Kevie Thompson, Nickels Coach, Oklahoma State
Watch the entire video Pressure, Blitz Packages, & Creating Takeaways out of a Multiple 4-2-5 Defense on Glazier Drive
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WHAT IS BTF?
BTF stands for “Blitz the Formation” – a defensive pressure strategy for creating negative plays on first and second downs.
HOW BTF WORKS
- Pressure can be brought to or away from the W (weak side)
- Can utilize “Clippers” (corner pressure) or “Boston” (boundary safety pressure)
- Defensive positioning adjusts based on the pressure call
- Communication between defenders is critical for proper execution
KEY COMMUNICATION ELEMENTS
- “Swap/Switch” calls when adjusting to two-open formations
- Hand signals for quick adjustments
- “Check with me” situations require defenders to keep eyes on sideline
- Defenders must communicate to establish proper coverage responsibilities
STRATEGIC VARIATIONS
- Game planning determines whether to bring pressure to/away from the W
- Varying which defender brings pressure (corner vs. safety) prevents offenses from recognizing patterns
- The defensive coordinator emphasizes the importance of changing up pressure sources to avoid leaving the same defender isolated
RESULTS OF EFFECTIVE BTF
- Creates “happy feet” in quarterbacks
- Forces hurried throws and bad passes
- Generates negative plays on early downs
- Sets up favorable second and third down situations
- Affects quarterback decision-making even without recording sacks
PLAYER EXECUTION
- Defenders must cross-face quickly and get properly aligned
- Coverage responsibilities shift based on formation and call
- Creating “havoc in the backfield” is the primary objective
- Players celebrate successful executions as a team
BTF helps create negative plays on first downs, putting the defense in advantageous positions for subsequent downs.