“Despite running a defensive front classified as a 3-4 (which utilizes two ends, a nose tackle and four linebackers), Redskins defensive coordinator Joe Barry and his charges often shift to their nickel package, which utilizes a four-man front (with two edge rushers and two interior linemen) and is better designed to defend the pass.
“Coach Jay Gruden estimated last week that the Redskins utilized their base package on less than a third of their defensive snaps last season, and that reduces the need for an exclusive nose tackle. Barry plans on further de-emphasizing the position this season, Gruden said. As a result, he could lean more heavily on holdovers Chris Baker and Kedric Golston to play nose tackle in those limited circumstances where the team uses a three-man front. Baker is the starting left defensive end, but saw time at nose tackle when Knighton needed a breather, or was injured. Golston, meanwhile, served as a rotational player both at end and nose tackle.”
~ Mike Jones, washingtonpost.com, Redskins lean towards further de-emphasizing the nose tackle.
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