Blocking Backside B Gap Defenders in Gap Schemes

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

Introduction

The following research was conducted as part of X&O Labs’ special report on “Spread Gap Schemes.” Continue reading for more information on this study.

Backside B Gap Player:

There were several concerns about blocking a backside B gap first level defender in gap schemes and with good reason. A backside 3-techique or 4i-techique for that matter, can be a tremendous nuisance for gap concepts particularly if that defender can get penetration. There are two common answers in blocking a backside 3-techinque defender, either block back with the center or pick and hinge with the tackle. While we found these two were the most common adjustments, there were a few other answers that coaches provided to handle that player. These answers mainly come in the form of reading, and not blocking him.