Linebacker Gap Fits vs Split Zone

A short discussion on moving gaps and maintaining integrity.

Split Zone has become a staple in many offenses ranging from youth to professional football. The main issues presented when defending against any run scheme is maintaining Gap Integrity throughout the duration of the play

Linebackers play a key part in filling/plugging the open gaps that remain and are often the missing piece when giving up chunk yardage as a defense vs. the run game. We will mainly focus on linebacker fits in this article, showing both Spill and Box techniques, against Split Zone Action.

The diagram below shows Base zone fits against 12 personnel vs 4-3 under, The added Tight end (Y) paired with the H-back (H) brings an extra gap in to the box but the same concepts will still apply.

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Diagram shows: If H-back takes zone footwork and stays home

The offense is running zone right from 12 personnel. The defensive line has their set gaps they are working to fight through and maintain integrity & fit. The (Y)/(H) combination against this look means the Safety (SS) must read the H-back and become a force player if needed outside. Once the Linebackers & Safety determine that the H-back is staying home and blocking frontside; The Sam Backer (S) will proceed to play D-gap plug/fit. The Mike (M) will play B-gap fit and the Will (W) plays A gap fit.