Dominate the Flexbone: Essential Gap Control Adjustments - Greg Jones

Every defensive coordinator knows the sleepless nights that come with preparing for a well-executed Flex Bone offense. In this comprehensive breakdown, we'll explore the critical gap control adjustments that will help your defense dominate the Flex Bone, turning a potential nightmare into a defensive masterclass.

Greg Jones, Defensive Coordinator, the University of Central Missouri has a defensive system on Glazier Drive.  Among the 16 lessons in the 3-3-3 "WREAK HAVOC" SAFETY DEFENSE SYSTEM us his Adjustments vs. Flex Bone.

Key Points:

1. The defensive strategy must be tailored based on the opponent's tendencies - whether they're primarily an option team, inside/outside veer team, or toss/counter team.
2. Base Defensive Alignment:

• Defense uses "fives" alignment
• Will and Sam linebackers reading their respective "cats"
• Mike linebacker and Robber reading the fullback
• Free safety can play quarters coverage or cover 2
• Uses three safeties for flexibility

3. Motion Adjustments:

• Can slant the nose tackle toward motion
• Option to pinch the defensive end
• Can send the Sam linebacker
• Ability to roll into cover 3
• Emphasis on maintaining gap responsibility

4. Film Study Examples:

• Shows various defensive alignments against motion
• Emphasizes the importance of shutting down gaps
• Points out the need for proper pad level and finishing tackles
• Highlights the importance of eye discipline, noting a play where two defenders chased one player

5. Option Defense Specifics:

• Against triple option teams, they teach "squeezing" technique
• Defensive ends are taught to make reads difficult for the offense
• Emphasis on getting hands on blockers to protect linebackers
• Similar principles to defending zone read plays

While these are general principles, the specific defensive game plan would need to be adjusted based on the particular type of Flex Bone offense you're facing.