Pass Protecting against a dominant Defensive Tackle

Play Action Pass Protection can easily be disrupted by a dominant interior defensive lineman. Particularly with 4-Down fronts, a 3 Technique can cause massive issues if isolated on a Guard. A lot of coaches are looking for ways to manage a 3 Technique in Pass Protection, but aside from a true double team this can be difficult to do. The Seahawks came up with a creative way to “chip” the 3 Technique to create a clean pocket.

  • Wing/TE Alignment

  • Play Action Shot Concept. Some coaches call it “Yankee” (Deep Posts + Climb/Over) some call it “DOVER” (Double Post + Over)

  • Half-Slide Protection to the Play Action Side

  • Right Guard Sets on the 3 Technique

  • Right Tackle Sets on the 5 Technique

  • Wing/H-Back Inserts into the Weak A-Gap to pick up Blitz or Chip the 3 Tech on an Inside Move

The H-Back Insert allows the Right Guard to take a more aggressive set to the 3 Technique knowing he has some inside help. The chip by the H-Back keeps the pocket clean and doesn’t allow any penetration. After the chip the H-back releases to the Flat. If you’re going to take a shot and release 3 Receivers on deep or vertical routes, you have to solve the protection issues. This is a creative way to get a late chip on a talented 3 Technique.