DEFENSIVE RUN STOPPING PHILOSOPHY: LSC SYSTEM

This coaching presentation focuses on a comprehensive defensive system for stopping the run game using the LSC principle - Leverage, Spill, Cutback. The core philosophy emphasizes forcing running plays to the perimeter where athletic defenders can pursue and tackle, rather than allowing downhill runs through the middle.

FUNDAMENTAL DECISION POINTS FOR COORDINATORS

Every defensive coordinator must make three critical decisions when building their run defense:

First, determine your safety structure - will you be a split safety team (middle of field open) or a single high safety team (middle of field closed). The coach advocates for closing the middle of the field to create eight-man spacing, though acknowledges this creates vulnerability to quarterback run games.

Second, choose your front structure - four down, three down, or five down front. Each has different gap responsibilities and personnel requirements.

Third, decide your philosophy - are you a spill team or a box team? Activated rushers become spillers, while drive players and click players (those with dual responsibilities) focus on boxing and keeping their outside shoulder free.

GAP RESPONSIBILITY AND STRUCTURE

The system emphasizes being gap sound, with every defender knowing their specific gap assignment. In the four-down concept against 2x2 formations, each player has a single gap responsibility. The presentation details specific alignments: ends in C gaps, linebackers in A and B gaps, and defensive linemen in their assigned gaps.

COVERAGE INTEGRATION

The run defense integrates with pass coverage through a "match" concept. Corners align one to one-and-a-half yards off receivers, playing number one vertical or out routes while giving "under" calls for underneath routes. The star safety and boundary safety operate similarly with number two receivers.

MULTIPLE FRONT CONCEPTS

The coach explains both four-down and three-down concepts against 2x2 formations. In the three-down look, some defenders transition from having gaps to having "fits" - meaning they read and react off other players' blocks rather than being responsible for a specific gap. The nose tackle uses "lag technique," playing behind the center's block to equalize the Mike linebacker's responsibilities.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Throughout the presentation, the coach emphasizes the importance of identifying and having answers for every defensive concept's inherent weaknesses. This systematic approach to run defense provides a framework that can be adapted to various offensive formations while maintaining gap integrity and pursuit angles.