How to Run a Football Defense: 3-3

The 3-3 defensive pattern is used against an active passing offense. The integrity of the defending line is sacrificed to cover triple and double receivers.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Football Cleats
• Football Girdles
• Football Helmets
• Football Pants
• Football Shoulder Pads
• Footballs
• Footballs

1. Assume that the offense has pulled its running backs and some linemen to act as receivers, so the defense should face a short line. Position the nose guard head-up opposite the center.

2. Leave a space at either side of the nose guard, and set a tackle opposite each offensive tackle.

3. Set three linebackers 3 to 4 yards off the line of scrimmage: one directly behind the nose guard, and a second and third on the outside shoulders of the tackles.

4. Crowd the secondary. Set the corners 7 yards off the line of scrimmage and each opposite a receiver.

5. Move the free safety and strong safety near the corners to mirror additional receivers.

6. Use the last man as a third safety and place him to block another receiver.

Tips & Warnings

• This is a defense of necessity. Pull linemen until all receivers are covered.
• The offense can easily break the thin defensive line if the quarterback should decide to run. The linebackers must be excellent athletes, and ready to thwart any such attempt.
• Football is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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