Linebacker Alignment Technique

Linebackers guard the middle of the field for a football defense, and the best ones do a little of everything well. That includes defending against passes, blitzing the quarterback and stopping the ground game. Linebackers, therefore, must be both quick and strong, as they are often considered the heart of the defense. But there are some differences in their specific duties and techniques. Much depends on the defense's alignment.

Instructions

  1. Linebacker Alignments

    • 1

      Implement the 4-3 technique. If your opponent possesses a solid running game, you may want to utilize the ever-popular 4-3 defense. This entails placing four "down" linemen, or defensive linemen, at the line of scrimmage with three linebackers behind them. Have the middle linebacker call out the alignment, indicating whether your defense will implement zone or man-to-man coverage. If you suspect a running play, have the middle linebacker move up closer to the line of scrimmage, with the two outside linebackers keeping an eye out for short passes to tight ends and other receivers.

    • 2

      Move to the 3-4 alignment. Using only three down linemen, place four linebackers in the middle of your defense. This will allow you to utilize your team speed and not only be more equipped to defend the pass, but blitz the quarterback from the edges and stuff runs to the outside. At the same time, linebackers should also be prepared to drop back and help with pass coverage, particularly if you find that the opposing offense is geared more toward throwing the ball.

    • 3

      Crowd the line with the 5-2 alignment. While the 5-2 defense is virtually extinct at the collegiate and professional levels, it is occasionally a good idea to revert to it--especially in the event the opponent only needs to pick up a yard or less. Place five defensive lineman on the line of scrimmage, using only two linebackers. Linebackers in this defense need to be prepared for runs either up the middle or around the edges--staying alert and paying close attention to the snap count.

    • 4

      Stack the "box." Regardless of alignment, defenses that are struggling to shut down the run should move their linebackers closer to the line of scrimmage to help fight through the offensive line and make a tackle. This is what is known in football circles as "stacking the box," or playing strictly to defend the run. But be warned, as opposing offenses that see a defense committed to stopping the run may surprise with an occasional pass.