Can someone go over the difference between 2-gap and 3-gap technique?

[bamagiantfan]

I had asked this question before and received terriffic responses and realized many had the same lack of understanding of what these terms mean that I did. I want to say GiantJason and Painter gave great insight.

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[MightyGiants]

Did you mean 1 gap VS 2 gap?

[bamagiantfan]

Yes, all of the above.

[MightyGiants]

To be frank Bama, I think you are getting gap and technique confused.  I have never heard of a 3 gap, but I have heard of a 3 technique lineman.   Now Gaps are the area between offensive men on the line.   They are lettered and here is a standard diagram



There are two different options of defensive line play, one gap or two gap.  I will go into detail later.

Now there is also designations as to where a d-linemen (or linebacker for that matter) lines up.  They are designated by numbers.  Here is the diagram for that.



A 3 technique lineman lines up on the guard’s outside shoulder.

Now as for the differences between a 1 gap and a 2 gap lineman, I will try and explain the difference.

A one gap lineman has one designated gap they are responsible for.  They need to stop any runners from passing through that gap (either by tackling them or forcing them laterally by blocking it).   On passing downs, that is the gap they should be penatrating through.

Now a two gap lineman is responsible for controling 2 gaps.  They tend to stay at home more and penatrate less. 


Here is a good article on the topic

http://www.footballoutsiders.com/2005/07/08/ramblings/strategy-minicamps/2704/