Looking at a re-run of A Seattle SF game in which Fant is the starting LT, it seems that the plan is not only better pass protection for Sam, but getting out in space, with Le Veon
being the recipient of much better downfield blocking. Fant seems to be excellent in space, although, I think, he could use some work in blocking technique. I love that Joe, being a former lineman, knows exactly what he’s looking for regarding fits. I have visions of Terrell Davis running behind that very mobile athletic Denver line , and it seems there’s a similar plan in place with the Jets. The Miami Sun-Sentinel did a story leading up to Super Bowl 32 against the Packers and talked about Green Bay’s number one priority being to stop Terrell Davis. Here’s what they had to say about his signature running style and incredible vision. (emphasis added)
The Broncos' signature run is a toss left or toss right to Davis. Sometimes, Elway will hand the ball to Davis going right or left, but it's a cosmetic difference. The line blocks it the same way.
As Davis starts in motion, the idea is to get the defensive linemen moving laterally to try to hold the perimeter and keep Davis inside. That allows the smaller Denver offensive linemen to angle-block rather than confront Green Bay's bigger defenders head-on.
They are not trying to blast the Packers off the line. That's not their style and they are not built for it. They are trying to get them moving so they can shove them aside and create wider gaps through which Davis can run.
Despite the number of times Denver runs the toss play, Davis doesn't often try to turn the corner and head down the sideline. He is a downhill runner. His thing is cutback, get through the gap, bust the linebacker tackle and take off.
And he does it well because of his decisiveness and vision. He is an instinctive back who sees holes develop an instant before they happen. He feels the gaps appearing, and he has cut back before the gaps are fully open. That gives him a head start into the hole.
The Packers have not faced an offensive line with a combination of this kind of runner and this kind of blocking scheme all season.