Well can they take special teams out the game faster? That might be the quickest way for the MD to improve.Interesting conversation on Sirius Radio the other day. Of all people, Tom Brady talked about how difficult it is for defenses now because they can't get physical with quarterbacks.
Flags are going to fly if you hit Allen or Mahomes. Serious edge to the quarterback.
He also mentioned how the league is essentially trying to take special teams out of the game, at least the return game. That was another way teams could "swing" games that doesn't happen much anymore.
His point was pretty much what a lot of people are saying here. Load up on offense.
But if you have a good quarterback and not a great quarterback, that obviously limits your chances.
Look at all the talent Purdy has around him. Much more than Mahomes on offense. Although, there certainly were a number of ways SF comes up with the win.
Unfortunately our opponents have not gotten the memo that the league doesn't want long punt/kickoff returns anymore.