In 2020, Pitt played an aggressive style of defense that led the nation in both Sacks and Tackles for Loss. By attacking on early downs, Pitt was able to set up 3rd and Long opportunities for their 5 and 6-Man Pressure Packages. They were able to utilize both Cover 0 and Fire Zones to keep the QB guessing. I particularly like this 6-Man Pressure from a 3-Down Alignment.
3 Down (0 Nose + 5 Techniques)
Mike LB Stacked on the Nose
Will & Sam LB’s Show Edge Pressure
6-Man Pressure
Sam Edge C-Gap Blitz
Nose & Field DE Exchange (Nose Penetrates, End Loops to A-Gap
Mike & Will Exchange (Mike Penetrates, Will Loops to A-Gap)
Boundary DE Rushes C-Gap
3 Deep, 2 Under Fire Zone
CB’s Press/Bail to Deep 1/3
Nickel Bails to Post (Middle 1/3)
FS & SS Drop into the Hook as “Hot” Defenders
Whenever you run Fire Zone Pressures, you’re leaving something open. In this case, the Field Comeback is open. The question is whether or not the QB has the Time, Vision, & Arm Strength to make that throw in the face of pressure. I love the idea of bailing the Nickel to Middle 1/3 and dropping both Safeties in as the “Hot” Hook Defenders! Great pressure from Randy Bates and Pat Narduzzi!
