The Nickel Normal Under Smoke is a high risk / high reward defense. We have designed this defense to come after the quarterback from three different directions. In this tip, you will see how we setup this blitz to get pressure up the middle, as well as around the outsides. This blitz calls for seven defenders to rush after the quarterback. Fortunately, you only need six to make it work. Check it out as MA turns up the heat.
Quick Setup
Step 1 - Shift the linebackers to the right (RB + right)
Step 2 - Manually move the blitzing middle linebacker behind the weak defensive tackle.
Step 3 - (optional) - Manually control the right defensive end to cover the running back out of the backfield.
Figure 1 - Check out the defensive assignments in this first image. When running this play you need to realize that you have no safety help over the top, so if you are afraid of getting beat deep stay back.
Figure 2 - We have now taken the Quick Setup steps in this image and we are ready to bring the pressure.
Figure 3 - Here's a closer view of the exact setup of the play to help. Watch how this play unfolds.
Figure 4 - Immediately after the snap the middle linebacker shoot the A-gap between the center and the right guard. Meanwhile the nickelback and the outside linebacker are rushing around the outsides. This is a great defense for people who like to run out of the pocket with Vick.
Figure 5 - The receivers have just started up the field and we already have the quarterback completely surrounded with pressure.
Figure 6 - The middle linebacker makes the hit on the quarterback as there was absolutely no where to throw the ball yet.
Figure 7 - The lone change that we are making when we call the Under Smoke play this time is we are manually controlling the right defensive end on the far left side of the field. We recommend controlling this player because you don't need his rush in order for the blitz to work. Instead, pull him off the line and either guard the running back out of the backfield, or look to help double team another receiver on the field.
Figure 8 - The pressure remains just as intense in this example, despite us using the right defensive end in coverage.
Final Conclusion
The pressure that the Nickel Under Smoke brings is exactly what many people are looking for. Vick has been tearing up online play, as well as the rookie division play at the Madden Challenges. This play forces the quarterback to make the correct read while staying in the pocket. One weak spot of this defense is running plays to the right side of the field, so try to use this when you think your opponent is passing. Now head into practice mode to check it out.
