Texas defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski is bringing a new scheme to Austin. The defense runs a four-man front with two defensive tackles and two outside linebacker-pass rusher hybrids. At the second level, PK’s scheme deploys two inside linebackers.
In Chris Ash’s scheme, they ran a weakside linebacker (WILL) which was typically DeMarvion Overshown’s role. The second linebacker was the middle linebacker (MIKE) manned by Juwan Mitchell. With Kwiatkowski’s scheme, the linebackers are deployed as two inside linebackers, similar to inside linebackers in a 3-4 scheme.
Texas’ two starters from a year ago are projected to once again be the focal points at the second level in 2021.
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Linebackers Personnel
The two linebackers in this scheme will have to be able to play sideline to sideline. That means they must be able to operate in space and cover a lot of area. When it comes to an instinctive, physical player that can handle himself in open space, Overshown is the player that comes to mind immediately.
Someone I highlighted before the season was #Texas LB DeMarvion Overshown, who was making the transition from Safety to LB this season. He has made it seamlessly, as he picks up his second INT of the season here.
Athletic, rangy, still learning, but he's someone to watch. pic.twitter.com/Plgr3FQori
— Devin Jackson (@RealD_Jackson) December 30, 2020
With the depth at linebacker, Jaylan Ford would be an ideal candidate for the position as well. He has the ability to move sideline to sideline but lacks the in-game experience, but that should come in time. The 2021 recruiting class additions of Morice Blackwell and Terrence Cooks could find their way to the field as well given their athleticism at the position.
One candidate to move to linebacker is current safety Tyler Owens. He’s a player who can make plays in the open field. That is the biggest key when it comes to playing the position for Kwiatkowski.