Coach -

Today we dive into the technique of linebacker run fits.

Linebackers are the centerpiece to every defense. The Mike Linebacker is largely regarded as the quarterback of the defense and likely the leader. They are athletes who truly possess dual responsibilities. 

The better this position is, the better the defense is. They always correlate. Working run fits and teaching more than simple gap cancellation has a direct impact on the play of LBs and is why we are diving into it with Minot State LB Coach Mike Bruno and Northwestern Head Coach David Braun.

Building a system that directly displays and triggers a thought into the variety of run fit that your players have is the first step in counteracting the run game. Take a look at the system that David Braun uses.

Video: Which Run Fit is Better? Gap, Layered, or Funnel?

On the surface we can see advantages to each of the different approaches. But, more than anything, understanding the application is more important. 

The more intelligent we can be in developing our backers and the higher football IQ they have the better the production.

Simply free-flowing or only reading through the guard to the back is not enough in today's game especially when facing good offensive coaches. 

Looking deeper into application,  we can see these run fits appearing against some of the more intricate runs with Coach Bruno.

Video: Power Fits

A good understanding of the concepts zone and gap that the other team is running allows you to better rep and practice the kinds of reads that will likely be more prevalent that week. 

This is likely due to knowing which stunts are more or less likely to be run and gives us a better grasp of the schemed fits for the week. 

When you combine this with read systems that you use, you are well on your way to establishing an elite defense. 

As Always,

Compete!

Coach Kauffman

These clinic presentations are bundled together here!