Linebacker Gap Assignments

Linebacker Gap Assignments

Linebacker Gap Assignments

Most defenses use three linebackers. Each linebacker has assigned areas of the field to cover and gaps to protect. This article will focus on the gaps and areas of the field assigned to a three linebacker defense.

Linebacker names:

1.Middle Linebacker: MIKE

2.Strong Outside Linebacker: SAM

Strong side means the offensive side with the tight end or most players at the LOS

3.Weak Outside Linebacker: WILL

Weak side is the side of the offense with fewer players at the LOS

Primary Responsibilities:

1. The primary responsibilities of the linebackers is to protect the gap first then help out on the play. If it's a running play they make sure it doesn't go through their gap, if it is a passing play the drop back in coverage to help defend against the pass attack

Lining Up

1.Each linebacker lines up about 5 yards deep from the line of scrimmage

2.MIKE: He lines up across from the center and his responsibility is the center of the field. The gaps he protects are called the A gaps the gaps either side of the offensive center. At the snap of the ball he charges up to the LOS if it is an inside running play to fill the gaps. If it is a pass he must drop back to protect the middle of the field against the short pass or crossing routes.

3.SAM: His job is to protect the C gap that area outside the strong side tackle and tight end. He lines up just on the outside of the tight ends nose. When the ball is snapped he charges the LOS to determine if the play is coming his direction, if it is he must fight off blocks and tackle the ball carrier. If it's a pass play his direction he falls back in coverage and helps the corner defend the area being attacked.

4.WILL: Like SAM the WILL protects C gap, the area on the outside of the offensive tackles shoulder. He also runs up to the LOS to protect his gap, if the play is a pass or going another direction he drops back for pas protection or pursues the play.

In conclusion to have an effective line backing corp they must know where and how to line up what gaps the protect and be able to drop back in pass protection or be able to help out by pursuing plays going in the opposite direction.

There are many Linebacker coaching videos available by some of the finest coaches in football. Use the links below to check them out.

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