Can someone explain Lane vs. Gap defense?

[proline]

Maybe provide some examples of how they differ?

 

[Doomsday101]

Maybe provide some examples of how they differ?

Lanes are what OL men open up be it a running lane or passing lane. A gap is the space between OL men that defenders will line up or is assigned responsibility to.

 

[Dough Boy]

Maybe provide some examples of how they differ?

2 gaps = one lane:

So, In a two-gap defense (or a lane oriented defense), the defensive linemen are generally responsible for two gaps, which means they have to be bigger, stronger men who play the run better. In a one-gap scheme, a player is just responsible for one gap. Thus, he can be a lighter, quicker defensive lineman who is blowing into the backfield more often. In a two-gap, the lineman’s first responsibility is to play the run, and he is responsible for two entire gaps or the lane. For example, a defensive tackle would be responsible for the gap on either side of the guard across from him. In the two-gap, a defender will play head-up on (directly across from) an offensive lineman so that it is easier for him to get to and cover either gap.

I hope this helps.

 

[kTXe]

2 gaps = one lane:

So, In a two-gap defense (or a lane oriented defense), the defensive linemen are generally responsible for two gaps, which means they have to be bigger, stronger men who play the run better. In a one-gap scheme, a player is just responsible for one gap. Thus, he can be a lighter, quicker defensive lineman who is blowing into the backfield more often. In a two-gap, the lineman’s first responsibility is to play the run, and he is responsible for two entire gaps or the lane. For example, a defensive tackle would be responsible for the gap on either side of the guard across from him. In the two-gap, a defender will play head-up on (directly across from) an offensive lineman so that it is easier for him to get to and cover either gap.

I hope this helps.

I was wondering the same thing as the OP. Great, informative post (this is what I thought the difference was, just wasn't sure).

 

[MONT17]

2 gaps = one lane:

So, In a two-gap defense (or a lane oriented defense), the defensive linemen are generally responsible for two gaps, which means they have to be bigger, stronger men who play the run better. In a one-gap scheme, a player is just responsible for one gap. Thus, he can be a lighter, quicker defensive lineman who is blowing into the backfield more often. In a two-gap, the lineman’s first responsibility is to play the run, and he is responsible for two entire gaps or the lane. For example, a defensive tackle would be responsible for the gap on either side of the guard across from him. In the two-gap, a defender will play head-up on (directly across from) an offensive lineman so that it is easier for him to get to and cover either gap.

I hope this helps.

that was nice!!!

 

[baj1dallas]

Playing two gap, you have to read which way the play is going and then react. You have to be able to diagnose, get away from your blocker, and clog up the lane. In one gap you just shoot ahead into your assigned gap and try to disrupt the play.

 

[Kangaroo]

Tony Dungy does a cover 2 in the back field but plays a 1 gap attacking system in his front 7

That is why you see all the lighter quicker D-linemen where Tony goes

 

[proline]

Thanks for the info everyone. That helps!

 

[TheEnigma]

So your saying that what Parcells was saying in his press conference is that he likes the same read and react defense that Zimmy Wuss runs?

 

[Phoenix-Talon]

There are various types of "gap" defenses. Here's one that clearly shows the gaps and how D-Lmen are positioned to offset primarily running lanes. A key component in gap formations is the linebacker (note: posiitons of the CB also):

Some types of Gap defenses are good for goal line/short yardage.

 

[CowboysFaninHouston]

So your saying that what Parcells was saying in his press conference is that he likes the same read and react defense that Zimmy Wuss runs?

yep the same defense run in Miami, New England and probably the Jets now. its not really read and react, but you have to diagnose the play and cover your gap quickly. It takes athletic players and the 3-4 fits the scheme because of how its schemed and how players line up. It allows the LBs to read the play since they are 4-5 yards back and attack the lane as they see the play develop. Sometimes how the DL plays forces the offense to go one way or the other that allows the LBs to make the plays since they get a better view of the action. That's why you need big athletic LBs who can take on the guards and blockers and get to the RB or the QB.