Tip to BBS, a breakdown of the Tampa 2. Note the importance of the middle linebacker. I love you Rolly Polly.
The Mike Backer is the key to this defense and the reason I highlighted his drop in red. He has to be able to run with that inside vertical throughout the route and only at the throw will he get safety help. Think of Chicago and Brian Urlacher — fast, athletic linebackers who can run. A necessity for this defense.
The corners must force an inside release by No. 1 or the safeties will have to widen off their landmarks (top of the numbers), which opens holes in the deep half. Plus, they have to sink deep enough to protect the safety on the 7-route that can hit the hole in the defense.
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