This article serves as a hub for my series on Brian Flores' defense, as well as providing additional resources to learn about the Belichick/Saban/Flores style of defense:
Part 1: Versatility is Key
This article covers the fronts and player roles that Flores uses in his defense. While Flores is a base 3-4 guy, his defense changes based on the opposition. Topics include:
Base front and defensive positions
Sub package usage
Defensive line techniques
Roles on the defense that require versatility
How current Vikings players fit into the defense
Part 2: Aggression
This article covers the blitz schemes and tactics that Brian Flores uses to get pressure on opposing QBs. Flores blitzed at a top 2 rate across the 2020-2021 seasons. Topics include:
Stunts and how they fit into the Flores defense
Odd Front looks and forcing 5-0 protections
Double A gap mug blitzes
Cover 0 blitz looks
Part 3: Physicality Man Coverage
This article covers man coverages, the bread and butter of the Flores defense. Topics include:
Cover 1 rules and variations like Rat and Robber
Inside/outside leverage and divider rules
Cover 1 Double, a special Belichick coverage
Cover 0 and techniques to help make the coverage less risky
Press/Off Man techniques
Cover 2 Man, a popular response to high-flying passing offenses like the Chiefs and Bills
"Lock and Level" vs. "Box" technique for passing off bunches
Part 4: Zone Coverage
This article covers zone coverages, the change ups that Brian Flores uses to keep offenses off guard. Topics include
Cover 3 and the difference between "Country" or "Spot Drop" coverages and match coverage
Nick Saban's Cover 7 rules, also called Quarters
Passing strength and how it is detemined
Tampa 2
Additional Resources
I pulled from a number of different sources in order to put this article together. Due to the success of the coaches, there is a ton of information available to the reader who wants to learn even more about this defense. Please see the following sources:
Coach Vass
Coach Cody Alexander
Miami's "Tag" Pressures
Miami's 7-0 Look
Cameron Soran
The Complete Guide to Nick Saban Coverages at Alabama
Blitzology
Coaching the Rat in Cover 1
Cover 1 Double
Double A Mug Crossfire Blitz
Dolphins-Ravens 2021
Coaching Clinics
Matt Bowen
Cover 2 Basics
Cover 4 Basics
4-3 Defensive Front Basics
Football Outsiders
Defensive Personnel Frequencies
Pro Football Focus
Defensive Line Techniques
Clayton Cason
Defending Bunch with Quarters Coverage
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