This is the last post in my draft preview of edge rusher prospect Noah Spence. I wanted to show you a couple of clips of issues in Spence’s game that are concerning to me.
My first issue is with his functional strength or what I like to call play strength. There were a couple of plays against the run where Spence was driven back by tight ends.
This play is from a 2013 game versus Wisconsin. Spence was a freshman in this game so I took that into account.
Spence initially gets his hands inside of the TE’s hands but on contact the TE stands him up, drives Spence back and ultimately into the ground. Again, he was a freshman in this game and has most likely gotten stronger since then.
These next 2 plays show the issue that concerns me the most about Spence. He shows a tendency to jog behind plays.
The first play is from the 2015 game versus N.C. State, but if you watch Spence’s games on DraftBreakdown you can see him jogging behind plays somewhat regularly.
After the QB scrambles to his right, the other EKU defenders slowed him down enough for Spence to make a play from behind but he’s jogging behind the play.
This next play is from a 2015 game versus Kentucky.
If you have any doubt about Spence’s (#9 rushing against LT # 74) lack of hustle on this play, watch the EKU defender who blitzes up the middle, falls down, gets back up and sprints to get back in the play.
Overall, I like Spence as a prospect. I think he displays the traits you want to see in an edge rusher. He has a good first step, is flexible enough to bend the edge, uses his hands pretty well and has an inside counter move.
I think he has a few technique issues that are correctable but I am concerned about his propensity not to hustle behind plays.
DeepCoverPod Blog 