Coach ,

Did you face the Tite Front in 2021? 

If you didn’t you probably will, and if you did, most likely you will see it again in 2022…maybe even more. Why? Because it is a front that allows a defense to force the ball wide as it is designed to plug the inside gaps.

With defenses finding ways to put more and more hybrid defenders on the field to highlight their athleticism, a defense that forces the ball sideways and allows these athletes to run it down is desirable.

So expect more Tite front, and prepare a plan to defeat it.

Here are 4 successful ways to defeat the Tite front with multiple schemes.

Split Zone

Yes, the Tite Front is designed to take away the inside zone, but when formationed correctly, the combos can push to the front side in a way that allows the lane to develop. Here, Jason Mangone explains how the frontside tackle is patient and guard is able to push to the backer by the design of the play:

Video: Split Zone

When running against this front, the patience of the OL to climb to level 2 is necessary. Jason Mangone, Head Coach Brockport, analyzes their inside zone in this video:

Video: 

Inside Zone vs. FS B Gap Defender 

Outside Zone

Like many offenses, Oklahoma State likes Outside Zone to defeat the Tite Front.  It is designed to distort the defense and open running lanes across the front. Here, a 20 personnel variation with the fullback inserted is utilized. Coach Jason McEndoo explains how it sorts out:

Video: 20 Personnel Outside Zone

Counter Trey

Coastal Carolina loves the Counter Scheme. “Trey” is utilized to run the play to the TE side vs. the 3-man Tite Front. Coach Bill Durkin diagrams the play here:

Video: Counter Trey

Duo

Two tight ends are a great way to defeat the front, Arkansas Cody Kennedy loves 12 personnel plus the DUO play. It’s an effective way to get combos across the front and move level one. He explains the Duo on film here:

Video: 12 Personnel Duo

Having a plan to attack the Tite Front with your various runs is sound and work against the front should begin now in camp.

In football, anything can be defeated with a well-designed plan. It’s about thinking about your players, formations, and plays and setting them up to win against whatever the defense throws at you.

There’s no magic play.  It’s about figuring out what fits best for you.

Always be growing!

Coach Grabowski

P.S. Want a resource for the season? Check out this 2-pack from Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic - Attacking the Tite Front with the Run