Defending the single wing

--C-------------F
-----W------M-----C
8-----3----1-3--6----8
--X-T-G-C-G-T-Y
-------------Q-----W
----------T---F

I suggest this alignment. In case the diagram shifts, weak corner and FS are head-up the TEs at 6-8 yards. SC is head-up on the wing at LB depth, all are in man. If the wing cracks your MLB, he takes him and SC needs to come up to support the run with outside leverage on the FB. Your 6 should take an inside charge, but on occassion have your MLB blitz the C gap while the 6 takes an outside charge. This will allow him to penetrate before the wing can get to him. When he is not blitzing the MLB should read the QB (blocking back). Put a smart player and sure tackler at FS he will be the unblocked "free-hitter" on many plays, but must also keep an eye on his man. (If you go with three down-lineman, you can play the 6 up and let him man-up on that strong TE, freeing up your FS). WLB needs to think counter first. If you have an inkiling that a counter is coming, shift your strong 1 tech. to a weak 1 tech.

Are the guards giving it away when they pull? Which way they are going? If your DL can pick anything up that should help them. Can they expect a down block if the guard pulls? A reach block? Does the center or tackle give it away? The DL must know what to do e.g. dip and rip, cross face etc. Weak 3 tech. must no be reached and must not allow jump-though to second level.

My e-mail is SOrndoff@adelphia.net