Perhaps the most important element of any successful defense is alignment. After that comes execution. If we can think in these terms we can master run defense. There are several types of defensive players. Some of us like to control a safety player. Others of us like to control a defensive lineman and yet others may just like to control a linebacker. If you like controlling the middle linebacker and want to increase your tackle numbers, this email tip is just for you.

As is mentioned in our Virtual Playbook for Madden NFL 10, any time at least one tight end is in the game and on the line of scrimmage, the defense is responsible for eight gaps. One great thing about Madden NFL 10 that was noticeable during playtime as we were constructing the guide is that there is a degree of combo blocking. A combo block is one in which two offensive lineman start out with a double team on a defensive lineman. As the play unfolds, one of the linemen will peel off the double team block on the defensive lineman and get to the second level to take on a linebacker or whoever the next nearest defender might be. Because of this, it is possible to defend the run with seven men.

Before going further, it is important to mention that a great deal of speed and agility is needed at the middle linebacker position to shoot gaps and defend the run. We also need to highlight that your middle linebacker needs to be a great tackler. At times as you control him, you will be the only front-seven defender to come into contact with the running back. Missing the tackle will put your safeties in a bad position. Finally, making plays like this can lead to some degree of excitement, but be sure not to overrun the play. As we go through this section, things should become clearer.

Gap Rules

There are two primary gaps to be concerned with. On the alignment side of the center (side the middle linebacker is aligned), let the A gap (gap between Center and Guard) be your target. Hit the A gap to defend the run from the inside out. Even if the play is run to your side, you can still hit the gap and defend the run.

On the opposite side of the center, the C gap (between the offensive tackle and tight end) is your target. Let us explain something here. With the middle linebacker, what we are advocating is to simply concern yourself with two gaps: A and C. You can hit the A gap when plays are run to your side or away from your side.

You can hit the opposite side C gap when the play is run away from you.

Generally, we shoot the gaps with the middle linebacker when the tight end is lined up on the right. When the tight end is lined up left, we control either a safety or if we control a linebacker we move to an eight-man front. So our linebacker gap shoot is situation specific. We do not plan this every play.

Gap Basic Principle

The basic principle of shooting gaps is to loop around one of the defensive tackles with the middle linebacker. This involves a couple of things. First, we can overload the side with the middle linebacker on it and then shoot the A gap. Second, we can get the guard to attempt to block us and loop around our defensive tackle as he is engaging the center. In this way, the guard never recovers to block the middle linebacker. This allows us to disrupt running plays in the backfield. Let’s look at this in action.

Gap Shooting Tips

• Use line shifts to force the offensive line to account for different defenders to create gaps to shoot through.
• It is very important that you stay off the turbo at the start of the play. If you hit the turbo initially, a lineman will peel off a combo block and pick you up. And you cannot get blocked when trying to use the gap shoot scheme, or you might be in a bit of trouble.
• Fast linebackers or defensive backs work best when shooting the gaps.
• Try to get an idea of when your opponent likes to snap the ball. Once you get his timing down, you can time your start and get into the backfield quicker.

For more techniques you can use to shut down both the run and the pass, be sure to check out the Virtual Playbook at www.MaddenTips.com. These packages will give you a solid foundation for creating pressure on the quarterback.

To keep up with the latest trends for defending money plays in the game, you will want to subscribe to our Madden Season Pass update service. Each update will have new blitz schemes you can use to keep your opponent on his heels (or better yet, on his back).