A Case For The Triangle Read

Helping your Linebackers play fast

Elite Linebackers are great at reading the play.

When it comes to how to read a play, there are a few different schools of thought.

For me, the Triangle Read is best.

Let’s get right into it.

What is a Triangle Read?

A Triangle Read starts with a primary read of certain Offensive Linemen.

For a Linebacker aligned in the B Gap, for example, this would be the Centre, Guard, and Tackle.

But the read doesn’t end there.

The Triangle Read must also include a secondary read of the Backfield.

This is a key piece of the puzzle.

Primary Read

Through the Linebacker’s primary read of the Offensive Line, they will see certain “pictures”.

For example, the Linebacker might see a Pulling Guard:

The Linebacker might also see Zone Run action:

Or the Linebacker might see Pass Sets:

With good eye discipline, these reads happen instantly.

Often before the Quarterback has even caught the shotgun snap.

This is why the Triangle Read is the fastest way to read a play.

Secondary Read

But the picture is still incomplete.

As the Linebacker reacts to their initial read of the Offensive Line, they must expand their vision to the Backfield.

For example, let’s say the Linebacker’s initial read is an Inside Zone Run coming towards them.

Their Backfield read will then tell them if the Running Back is pressing front side, cutting it back, or if it was a Play Action or RPO all along.

This is vital information.

Final Thoughts

Developing the Triangle Read will help your Linebackers get a head start on the play.

Your job as the coach is to decide how you want your Linebackers to react to these reads.

Then drill the reads and reactions until they become second nature.

All the best,

Jon Svec
Defensive Coordinator
St. Francis Xavier University
X-Men Football
Email: jsvec@stfx.ca
Twitter: @jonsvecx

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