3-5-3 LB Fundamentals (2009) - Georgia Military College

The 3-5-3 defense is a hybrid defense that uses three defensive linemen, five linebackers, and three defensive backs. It is a versatile defense that can be used to defend a variety of offenses. The linebackers in the 3-5-3 defense play a critical role in the defense's success.

The 3-5-3 defense has two types of linebackers: the Mike linebacker and the outside linebackers. The Mike linebacker is the quarterback of the defense and is responsible for making the calls and adjustments. The outside linebackers are responsible for covering the flats, the middle of the field, and the running backs.

The 3-5-3 defense requires linebackers to be athletic and versatile. They need to be able to cover receivers, stop the run, and blitz the quarterback. The linebackers also need to be good communicators and be able to make quick decisions.

The following are some of the fundamental skills that linebackers in the 3-5-3 defense need to master:

Footwork: Linebackers need to have good footwork in order to move quickly and efficiently. They need to be able to change direction quickly and stay in good balance.
Pass coverage: Linebackers need to be able to cover receivers in man coverage and zone coverage. They need to be able to read the quarterback's eyes and anticipate the pass.
Run defense: Linebackers need to be able to stop the run by making tackles and shedding blocks. They need to be able to fill gaps and make sure that the running back does not get outside.
Blitzing: Linebackers need to be able to blitz the quarterback and disrupt the passing game. They need to be able to read the play and time their blitzes correctly.
Communication: Linebackers need to be good communicators in order to coordinate their efforts with the other defenders. They need to be able to communicate the play call, the defensive coverage, and the adjustments that need to be made.

The 3-5-3 defense is a complex defense that requires linebackers to be skilled in a variety of areas. However, the defense can be very effective if the linebackers are able to master the fundamental skills.

Here are some additional tips for linebackers in the 3-5-3 defense:

Be disciplined: Linebackers need to be disciplined in their alignments and responsibilities. They need to know where they are supposed to be and what they are supposed to do on every play.
Be aggressive: Linebackers need to be aggressive and attack the ball. They need to be willing to make tackles and disrupt the offense.
Be smart: Linebackers need to be smart and make good decisions. They need to be able to read the play and make the right play call.

The 3-5-3 defense is a challenging defense to learn and execute, but it can be a very effective defense if the linebackers are able to master the fundamental skills and play with discipline, aggression, and intelligence.