Description

Nate Moore, Massillon Washington HS (OH), Head Coach

Full video on Glazier Drive: Even Run Fits in the 3-4/4-2 Fusion Defense System

INSIDE LINEBACKER READS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This defensive scheme focuses on inside linebacker (Mike and Will) techniques for reading offensive guards and fitting various run plays.

BASE ALIGNMENT AND KEYS

Inside linebackers align in a 30 technique and key the offensive guards as their primary read. The Mike linebacker positions in the bubble with a clear view of the strong side guard, while the Will linebacker keys his near guard despite having a three technique in front of him. Both linebackers also under-key the near back in their peripheral vision to help diagnose run plays. For the Will, the near back is the tailback (weak side), and for the Mike, it's the fullback (strong side).

OPEN WINDOW READ

When linebackers get a run read (offensive lineman charging forward) combined with an open window through their gap, they attack full force. This applies to inside zone, ISO, or dart plays. Against ISO teams specifically, pre-snap communication is critical - linebackers discuss the probability of ISO based on formation (fullback in the bubble indicates high ISO likelihood). The Mike fits the ISO fullback inside-out with his outside shoulder, forcing the ball to the B gap, while the Will cross-fills over the top to make the tackle in the outside pocket.

CLOSE WINDOW READ

When getting a run read with a closed window (guard blocking but no clear gap) and the near back working outside at an angle (outside zone), linebackers work inside-out, cloudy to clear. They search for an open window seam while moving laterally, taking any clear path to the ball carrier or continuing to work outside until finding the ball or an opening.

PULL READ

Pull plays require immediate communication and coordinated fits. When the Mike linebacker sees his guard pull, he yells "pull pull" to alert the Will. The Will, initially attacking his open window, adjusts to work outside tight to the Jack linebacker to fit where the Jack spills the trap block. The Mike works to the front side A gap cloudy to clear - taking it if open, or continuing to work over the top inside-out if cloudy, searching for an inside seam.

 

---

Reviews

---

Comments