Football Defensive Line Alignment: 4-3 And 3-4

The 4-3 and the 3-4 are two of the more popular defensive alignments that are used in the NFL. At first glance, the 2 alignments have no difference at all in the field but a closer look reveals their significant differences. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Each is used quite differently, adaptable to a particular defensive strategy. Their main difference is the number of players for particular position. The first number represents the number of down linemen; whereas the second number represents the number of linebackers. So in 4-3 defensive alignment, there are 4 down linemen and 3 linebackers; while in 3-4, there are 3 down linemen and 4 linebackers, to make up the required front 7. In the 4-3 system, the main responsibility lies on 4 down linemen: 2 defensive tackles, known as nose tackles, and the 2 defensive ends that are positioned on either side of the defensive line. Since there are several players on the offensive line, the down linemen need not to attack the quarterback. Instead, they have to create some space in the middle of the field for the blitzers to penetrate. The 2 defensive tackles have one gap responsibility. That means the defensive tackle has 2 assignments - lining on the shoulders of 2 offensive guards. The defensive ends' task is to put pressure on the running backs and the quarterback. If the offense is running a passing play, the defensive line with the help of the line backers sack or tackle the quarterback before he can pass the ball to any of his wide receivers. If the offense is rushing the ball, the both the defensive line and the line backers are responsible in preventing the running backs or the quarterbacks from advancing. Usually, the defensive line guys are very large, weighting at least 280 lbs. Since it is very difficult for a team to find at least 4 very large and strong players, the 3-4 system can be used. The 3-4 system employs very athletic but not so large linebackers to attack the offensive line and put pressure on the quarterback. One or two linebackers can play alongside the 3 down linemen, depending on the type of the play. There are weaknesses in this type of play, particularly, if the offense is playing a passing game. However, coaches have developed a system (i.e. zone blitz) where it can effectively counter any attack from the offensive team.
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