Description

Tremaine Jackson, Head Coach, Prairie View A&M

Watch the entire Glazier Drive video: Using Multiple Fronts out of a 3-3 3-High Safety Defense

CORE PHILOSOPHY

The defensive system is built on teaching multiple fronts out of a 3-3-3 high safety alignment to disrupt offensive rhythm and create confusion. The approach emphasizes starting with 4-down principles before transitioning to 3-high looks, ensuring players understand fundamental gap responsibilities and aren't limited when game situations demand front changes.

PERSONNEL AND ALIGNMENT CONCEPTS

The system utilizes a "wheel backer" (referred to as "jet" or "Jay") positioned at the apex who serves as the middle safety in 3-high coverage. This player can function as a star backer while keeping Sam and Mike linebackers in the box for formal quarters coverage. The wheel backer is taught to "rip the gap and get upfield" rather than playing through with hands, allowing athletic players to make plays while bigger players at Will backer use more hand technique.

FRONT MOVEMENT AND ADJUSTMENTS

The defense employs various front shifts including moving from 4-eye techniques to 5-techniques based on offensive formation strength. Players make "Eagle" calls to signal nose and 4-technique movement to the 3-man surface side. The system includes "tight front" concepts with two 4-eyes and a zero nose, with the zero nose played multiple ways to create different looks.

PRESSURE PACKAGES AND BLITZ CONCEPTS

Six-man pressure schemes are executed from both 4-down and 3-down fronts, featuring two edge rushers with inside fold concepts. The coordinator strategically uses these pressures as "change of pace" when opponents focus their preparation on 3-high coverage, particularly on crucial downs like 4th and 2. Player matchups are carefully considered, putting bigger defenders on bigger offensive players.

RUN FIT RESPONSIBILITIES

Defenders are taught specific techniques for different blocks, particularly down blocks where 5-techniques get "eyes inside out" and stay responsible for outside threats. The middle safety serves as an overlap player in both single-high and 3-high schemes, providing flexibility between zone coverage and split safety looks. Players are coached to "swarm to the ball" with specific surf techniques for 3-man surfaces.

STRATEGIC ADVANTAGES

The multiple front approach forces offenses to spend preparation time on various looks rather than mastering responses to one system. By presenting different fronts through simple adjustments like moving one player, the defense can create entirely new gap responsibilities and force offensive players to make mistakes. The ultimate goal is to "turn people free" so athletic defenders can make plays in space.

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