DL Run/Pass Focused
Posted: Sun Oct 05, 2025 9:19 am
I would appreciate your assistance in clarifying the rules for defensive linemen as they relate to run- and pass-focused defensive strategies. We had a discussion, which I cannot find, so here is the issue. Unfortunately, I have accidentally ruled both ways regarding new Custom plays, and I want to get it corrected going forward.
The current rule for Run Focused Defense states that no more than 50% of the DLs can be Pass Rush. The Pass Focused Defense states that no more than 50% of the DLs can be Run Rush. I believe it should state for Run Focused that at least 50% of the DLs must be Run Rush, or some variation that is not pass rush, and for Pass Focused that at least 50% of the DLs must be Pass Rush, or some variation that is not Run Rush. The three DL plays are the issue.
I believe that in a three DL pass defense, at least two of the DLs must be Pass Focused (not Run Rush), and in a three DL run defense, at least two of the DLs should be Run Focused (not Pass Rush).
The current rule for Run Focused Defense states that no more than 50% of the DLs can be Pass Rush. The Pass Focused Defense states that no more than 50% of the DLs can be Run Rush. I believe it should state for Run Focused that at least 50% of the DLs must be Run Rush, or some variation that is not pass rush, and for Pass Focused that at least 50% of the DLs must be Pass Rush, or some variation that is not Run Rush. The three DL plays are the issue.
I believe that in a three DL pass defense, at least two of the DLs must be Pass Focused (not Run Rush), and in a three DL run defense, at least two of the DLs should be Run Focused (not Pass Rush).