The Miami Hurricanes have introduced Lance Guidry as their new defensive coordinator. Guidry was hired away from Tulane where he was the defensive coordinator for only 15 days. Guidry boasted one of the top defenses in the nation last year for Marshall, which included an upset win over Notre Dame, the then-8th-ranked team in the nation. For the Canes, this represents a shift in defensive philosophy as the Canes underachieved under Steele, posting the 68th-ranked defense in 2022.
Guidry’s defensive philosophy centers on being aggressive and utilizing two or three-down linemen with linebackers pressuring the quarterback. This approach allows for flexibility and creativity in defensive play-calling. Guidry’s defenses are known for their ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and create turnovers. However, one of the most critical keys to success in a Guidry-led defense is discipline. Guidry emphasizes the importance of communication between his linebackers and defensive backs, ensuring that everyone knows their assignments, placements, and positioning. With such an aggressive defense, knowing each player’s role is crucial for success.
Marshall played disciplined football most of the year and as a result, was inside the top 10 in key defensive categories last year:
By contrast, the Canes in 2022 were ranked:
– 98th in third-down defense
– 102nd in passing efficiency
– 63rd in rushing defense
– 67th in scoring defense
Guidry’s defenses are also known for their ability to create turnovers. Guidry emphasizes the importance of ball-hawking and creating opportunities for his team to get the ball back. His defenses are pressure-driven and intense, with an emphasis on sound tackling and fundamental play. The defensive backs are asked to play aggressively and are often found in a lot of man coverages. The Notre Dame game is a perfect example of the aggressiveness of both the defensive backs on the wide receivers and the defensive line on the quarterbacks:
Guidry’s defensive scheme is a hybrid 3-4 defense, which is designed to maximize the strengths of his personnel. He typically employs a mixture of zone and man-to-man coverage in the secondary and utilizes blitz packages to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. The 3-4 scheme also allows for more versatility and flexibility in terms of creating different looks and pressures. Guidry likes to use his linebackers as defensive ends sometimes to apply max pressure to the quarterback. Expect hybrid players such as Malik Bryant or Cyrus Moss to wreak havoc in his defense as they are deployed as both linebackers and defensive ends.
Guidry’s youth and hunger for success also make him a relatable coach for younger players. As a young and energetic coach, Guidry brings a different type of energy to the team that Kevin Steele, the previous defensive coordinator, did not. Guidry’s relatability and energy could provide a welcome change for the Hurricanes, not just on the field but in the recruiting department as well.
ROLLO’S Take:
Overall, the hiring of Guidry as the new defensive coordinator for the Miami Hurricanes is a significant upgrade for the program. His aggressive defensive style, emphasis on discipline and communication, and youth and energy make him an excellent fit for the team. Guidry’s ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and create turnovers will be a welcome addition to the Hurricanes, as it should help the defense take a significant step forward. In South Florida, the defensive culture you find in high schools is a lot of man-to-man, with max pressure on the quarterbacks. South Florida football prides itself on creating turnovers and playing with energy and aggressiveness. This is why I think Guidry is a perfect fit, scheme-wise for the Hurricanes. Mario Cristobal may now point to his defensive coordinator who will run a type of defense that fits the culture that most south Florida players grew up in and relish. His energy and enthusiasm on the field will also match the passion of South Florida recruits. Outside of his talent as a defensive mastermind, Guidry is a young enough coach that will be looking to stay in Miami and help build a strong Hurricanes football program on the defensive side of the ball for several years to come.
ROLLO’S Grade: A+
