The Nickel Dog 3 Buzz play is effective against offenses that rely on quick passes. By blitzing the nickelback and dropping linebackers into coverage, the defense can disrupt the timing of routes. In a matchup between the Steelers and Ravens, the Steelers used this play to counter the Ravens’ short passing game. Minkah Fitzpatrick played a key role, covering deep zones and preventing big plays. Meanwhile, Cameron Heyward and Alex Highsmith applied pressure on the quarterback, plus blitzing Beanie Bishop Jr. This strategy limited the offense’s options and led to several sacks and interceptions.
Play Diagram:
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Playbooks Found In:
- 3-4
- Atlanta Falcons
- Baltimore Ravens
- Buffalo Bills
- Carolina Panthers
- Dallas Cowboys
- Denver Broncos
- Detroit Lions
- Las Vegas Raiders
- Los Angeles Chargers
- Los Angeles Rams
- Miami Dolphins
- Minnesota Vikings
- New England Patriots
- New York Giants
- Philadelphia Eagles
- Pittsburgh Steelers
- Seattle Seahawks
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Tennessee Titans
- Washington Commanders
Play Info:
Formation: Nickel 2-4 Dbl Mug
Set: Nickel 2-4 Dbl Mug
Personnel: 2DL, 4LB, 5DB
Coverage Type: Zone
Coverage Shell: Cover 3
Blitz Type: Zone Blitz
Gap Pressure: Outside
Pass Rushers: 5
Pass Defenders: 6
Defensive Assignments:
LOLB: Seam Flat
SDT: Pass Rush
WDT: Pass Rush
ROLB: Seam Flat
LILB: Blitz
RILB: Blitz
LCB: Deep Zone
NB: Blitz
RCB: Deep Zone
FS: Deep Zone
SS: 3REC Hook
Defensive Play Breakdown:
The Nickel Dog 3 Buzz play uses a zone blitz concept to disrupt the offense. This defensive setup confuses blocking assignments by crowding the line with linebackers. It creates opportunities for defenders like Watt to capitalize on gaps and rush the passer quickly. The 3REC Hook assignment allows the strong safety to provide intermediate zone coverage.
The defensive backs focus on Cover 3 zones, ensuring deep areas are protected against passing plays. Linebackers mix blitzing and coverage, applying immediate pressure on the quarterback. If executed well, this play limits options for short passes while challenging the offensive line.
Timing is critical, as the linebackers’ blitz can force hurried throws or sacks. The seam flats by both outside linebackers add extra security against quick outs or slants. This defensive scheme is versatile and ideal for stopping balanced offensive formations.
Video Breakdown:
Final Thoughts:
Nickel Dog 3 Buzz is a great defensive play for balancing pass rush and coverage. Its zone blitz scheme works effectively against offenses with a mobile quarterback like Lamar Jackson. The Steelers’ ability to pressure the outside and cover deep zones makes this play versatile. Using players like Watt and Heyward in pass-rush roles maximizes defensive impact. However, proper adjustments may be necessary if the offense adjusts quickly. This play works well against Gun or under-center formations. With smart execution, this setup creates turnovers and limits big plays.
FAQ:
Q: What is the coverage shell in this play?
A: The coverage shell is Cover 3.
Q: How many defenders are in zone coverage?
A: Six defenders are in zone coverage.
Q: Who rushes the quarterback?
A: Five defenders rush the quarterback.
Q: What positions cover the deep zones?
A: The left cornerback, right cornerback, and free safety cover deep zones.
Q: Can this play stop outside runs?
A: The seam flats provide some coverage, but it’s not primarily designed for run defense.
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