The 3-3-5 uses three down linemen, three linebackers, and five defensive backs. It prioritizes speed, blitz versatility, and confusion over size.
Overview
The 3-3-5 defense (also called "Stack" or "3-3 Stack") prioritizes speed and multiplicity over size. With only three down linemen, the defense relies on movement, games, and pressure from unexpected angles.
The three linebackers "stack" behind the defensive linemen, hiding their intentions until the snap. Any of them can rush, drop, or spy, creating significant pre-snap uncertainty for offensive linemen.
The 3-3-5 is particularly popular at schools without elite defensive line talent, as it allows speed players to make plays in space.
History & Origin
Joe Lee Dunn developed the 3-3-5 Stack as a way to create pressure and confusion without dominant defensive linemen. It's been adopted by many programs as an equalizer against more talented opponents.
Key Principles
- 1Three down linemen with three stacked LBs
- 2Five DBs for coverage
- 3LBs hidden behind DL pre-snap
- 4Pressure can come from any LB
- 5Speed over size
- 6Confusion and multiplicity
- 7Often used by smaller programs
When to Use
The 3-3-5 is effective when you have athletic linebackers and need to create pressure without dominant defensive linemen. It's good against spread teams.
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Creates confusion for OL
- +Multiple pressure packages
- +Five DBs for coverage
- +Speed-based system
- +Works without elite DL
Disadvantages
- −Can be pushed around at LOS
- −Struggles vs power running
- −Requires very specific personnel
- −Complex for players to learn
What Coaches Call It
Different coaches use different terminology for the same concepts.
| Coach | Team | Their Term | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DJ Durkin | Auburn | 3-3-5 | Aggressive, violent |
| Matt Campbell | Iowa State | 3-2-6 | Six DB variation |
| Coleman Hutzler | Mississippi State | 3-3-5 | Three-man front |
Matchups
Good Against
- +Spread offenses
- +Teams with poor OL communication
- +Quick passing teams
Avoid Against
- −Power running
- −Physical pro-style offenses
- −Patient zone blocking
Installation
What You Need
Prerequisites for running this scheme effectively.
- ✓Athletic stacked LBs
- ✓Hybrid DBs
- ✓DL who can hold up
When NOT to Use This
- !Can get pushed around
- !Complex scheme to learn
- !Requires specific personnel