[thefro526]

I have a very strong opinion on defensive robots, which I've developed from my time in FIRST in different levels and capacities.

Personally, I would never "build" a robot to play defense. I've found that it's far too risky, because should you be paired with two other defensive robots then you no longer have the ability to score any points. (arguably) More often than not, a capable offensive robot in any game has been able to play effective defense, whether this be through interference, pinning, or some other game specific strategy.

And also, looking at this game, there's no real defensive strategies that require any specialized robot features, with the exception of a strong drive base and capable "kicker" and both of these belong on a good offensive robot in my opinion. When I think of a good defensive robot this year, I think of a machine that plays the role of an on-field ball returner so to say. This machine would go up against your opponents and starve them of their ball supply while also feeding yours. I really don't think playing goalie will be an effective way of defending this year, because once you block one goal an opponent could just use the other to score on.

Finally, I think a lot of alliances will find themselves playing their best defender in the midfield. I can foresee a lot of fighting over the balls coming from the ball return.