Oakland Raiders: Maximizing Talent Through the Hybrid Defense
By Vic Lopez
Dec 23, 2012; Charlotte, NC, USA; Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Miles Burris and Sio Moore: Young, Talented, and Both Deserving to Start
The Oakland Raiders are sitting on two young studs in their linebacking corp to go along with rookie Khalil Mack. Recent indications out of mini-camp have shown a fierce competition at the weak side linebacker position, between 2012 4th round pick Miles Burris, and 2013 3rd round pick Sio Moore.
Moore put up a stellar rookie campaign last year and was rated as the 8th best 4-3 OLB by Bleacher Reports Matt Miller. I couldn’t agree more, Sio is the real deal.
On the heels of Sio Moore, is the re-emergence of Miles Burris. Burris has earned some first team reps in mini camp over the aforementioned Moore, and has proven to be fully healed from a knee injury that cost him all of last year.
"“Burris has gotten time this spring at all three linebacker spots in case he’s needed as a reserve instead of a starter. The coaching staff places a premium on versatility and Burris is happy to do that, saying he has no preference for where he plays.” Associated Press"
The question remains, why keep one of these two young talented linebackers off the field? Why not optimize both talents and put the best players on the field at the same time? The Hybrid defense would allow this.
Moving Burris inside along side starting MLB Nick Roach, while allowing Sio Moore, the more effective pass rusher to remain outside, could establish a dynamic linebacking corps. Resulting in headaches for opposing offenses.