Coach -

The Heavy offense, despite its various possibilities, primarily appears on third downs, in short-yardage situations, and in the red zone. This is where it is most prevalent and likely will remain unless a team uses it unusually often…

With the success that Michigan had with it, the use of heavier personnel this next season can certainly become a trend.  Michigan Head Coach Sherrone Moore presented on “Developing a Two Back Run Game” at the recent C.O.O.L. Clinic, so preparing for this now can be beneficial for your defense in the fall.

To prepare effectively, you should focus on specific techniques and strategies. It's ideal if you can trust your defensive backs in man-to-man coverage or keep the safeties playing close to the box. Instead of diving into specialized presentations on this,let’s take a look at ideas that demonstrate these techniques and how to respond in various scenarios.

In these situations, we must ensure our run defense is solid. Our defensive line needs to be prepared for double teams and combos, and we need a reliable set of fronts to counter their running game effectively.

Knowing your strengths and weaknesses, especially in these scenarios, can help you choose which front or stunts you plan to use against heavier personnel. Coach Jerry Gordon likes the Under Front to handle these situations.

Video: Why We Like the Under Front

Video: Problems with the Under Front

Understanding where your opponent will attack is crucial. If they run outside zone and seal the edge when going heavy, an under front might not be ideal. There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer; you need to analyze this week by week. Having detailed notes and information during preparation will help you neutralize the opponent's ground attack more effectively.

Focusing on the defensive line, it's crucial to break their point of attack and win at the line of scrimmage. With more bodies in the box, expect combos and prepare accordingly. Practice this with Coach Dennis Dottin-Carter's double team drill.

Video: Double Teams

A key technique for defeating double teams is locking out or long-arming and positioning your hip between the two blockers. Remember, they aim to block a linebacker, so focus on fitting into your gap. Attack one blocker to break the double team, preventing them from executing their techniques effectively.

There are various situational techniques you can teach to help in these scenarios, but the key is ensuring your athletes are sound and don't create extra gaps. Offenses thrive on sealing defenders or exploiting misalignments, so it's crucial for players to understand and own their roles.

Always be growing!

Coach Grabowski