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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Glenn Erby

4 things to know about new Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio

After having two understudies run the system to mixed review, the Eagles got their man and the scheme’s architect, as Vic Fangio has officially been named the team’s defensive coordinator.

Fangio wanted to be closer to his family in Pennslyvania, and Philadelphia happened to have a vacancy after firing Sean Desai.

With the deal now complete, here are four things to know about the Eagles new defensive coach.

Fangio grew up an Eagles fan

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 02: Head coach Vic Fangio of the Denver Broncos walks the sidelines during the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on January 02, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

“I was a die-hard Phillies fan and Eagles fan growing up and got my first job in pro football there back in the USFL with the Philadelphia Stars,” said Fangio during a mid-week press conference before the Dolphins and Eagles played in Week 7 this season. “And so, Philly is a special place to me.”

Fangio's units have ups and down

Nov 2, 2023; Frankfurt, Germany; Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangio at press conference at the PSD Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Fangio has local ties

Nov 2, 2023; Frankfurt, Germany; Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangio at press conference at the PSD Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Fangio began his coaching career as a defensive assistant for the now-defunct Philadelphia Stars, winning a USFL Championship in 1984 before the team relocated to Baltimore. Fangio is an East Stroudsburg University graduate, and an avid Philadelphia sports fan.

Fangio will employ a versatile scheme

Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangiowatches the defense during the scrimmage at Hard Rock Stadium, Saturday, August 5, 2023 in Miami Gardens.

Fangio’s main package is the 3-4, Nickel/Sub, Penny, and 40 defensive fronts.

His scheme implements some man-coverage principles and creates a lot of versatility in his defensive calls.

Fangio’s defense focuses on limiting explosive plays with heavy zone coverage and looks that give opposing offenses a chance to run the ball.

Fangio’s defenses don’t blitz a lot either, with the idea being to limit explosive passing plays, force teams to run the football and then win with four pass rushers up front.

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