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Miles noticing difference in philosophy between Steele, Chavis
By Ethan Levine
Published:
LSU head coach Les Miles spent much of his post-scrimmage media availability on Saturday to discuss his offense, which he thought performed well.
But he also took time to discuss his defense, and more specifically the differences he’s noticing in the philosophies of new defensive coordinator Kevin Steele and former DC John Chavis, now with Texas A&M after seven seasons in Baton Rouge.
According to one LSU beat reporter, Miles seems to prefer Steele’s system as far as substitutions are concerned.
Les Wanted Defense Changes Before Chavis Left: "Yeah, some of the things that allow us to operate fast without substitution." … Continued
— Glenn Guilbeau (@SportBeatTweet) March 28, 2015
Les on Defense Changes Continued: "Some of the things by scheme that you'd like to have in your defense."
— Glenn Guilbeau (@SportBeatTweet) March 28, 2015
Les Thought Chavis Over-Subbed a Tad:
"There will be an opportunity to substitute when appropriate," he said of new DC Kevin Steele.— Glenn Guilbeau (@SportBeatTweet) March 28, 2015
"The (defense) will put themselves in position where they don't have to substitute and make the calls without," Miles said.
— Glenn Guilbeau (@SportBeatTweet) March 28, 2015
Finding ways to defend effectively while minimizing substitutions has become more important as more college teams adopt spread offenses predicated on quick pacing and no-huddle play calling. Defenses are only entitled to time to substitute if the offense substitutes.
But there is some merit to the way Chavis operates as well. After all, he did lead five straight defenses ranked in the top 15 in the nation in total defense the last five years.
The last time Steele served as a defensive coordinator was in the Orange Bowl to conclude the 2013 season. Steele’s Clemson Tigers allowed 70 points that night in a loss to West Virginia.
A former newspaper reporter who has roamed the southeastern United States for years covering football and eating way too many barbecue ribs, if there is such a thing.
