The Nickel 425 bear MLB Blitz flipped is a defense that will get decent A-gap pressure without even making a single adjustment. However, in this tip we're going to take this play and show you how to create B-gap pressure that gets to the quarterback even faster. There's a few quick setup steps required before the snap to ensure success, so read below to find out how it works.
Nickel 425 Bear - MLB Blitz (flipped)
Console(s)
XBOX 360 / PS3Quick Setup
Step 1 - Call the play flipped on the play call screen.
Step 2 - Shift the linebackers to the left (360 - RB + left on d-pad / PS3 - R1 + left on d-pad)
Step 3 - Pinch the defensive line (360 - LB + down on d-pad / PS3 - L1 + down on d-pad).
Step 4 - Manually move the blitzing middle linebacker between the blitzing right outside linebacker and the right defensive end.
SportsGamer tip: You may want to consider manually controlling the left defensive end (on the right side of the screen) to roam the field with. Controlling this player will not only not effect the pressure, but it will also allow you to play over the top to prevent from getting beat deep.
Play Breakdown
In the first image you can see that the Missouri Tigers have come out in the Nickel 425 Bear Middle Blitz. You can see from these images that there's no help deep downfield. The lack of protection over the top is exactly why we suggest manually controlling the left defensive end during the play. With that in mind, let's begin breaking down the pressure. The first step we take is shifting the linebackers to the left. The second image provides a great shot of what the assignments will look like once the linebackers have moved. Notice the blitzing middle linebacker's angle now aims straight down between the left guard and left tackle.
The last two changes we make is pinching our defensive line and manually moving the blitzing middle linebacker inbetween the right defensive end and right outside linebacker. You also may want to consider calling for bump n' run coverage on the outside to give your blitzers and extra second to apply pressure. Now we've set the defense up and we're ready to begin.
The first image allows you to see exactly what the setup of the defensive line should look like before the snap if you've done it correctly. As soon as the play begins, you'll notice that the left tackle is faced with an overload. Both the right outside linebacker and the middle linebacker are blitzing off the left side of the offensive line.
The left tackle locks down on the right outside linebacker and allows the middle linebacker to shoot right through the B-gap for a big sack. The end result on this play was a loss of almost 10 yards for the offense.
Final Thoughts
B-gap pressure can be extremely difficult to pick up because most people are focused on ways to pick up A-gap pressure before the snap. The Middle Blitz is a great play to use to surprise those people with a slightly different look that still brings some serious heat. Throw this play into your defensive play calls the next time you play to be able to attack your opponent from all angles.
