How to Defend the Flexbone Offense | FBCP S21E10

Defending the Flexbone doesn't require installing a gimmick defense it requires trusting your base run fits and understanding how they account for the dive, quarterback, and pitch. Joe Daniel and Daniel Chamberlain break down how the Umbrella run fit system handles the triple option, what to look for when game planning a Flexbone team, and how to dictate option reads based on personnel and tendencies. Coaches will learn how to keep the plan simple, identify the player they can't allow to beat them, and make smart in-game adjustments without abandoning the defense their players execute best.

Step 1: Build Your Defense Around Umbrella Run Fits

Start with a run fit system that accounts for the dive, quarterback and pitch without changing your defense for the Flexbone. Every defender needs a consistent spill, force, alley or stay in coverage responsibility.

READ: Coach the Umbrella Principle to Get Perfect Run Fits for Your Defense

Step 2: Understand How Your Base Defense Handles Option Football

Learn how the same run fits handle different forms of option football. Instead of installing a special Flexbone defense, understand how your existing responsibilities account for the dive, quarterback and pitch phases of the option.

LISTEN: How to Defend the Spread Option Offense | FBCP S21E07

Step 3: Keep the Corner Out of the Run Fit

Maintain a stay in coverage defender so the offense cannot use play action when the defense becomes overly aggressive against the option. Let the Free Safety attack the run while the Corner protects against the explosive pass.

READ: How to Coach Football's Cover 3 Defense

Step 4: Prepare Your Players to Execute Their Fits

Turn the run fit responsibilities into reactions your players can execute without searching for the football. Train key reads, block reactions and the force and alley relationship so defenders can play their assignment against the deception of the Flexbone.

READ: The Most Important Football Drill for Coaching Safeties

Step 5: Build the Flexbone Game Plan From Film

Identify what this specific Flexbone offense does best before adding adjustments. Find their best player, determine which phase of the option creates explosive plays, study their tendencies and decide where you want the football to go.

DOWNLOAD: Defensive System Guide

Step 6: Prepare Adjustments Without Abandoning Your Base

Know where your base defense can be attacked and prepare answers before game day. Use fronts, tags, slants or added numbers only when the opponent gives you a reason to make the change.

READ: Identify These Four Weaknesses in Your Defensive Playbook to Make Great Adjustments

Step 7: Trust the System and Make Them Execute

Do not panic when the Flexbone strings together first downs or controls the clock. Continue fitting the dive, quarterback and pitch, force the offense to execute repeatedly, and make adjustments only when you have identified a specific problem your base defense is not solving.

​LISTEN: We Can't Stop the Run | FBCP S18E05