What’s up, guys? Welcome back to another episode of Ask Huddle. Today we’re switching things up a bit. Last week, we broke down the best way to run Mid Blitz, and let’s just say, you guys had some feelings about that one.
So this week, we’re going the complete opposite direction and locking in on one question: How do you beat Mid Blitz?
We’re breaking down five different ways to consistently torch this defense and make your opponent think twice before ever calling it again.
Let’s get into it.
#1 - How To Block Mid Blitz
Answer:
The first step to consistently beating Mid Blitz is making sure you’re blocking it correctly. Since this is a send-6 pressure, we need to match that by getting six blockers into the protection.
In the video, we break down two effective ways to use your running back in the blocking scheme.
- Full Slide Away From the Running Back
This is my preferred method. Full-sliding away from the RB lets him handle the edge rusher, instead of being forced to block a linebacker in the A-gap. This creates a much cleaner pocket for us. - Half Slide Toward the Running Back
If you’re noticing the A-gap defender consistently beating your center, switch to a half slide toward the RB. This ensures your running back picks up the backside A-gap threat, giving your quarterback the extra time needed to make a read.
Just remember, you’re still facing a Cover 0 blitz. Even with perfect protection, you won’t have unlimited time. The goal is simply to buy enough time to hit your first or second read and punish this defense.
#2 - The Best RPO To Beat Mid Blitz
Answer:
Next, let’s talk about the best RPO concepts to attack Mid Blitz.
You’re going to want to look for RPO Read Slot Slide or RPO Read Flat plays, ideally ones where the flat route is coming from the opposite side of the field. (Make sure to watch the video so you can see these plays in action.)
These RPOs give you a natural numbers advantage to the edge. By making the edge rusher the read key, you’re able to out-leverage the defense and get the ball out quickly for an easy completion, even a potential one-play touchdown.
#3 - How To Beat Mid Blitz Press Coverage
Answer:
Now, let’s talk about what to do when your opponent gets aggressive and presses out of Mid Blitz. In these situations, one of the best answers is a slot fade, ideally from a receiver who’s on the line of scrimmage.
Once your slot receiver beats the press, this becomes an easy lob pass over the top. Just make sure your protection is set correctly so you have the time you need to deliver the throw.
It also helps to pair this with a flat route from a second receiver. This gives you a quick outlet if your opponent decides to zone off their outside corner and take away the slot fade.
#4 - How To Beat Mid Blitz Off-Coverage
Answer:
If your opponent is playing off coverage in Mid Blitz, one of the best answers is a back-shoulder free-form pass to a slot receiver on a streak.
This throw takes a bit of practice, but once you have it down, it’s almost impossible for your opponent to stop, unless they switch stick and make a play before the ball is released. It’s another great way to steal an easy one-play touchdown against this defense.
In the video, we show this throw to both sides of the field so you can see exactly how it should look.
#5 - The Best Route In The Game To Beat Mid Blitz
Answer:
Lastly, let’s talk about the best route in the game for attacking Mid Blitz. This is also a perfect option if you’re not fully comfortable with the free-form throw we covered in the previous tip.
The routes you want to look for are option or choice out routes. These routes sit down on a curl/hitch versus zone, but against man coverage they break sharply to the sideline. You can also custom-stem them to whatever depth fits the situation.
They’re especially effective against Cover 0 because they attack the outside, where the defender’s natural inside shade makes it extremely difficult to defend.
Make sure you add this route to your arsenal; it gives your opponent one more thing to worry about every time they call Mid Blitz.
Thanks for tuning in this week. As always, if you have any questions or topics you’d like us to cover in next week’s episode, drop them in the comments below.
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