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John Bellace, Head Coach, Archmere Academy (DE)

Full video on Glazier Drive: Understanding the 3-3 Stack: Assignments, Alignments and Base Coverages

NOSE GUARD REQUIREMENTS AND TECHNIQUE

The nose guard position can be filled by two different player types - either a larger player who can absorb blocks and control ground, or a smaller, wrestler-type athlete who uses leverage to hit gaps and get behind the center. Regardless of size, the nose guard must dominate the center, control one A gap, and most importantly, command a double team. The coach emphasizes that if the center can solo block the nose guard, the guards will have clean angles to the middle linebacker.

The key teaching point is that coaches need to spend time instructing nose guards on how to properly take on double teams, including whether to split the double team, take on the down man, or go to ground at specific depths.

DEFENSIVE END/TACKLE POSITIONS

The outside defensive linemen are typically athletic, taller players who resemble traditional defensive ends. Their gap responsibility is B or C gap depending on the call, and they coordinate with the linebacker stack behind them. The coach suggests potentially flip-flopping these players based on tight end alignment or field position, as one may need to handle more contain responsibility than the other.

LINEBACKER ALIGNMENT AND DUTIES

The Mike linebacker starts opposite the A gap from the nose guard but must read and react rather than simply firing into gaps. A bigger, more physical linebacker is preferred for this position since guards may have angles on him. The stack linebacker handles B or C gap responsibility opposite the defensive end and should be a better blitzer with strong pursuit skills.

SECONDARY POSITIONS: HAWK AND EAGLE

The defense uses asymmetrical positioning with the Hawk and Eagle positions. The Hawk functions more like an outside linebacker or defensive end, playing up on the line of scrimmage against tight ends to create a four-man front. He must be the best edge setter and uses a "triangle read" technique, keying the tight end first, then reading for guard/tackle combinations, fullback kickouts, or other blocking schemes.

The Eagle position is more of a strong safety type, typically aligned to the open side of the formation opposite the Hawk. The coach notes they try to avoid putting the Hawk in man coverage but hope he's not a complete liability when required.

COACHING EMPHASIS

Throughout the presentation, the coach stresses the importance of gap discipline, controlled aggression, and players understanding their role in making teammates successful. He emphasizes recognizing and crediting the "dirty work" that allows other players to make highlight plays.

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