In the late 1970’s and early 1980′,s the Denver Broncos used a defensive system different from most systems of the time…the 3-4 — the same as the San Diego Chargers’ defense now. It put extra speed on the field in the form of four linebackers while sacrificing weight and strength up front with three Lineman instead of four. It was called the Orange Crush defense due to their uniform colors. The unintended consequence? A definite advantage in special teams.
Randy Gradishar (who should be in the Hall of Fame,) Tom Jackson, Bob Swenson and Joe Rizzo made up an impressive linebacker group with Barney Chavous, Rubin Carter, and Lyle Alzado being the down lineman.