Norm Parker - Nothin' Fancy

People will make a big deal about "having a month to prepare" for flexbone can make any defense look good, but with Norm Parker, What You See Is What You Get.

Parker's no-nonsense approach to defense, stressing (schematic) minimalism and disciplined fundamentals is what has been showing up every week for years in Iowa City.

Below are some clips from the defensive annihilation at the Orange Bowl with Iowa's defense matching the formation (doubles or trips) then gap controlling the front 7 (spilling to force corners).

There is nothing here that will blow your brains out with scheme - but the flawless execution of footwork and hand placement along the front is what gets this done. The most entertaining element (IMO) is watching the backside outside linebacker methodically shuffle into the hole for cutback. This also puts him in great position to match the final 3.

With the 'even' (coverage) defense matching the even (formation), it allows MLB Angerer (rep Bettendorf!) to completely sell out to the fullback on every play.

Even though #94 Clayborn is a consummate ass-kicker, if you need an example of "bock-down-step-down" DE execution; this is it.

For the compendium of defending the triple option, see Coach Hoover's series here