Nickel 4-2-5
5 defensive backs
Four linemen, two linebackers, five defensive backs — a slot corner replaces the third linebacker.
When it applies
Against 11 personnel (3 WRs); 2nd/3rd and medium or longer.
+ StrengthsMatches spread speed while keeping six in the box; slot corner can blitz.
− Trade-offsLight against power run; the slot corner has to tackle like a linebacker.
Filed under: Defensive fronts