Aces Blitz out of the 3-5-3 Defense | Interior Pressure

The Aces Blitz out of the 3-5-3 Defense is a blitz that attacks the interior of the offense. We like to call it “ACES” because we are blitzing through the A gaps. This blitz is very good against QB sneaks, wedge, dive, and trap. If timed properly, this blitz can disrupt off-tackle plays as well. This blitz is a great way to take advantage of a weak center. If you demoralize the center you will force bad snaps. This blitz is very safe but it does leave you with one less pursuit defender if the offense runs off-tackle or outside.

Aces Blitz out of the 3-5-3 Defense

Nose Guard: Slant A-gap.

Defensive End: Slant B-gap.

Defensive End: Slant B-gap.

Bat: Contain, flat on pass.

Bat: Contain, flat on pass.

Middle Backer: Blitz A-gap.

Right Backer: C-gap, curl on pass.

Left Backer: C-gap, curl on pass.

Cornerback: Deep third coverage.

Cornerback: Deep third coverage.

Safety: Deep middle coverage.

Coaching Points

• Middle Linebacker must creep up when the QB begins his cadence. Middle Backer must always stay stacked behind the N, this will keep the offensive line guessing and hide the blitz.
• Great interior blitz that will help you defend QB sneaks, wedge, dive, trap, and power.
• High reward, low risk blitz.
• It’s important that your defenders watch the ball. They must always attack on ball movement. Many times you will see defenders jump off-sides when they are trying to time the snap count on their blitz.
• This is a great way to put the center in conflict. If their center is weak, this blitz will eat him up all game long. Many times this blitz will occupy both guards and the center, 3 offensive players for 2 defenders, that’s a good deal for the defense.
• Keep in mind that whenever you blitz, there is always a risk. There is an old saying, if you live by blitz, you will die by the blitz. Blitz strategically, don’t blitz just to blitz.
• It’s up to you whether or not you want your Nose to slant strong side A-gap or weak side A-gap.
• If you are not a zone defense you can play man to man coverage behind this blitz as well.

(See Also) 3-5-3 Stack Defense Playbook