Pat Williams: The Prototypical Tampa-2 Nose Tackle

Pro Football Focus has an article out that, in some ways, is similar to the one we posted a few days ago on defensive tackles. However, the writer for PFF, Sam Monson, does a good job presenting the different types of DTs each team uses and then applying a specific player that fits the type.

I found Sam's prototype for the Tampa-2 NT rather interesting.

1-Technique (4-3 NT) – Pat Williams

The 1-technique does much the same as the 0-technique, except he is shaded over the inside shoulder of one of the guards, and is rarely expected to control two gaps. He is, however, expected to command a double team from the center and guard, which frees up other linemen to be one on one with their blockers. Pat Williams has been the prototype for this position for years. Williams was an immovable force in the middle for the Vikings and required two players to try and shift him from the point of attack, leaving Kevin Williams single-blocked by a guard, and allowing linebackers to run free to the ball and make stops close to the line of scrimmage. A good 1-technique DT can dramatically improve an entire run defense, because he makes several players’ jobs much easier.

Alternative prototypes: Haloti Ngata, Antonio Dixon, Colin Cole

In case you didn't know, Pat Williams is just sitting out there in free agency. The Colts have never had consistent play at the 1-Technique nose tackle, which is why teams regularly ram the football down Indy's throat.

Yes, yes, yes. I know Bill Polian said the team will have Drake Nevis and Antonio Johnson play NT. Suggestion: Why not bring in the 'prototype' NT in a Tampa-2 to teach Nevis and spell Mookie for part of the year?

Just a thought.