Actually i think Vilma would be better as an MLB in the 46, playing sideline to sideline thumping RB's. I think Harris can play that MLB role too though, and Harris better fit for the 3-4 alignments. Main thing I'd like to see Harris improve on is coverage though..
Good description of the 46. That pic is intense! They have 9 in the box. Must be some type of variation. Looks like they have Singletary where the SS would normally be, and have no FS out there at all. Dent is lined up in that weakside pass rushing DE role, which Suggs plays, and hopefully Gholston can grow into. I can see Pace lining up where Wilbur Marshall is..
Actually, 46 doesn't really have any specific personnel alignment, as far as I can remember. One of the major points in 46 is to double team the TE with Sam/SS - in other words, it's called "overloading" in today's nomenclature. This forces a few things. First, as TE cannot block two blitzers, this keeps the RB in the pocket too - which means, the only viable running plays are pitch/toss to the weak side (away from the overloaded side), where WLB is supposed to be ready to make a play. Running up the middle or to the strong side is as good as dead - the free defender will make a play either from the side or from behind. The line needs to hold the blockers without allowing a hole only for a brief moment. Also gone are cutback plays and counter plays or any dancing-behind-the-line sort of running plays - there is a free defender coming hard and fast at the ball carrier. The play cannot develop normally. Going 2 backs with max pro doesn't work either. This means your receiving options are severely underhanded - and that means more defenders can come into the pocket with impunity - at times, 9 of them. That's a no-no. Thus, this scheme, if it works perfectly, basically neutralizes the run game, and harries the QB to no end in passing situation. That means the offense has become one-dimensional (or zero, if you'd care) As a defender, you know where they can possibly come, and also know there isn't much that can be done to help the other team even if they do come with their handful of options. Walsh system is, in part called elongated handoff, and you will see why that's the case.
