Football 5-2 Defense
What is 5-2 Defense in Football?
A 5-2 defense is a defensive scheme in football where there are five defensive linemen on the line of scrimmage, two linebackers, and four defensive backs in the back of the defense. This scheme adds an extra defender on the line of scrimmage, or two depending on the team’s usual calls.
Advantages of a 5-2 Defense
A 5-2 defense is great for a team trying to stop a run-oriented offense. Having the extra man power at the front of the defense makes it harder for an opposing offense to successfully run the ball. Because of this immense limitation of play options, the 5-2 defense also automatically makes the team’s offense more one-dimensional.
Disadvantages of a 5-2 Defense
The one issue with this defensive style is that it makes the passing defense a bit weaker. There is a give and take with strengthening your run-defense. If you beef up your run defense with a 5-2 scheme, your passing defense is going to naturally get weakened. But, a 5-2 defense is not an every-down defensive scheme. On occasion, one of the five defensive linemen will actually be used as a passing defender.
Positions in a 5-2 Defense
The positions in a typical 5-2 defense are as follows:
- Five linemen (two defensive ends, two defensive tackles, and a nose tackle)
- Two linebackers
- Four defensive backs (usually two cornerbacks and two safeties)