Clear or Cloudy Gap Control: Drills & Techniques for Better LB Play - Sammy Lawanson

The Clear-Cloudy system provides a methodical approach to teaching linebackers how to process their keys and attack with confidence.

In this video, Bowling Green DC & Linebackers Coach, Sammy Lawanson breaks down the techniques and drills drills that will help your linebackers master their gap responsibilities and elevate your run defense.

Coach Lawanson has produced the Sammy Lawanson Linebacker System on Glazier Drive.  The video below is from one of the 13 lessons:  LB Keys Clear/Cloudy.

Key Takeaways:

Three Ways to Secure Your Gap:

• With your eyes
• With the blocker's body
• With your body

Basic Clear/Cloudy Principles:

• Once your gap is secured, work inside out using clear/cloudy reads
• Cloudy gap = color (blocker) in the hole → keep scraping
• Clear gap = no color in the hole → shoot the gap

Footwork Fundamentals:

• Start with shuffle technique
• Maintain shuffle until you identify your gap
• Change speeds when shooting an open gap
• "Get across the freeway" (white line to tan/turf)

Line Drill Technique:

• Once through the line of scrimmage, work flat down the line
• Run to the near hip of the ball carrier
• Flatten slightly when pursuing

Key Teaching Points:

• Stay patient with shuffle until gap declares
• Maintain good knee bend and pad level
• Use film study and pre-snap recognition (like motion keys) to anticipate plays
• Control feet and tempo until gap opens

Game Situation Applications:

• React to pulling guards
• Adjust to tight end motion
• Handle stretch plays
• Respond to spill situations from other linebackers
• Work in conjunction with apex defenders