hook zones to deep

[tbuck0027]

Is there anyway to make your linebackers not drop so deep when they are in running a hook zone? A buddy ate me alive running drags just because my LB's hook zones are 10 yards deep. Manually changing them to a hook zone did not work either, they still dropped 10 deep. Any suggestions.

[ThaShark28_316]

If you are running 4-3...try a QB spy in the middle...maybe lab it and check it out.

[jvaccaro]

I agree this is a problem.

What I'll do is manually control the MLB and fake blitz for a second, then switch off to a defensive lineman. They'll still backup too far, but the delay can put them in position to stop the slant and drag from the slot receiver. If you feel more comfortable than I do in pass coverage, you can manually control them the whole time.

[chromeeyes]

Especially when I think the offence is going to run I change the hook zone to a spy with the linebackers. I do the same with the "up" safety when playing with the 46 defense as well.

[sicksteen]

There's nothing you can do IMO, if you spy he'll follow the QB and might get out the way, and the hook zone makes him constanly back pedal, so user it...

[beardownchitown]

Zone Press coverage generally helps keep the LBs from dropping too deep.

[rylynner]

I agree. I just played 5 years deep into a chise with the Packers and their 3-4 D and drafted a couple of super fast athletic OLBs and ran a lot of press zone in passing situations. 3rd and shorts/3rd and medium and it really helps keep the LBs playing their zone around 7-9 yards deep.

[Exonerated]

Hook zones and Flat zones are too deep.

The underneath game is killer.

[Brando70]

You can also try showing the blitz -- your LBs will move up and then drop back into coverage. That tends to put them where you'd want them by the time the QB would throw.

[Phobia]

The only way to stop it is to manually control the MLB. Then hit stick smash who ever is coming over the middle. A fumble or two later he will find different routes to go to.