Okie Pressures to Defend Flexbone Option

By Mike Kuchar
Senior Research Manager
X&O Labs
Twitter: @MikekKuchar

Introduction:

The following research was conducted as part of XandOLabs.com special report on “Defending RPO and Triple Option.” Continue reading for more information on this new study.

Grizzly Pressure:

Clay Iverson, Mukwonago High School (WI):
Coach Iverson likes to call his Grizzly pressure to the motion if there is time to do so. He will also call it to their best linemen, quarterback’s pitch hand, or the field. “It’s a great zone pressure against option since it does change look on reads without you having to put in a new scheme,” said Coach Iverson. “It’s important to note you are not dead in the water if you call it the wrong way.” Coach Iverson points out that blitz paths may change on scheme and unless you’re rotating with motion, don’t spin the secondary too soon. “If you call it wrong and they run the option the other way you will loose your safety to that side and be a man down,” said Coach Iverson.

Rules:

Pressure Side:

DE- Long stick (read guard) to take away dive
ILB’s- Search (read tackle) and play first threat
OLB’s- Seal (beat wing) and play first threat
Safety- pitch player, flat defender on pass
CB- Deep third technique