Originally Posted by
teegre
He’s a faster, bigger version of Big Red. Both were/are tackling machines: Vander Esch led the NCAA in stops.
Vander Esch isn’t as fast as Shazier (who is), and thus, the “catcher’s mitt” reference. He won’t have many tackles for losses, but he’ll rack up 100s of tackles for 2-3 yard gains. He doesn’t miss tackles (which is arguably the biggest problem for this defense).
Once engaged with a blocker, it appears that Vander Esch has trouble disengaging. But, IMO, he maneuvers very well through the muck (he avoids getting blocked). He makes a beeline for the ball carrier... even through a pile up.