Description
The Zone Blitz play brings pressure up the middle while sliding both defensive ends out to the flats, both to defend against quick, short passes and to string out running plays to the outside. It is also effective at preventing the quarterback from scrambling gain yards around the outside. This makes it well suited in most short yardage situations, as well as close to the end zone where short passes in the flats can often go for touchdowns.
Because Zone Blitz leaves only four defensive backs to defend against medium to deep passes it is not recommended for every down usage. The middle of the field is especially vulnerable because none of the linebackers stay back in pass coverage. Still, it makes a nice change-up without risking too much because it provides a solid front against almost any run, as well as most short passes, while leaving all DBs in pass coverage.
Player Assignments
| Position | Action |
|---|---|
| RE | Flats Zone Right |
| Line DT | Base |
| Staggered DT | Blitz Middle |
| LE | Flats Zone Left |
| ROLB | Blitz Left |
| MLB | Base |
| LOLB | Base |
| Right CB (CB #2) | Man WR2 |
| Left CB (CB #1) | Man WR1 |
| SS | Man WR4 |
| FS | Man WR3 |
See the Madden Playbook Guide for a description of these symbols.
Analysis
Pros:
- Very solid against the run, blitzing LBs plug the middle while DEs will string out sweeps and other runs to the outside
- DEs will tip many passes thrown into the flats
- Five blitzes provide a strong push up the middle
Cons:
- Only four defensive backs to defend against medium or deep passes
- Receivers will be single covered, with one receiver possibly uncovered (though this will usually be a RB, who should be well covered when in the flats)
- Not much pressure around the edges to sack the QB
Contact Arkaein with any comments or questions regarding the Monstrous Madden Playbook.