Eagles DC Jonathan Gannon is discovering his rhythm simply in time to frustrate 49ers’ QB Brock Purdy
Profitable NFL defenses depend on proficient playmakers and flexibility throughout the board, one thing Jonathan Gannon has carried out throughout his two seasons with the Eagles.
After a 2021 season that noticed Philadelphia gashed through a passive scheme and an absence of expertise, GM Howie Roseman made extreme upgrades to the roster, including Haason Reddick, Kyzir White, Jordan Davis, Nakobe Dean, and James Bradberry amongst others.
Roseman then acquired C.J. Gardner-Johnson through commerce from the Saints, and the proper ‘GUMBO’ recipe was developed, permitting Gannon to prepare dinner this season with a top-five protection in a number of key classes.
Followers and media pundits criticize Gannon for his perceived lack of aggression, however there’s no denying that Philadelphia’s defensive coordinator has pushed all the proper buttons this season.
With an NFC Championship matchup in opposition to the 49ers looming, Fran Duffy appeared on the versatility Gannon’s scheme employs, and the confusion it precipitated for the Giants and quarterback Daniel Jones.
If Gannon can get into the same rhythm in opposition to the Niners, the Eagles shall be headed to the Tremendous Bowl with a recipe that might stifle Patrick Mahomes or Joe Burrow as properly.
Haason Reddick-Josh Sweat in protection
A lot was made earlier this season about Jonathan Gannon dropping star cross rusher Haason Reddick into protection from his SAM linebacker spot.
Throughout coaching camp, Gannon took heat for dropping Reddick into space however gave a stable clarification in his personal protection.
In Gannon’s protection, as a SAM linebacker, you would by no means simply line Reddick up and have him rush the passer as a standup defensive finish. At that time, the Eagles can be telegraphing their protection whereas additionally placing their protection and secondary in danger.
Gannon’s job was to place his most proficient personnel in the very best place to be artistic and impactful with out sacrificing defensive self-discipline.
An look within the NFC Championship sport proves that he did simply that.
Zone protection schemes
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Quite a bit has been product of perceived struggles in protection for Darius Slay, however C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s return to the lineup has allowed Philadelphia to effectively play their man-zone mixtures beneath.
Jonathan Gannon does a fantastic job of disguising his coverages and his gamers do it whereas on the transfer and in real-time.
There have been preliminary breakdowns within the protection with Josiah Scott within the slot, however the protection has improved with Gardner-Johnson inserted, and Reed Blankenship at security.
Stunts and Video games
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When it comes collectively, it comes collectively, and Gannon has accomplished a fantastic job down the stretch of using stunts and video games up entrance with the Eagles’ line of defense.
SAM linebacker Haason Reddick was in a position to put immense strain on Giants quarterback Daniel Jones by looping into the center after initially lining up because the left edge rusher.