Analysis of Brad Spence and Trey Moore Musical Chairs
The conversation regarding the positions Trey Moore and Brad Spence would play on the field in 2025 has reached a peak following the news Tuesday that Spence has moved to a full-time EDGE position.
In fact, it is BUCK where Spence is believed to be moved to – right behind Colin Simmons on the depth chart.
But I wanted to provide some insight on why the move was made.
On the surface, it may not make a whole lot of sense. Trey Moore is listed at 6-foot-3-inches and 249 pounds on the Texas roster, while Brad Spence comes in at 6-foot-2 and 241 pounds.
When watching Brad Spence play ball for Arkansas in 2024, even as an off-ball linebacker, there is a clear heavy-handedness to his game. Spence brings a significant punch when engaging with would-be blockers and is quick to disengage without needed to move from his position all too much.
On the flip side, speed is more the name of the game for Trey Moore. Finesse moves like the spin move and dip and rips were what allowed Trey Moore to see significant production in the 2nd half of the season. Though, that finesse approach brings displacement at times.
When looking at holding the edge in run support, this favors the play style of Spence just a bit more.
I don't have GPS speed numbers for either, but there were times a year ago where Trey Moore dropped back into coverage and fared well. This also gives Texas the opportunity to put two 240+ pound linebackers on the field together for jumbo situations.
Altogether, the arsenal for the Texas pass rush continues to improve. Should be interesting to see how both are deployed in 2025.