Coaching Defense: Man Free Pressures with your Mike LB

As a coordinator, I think it is important to group your

One way to get pressure in 3rd down situations is use your Mike LB in pressure and drop a DE into coverage. This is effective often as teams will bring the Mike and have the DE to the side of the back pick up the RB.
This is an effective way to run games as shown below by the Minnesota Vikings. We will also look at other ways the Mike is used in 5 man pressures as some type of game with the Defensive lineman.

Mako

I call my man free concepts shark terms so the blitz is Mako. This is a pressure in which the Mike will come to the side away from the back. The DE to the side of the back has the RB so the game will be away from the back.

The RDE on the LOS gives the impression he’s rushing but has the RB. If the RB blocks inside then he can add in.

Film

Jaws is the next stunt as the

Part 2

4-1 Pass Rush Games with the Mike

In the following situation they use the Mike to set a pick in the pass rush

The inside game forces confusion with the RB and OT

The RB comes off but the inside charge by the LB forces the QB out of the pocket.

Another game with the Mike from the Titans

The Titans run the Mike at the OT and cut him as the DE loops inside. This would be a sack but the RB bails the guard out. Notice the guard turning which is important as it allows the DE to come free.

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3-2 Mug Game

The following is a man free lurk look from a 3-2 front. They run a game with the Mike and the NG and get great pressure.

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These are a few ways to incorporate the Mike in your pressure package. I hope you enjoyed this article on using your Mike in pressure.