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Even fronts

4 down linemen

Four defensive linemen on the line of scrimmage — usually two tackles and two ends. The 4-3, 4-2-5 nickel, and Wide 9 are all even fronts.

When it applies

When you want four pass rushers and simple one-gap run fits.

+ StrengthsBalanced against run and pass; every lineman attacks one gap — fast and simple to execute.
− Trade-offsFewer disguise options; heavy personnel can outnumber you in the box.

Filed under: Front alignments