What defensive scheme are you using in your dynasty?

[dragon4ever]

I restarted my dynasty with the Washington Huskies and by default they use the 4-3. I'm not too fond of this type of defensive scheme, so I'm thinking of switching to either the 4-2-5 or the 3-4.

Anyone here know the pros and cons of the different types of defensive schemes in the game?

[Pogo27]

4-3 is best of those three against the run.
4-2-5 is best of those against the pass.

3-4 is a pretty good balance.

4-3 requires you to have good run-stopping DTs, and good coverage LBs.
4-2-5 needs usually a good, hard-hitting CB to play in the 3rd CB role.
3-4 needs two OLBs that are good pass rushers. 3-4 also probably needs the most variations on the play calling. It's a blitz-heavy scheme the depends on confusing the QB with multiple blitzes.

3-3-5 is also out there, and it's not terrible. In fact, if you've got a great DT, 3-3-5 is arguably a better option than 4-2-5 as it gives you that much more speed on the field.

In both the 3-4 and 3-3-5, your DT probably should be your best overall player on the D, especially in the 3-3-5.

I'll say this, 32 NFL teams use 3-4 or 4-3 most of the time. And most of the 3-4 OLB is a hybrid DE/OLB. It's almost like a 3.5-3.5-4.

Ultimately though, choosing your defensive scheme needs to depend on the personnel you have on campus. I prefer to run the 3-4, and I try to recruit for that, but I'm not afraid to change my defensive playbook on an almost yearly basis to suit my team.

[dragon4ever]

Thanks for the detailed breakdown. The information was helpful.

[dsidab81]

The 4-2-5 and 3-3-5 base sets actually use a third safety ( 1 FS deep and 2 SS near the line).

The nickel 3-3-5 uses a third CB.

I've had decent success with the 4-2-5 with option and multiple o-scheme teams.

For power run teams, you can sub one of the SS for a LB to a little more stout and / or recruit a beast sized SS if you can find one.

[Fntsyfbgod]

I run a 4-3 and try to use the nickel alot. I do really well against the run and not so good against the pass. The big think is against the pass I gotta get pressure and I use DEs mostly and just rush the passer. Problem is my team doesnt have any good pass rushers. Hopefully in a year or two I will.