We work on detaining the receivers at the line of scrimmage, but we probably do not devote enough time to this phase of pass defense. The purpose of this defensive tactic is to give your linebackers time to get to their defensive areas before the receivers get to them. It also gives your defensive halfbacks time to get their width and depth and get set up in their respective pass coverage zones. We hold up receivers several different ways as illustrated in [Figures 43-45].
[Figure 43] illustrates the tackle playing head up on the offensive end in order to detain him.
Figure 43
[Figure 44] illustrates the defensive end and linebacker pinching-off the offensive end, making it difficult for him to release for a pass.
Figure 44
[Figure 45] illustrates a third method of holding up an eligible receiver, merely by placing the linebacker in front of the offensive end so he can “whack” him as he releases from the line of scrimmage.
Figure 45