The thing that coaches don't like to hear is that speed solves alot of problems. Even if a guy like Hitchens is in the right position, doesn't mean he'll make the play. Willie can be in the wrong position and still make the play. Same with Sorenson vs Thornhill.
Sometimes talent is better than effort, hard work & experience.
It's not a coincidence that this defense has been playing WAY better once Hitchens snap count has been reduced - whether that was from injury or from coaches playing him less - he's played much less snap counts in the last 5 weeks (when you know, our defense has been good)
Hitchens snap count by week 1 to week 10
Week 1: 47
Week 2: 65
Week 3: 52
Week 4: 49
Week 5: 47
Week 6: 11
Week 7: 0
Week 8: 0
Week 9: 31
Week 10: 22
DAN SORENSON snaps by week
Week 1: 59
Week 2: 76
Week 3: 60
Week 4: 73
Week 5: 57
Week 6: 19
Week 7: 16
Week 8: 27
Week 9: 22
Week 10: 27
It's like magically after week 5 we don't suck at defense anymore after Hitch and Sorenson snaps decline MASSIVELY.
SOURCE:
https://www.fantasypros.com/nfl/repo...ts/defense.php