2-Gap Tech WILL Bolster Phins LBs

Phins will utilize both 2-Gap & 1 Gap techniques

The 2019 Phins commitment to flexibility will have their Defensive Line utilizing both 1-Gap and 2-Gap techniques. But, it’s the use of the 2-Gap technique that will allow Miami’s linebackers to stop imitating turnstiles as they did in 2018.

What’s this 2-Gap?

Why will it boost the Dolphins linebacker?

And how can I say what technique they will use?

Well, the first of the three questions is the easiest to answer.

What is 1-Gap and 2-Gap?

A simple definition is in 1-Gap when a defensive lineman attacks a gap between O-linemen, and in 2-Gap he reacts and guards two gaps. Below are the names of the gap between offensive linemen and the technique name (designation) based on where the Defensive Linemen lines up.

The sorta’ confusing part is 2-Gap or 1-Gap Technique doesn’t define the Defensive Line Technique Designation… which is just a fancy way of saying where D-linemen lines up. Instead, 1-Gap or 2-Gap Technique is the ‘main heading’ that describes the overall responsibility for a D-linemen on a play. For example, Tim Bowens played 2-Gap Technique, but he would line up anywhere from 0-2 Technique Designation (maybe 3 on a rare occasion) on any given play.

For those with a deep interest in D-line Techniques and defense in general, the video below is of legendary Pete Jenkins giving a Ph.D. level course. Well, well worth the time investment… even if split up over several sittings.

Okay, why will the addition of 2-Gap boost the linebackers?

Kiko and McMillan were routinely blocked in 2018. It doesn’t take pay per head software like www.AcePerHead.com, to know neither was very good at shedding blocks or blowing up the blocker. Also, both guessed wrong plenty and over pursued, which exasperated this issue. To both players defense, Kiko was able to slither off blocks on occasion or use instinct and speed to beat the block, and McMillan showed a willingness to engage and often would create a stalemate at the point of attack… even though he didn’t beat the blockers.

Oddly, Jerome Baker, the smallest Phins backer, was the most physical and best at engaging blockers.

But the bottom line: None of the Phins LBs were even good at stacking and attacking. And with the 1-Gap Technique that the D-line used in 2018, where linebackers fighting off blockers to make plays is essential, the run defense was a disaster due to the scheme amplifying the LBs weakest traits.

2-Gap Technique will free up the Phins LBs

This isn’t a condemnation of any of the Phins LBs. Rather, it’s just the reality. You can check out last year’s articles here, here, and here with tape and pics to back up this claim.

The great (and future HOFer) Zach Thomas wouldn’t have been near as successful in a 1-Gap system. Thomas has over and over again spoken of how crucial to his success Bowens and Gardener were by keeping him clean of blockers. Every player has strengths and weaknesses. Good staffs don’t force players to perform with their weaknesses being the keys to production.

How do I know the Phins will use 2-Gap and 1 Gap

This is as easy to answer at the first question. Bill Belichick’s defense up in New England use both techniques, but 2-Gap is the primary interior technique on most downs. Now, this alters depending on the down and distance and whether it’s the closed or open side of the play. But these particulars are for the next article (or so)… And, I might add, are very interesting.

This season, Baker, Kiko, and McMillan will have much freer lanes to attack due to 2-3 interior linemen soaking up blocks. This is a skill set where all three excel. Now I’m not saying they will be all world. But now that they will be playing to their strengths, we will see exactly what they are.

Don’t forget, Miami ran a 2-Gap in 2017 and ranked 14th in total rush yards allowed. Yes, Suh was here then. But, the Rams in 2018 with Suh AND Donald ranked only 23rd against the run. So, I value the 2-Gap tech as more of a contributor to Miami’s success against the run than Suh.

My early bird prediction is we should see a marked improvement in the run defense in 2019… and the Phins Linebacker will be a primary reason why. Go Phins!!!

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