One Defensive Player...

[CaliCurbStomppa]

Troy Polamalu or Patrick Willis

Edited September 24, 2009 by CaliCurbStomppa

[Flash]

Polamalu doesn't have a position. He lines up, free of the scheme, where the defense needs him, makes plays, and dominates. And that versatility you alluded to exactly why I prefer him over Reed — he's able to cover the deep zones with comparable instincts to Reed, man up tight ends, and is phenomenal in the box. He excels at everything, including what Reed excels at. Polamalu impacts the game more.

 

Reed is the better pass defender IMO. I know Troy had that incredible year last year in terms of INT's but I'd take E-Reed in that dept. Polamalu is easily the better run defender but that's because he's a Strong Safety.

 

Reed is the biggest defensive playmaker in the NFL imo.

 

They are different players and I think both fit their schemes perfectly.

[His Greatness]

Reed is the better pass defender IMO. I know Troy had that incredible year last year in terms of INT's but I'd take E-Reed in that dept. Polamalu is easily the better run defender but that's because he's a Strong Safety.

 

Reed is the biggest defensive playmaker in the NFL imo.

This argument is apples and oranges.

 

Reed is the premier centerfielder in the NFL. No one comes close to his proficiency in that regard, but that's the only place he impacts the game. I realize that sounds extremely shortsighted because it's a very vital role, but you look at a guy like Polamalu, who not only covers the deep middle (not as good) with effectiveness, but dominates other areas as well... it just does more for me. He's officially classified as a strong safety, but he's truthfully a hybrid. He can do it all.

 

BTW, picks aren't an indicator of a player's pass coverage abilities. Polamalu may have picked off more passes, but I think it's universally known that Reed is the best coverage safety.