In the ever-evolving landscape of American football, defensive strategies play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of a game. One such innovative alignment is the 3-3-5 defense, also known as the 33 stack or spread defense.
This formation features three down linemen, three linebackers, and five defensive backs, offering a unique blend of flexibility and coverage.
Pioneered by veteran college football defensive coordinator Joe Lee Dunn, the 3-3-5 defense aims to confuse offenses with its dynamic positioning. By stacking linebackers and safeties directly behind the linemen, this scheme can effectively adapt to various offensive plays.
However, while it excels in versatility, it’s often vulnerable to short and medium pass routes over the middle, particularly in the hole and hook coverage zones.