Tackle Trap

Key the defensive tackle's first step: if he crashes hard upfield or slants toward the trap, the play hits for a big gain since the puller has an easy angle. Watch for a linebacker keying the pulling tackle immediately, as a disciplined Mike linebacker who reads trap action can fill the hole and blow up the run before it develops. Check safety depth before the snap since a single high safety cheating down into the box can add a fast run fitter that erases the cutback lane. Look for edge defenders staying home versus crashing down, because contain discipline on the backside can force a negative play if the HB tries to bounce it outside. Beware of stacked fronts or heavy blitz packages that bring extra defenders through the trap gap, since a well timed nano blitz through that interior gap can beat the puller before he squares up his block.