The "3-Site" Adjustment: Reading the Weak Side Running Back

A smart check for 3x1 formations. In this bonus episode of The Art of X, we break down "3-Site", a specific coverage check within the Vic Fangio system designed to defend 3x1 formations with the Running Back set weak (an "Open" or Empty look). We explain the "Site" read between the weak-side Safety and the Will Linebacker. Unlike a static weak rotation, 3-Site is an option route for the defense: If the RB goes Fast to Flat, the Safety takes him, and the Will drops to match the #3 receiver. If the RB goes Vertical or Blocks, the Will takes him, and the Safety snaps inside to rob the crosser. This is a flexible way to handle speed in the flat without sacrificing layers in the middle of the field. Key Concepts: Scheme: "3-Site" Coverage (Fangio System) Read: Safety/LB "Site" check on the Running Back Matchup: Defending 3x1 Open sets & Crossing Routes Timestamps 0:00 Intro: What is "3-Site" Coverage? 1:37 The Rules: Reading the Weak Side Running Back 2:35 "Fast to Flat": Safety takes RB, LB takes 3-Up 4:00 "Vertical/Block": LB takes RB, Safety takes 3-Up 8:30 Film Study: Executing 3-Site vs. Chargers 10:15 Comparison: 3-Site vs. 3-Cross (Weak Rotation) Subscribe to MatchQuarters: https://www.matchquarters.com/ Listen to the Let's Talk Ball! Podcast: https://www.matchquarters.com/podcast Follow on socials: X - https://x.com/The_Coach_A IG -   / matchquarters   TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@matchquarters... Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/matchquarter... #NFL #NFLfootball #NFLNews #highschoolfootball #collegefootball #football #footballcoach #footballcoaching