Oregon’s defense has climbed to #4 in the SP+ rankings under new defensive coordinator Andy Avalos. This article will break down the principles of DC Avalos’ scheme, specifically the defensive front formations, inclinations in different game situations, and blitz patterns; I’ll attempt to answer what if anything makes it more effective despite using roughly the same personnel as last year.
The base defense is an even-front 3-3-5, with an outside linebacker playing on the line. That backer is usually a flexible STUD player, a hybrid DE/OLB who primarily rushes the passer but can also drop into coverage or move laterally to pursue outside runs and screens.