One of the primary functions of the Tampa 2 scheme deployed by Houston Texans coach Lovie Smith is its emphasis on defensive linemen getting upfield to the quarterback.
Smith coached a defense with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 1996-2000 that featured a future Hall-of-Fame defensive tackle in Warren Sapp, who generated as many as 16.5 sacks in a single-season playing as a defensive tackle in the Tampa 2.
For as much as Smith’s scheme emphasizes linebackers, there is a place for a disruptive three-technique defensive tackle.
