Former England full-back Mike Brown fears his new defensive system will crumble against Scotland next weekend.
The Red Rose opened their Six Nations campaign in winning fashion, with back-to-back wins over Italy and Wales.
Therefore, they will be competing for the Grand Slam in the Calcutta Cup match at Murrayfield.
However, manager Steve Borthwick admitted a lot of work needs to be done, particularly in defence.
Springbok influence
England have hired Felix Jones as their new defense coach, replacing Kevin Sinfield, and he has introduced a Springbok-style rearguard for this Six Nations.
Against Italy and Wales we made some mistakes, especially in the first half, but after the break we adapted well and won.
Their next challenge will be to negate the threat of Finn Russell, who will no doubt give the English more to think about.
Mr Brown says it is therefore vital that visitors get it right, otherwise Russell and Scotland could be divided.
“The key to victory in Edinburgh on Saturday will be for Jones' blitz defense to contain Finn Russell and others. If that doesn't work, England could be in big trouble,” Leicester Tigers said. I am writing this on my blog. sunday mail column.
“Russell controls things from number 10. His passing game is great and he’s a dangerous X-factor player out wide.
“If England's blitz defense doesn't work together, meaning they can't press as a group and with huge line speed, then Russell will find an opening to exploit.”
How can England target Scotland?
Brown identified what Borthwick's men could do to covertly protect Russell and give him a chance of winning the three-on-three.
“They need to use their high line speed to push the Scottish attack back into areas where England's forwards can earn turnovers at the breakdown. England need to take away Russell's time of possession.
“Their tacklers are very physical and they need to stop Scottish runners dead on the track. Otherwise Scotland will have the momentum to allow Russell to play wide.
“The first quarter will be key. If England can contain Scotland and the defense can catch fire, they have a good chance. Otherwise it could be a long day at the office.”
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