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X and O knowledge requests

Nickel - It's a defensive passing package. So think of the number of DBs and the number value that represents a nickel. This package contains 5 DBs (3 CBs, 2 S). A listed like the base defenses we discussed of the 4-3 and 3-4, so a nickel defense can also be listed as a 4-2 (4 DL, 2 LB), or 3-3 (3 DL, 3 LB) even 2-4 (2 DL, 4 LB)

Big Nickel - the 3rd CB or slot CB is replaced by a safety; usually a SS/LB hybrid.

Dime - 6 DBs


So when it's said someone is only in when we play nickel that means when we're defending an assumed passing down?
 
I assume there are different types of oline blocking schemes you're referring to? I understand the difference between a run blocker vs pass blocker but what does this mean?

For the time being we'll keep it short and simple.

Run blocking:

Power running schemes (aka man, gap) emphasize and overwhelm the POA (point of attack). Many times you'll see pulling lineman, a fullback, or motioning TE attack the specific gap (A, B, C, D) that the RB is supposed to go. It's associated with leads, traps, counters, sweeps, etc

Zone running schemes (ZBS = zone blocking system) emphasize a double team (duece block) at the POA and once the block is established one of them will disengage and head to the 2nd level (LBs). It's associated with inside zone, outside zone, duo, etc.


Pass blocking:

Vertical sets create a deep and narrow pocket. You'll see the tackles perform two kick steps backwards but the lineman try and stay tight at the hip. It's useful to ward off any stunts or twists by the DL and for tackles to run a rusher out the back or behind the QB, but it can be susceptible to good edge rushers as it gives them more room to build up speed and time their counters due to the tackles depth after the kick steps.

Dish sets create a wide and shallow pocket (aka jump set). It's a more aggressive set where instead of the lineman retreating and accepting the defender - like the vertical set - they have more of an attack mentality to try and punch and get their hands on the DL first. It's also very useful to disguise playaction where the lineman look as though they are run blocking, but are selling the run for the pass.
 
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Which side do we play our will on/que as the weak and strong side? Like I know the Kiffin school of thought is that the will plays where there are more receivers, like in 11 personnel Will plays on the side of the slot receiver, against 21 personnel will lines up on the TE side. Or do we play it where SAM lines up on the TE side will on the other?

Do we run 4-3 under fronts ever or only wide 9 and over?
 
Which side do we play our will on/que as the weak and strong side? Like I know the Kiffin school of thought is that the will plays where there are more receivers, like in 11 personnel Will plays on the side of the slot receiver, against 21 personnel will lines up on the TE side. Or do we play it where SAM lines up on the TE side will on the other?

Do we run 4-3 under fronts ever or only wide 9 and over?

We play our LBs true to definition w/ the Sam on the TE side.

We have shown limited use of the Under front in preseason against 12, and 21 personnel.
 
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