What Makes the Bison Defense So Effective

In their home opener, the Bison defense played exactly how we expected: fast, physical, and disciplined. Year in and year out, this unit has proven to be one of the premier defenses in all of college football, regardless of division. This past weekend was no different. The Bison held SEMO to just 217 total yards, including only 67 yards rushing. In this article, we will break down a few plays that reflect exactly who this Bison defense is.

Effort & Technique

The 6-technique at the top of the screen puts on a clinic in technique. He locks out the tight end with excellent hand placement and extension, then works down the line to finish the play with a tackle. It is not a flashy play, but it is a perfect example of what separates this defense. The Bison consistently do the little things right. That attention to detail and commitment to technique is what makes them elite.

The Bison run a "Tex" stunt at the top of the screen, but the real story is the effort from the 3-tech. He loops over the top and completely engulfs the running back as he tries to turn upfield. That is a big-time finish. Just as important is the corner who sets a firm edge to force the back inside. This is team defense at its best: assignment sound, physical at the point of attack, and relentless to the ball.

This is a great example of being gap sound against pin and pull, but it also shows off excellent backside pursuit. Once again, what makes this defense special is the relentless effort paired with discipline. They are never out of the play and always chasing with purpose.

This one is tough to see from the broadcast angle, but the 3-tech at the top shows excellent technique. He locks out the guard and works a “power scoot” to stay square and in control before slipping off to make the tackle for loss. It is another example of fundamentals creating impact plays.