The Opening Drive 2/9: NFL's Copycat Nature Shows Up in the Super Bowl
The Browns laid some groundwork for the game's first touchdown last night.
While the game was not as enjoyable as many hoped, myself included, there were some Super Bowl LX moments that caught my attention and I wanted to share with you the one that ties back to your Cleveland Browns.
In the early 4th quarter, leading 12-0, the Seahawks found themselves in the “high redzone,” the 16-yard line to be exact, and needing to find a way to get the ball into the endzone for the first time. In this situation they turned to a scheme that included some heavy personnel, motion, and effective run-action to set up a wide open throw to tight end AJ Barner. Here is a look at the scheme.
It worked beautifully, as you know, to convert an easy touchdown and give the Seahawks the cushion they needed. Watch how the Patriots BEAR front (two defensive tackles, zero nose guard, and two wide EDGE defenders) was ready to defend the first-down run. Then watch how those second-level linebackers get sucked in pursuing the run and leaving themselves vulnerable to play-action pass.
The moment I saw the endzone replay I knew I had witnessed a similar scheme against those same Patriots in nearly an identical portion of the field. Let me show you.
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So, here is the scheme the Browns used. Different tweaks to alignment and motion but still two tight ends with one going in flat motion. The difference is simply the alignment of the target receiver and how you manipulate the defense.
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