Playbooks
Over Storm Brave is a blitz-heavy pressure package out of the 3-3 Over Jack set designed to bring extra defenders at the line while disguising the exact rush lane pre-snap. This call sends a "storm" package of blitzers with a "brave" call typically indicating a linebacker or slot defender crashing hard off the edge or through an interior gap, forcing the offense into quick decisions. The primary read is the quarterback: identify the free rusher or overload side, then account for any hot linebacker who could drop into a shallow zone as a change up if you diagnose a screen or quick game concept.
Watch the running back and tight end assignments pre-snap, since blitz packages like this one are most vulnerable to check releases and slip screens designed to attack the blitzer's vacated lane. If the offense shows a heavy run look with extra blockers, expect them to try to run right into the gap the Storm blitzer is vacating, so stay disciplined at the point of attack. Look for quick game concepts such as hitches, slants, or bubble screens, since these are the primary answer to pressure calls and will beat this play if your underneath coverage does not react fast enough. Post-snap, key the quarterback's eyes and first read, since he will often try to get the ball out before your extra rusher arrives if he identifies the blitz pre-snap. Man coverage shells with press corners pair best with this blitz because it takes away the quick, easy throws that typically beat pressure, while soft zone shells behind this blitz are more susceptible to being picked apart if the pressure does not get home in time.
Use this on third and medium to third and long when you expect the offense to sit in the pocket for a deeper route concept, since the extra rusher and disguised gap pressure can collapse the pocket before routes develop.
Check the offensive formation pre-snap for empty backfield or spread sets, which often signal quick game or screens that can beat blitz packages like this one, and be ready to bail into your zone drop if you see it.
Disguise the Brave blitzer by walking him up late or shifting your alignment after the offense goes into their cadence, since tipping the blitz early lets a good quarterback slide protection or throw a hot route into the vacated lane.
Pair this call with Cover 3 Buzz Match or Cover 1 LB Blitz in your play sequencing so opponents cannot key on your pressure tells based on personnel or splits alone.
User the underneath defender that is not rushing to jump quick hitters and slants, since man beaters and RPO game plans will try to exploit the space vacated by your extra rusher.