Ferris State Championship Defense - A Unique Twist on the 4-3

Ferris State has captured the past two Division II national championships in large part to a dominant defense. Follow along in this course as we discuss the subtle adjustments we have made to the traditional 4-3 defense. If you want to maintain two overhang defenders at all times, while still being sound in both the run and pass game, this course may be interesting to you!

The course revolves around the linebacker position and the box in general, but also describes techniques and responsibilities used by defensive line and defensive backs as well.

In the presentation you will learn:

• Defensive line base responsibilities against the run
• Linebacker responsibilities, key reads and reactions against both gap and zone run schemes.
  • Teaching correct eye placement to increase reaction time
  • How and when to attack with speed, and when to attack with patience
  • Keys to success in the passing game
  • Schematic differences between the MLB and OLBs
• Defensive back responsibilities, coverage assignments and run fits
• Linebacker drill work specific to the scheme presented