How it works: The genius behind Jesse Minter and his top-ranked Chargers defense

Jesse Minter (right) was also by the side of Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh as defensive coordinator at Michigan last year. (Brooke Sutton / Getty Images)

Joey Bosa did more than just make the play. He helped call it.

Working with first-year defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, the Chargers’ star outside linebacker suggested the perfectly timed stunt that led to Bosa’s first sack of the season in the Chargers’ opening game. In his first opportunity to prove himself as an NFL play caller, Minter had no problem accepting feedback from his veteran players.

It only made the celebration that much sweeter.

Minter is acing his first impression as an NFL play caller by emphasizing teamwork beyond just the field. In meeting rooms, assistant coaches play major roles in reinforcing the defense’s top priorities. On the sidelines, players are free to suggest in-game adjustments. On the field, it adds up to the best defense in the NFL.

“Football is not an individual sport,” Minter said. “It’s the ultimate team sport, and especially defensive football. … To me, team defense is the ultimate goal for us.”

Read more: A touchdown on his first NFL touch: Chargers rookie Kimani Vidal has ‘greatness in him’

The 3-2 Chargers, who face the Arizona Cardinals (2-4) on Monday at 6 p.m. PDT,lead the NFL by allowing just 13.2 points per game. One season after ranking 24th in scoring defense, the Chargers are the only unit to rank inside the top eight in points (first in the NFL), yards (sixth), yards passing (eighth) and yards rushing (sixth) per game.

Their defensive renaissance was achieved despite weekly rotation changes necessitated by injuries or suspensions. Even when veteran stars Bosa, Asante Samuel Jr. or Derwin James Jr. miss time, the Chargers can rely on their 41-year-old defensive coordinator.

“He’s just good,” coach Jim Harbaugh said of the coordinator he hand-selected to follow him to the NFL from Michigan.

In remaking the unit, Minter has preached that success is 50%…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/works-genius-behind-jesse-minter-100036198.html

Author : LA Times

Publish date : 2024-10-21 10:00:36

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