When you’re preparing your offense for attacking the 4-3 Defense, you’ll find a few weaknesses to exploit.

​I know because I’ve coached in a variety of 4-3 Defense schemes over my career. I’ve seen a lot of good football coaches attack those weak points.

Photo by Johann Schwarz on Flickr.com / CC BY 2.0

Make no mistake. Every defense has a weakness. Several.

I love the versatility of the Miami 4-3 Defense (my personal favorite). The 4-3 Monster Defense and many other variations are very effective, too.

We’ll look at attacking the 4-3 Defense in general, rather than any one specific example. Each team will be a little different, though.

​This list will get you started, then you need to do your own scouting!

Probably the first place to look with a 2-back offense. The B gap bubble is the most enticing hole in the 4-3 Defense.

You definitely want to test this one out. Use a Center-Guard combo to work up to the Mike Backer. Your fullback leads on the Will Linebacker to open up running room.

For One-Back teams you can call the Quarterback ISO. Or attack the 4-3 defense using a one-back power scheme.

Trap is great quick hitter run play. A staple for the Wing-T Buck series and “I” Formation offenses.

​Aggressive, hard charging defensive tackles are a big challenge for your Offensive Line. Instead of blocking them head on, use angles. Hit the trap block from the side and use his momentum and aggressiveness against him.
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Check out my video on coaching the Trap Play for key coaching points.

How you get there depends on the defensive alignment (as does every potential weakness). I’ve seen the sweep open up with more 4-3 Monster defenses, in particular.

If the Free Safety rolls to the middle of the field on Cover 3 or Cover 1, this play is there. Especially for teams that play the linebackers as single gap players (with Mike over strong A gap and Will over weak B gap).

Outside Zone, or the Stretch Play, for one-gap teams. Or a toss sweep from a two-back formation. Both get you to the edge in a hurry.

Attacking the 4-3 Defense with the strong Side Power run is a good strategy. The wide 9-tech Defensive End can make for an easy kick out. It also lets the Tight End release inside to handle the Mike Linebacker.

Use a Guard Tackle combo on that hard-to-handle 3-Tech, that can work to the backside Linebacker if he’s aggressive getting over to the play.

To learn more about running the Power, sign up for my exclusive 3 video series, Foundations of the Pistol Power Offense. I’ll teach you all the details on coaching the Power, Counter and Power Pass. Click here to get instant access!