3rd Down Blueprint: Create Defensive Packages That Force Punts - Lou DiRienzo

What separates elite defenses from average ones isn't just talent – it's the ability to consistently get off the field when it matters most. In this video, you'll get some ideas to stimulate your thinking about what you can do to get 3rd down stops. 

Coach Lou DiRienzo, Defensive Coordinator at Springfield College will show you some of the concepts they used to hold opponents to under 30% conversions on 3rd Down.

His entire clinic on Springfield's 3rd Down Defense Package is available on Glazier Drive.

 

3RD DOWN PHILOSOPHY

3rd & short (1-3 yards)
Bear fronts, plugs, 5/6 man pressures, and man coverage, invite them to pass.

3rd & medium (4-7 yards)
Field zone/offensive identity dictate this area for us. This will change by game plan weekly. Could be in base or sub packages. In a creeper mentality in this area.

3rd & long (7-10 yards)
Typically going to bring in various sub grouping. Align in 5/6 man up looks to present pressure. Simulated pressure world.

3rd &  XL (11+)
Likely to play it safe, rush 4 best players and have 7 players in coverage. Field Zone or game situation could change this mindset.

 

 

Tags: Defense

More Free Resources!

Related Posts

3 Explosive Down-Field Throw Concepts (All Tags Included) - Josh Niblett

The ability to throw the ball down the field isn't just about having a strong-armed quarterback –...

Simple Drill Makes RBs See Holes Like Never Before | Tite Zone Development - AJ Steward

AJ Steward, Offensive Analyst, Kansas teaches an essential Tite Zone development drill that teaches...

7 High-Impact RPO Drills: Add More Yards Per Play - Ryan Larsen

Ryan Larsen, Head Coach, Carnegie Mellon University has used RPOs to add more than 3 yards per play...

GLAZIER SEASON PASS - $499

UNLIMITED COACHES - UNLIMITED IN-PERSON & ONLINE EDUCATION
The Glazier Season Pass gives all your coaches access to these resources:

2025-Glazier-Map-RGB-500x310

Unlimited Nationwide Clinics

Each clinic has 100+ sessions of practical Xs & Os for your entire staff. Network and brainstorm with some of the best speakers and coaches in the game.

Find a clinic near you
Drive desktop + mobile small

Digital Coach Education Glazier Drive

Join 30,000 coaches on Glazier Drive and learn anytime. Glazier Drive has 48 complete systems, online clinics, 2,000+ videos, and forums.

Learn more about Drive
Get Your Season Pass

TRUSTED GLAZIER PARTNERS