4-3 Base
4 down linemen · 3 linebackers
Two defensive tackles, two defensive ends, and three linebackers (MIKE in the middle, SAM on the strong side, WILL on the weak side). Each defender owns one gap.
When it applies
Early downs against balanced offenses — the default front for 4-3 teams.
+ StrengthsSimple gap fits; four natural pass rushers; linebackers run free to the ball.
− Trade-offsOnly seven in the box can get outnumbered by heavy run sets; linebackers get stressed in coverage against spread.
Filed under: Defensive fronts