angle of entry into his pass rush because it puts the quarterback in his direct path.</p><p>Once he gets within distance, Bosa executes a well-timed long arm with his inside arm. That creates the separation needed to flatten to the quarterback while executing a forklift move with his outside hand, which clears the right tackle's point of contact, effectively shortening the edge.</p><p>From there, Bosa maintains his momentum despite some ancillary contact from Smith (who was released following the game) and brings down Rosen.</p><p>The Chargers were already one of the best teams in the AFC without Bosa, but his presence should give them a real shot to make some noise in the playoffs.</p><h3>Pass Rush of the Week: DE Myles Garrett, Browns</h3><p>For this week's "Pass Rush of the Week," let's break down the speed rush <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87669" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/87669">Myles Garrett</a> used to record his fourth-quarter sack against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/9">Cincinnati Bengals</a>:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/1eEJoCI0ezfEC9Nr75" width="480" height="235" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Garrett's aligned with an outside shade over Bengals left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/19347" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/19347">Cordy Glenn</a>. As soon as the ball's snapped, Garrett explodes upfield, forcing Glenn to prematurely turn his shoulders perpendicular to the line of scrimmage to try and keep up, which gives Garrett a soft edge to the quarterback.</p><p>In three steps, Garrett's already gobbled up 5 yards, and once he starts to turn his hips to align with the quarterback, he reduces his inside shoulder, effectively limiting his blockable surface area. From there, Garrett's stride length and frequency allow him to absorb the contact without it affecting his momentum or his path to the quarterback.</p><p>Once the QB hits the top of his drop, Garrett's already within a step, allowing him to record the sack. It's simple, yet almost impossible to stop.</p><p>In his second season, Garrett's not the most refined pass-rusher and doesn’t have a ton of moves in his repertoire. However, his speed rush - when executed well - is already one of the best trump cards in the NFL.</p><h3>Run Defender of the Week: DT Vita Vea, Buccaneers</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89066" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/89066">Vita Vea</a> was the 12th overall selection in the spring, and he's starting to realize his potential after a pesky calf injury took away his training camp and preseason.</p><p>Against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/23" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/23">San Francisco 49ers</a>, Vea had the best game of his short career, recording four tackles and a sack. His best work came against the run, as he controlled and penetrated his gap to make plays behind the line of scrimmage. Here's one of them:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/lffV7IYK7uu1pKpHCT" width="480" height="333" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Vea's aligned directly over 49ers center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/22007" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/22007">Weston Richburg</a>. The Niners are attempting to execute an outside zone play, where the goal is to horizontally stretch the front side of Tampa Bay’s defense in hopes of creating an open crease for the running back.</p><p>But Vea has other plans. He outpaces right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/25262" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/25262">Mike Person</a>'s attempted reach block - meant to force him inside - and bullies his way into the backfield for the tackle.</p><p>Not many 347-pound men have the quickness to penetrate and make a tackle just as the running back receives the ball, but that's exactly what Vea does here. It's a huge reason why Tampa Bay spent its first-round pick on him.</p><h3>In the Spotlight: LB Matt Judon, Baltimore Ravens</h3><p>In the fourth quarter against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/7" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/7">Oakland Raiders</a> on Sunday, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105754" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/105754">Matt Judon</a> recorded three sacks on three straight snaps. Incredibly, that doubled his combined total from the first 10 games of the season.</p><p>And Judon was simply dominant on all three sacks, which came against Raiders right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/80534" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/80534">Brandon Parker</a>. On his first, Judon leveraged a quick get-off and a powerful rip move to beat Parker on his way to sacking <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/22061" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/22061">Derek Carr</a>. The sack even forced a fumble that was picked up and run back for a touchdown by teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/3053" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/3053">Terrell Suggs</a>.</p><p>Judon then used the exact same move to beat Parker on each of the next two plays. Here's a look at his third sack:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/NS4Pw0daUW8hBXy7ue" width="480" height="269" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Judon begins in a two-point stance aligned with an outside shade over Parker. After the ball's snapped, he does a great job of selling the speed rush while getting his hips square to Parker, giving himself options on either side of the tackle.</p><p>Once he gets within distance, Judon places his inside hand on the inside shoulder of Parker while allowing the tackle to attain inside placement with his inside arm. Then, with Parker’s momentum pulling him upfield, Judon rotates his shoulders - making it difficult for the tackle to latch on - while pulling on Parker's inside shoulder. This breaks the tackle's grip and gives Judon a wide-open lane to the inside for the sack.</p><p>The Ravens are looking for their next premier pass-rusher as Suggs enters the twilight of his career. At 6-foot-3 and 261 pounds, the 26-year-old Judon possesses the necessary frame and athleticism to be that guy - he just needs to become more consistent. Perhaps this big game will jump-start a stellar closing stretch of the season.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a></em></p>

CARSON, CA - NOVEMBER 25: Defensive end Joey Bosa #99 of the Los Angeles Chargers celebrates his sack of quarterback Josh Rosen #3 of the Arizona Cardinals in the second quarter at StubHub Center on November 25, 2018 in Carson, California.

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Defensive Line All-Stars: A look back at Week 12's standouts

Here's a breakdown of the most notable mismatches we expect to see in Week 12.  Packers DL Kenny ...

<p>Here's a breakdown of the most notable mismatches we expect to see in Week 12.</p><h3>Packers DL Kenny Clark vs Vikings RG Mike Remmers</h3><p>To the surprise of many, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/75148" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/75148">Kenny Clark</a> - not <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14696" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14696">Mike Daniels</a> - has been the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/27">Packers</a>' best defensive lineman this season. And with Daniels sidelined by a foot injury, Green Bay will rely on Clark even more heavily.</p><p>Clark's accumulated 44 tackles, including seven for loss, along with eight quarterback hits and five sacks. Listed at 6-foot-3 and 314 pounds, he's stout enough to hold his ground at the point of attack, and he's quick enough to penetrate and make plays behind the line of scrimmage. He's one of the few 300-plus-pounders who's equally effective against the run and pass.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>This week, Clark gets a tasty matchup against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/28">Minnesota Vikings</a>. The Packers flip the alignment of their defensive tackles throughout the game, so Clark's set to see time in the A- and B-gaps on both sides of the center. While he should get a favorable matchup no matter where he aligns, Vikings right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18549" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18549">Mike Remmers</a> is a player Clark can dominate.</p><p>This was showcased in Week 2 when Clark battered Remmers, accumulating four tackles and a sack while making life difficult for Minnesota. On his sack, Clark did an excellent job blending his power, hand usage, and timing to beat Remmers on his way to the quarterback:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/5tfqrTx7cjjlmCpoG1" width="480" height="318" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Clark aligns with an outside shade over Remmers (No. 74). After the ball is snapped, Clark immediately pushes vertical and looks to initiate his bull rush. Without much of a head start, Clark needs to rely on his pad level, hand placement, and raw power to knock back Remmers on contact.</p><p>Remmers does a great job of anchoring against the bull rush; Clark isn’t able to gain a ton of ground with his initial push. Nevertheless, Clark has another trick up his sleeve.</p><p>Once Clark feels Remmers sit on his power and begin to exert force forward, Clark uses the momentum against him, employing a push-pull (or bull-jerk) move to yank Remmers over his toes. Clark exits with a swim move to clear contact and continues pursuing the quarterback. The result is a 9-yard sack for Clark.</p><p>This week, Clark might not even have to resort to Plan B on his bull rushes, as Remmers' ability to stymie power has faded in recent weeks. Here's an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/1fjDSMUxrmaDN8rA1p" width="480" height="269" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>At first glance, it may look like Remmers did a good job of anchoring against the bull rush, but once you consider that Remmers also has the leverage (lower pad level) and hand-placement advantage at the point of attack - something he won't enjoy often against Clark - it's actually disappointing that he cedes so much ground at the point of contact.</p><p>If Clark was the one bull rushing on that rep, Remmers would have been on his back with a great view of Clark bringing down Kirk Cousins for the sack.</p><p>Sunday's going to be a long day for Remmers.</p><h3>Steelers LB T.J. Watt vs. Broncos RT Jared Veldheer</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/74678" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/74678">T.J. Watt</a> has quietly been one of the most improved edge defenders in the NFL this season, recording an incredible 49 tackles - 10 for loss - with 14 quarterback hits, 10 sacks, and four forced fumbles in his sophomore season. The scary part is that Watt hasn't come close to reaching his potential, as he can still develop in a variety of areas.</p><p>The switch from right outside linebacker to left outside linebacker has been great for him - he's more effective against the run and can take advantage of the slower-footed right tackle against the pass. This week, Watt will look to take advantage of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/40808" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/40808">Jared Veldheer</a>, once a very good offensive tackle whose skill set's declined rapidly this season with the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/5" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/5">Denver Broncos</a>.</p><p>Watt will likely give Veldheer problems in pass protection, but he should really have his way with the Broncos right tackle in the run game thanks to his superior hand placement, footwork, and quickness. Veldheer tends to have trouble with quick defenders who can cross his face and penetrate his inside gap, an area where Watt excels. Here's an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/9PiwPy9fJL3R5Vin2J" width="480" height="189" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/16" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/16">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> are trying to run a simple inside zone against a light box, meaning that the Jaguars have more blockers than <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/11" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/11">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> defenders in the box. On paper, this play should be a success for Jacksonville; however, Watt makes sure it's not.</p><p>Coming off the left edge, Watt initially slow-plays the run, taking his first step directly at the Jaguars right tackle. Then Watt quickly reduces his outside shoulder and darts across the right tackle's face, putting him in position to bring down the ball carrier at the line of scrimmage.</p><p>Look for Watt to fill up the box score once again against Denver.</p><h3>Panthers RG Trai Turner vs. Seahawks' DTs</h3><p>The distribution of talent in the NFL means most individual mismatches up front favor the defense. The league has a plethora of high-level defensive linemen, but few elite offensive linemen. That's why <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50100" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/50100">Trai Turner</a> facing off against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/24">Seattle Seahawks</a>' defensive tackles is so unique - it's one of the few trench matchups where the O-line has the advantage.</p><p>Listed at 6-foot-3 and 315 pounds, Turner is one of the most physically dominant presences at the point of attack. The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/32" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/32">Carolina Panthers</a> right guard leverages his raw strength and hand techniques to consistently move defenders off their spots and into the turf. This typically manifests in the run game, but Turner brings the same intensity to pass protection. Here's a great example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/3Hz0AMfmEvgFFkgKLB" width="480" height="268" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Turner is matched up against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/20" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/20">Washington Redskins</a> interior defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/64666" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/64666">Matt Ioannidis</a>, who is having a career year. Once the ball is snapped, Turner quickly comes out of his stance and establishes a half-man relationship with Ioannidis, which is crucial in pass protection.</p><p>From there, Turner latches onto Ioannidis, who attempts to use a "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx1g9Ctq-X8">hump</a>" move with his right arm to toss Turner out of the way. Turner doesn't budge. Instead, he rotates to his left and tosses Ioannidis to the ground like a bouncer throwing a rowdy patron out of a bar.</p><p>This week, defensive tackles <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/84050" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/84050">Jarran Reed</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/54234" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/54234">Quinton Jefferson</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/33283" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/33283">Shamar Stephen</a> will be on the receiving end of similar punishment. Reed is the best of the bunch, but even he doesn't match up well with Turner. None of Seattle's defensive tackles should give Turner much trouble in pass protection, as they don't possess the necessary technique or quickness. The Panthers would be wise to take advantage of Turner's likely dominance Sunday.</p><h3>Browns DT Larry Ogunjobi vs. Bengals C Billy Price</h3><p>In his second season, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/77488" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/77488">Larry Ogunjobi</a> has developed into a playmaker for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/10" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/10">Browns</a>' defense, recording 35 tackles (seven for loss), 13 quarterback hits, and 4.5 sacks. He's made a play behind the line of scrimmage in eight of Cleveland's 10 games.</p><p>Ogunjobi will look to keep it up against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/9">Cincinnati Bengals</a> center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71839" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/71839">Billy Price</a>, who's struggled mightily this year. Price is having trouble playing with leverage, and his hand timing and placement have been inconsistent.</p><p>That's given Price issues with powerful defensive tackles at the point of attack - and it doesn't bode well against Ogunjobi, who puts a ton of pressure on centers as soon as the ball is snapped, like this:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/31R6Si4RNQuzaaLDEY" width="480" height="218" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Ogunjobi lines up as a 0-technique, or head-up on the center. As soon as the ball is snapped, Ogunjobi executes a powerful club move with his right arm to get to the center's edge and a rip move with his left arm to clear contact. He doesn't immediately clear all the contact, but it's enough for him to get downhill and pursue the quarterback for the sack.</p><p>These moves are tough to block for the even best centers in the NFL, so you can imagine how difficult it is for a rookie to stop them.</p><p>Price should fare better in the run game because he'll get help from the guards on most plays; however, when Ogunjobi gets matched up with Price one-on-one in the run game, the Browns interior defender should find a ton of success thanks to his superior strength and hand technique.</p><p>Don't be surprised if Ogunjobi adds another sack and a couple tackles for loss to his ledger this week.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

GREEN BAY, WI - SEPTEMBER 09: Kenny Clark #97 of the Green Bay Packers reacts during the second quarter of a game against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field on September 9, 2018 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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Week 12 Mismatches: Kenny Clark ready to roast Vikings' O-line

After another slate filled with sacks, stops, and stuffs, let's review the best defensive linemen...

<p>After another slate filled with sacks, stops, and stuffs, let's review the best defensive linemen from Week 11:</p><h3>Defensive Lineman of the Week: J.J. Watt, Texans</h3><p>For the second time this season, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/13" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/13">Houston Texans</a> star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/15757" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/15757">J.J. Watt</a> takes home our Defensive Lineman of the Week award, as he gave <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/20" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/20">Washington</a>'s misfit offensive line trouble throughout Sunday's game, registering eight total pressures, four tackles, and a sack.</p><p>Watt's so difficult to block because he's athletic, powerful, technical, and gives full effort on almost every play. The effort is key because it allows him to make plays when a typical defensive lineman wouldn’t. His sack against Washington is a great example:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/yxfy2rSGj2CFagbZvb" width="480" height="227" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Watt's aligned with an outside shade over Redskins tight end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/19274" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/19274">Jordan Reed</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Watt explodes upfield, showing his hands in an effort to draw out right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/44290" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/44290">Morgan Moses</a>' hands. And once Moses attempts a strike, Watt quickly bats it down, drops his pad level, and rips with his inside arm to clear contact.</p><p>Meanwhile, as Washington quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/21222" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/21222">Colt McCoy</a> stands in the pocket, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/42963" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/42963">Brandon Dunn</a> (No. 92) generates inside pressure and forces McCoy to scamble outside, giving Watt the time he needs to turn the corner, get downhill, and make the sack.</p><p>Watt's effectiveness against Washington wasn't limited to rushing the passer, as he was nearly as strong versus the run. Here's an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/2UoBycwYLQtN064eis" width="480" height="269" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><p></p></figure><p>This time, Watt's aligned with an outside shade over Moses. Once the ball is snapped, he bursts upfield, employing a well-timed stab with his inside arm on Moses' frame. This allows him to knock Moses back, which creates the necessary space to cross the tackle's face and make the tackle at the line of scrimmage.</p><p>After a slow start to the season, Watt's playing at an All-Pro level once again. His effort against Washington was just the latest example.</p><h3>Pass Rush of the Week: Kyler Fackrell, Packers</h3><p>The biggest surprise of Week 11 might have been the fantastic performance by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/27">Green Bay Packers</a> edge defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/53196" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/53196">Kyler Fackrell</a>, who dominated <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/24" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/24">Seattle</a> with five tackles, four quarterback hits, and three sacks. Even more surprisingly, this wasn't Fackrell’s first three-sack game of the year: he also posted a hat trick against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/1" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/1">Buffalo Bills</a> in Week 4.</p><p>Fackrell's first sack against Seattle is the most impressive on tape:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/xAvrM2ftDZqpXPh54T" width="480" height="232" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Fackrell's aligned in a two-point stance (just his feet on the ground) over the outside edge of Seahawks left tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/3105" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/3105">Duane Brown</a>, one of the league's best at the position. Once the ball's snapped, Fackrell explodes out of his stance and slightly veers outside to give himself a more direct angle of attack with his bull rush.</p><p>Once he gets within distance, Fackrell does well to engage with a low pad level, allowing him to play with leverage and superior hand placement. From there, he churns his feet and bench presses Brown off his frame, creating separation and making it difficult for the offensive lineman to latch on.</p><p>Now comes the most impressive part. Once Fackrell straightens and locks his arms, he's looking for Brown to anchor - because when an offensive tackle anchors against a bull rush, there's typically a moment when they exert force forward to stymie the defender who's pushing him back. This gives the pass-rusher a split-second opportunity to pull the tackle forward over his toes - using that momentum against him - which is exactly what Fackrell does to Brown here.</p><p>By pulling Brown off his base, Fackrell gets an easy path to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/12258" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/12258">Russell Wilson</a> for the sack.</p><p>Fackrell won't be confused with the top pass-rushers in the NFL, but a play like this one demonstrates his better-than-advertised skill set.</p><h3>Run Defender of the Week: Da'Ron Payne, Redskins</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99603" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/99603">Da'Ron Payne</a>'s emerged as a dark-horse candidate for the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year, and the 21-year-old looked like a man among boys against Houston's rushing attack. Washington lost the game, but Payne finished with seven combined tackles - all of which came within 3 yards of the line of scrimmage.</p><p> </p><p>Payne is frequently aligned in the A-gaps (on each side of the center) - where he does well with strong technique and physicality - but he also has the ability to make a play outside of the box, which is extremely uncommon for 300-plus-pound defensive tackles who don't usually get farther than one gap over, at most. Payne's athleticism allows him to make those plays moving laterally across the field, as evidenced by this stop:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/1O218vICDC7fBTa10O" width="480" height="268" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><p></p></figure><p>Here, Payne's aligned directly across from the center. Once the ball is snapped, he does well to mirror the center's initial steps so he can effectively defend the A-gaps on each side of him. At the same time, Payne engages with superior hand placement, allowing him to create separation with his inside arm.</p><p>Because Payne establishes that separation, he's able to quickly reach the edge and tackle the running back, who was trying to cut upfield.</p><p>With moves like this in his repertoire, the sky's the limit for Payne as he continues to play beyond his years.</p><h3>In the Spotlight: Javon Hargrave, DT, Steelers</h3><p>Interior defenders tend to be forgotten by the general public, which is a shame because <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/68677" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/68677">Javon Hargrave</a>'s vastly outplayed his draft selection since being chosen 89th overall by the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/11" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/11">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> in 2016. Against the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/16" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/16">Jacksonville Jaguars</a> in Week 11, Hargrave was at his best, finishing with four tackles, two quarterback hits, and two sacks.</p><p>Against the run, Hargave's immense lower-body strength makes him nearly impossible to displace from his gap. And against the Jaguars, he showed off his pass-rush prowess, as seen on his second sack of the day:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/1Aj1UHUx1hav1BTfMB" width="480" height="248" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Hargrave's aligned with a slight outside shade over right guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/95052" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/95052">Chris Reed</a>. After the ball is snapped, Hargrave takes an initial step inside - causing Reed to react inside - which opens up space outside.</p><p>Hargrave then expands his rush outside, using a perfectly timed swipe-to-arm-over move that leaves Reed grabbing at air. From there, Hargrave shows off his nimble feet as he turns a nice corner and sacks <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/47771" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/47771">Blake Bortles</a>.</p><p>A little sugar and spice makes everything nice, and if Hargrave becomes as adept with the sugar (pass rushing) as he is with the spice (defending the run), he could turn into the Steelers' best defensive lineman. That's saying something when you consider that teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/57240" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/57240">Stephon Tuitt</a>'s already one of the best 3-4 defensive ends in the NFL.</p><p>For now, Sunday provided a glimpse of how dominant Hargrave can be.<br><br><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

LANDOVER, MD - NOVEMBER 18: Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins throws a pass as he is chased by J.J. Watt #99 of the Houston Texans in the first half at FedExField on November 18, 2018 in Landover, Maryland.

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Defensive Line All-Stars: A look back at Week 11's standouts

Here's a breakdown of the most notable mismatches we expect to see in Week 11:  Bengals DT Geno A...

<p>Here's a breakdown of the most notable mismatches we expect to see in Week 11:</p><h3>Bengals DT Geno Atkins vs Ravens LG Alex Lewis</h3><p>Unfortunately for the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/12" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/12">Baltimore Ravens</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/3076" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/3076">Marshal Yanda</a> can't play both guard positions this Sunday when defensive tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/19299" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/19299">Geno Atkins</a> and the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/9" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/9">Cincinnati Bengals </a>come to town. Yanda's one of the few guards with a track history of slowing Atkins down, but he'll likely see very little of him on Sunday, as Cincinnati would be wise to match Atkins up with the Ravens' other starting guard, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43820" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43820">Alex Lewis</a>.</p><p>Atkins is good at many things, but above all, he's widely considered one of the best power rushers in the NFL. At 6-foot-1 and 300 pounds, he possesses a natural leverage advantage, which - combined with immense raw strength and effective hand techniques - allows him to consistently bull rush interior offensive linemen straight into their quarterback's lap. It's amazing to see Atkins displace 300-pound humans so easily, as he does here:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/ee4vz5ID9B0hp2Pxd8" width="480" height="268" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>On this play, Atkins aligns with a slight inside shade over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/6" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/6">Kansas City Chiefs</a> left guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/42722" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/42722">Cam Erving</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Atkins takes a couple power steps and engages at the point of attack, battling Erving for superior hand placement.</p><p>Atkins wins that hand-fighting battle with effective, powerful strikes that are meticulously placed so he can walk Erving back into <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/89514" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/89514">Patrick Mahomes</a>' face. Notice that any time his helmet rises above Erving's, Atkins immediately drops his pad level to reset his leverage and continue maximizing his power output. He doesn't get a sack, but he hits Mahomes mid-throw, causing an incompletion.</p><p>Unfortunately for Lewis, his weaknesses match up terribly with Atkins' strengths, as the left guard tends to struggle against powerful interior defenders. This play demonstrates his issues:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/BoAFU2q3vvUxaHKD53" width="480" height="268" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Lewis is lined up opposite <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/11" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/11">Pittsburgh</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/15323" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/15323">Cam Heyward</a>, another powerful interior pass-rusher. Lewis tends to let his hands get wide at the point of attack, allowing defenders to initiate contact with superior hand placement. </p><p>This wouldn't be a huge problem on its own, but when an offensive lineman plays with wide hands, it's paramount that he wins the leverage battle and generates enough force to stymie a defender's momentum. Lewis fails to do that here, which is why he ends up getting pushed back into <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2945" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/2945">Joe Flacco</a>'s face, forcing the unathletic quarterback to break the pocket and take a sack.</p><p>That combination of wide hands and an inconsistent ability to win the leverage battle at the point of attack is a recipe for disaster against Atkins. The Bengals star could put together another monster performance on Sunday and make the difference in a key divisional game.</p><h3>Texans DL J.J. Watt vs. Redskins RT Morgan Moses</h3><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/44290" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/44290">Morgan Moses</a> hasn't been bad this season. In fact, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/20" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/20">Washington Redskins</a> right tackle has been above average by league standards. But above average won’t cut it against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/15757" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/15757">J.J. Watt</a>, who's proven once again - even after a litany of injuries in recent years - that he's still a top-three defensive lineman in the NFL.</p><p>In his eighth pro season, Watt still possesses one of the most potent speed rushes in the game. It’s almost unfathomable that a 6-foot-5, 295-pounder can zip around the edge at a faster clip than others who are 50 pounds lighter, but the future Hall of Famer does it by leveraging impressive burst, impeccable footwork, and well-timed hand techniques:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/5h27jdfF7I4vxkyXlP" width="480" height="210" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Watt's aligned with an outside shade over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/2" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/2">Miami Dolphins</a> right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/40189" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/40189">Ja'Wuan James</a>. Once the ball is snapped, Watt explodes upfield, looking to stress James' pass set with each step. James initially attempts to square up Watt, but is forced to turn his shoulder perpendicular to the line of scrimmage almost immediately after his first step - a cardinal sin for offensive linemen.</p><p>Once he gets within range, Watt feints with a two-handed swipe - effectively drawing out James' hands - which gives him space to dip and rip around the lunging blocker for a sack.</p><p>Pay attention to Watt’s feet as he wraps around the edge. His toes are constantly pointing toward the quarterback, allowing his hips to get on track, while his feet are consistently underneath him, letting him maintain momentum and balance through contact.</p><p>Watt’s nuanced speed rush should give Moses fits, as the latter tends to be inconsistent with his set points and hand techniques. At 6-foot-6 and 335 pounds, Moses is a giant offensive tackle who often gets away with those shoddy techniques based on his hulking frame and length. But sadly, those physical traits won't do much against Watt, who's seen and beaten every type of lineman since entering the NFL.</p><p>Expect Watt to finish Sunday's game with a sack or two while consistently harassing quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/2032" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/2032">Alex Smith</a> in the backfield.</p><h3>Cowboys LT Tyron Smith vs Falcons DE Takkarist McKinley</h3><p>Almost one year ago to the day, the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/29" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/29">Atlanta Falcons</a> threw the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/17" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/17">Dallas Cowboys</a>' 2017 season into a tailspin. The Falcons won 27-7, as their pass rush destroyed the Cowboys' offensive line and finished with eight sacks of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/50470" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/50470">Dak Prescott</a>. Defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14690" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14690">Adrian Clayborn</a> (now with the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/3" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/3">Patriots</a>) had six of those sacks, as he consistently defeated backup left tackles <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/44852" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/44852">Chaz Green</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/22315" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/22315">Byron Bell</a>.</p><p>But now, the Cowboys have five-time Pro Bowler <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18684" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18684">Tyron Smith</a> back and healthy after he missed last year's sack party. In fact, Smith should give Dallas the big-time advantage this time around against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/92724" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/92724">Takkarist McKinley</a>, his likely matchup for most of Sunday's game.</p><p>McKinley's an interesting player because his box-score stats often look better than his actual performance. Through 10 weeks, he has 20 tackles and six sacks, which are nothing to sneeze at, but his snap-to-snap effectiveness lacks consistency. At this point in his career, McKinley's a flash player - someone who occasionally makes a big play but struggles to execute on an every-down basis.</p><p>That's not a recipe for success against Smith, who's playing his best football of the season after some earlier struggles. He bounced back in a big way against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/19" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/19">Philadelphia</a>'s vaunted defensive line last weekend, dominating for nearly the entire game. Here's an example:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/4N8VVB4PERFAx2SAYj" width="480" height="296" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Above, Smith executes a simple 45-degree pass set against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14840" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14840">Brandon Graham</a>, who's one of the most effective pass-rushers of the last half-decade. Graham attempts to utilize a speed-to-power bull rush, but Smith's anchor is simply too much - the left tackle gives up ground for just a step or two before showing off his impressive rotational power by tossing Graham to the ground.</p><p>That simply never happens to Graham, and it certainly doesn’t bode well for McKinley, whose favorite pass-rushing move is converting speed to power. </p><p>Life could be even tougher for McKinley against the run because he won't have momentum on his side, meaning Smith's superior power and technique will allow him to displace the defender from his gap with regularity.</p><p>Don't be surprised if McKinley's held pressure-less as a pass rusher while getting rag-dolled in the running game. Meanwhile, Prescott will surely be glad to have Smith in the fold this time around.</p><h3>Vikings DE Danielle Hunter vs Bears RT Bobbie Massie</h3><p>Our final mismatch should have the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/28" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/28">Minnesota Vikings</a> feeling good about their chances to take control of the NFC North with a win over the division-leading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/25" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/25">Chicago Bears</a>.</p><p>The Bears' offense has been on fire recently - scoring at least 30 points in five of the last six games - so Minnesota must find a way to generate pressure on young quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/71696" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/71696">Mitch Trubisky</a>, who tends to struggle under duress.</p><p>Fortunuately for the Vikings, they employ the current NFL sack prince, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/60658" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/60658">Danielle Hunter</a>, who's recorded 11.5 this season, just one behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/43119" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/43119">Aaron Donald</a> for the league lead. This week, Hunter gets a juicy matchup opposite Bears right tackle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20521" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20521">Bobby Massie</a>.</p><p>Throughout his career, Massie's been the type of offensive tackle who does well against 85 percent of the edge defenders he faces. However, the other 15 percent tend to have their way.</p><p>Hunter fits into that latter group, as he's developed into one of the scariest pass-rushers in the NFL. He's seen a lot of time at right defensive end this season, but with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/18624" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/18624">Everson Griffen</a> back, Hunter will likely return to the left end, where he was last week.</p><p>Unlike most athletic pass-rushers, Hunter doesn't just pin his ears back and speed skate around the edge a la <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/20223" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/20223">Dee Ford</a>. Instead, he relies on effective hand use and varied footwork to soften the edge so he can take a tight path to the quarterback:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://giphy.com/embed/3d2uNXRa7xNKp7qDTw" width="480" height="296" frameborder="0" class="giphy-embed" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Here, Hunter's working against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/teams/27" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/teams/27">Green Bay</a>'s <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/14683" href="https://www.thescore.com/nfl/players/14683">Bryan Bulaga</a>, one of the better right tackles in football. Once the ball is snapped, Hunter's already up to his usual shenanigans, as he starts slow with choppy footwork before getting within striking distance.</p><p>Once he's within range, Hunter mimics an inside move with a jab stab before expanding his rush to the edge, where he pulls Bulaga forward with his inside hand. With Bulaga off-balance and leaning forward, Hunter works around the edge and then flattens to the quarterback for the sack. </p><p>Expect Hunter to do similar things against Massie this week as the Vikings look to regain their spot atop the NFC North.</p><p><em>John Owning is a football writer at theScore. He has written for Bleacher Report and Football Insiders. He was also the lead NFL content editor at FanRag Sports. John provides analysis on the Dallas Cowboys for the Dallas Morning News and edits for The Quant Edge. Find him on Twitter @<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnOwning">JohnOwning</a>.</em></p>

CINCINNATI, OH - OCTOBER 28: Geno Atkins #97 of the Cincinnati Bengals takes the field for the game against the Tampa Bay Bucccaneers at Paul Brown Stadium on October 28, 2018 in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Bengals defeated the Buccaneers 37-34.

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Week 11 Mismatches: Geno Atkins could destroy Ravens' plans

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