Like our previous breakdown of the double-safety blitz, today we’re breaking down a defensive play. We’re looking at a M-N Stunt, which is just a stunt by the nose guard/1-tech and Mike linebacker on third down. A stunt is when two (or more) defensive players switch their gaps and responsibilities on a play, often with one charging into a gap and the other looping behind them. In the case of a M-N Stunt, the Mike linebacker and 1-tech are exchanging gap responsibilities on a pass rush.
M-N Stunt Play Concept
Similar to the double safety blitz, the M-N Stunt starts with three down linemen and multiple other defenders in the box, this time two linebackers and two defensive backs.
The N is head up on the RG and the Mike is head up on the LG. Both the SDE and WDE are aligned wide outside the offensive tackles. At the snap, the Mike stunts inside to the RG and the N loops behind him and attacks the LG. Both the SDE and WDE speed rush outside the tackles upfield to the QB. The WLB and both safeties showing in the box drop into coverage. The M-N Stunt inside is to force both guards and the center to work through the blocks, tying up three people. This gives the defense the one-on-one match-ups they want outside to rush the passer.
Executing The M-N Stunt
DeMarvin Leal is the Nose aligned on the RG. Aaron Hasnford is the Mike aligned on the LG. Michael Clemons is the weakside DE and Tyree Johnson is the strongside DE. At the snap, Hansford blitzes the RG right into the strongside A gap. Leal stunts behind him and rushes at the LG. The center and both guards are distracted with handling their M-N Stunt. Clemons speed rushes from the weakside right at QB Max Johnson. Tyree Johnson rushes from the strongside and goes into a spin move that is picked up by the right tackle. Clemons has the one-on-one match-up he wants and beats the LT outside. Leal is pushed outside by the LG but keeps coming. Clemons wraps up Johnson and Leal cleans up the sack.
Result of the play is an 8 yard loss on the QB sack and LSU is forced to punt.
End Zone View of M-N Stunt
Hansford and Leal’s stunt is clearer when watching the end zone view. LSU has six blockers and A&M only rushes four but still sacks the QB.
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